College Life
How to Avoid the Freshman 15
One college tradition you don’t want to follow is the Freshman 15. That refers to the number of pounds many freshmen put on during their first year in college.
The way to avoid the Freshman 15 is simple: eat smart and get plenty of exercise. It’s easy to grab a burger, fries and soft drink, and sometimes it may be unavoidable. But you shouldn’t make that kind of meal your sole source of nutrition. You have plenty of healthier choices, such as fish, fresh fruit and vegetables. That’s another reason to pay attention to your scheduling; build in enough time for lunch that you don’t have to eat on the run. That may mean eating at 11:30 or 1 instead of noon, but your body will soon adjust to that schedule.
Also, limit the number of snacks like chips and candy bars. That’ll help keep the Freshman 15 at bay. Many experts suggest eating five or six small meals a day instead of the traditional breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Exercise shouldn’t be hard to find at most campuses, unless you’re going to a really small school. Larger schools will give you plenty of opportunity to walk to class and climb stairs, both of which are good exercise. Many schools have on-campus workout facilities too, where you can hit the treadmill, play ball or do power walking. Your school might also offer intramural programs that will keep you active.
