Whether you’re a commuter or living on campus, it’s easy to forgo your daily fitness routine - especially with the hectic demands of student life. With the new school year fast approaching, it’s the perfect time for a fresh start towards leading a healthy, active life! We asked two of our favourite YMCA fitness experts Paul “Push Up P.” Skuza and Dominique “The Dominator” Pasqual to give their best tips for staying active, without breaking the bank:
1. Do body weight exercises in your room. These require no equipment and, therefore, no cost! Some examples include pushups, plank, squats, lunges and burpees.
2. Walk to as many classes and social events as possible. (Ed. note: and think of the money you'll save!)
3. If you’re living in residence, challenge yourself to use the stairs each day when you get home from class. And don't cheat -- walk UP the stairs as well as down them.
4. Be mindful of the foods you’re choosing from the campus meal plan. Stick with healthy options, and load up on the veggies and protein!
5. Stock up on healthy snacks to munch on throughout the day –it will make junk food options easier to ignore! Some great options include nuts, fruit or canned tuna.
6. Take advantage of your campus fitness facilities (the cost is often included in tuition fees). Plan your day so you can find time before, after or between classes. Go with some friends and try out the group classes that are offered throughout the day.
7. Join an intramural sports league. The cost is minimal, and you don’t have to be a jock to participate! You’ll meet some new people and stay active at the same time.
8. Invest in a used bicycle so that you can easily travel around town throughout the majority of the year – you won’t need a bus pass for those months either!
9. Make sure you get enough sleep each night, including weekends! Proper sleep will ensure you stay healthy and have enough energy for daily activities.
10. Recruit a buddy or a small group of friends to workout/be active with. It’s always easier to stay motivated and committed when you’re in it together!
