We’ve all heard about it, but what can we do about it, especially here at RMU? 

     School is finally back in session and with quizzes, endless homework, homecoming, and hanging out with friends on the agenda, who has time to worry about staying healthy? Well don’t fret; there are secrets to staying in shape and avoiding the dreaded freshman 15.

  One of the big challenges students have, especially freshmen, is finding the time to make it to the gym. According to Armand Buzzelli, the Director of Campus Recreations, going to the gym doesn’t have to be the only way to stay healthy.

“I wouldn’t say going to a gym is completely necessary. I think it is a great amenity for students to have, but I think you just need to exercise regularly as little as 30 minutes a day wherever you are and that can make a huge difference,” said Buzzelli. Even something as simple as going for a fast jog or using the steps instead of the elevator can make a huge difference in the long run.

  With the struggle to exercise regularly, also comes the struggle to eat properly. Which can be a challenge with the many delicious goodies that RMU has to offer. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a chore; RMU students actually have an advantage because different produce used is locally and organically grown which makes finding healthy options easy.

  If you’re not one for only eating fruits and veggies, just try eating a big breakfast to keep you full longer and avoid snacking during the day and late at night.

     In terms of foods you shouldn’t eat, avoid anything with a lot of sugars and fat should generally be avoided especially if you aren’t exercising regularly.

“A lot of students like to drink smoothies thinking that they are healthy, but depending on what smoothie you are drinking a lot of them are loaded with sugar which aren’t very good for you at all,” said Buzelli.

  Make sure you are checking nutrition labels. It may seem like a lot of work, but if you are willing to take your time and do your homework you can learn a lot about the foods that you are putting into your body and further impact your eating habits.

  Healthy eating may seem like a drag, but it’s as simple as exercising regularly, getting into the habit of reading nutrition labels. Remember: they say it takes 21 days to form habits. Try out these simple tips for 21 days and the results just may surprise you.