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Fitness and Nutrition

Exercise: Fitting it into your schedule

Finding time to exercise can be difficult. Fitting it in between studying, tests, papers, and all those other activities can be hard. Here are some fun and creative ways to incorporate exercise into your life:

Use the Campus Rec Center! All WWU students enrolled for 6 or more credits have access to the facility, which offers lap swimming, rock wall, weight room, exercise machines, and a variety of fitness classes. Check out the Student Rec Center website for more information.
Walk or bike to class. (Make sure to obey posted signs, such as “walk your bike” in certain areas. Map and information available at the University Police Station).
Take a study break: turn on some music and dance around for 15 minutes.
Take the stairs instead of the elevator when you’re going a few flights.
Run errands on foot.
Volunteer your time to an organization that involves physical activity – do a little housework or run errands for the elderly, or help out at an after school program for kids.
Play on an intramural team. It’s also a great way to meet people!
Explore the great outdoors on foot or by bike. Grab a map of the area, round up some of your buddies, and discover Bellingham's numerous park and recreation areas.
Pick up the 101 Things to Do at WWU available at the Wellness Outreach Center, Prevention and Wellness Services, and Self-Care Center, for excellent suggestion for physical activities

Eating Healthy on a Budget

Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Few of us do it, but the benefits include feeling healthier, increased energy, better skin, and feeling full.
Choose low-fat or non-fat dairy products. If you don’t eat dairy products, make sure you are getting enough calcium and vitamins A and D from other sources.
Eat Breakfast. It’s easy to blow off breakfast when you’re running out the door, but energy and mental concentration go downhill fast without nourishment. Even on the run, grabbing a couple pieces of fruit, some toast, or a bagel will get you through that long morning stretch before lunch.
Snack Healthily. Instead of chips and candy, satisfy your hunger with snacks such as popped popcorn, veggies, rice cakes, fruit, cereal, bagels, or non-fat yogurt.
Shop on a full stomach. This prevents unplanned purchases or selecting convenience foods that are low in nutritional value.
Try store-brand products. There’s not much difference between these and more expensive brand names – expect for the price!
Use beans as a replacement for meat. They’re loaded with fiber and protein.
Plan your meals. Shop with a list to prevent impulse shopping. Clip coupons only for the items you really need. Planning ahead also saves you time and money!