College is right around the corner and like me, you want to avoid the “Freshman 15,” the “Sophomore 20,” the “Junior 25,” the “Senior 30,” or even the “Super Senior 35!” In order to remain healthy, you gave to eat healthy, and be healthy. So here are some of my college friendly tips to help you avoid the weight gain.

1. Eating Healthy.

- EATING HEALTHY DOES NOT MEAN DIETING!

- DO NOT STARVE YOURSELF!

- Make sure you have snacks in your room that aren’t all junk food items. For example, have granola bars, frozen fruits and vegetables (they’ll last longer), nuts, etc.

- Us college students love to eat so have a few granola bars packed into your backpack to fight that hunger during class (no one likes to have their stomach growl in the middle of a lecture).

- When you want to snack try and have some protein along with it or a few glasses of water to help you remain full.

- Ramen! Every college student’s weakness! Next time you make some try adding some protein, veggies and even spices to make it an even more gourmet meal.

- Yay free food! As broke college students we tend to drool over the word “free.” So the next time you’re invited to a free pizza party have a snack before you go so you don’t fill up on junk.

- Drink water! Drink Water! Drink Water!

- WOOHOO! Party time! It’s okay to have fun but don’t drink the calories!

- Do not stress eat! Try and think about the problem, think about the long-term and remind yourself how awesome you are. If all fails, enjoy those cookies (in moderation of course).

2. Being Healthy.

- Let’s be realistic here. You will not have that perfect beach body in a matter of 2 weeks. You should plan out a realistic fitness and body #GOALS.

- If it’s easier for you, try and plan out your healthy fitness habits like you would a class, have it be consistent but you don’t have to stress over it like a class. You’re a college student, so a few workouts throughout the week will be good enough!

- Can’t afford a gym? No problem! Use your campus! There are stairs in almost every building, you can walk or run outside, or even ride your bike.

- Use your weight as an advantage. Too embarrassed to go to the gym or maybe have no idea what you’re doing, I know I don’t, use your dorm room as a work out area. There are a million sources online (Pinterest is a great one) and in the app store to help you find a perfect workout for you.

- Not into the crazy intense workout sessions? Me either, so try yoga! It helps relieve stress as well as increase flexibility and strength.

- Join a sport! I’m no perfect athlete but joining an intramural sport that I thoroughly enjoyed was a great way to exercise throughout the week.

- Yay studying…Maybe you have a big test coming up, take study workout breaks, it will help your focus improve as well as give you energy.

Please be kind to your body and love yourself, you are one of a kind.

I hope these tips help! (: