Many high school seniors fear the idea of the infamous “freshman 15†their first year of college, but the weight-gain curse is not set in stone.
According to a study conducted by researchers at the Ohio State University, both men and women gained only about 3 pounds during their first collegiate year.
“It is easy to gain weight your first year in college because you have so many food options to choose from,†Vicki Jackson, a junior business information and technology major at the University of Memphis, said.
There are many ways students can fight against unwanted weight gain on campus. Many of them attend the recreational center for workouts, swimming and just hanging out with friends.
The U of M also has many fraternity and sorority groups with which students can connect to experience a classic college environment while networking at the same time. Many students join the community service programs offered by the U of M to help out the community and keep their body and mind active while helping out.
Being connected with others is one of the benefits of the U of M, and students can take advantage of spaces on campus to stay active.
“You can take advantage of the student Recreational Center and the other activities that the campus has to offer,†Maya Turner, a sophomore psychology major, said.
Organization may also be essential in maintaining weight. Eating light meals throughout the day and staying on top of studies can keep students from indulging in potentially unhealthy eating habits. A bad diet can cause students to lose their focus throughout the course of a semester.
“Go to class, be in your studies and maintain a good schedule, so you won’t give into a bad diet,†Cameron Noel, sophomore computer engineering major, said.
Some students may find it challenging to keep an organized schedule and maintain a good diet, but there are other ways to stay healthy and keep up proper nutrition. Students keeping track of their daily routine can keep their bodies and minds focused on the things their bodies and minds need. Once a daily routine is established, it can become a part of a students’ muscle memory.
“Routine is a very important part of staying healthy, eating breakfast each morning jumpstarts your metabolism, which keeps you focused throughout the day and keeps your body from holding on to unwanted waste,†Estes Folk, owner of Pro Health Wellness Clinic, said.
