Staying healthy at University
The ‘University lifestyle’ catches up with the best of us no matter how hard we try (or don’t try!). Managing to stay fit as well as healthy can seem like an impossible task not to mention expensive. Here at Discuss we have compiled some tips for staying healthy without breaking the bank.
Water, water, water
Drinking water is essential for our bodies to function and perform at an optimum level – a necessity for any university student. It is recommended that the average adult drinks 8 glasses of water a day. Now I hear you saying, “That is just unrealistic!” Initially it does seem like a lot, however if you think about this amount spread out across the space of 14+ hours it doesn’t seem quite so bad. Try substituting your afternoon sugary drink (like Coke or Oasis) for a glass of water and you’ll be well on your way.
Top Tip: Downloading apps like Water Log, Water Tracker and Stay Hydrated are a brilliant way of monitoring how much you are drinking on a daily basis.
Diet
Now this one is an obvious one. Ever heard the phrase “You are what you eat”? Well it’s true. If you feed yourself sugary, nasty foods your body will not perform at its best. Whereas filling your diet with fruits and vegetables, along with healthy fats and carbohydrates, will not only keep you healthy but could encourage weight loss.
Top Tip: Ensure that you allocate days as ‘cheat days’ so that you stay sane! We recommend no more than one a week to stay healthy.
Smoothies
Smoothies are not only yummy, they’re also good for you! Why not try swapping your morning breakfast cereal for a fruit and veggie packed smoothie. This is an excellent way of ensuring you are on track to consuming your 5-a-day. However do be mindful of the amount of fruits that you are ingesting though, as some (berries especially) contain high levels of sugar.
Top Tip: Make sure to buy any fruits frozen as a way to cut down the costs.
Join a CUSU sport team
With Freshers and Refreshers happening at different times of the year there is always the perfect opportunity to join a sports team. There couldn’t be more to choice and don’t worry about not being good enough, everyone is welcome! This is not only an excellent way to stay fit but to lose weight as well.
Top Tip: Join with a friend to stay focused.
Download Fitness apps
Having fitness apps on your phone is not only convenient but a cost effective way of staying fit. You have the opportunity to use it at the gym but also in the comfort of your own home. Usually apps have a small fee or some are actually free, yes you read that right – FREE. Below we have listed our favourite free apps you need in your life.
- Runkeeper – Tracks your runs, walks, hikes, cycles etc
- My Fitness Pal – Calculates the amount of calories you are consuming on a daily basis
- Blogilates – Provides you with quick and convenient Pilates videos
- Nike+ Training Club – Offers workout videos no matter what your fitness goal
Top Tip: Set yourself reminders on your phone to remember to make time to work out – be your own coach.
YouTube
Watching YouTube videos is a fantastic way of staying fit as well as not spending unnecessary money. You can have access to an abundance of videos targeting all different areas of the body. If you are looking for something quick and effective like HIIT cardio then YouTube has it covered, whereas if you are looking for something low intensity you will find workouts lasting over an hour.
Top Tip: Make sure you don’t overdo it. Doing too many workouts will not only not be effective but you may find yourself unable to move – take it easy.