Just about every college student knows that avoiding the dreaded Freshman 15 sometimes seems impossible. Students are embarking on an entirely new lifestyle ? one combined with cafeterias filled with greasy food, numerous hours spent behind the computer and much less time spent exercising. While gaining the Freshmen 15 might be a challenge, there are some strategies to help you avoid them for as long as possible.



Walk to Class

Most large college campuses offer inter-campus bus service to help transport students from one side of the campus to the other. It is essential if you are going to keep your weight down that you avoid these shuttles at all costs. Often times, it is very easy to jump on the bus if the time is short between two classes at opposite ends of the campus.

Keep in mind that most campuses are less than half a mile in diameter. Walking at a rapid pace, your rate should be somewhere around 15 minutes per mile. Thus, it should take you no more than 10 minutes, maximum, to make it from one side of campus to the next. Most classes have at least a 15-minute window in between the finish and start times. However, if you have any doubt about making the time, do a practice walk on a day when you do not have to make it by the time the bell rings.

Grab a Gym Buddy

Grab a buddy to take to the gym. Working out with a buddy will motivate you to go to the gym regularly and it will be fun to challenge each other to keep the gym dates as the course load and social life becomes busier. Make sure you have a gym buddy that is equally as motivated as you so that you do not end up losing your motivation.

Many college gyms offer group fitness classes in addition to traditional gym workout facilities. If you find that you regular routine needs a jump-start to keep you motivated, enroll in a class or two that you have never taken before. The challenge of trying something new can help you keep your interest level in exercise high.

Join a Club

Club sports are very popular on college campuses. If you played a sport in high school, then chances are good that you will be able to find the sport in a club or intramural team in college. If you did not play a sport but would like to get active, then join the running or hiking club. For a complete list of clubs on your campus, contact your local student activities office or school gym. You could be surprised by how many fun groups there are on your campus.

Select Salads

Many freshmen gain their weight in the cafeterias. For the first time in your life, you will be offered limitless amounts of food. Most cafeterias serve just about any food that you could possibly imagine. However, in order to maintain a healthy diet, it is important that you avoid high-fat, calorie rich foods, such as the ever-present grilled cheese sandwiches, pizza and pastas. Opt instead for a gourmet salad, complete with turkey slices and nuts. You'll be amazed by how much better you will feel when you treat your body right.