Freshman 15 is a common term for young adults between the ages of 15 and 19 who have gained much weight in their first year of college. Some people think that this is normal, but it’s not. If you want to avoid Freshman 15, you need to start by following these tips: Make sure that you’re getting enough exercise.
Exercise helps burn calories and reduces your risk of obesity. Eat a balanced diet. Eating junk food won’t help you lose weight, but it will make you obese and unhealthy.
How To Avoid Freshman 15 This School Year
Limit Fattening Cafeteria Foods
While you may be looking forward to all the free food at school, beware of overindulging in the cafeteria. Most schools have a wide variety of foods, but many are high in fat and calories. If you’re not careful, you could quickly put on the “freshman 15” this school year.
To avoid overeating, try to make healthy choices whenever possible. For example, choose fruits and vegetables instead of processed foods, and opt for lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish. If there are unhealthy options that you can’t resist, try to eat them in moderation.
It’s also important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Sodas and other sugary drinks significantly contribute to weight gain, so stick with plain water or unsweetened tea instead.
Be Cautious of Alcohol
One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to avoid the dreaded Freshman 15.
So here are eight tips to help you stay on track and avoid weight gain this school year:
- Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain.
- Limit your intake of sugary drinks. Sodas, energy drinks, and fruit juices are high in sugar and calories. Choose water or seltzer instead.
- Make healthy choices when eating out. For example, opt for grilled chicken or fish instead of fried options, and choose vegetables or salad over fries or chips.
- Pack healthy snacks for when you’re on the go. Trail mix, nuts, yogurt, fruit, and veggie sticks are all great options that will help keep you from snacking on unhealthy foods.
- Get moving!
Snack Smarter and Fresher
With the school year starting, many students are worried about the dreaded freshman 15. So here are a few tips to avoid gaining weight this year:
- Bring snacks with you to class. This will help you avoid unhealthy vending machine options.
- Choose healthier snacks, like fruits and vegetables, instead of processed foods.
- Avoid eating out at restaurants. Instead, cook meals at home using fresh ingredients.
- Get moving! Exercise is a great way to burn calories and stay healthy.
Exercise with Your Friends or Pick up a New Sport
It’s that time of year again when the gyms are packed with people trying to avoid the “freshman 15.” So here are a few tips on staying fit and having fun this school year.
- Exercise with your friends. This is a great way to make new friends and stay accountable. You can go for walks, hikes, bike rides, or join a sports team together.
- Pick up a new sport. There are so many different sports out there that you can try. This is a great way to find something you love and stick with it for years to come.
- Make time for exercise. It might seem like a pain, but you’re on your way to a healthier lifestyle if you can find 30 minutes three times per week.
Exercise on Your Own
Going to the gym can be expensive, especially if you’re a student. So here are some tips on how to stay fit without breaking the bank.
- Find an activity you enjoy. Whether it’s running, biking, hiking, or playing sports, find something you look forward to doing and stick with.
- Invest in some basic equipment. A yoga mat, jump rope, and set of weights are all relatively affordable and can go a long way in helping you stay fit.
- Join a club or intramural team. There are often discounted rates for students who join organized sports clubs or intramural teams on campus.
- Take advantage of free resources on campus. Most colleges and universities offer fitness classes or facilities at no cost to students.
- Try out the local YMCA or community center.
Prepare for Stress
The school year is starting, and with that comes many new changes, challenges and stressors. For many people, one of the biggest concerns is how to avoid packing on the freshman 15. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and avoid unnecessary weight gain this school year:
- Make time for exercise. It may seem like a challenge to fit in a workout when you’re already busy with classes and homework, but even just 30 minutes a day can make a big difference. Try going for a walk or jogging around campus, hitting the gym, doing some yoga or taking an aerobics class.
- Eat healthy meals and snacks. It’s essential to make sure you’re fueling your body with nutritious foods rather than junk food.
