[The following information is provided by Alison Kramer, the Wellness Coordinator at Swinney Recreation Center.  Follow her advice for a healthier lifestyle and you’ll look and feel awesome!]

Being in college can make staying healthy difficult–with so much going on and money being tight, it’s easy to slip into a routine of fast food, late night pizza, and exercise only when walking to class.  However, eating right and exercising regularly helps keep you mentally and physically fit–which is what you need to be to fight off seasonal flu as well as stay alert in class and while studying.  Here are a few things to keep in mind that will make getting to and maintaining that fabulous body image possible!

Many people believe that eating right is more expensive, however that is not true.  Here are some simple tips to healthy eating while on a budget:

1. Skip junk food – Not only is junk food not healthy, but it also is expensive.
2. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables – Buying produce that is in season will help with the cost.  You can also check out your local farmers markets for fresh produce.
3. Drink water – water is really good for you, and it doesn’t cost as much as buying soda or energy drinks.
4. Prepare your own food – You are in control of what goes into your meals if you prepare them.  It may take a few extra minutes, but then again you don’t have to pay expensive restaurant prices or deal with that horribly slow waiter either!

There’s more good news too!  Even if you are strapped for time and money, you can still workout!  Your membership at Swinney Recreation Center is included in your student fees, so you can stop in for a quick workout before class.  There are also many different exercises you can do with little or no equipment.  This video showcases how to exercise if you can’t make it to the gym.  Enjoy!