Get Up & Get Moving

College can be stressful. Schedules are often packed with trying to juggle a social life, relationships, classes, jobs, clubs and many other responsibilities, leaving students with little to no time at all to pay attention to what they eat, or spare time to exercise. But, let’s face it: too much neglect can lead to the Freshman 15 - the traditional weight gain that many students experience during their first year of college. Below are some tips for staying fit and healthy throughout the school year.

UHM offers a variety of intramural sports, including indoor/outdoor soccer, flag football, basketball, dodgeball, kickball, softball and volleyball. All leagues are welcoming to newcomers and first-timers. This is a perfect way to make new friends and meet new people, all the while staying healthy and burning those extra calories.

The Warrior Rec Center is equipped with a variety of weight machines, cardio machines, free weights, an indoor track, and volleyball and basketball courts. Familiarize yourself with the hours, rules and regulations to ensure that you come to the gym prepared. Be sure to bring your validated UHM student ID, a gym towel, workout apparel and shoes. Don't forget socks or a lock for your locker. Forgot anything? Stop by the Bookstore next door to grab any last minute items!

Student Recreation Services offers students many ways to be active outdoors. Students can learn how to kayak, sail, surf, body board, stand-up paddleboard, scuba dive or snorkel. To participate, stop by the Physical Education/Athletic Complex, Room 200 located near the Stan Sheriff Center. Don’t forget your validated UHM student ID and money to pay for classes. Most activity classes cost approximately $22 - $27, and more advanced classes like scuba diving or sailing are $97 - $210.

Walking to and from class everyday is a quick way to get exercise in. Also, rather than waiting for TheBus, opt to bike or skateboard to your destination. There are more than 50 free bike racks and a bike cage on campus for bike parking. There are also bike repair stations on campus for bike commuters.

While it’s tempting to grab a burger and fries or a slice of pizza, try to limit those unhealthy food selections. Increasing your fruit and vegetable intake is a great source of energy, all the while keeping extra calories at bay. Opt to make a healthy sandwich such as a pb&j with banana slices on whole wheat bread, or a salad with a bit of chicken for added protein. Bringing home lunch regularly can help you resist unhealthy temptations.

Do you prefer to explore on foot or in the water? Hiking along with surfing are a few favorites when it comes to outdoor activities in Hawai‘i. There are many trails and surfing locations to explore. Participate in these activities safely by following state regulations that are in place, leave the place better than you found it, and have fun!