Freshman 15 or 20 or 30...

The "freshman 15" is a pain in the butt; but, it is true. Logically, this doesn't make much sense because the typical college experience includes a lot of walking; however, because your diet changes to fattier foods (cafeteria and fast food) and alcohol calories usually increase, most college students gain weight their freshman year. This can be easily avoided, especially if you are aware of the trend. Watch what you eat. Try not to eat fast food ALL the time. Still eat all food groups on the pyramid, not just fried, desserts or junk. Do some sort of higher intensity physical activity 3-4 days a week for at least 20 minutes (60 minutes is ideal). You can find something fun to do. Intramurals are awesome. Flag football, ultimate frisbee, basketball, soccer, softball, bowling, volleyball, you name it, there is an intramural team for you! Stand instead of sit (if given the option). Walk instead of drive. Keep healthier foods/snacks in your room so you won't even be tempted to snack on bad food. Grab a workout/health/diet partner. Help each other stay accountable. Give each other guidance, advice and motivation! This is key. I have my best friend to thank for losing weight and then maintaining my weight. Every time I go home and I don't have her around, things go down hill!! Find someone you can trust and are comfortable talking about your body with. Ask her/him and other random people to work out with you. Working out is ALWAYS more fun with someone else AND, it could be a great way to meet new people :) Don't freak out if you DO gain weight your freshman year. You can always lose it. Plus, it is your first year of college. A lot of things change and you need to have fun. Gaining a little weight won't kill you.