Nutrition and Exercise Tips for Busy Students

Are you a busy university student struggling to stay energized and focused while juggling class, extracurriculars, AND your social life? Don't stress! Incorporating simple healthy habits into your daily routine can help. Read on for our top tips on nutrition* and exercise tips tailored specifically for students like you - guaranteed to keep productivity levels high as well as set yourself up for success in all aspects of life.

Nutrition Tips:

• Plan your meals: Meal planning can help you save time and money while ensuring that you're getting the nutrients you need. Set aside some time each week to plan out your meals and snacks, and make a grocery list to ensure that you have everything you need.
• Keep healthy snacks on hand: When you're on the go, it can be tempting to grab a bag of chips or a candy bar. Instead, keep healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, or granola bars in your bag or backpack to tide you over until your next meal.
• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health and cognitive function. Keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times, and aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
• Don't skip breakfast: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, providing the energy you need to start your day off right. Opt for a balanced breakfast that includes protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Exercise Tips:

• Make time for exercise: It can be tempting to skip exercise when you're busy, but regular physical activity is essential for maintaining good health and reducing stress. Try to schedule at least 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine, whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga class, or a quick workout at the gym. You could even go for a longer walk or extended exercise sessions a couple of times a week, to feel just as good! 
• Incorporate physical activity into your day: You don't need to spend hours at the gym to stay active. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or bike to class, or take a short walk during your study break.
• Find an accountability partner: Exercising with a friend or partner can help you stay motivated and committed to your fitness goals. Find a workout buddy or join a fitness class to stay accountable. This could be someone you live with at your UniLodge home, a classmate from uni or anyone in between - it's great to share and support one another. 
• Mix it up: Variety is the spice of life, and the same applies to exercise. Try different types of workouts, such as jogging, swimming, dancing, or weight lifting, to keep things interesting and challenge your body in new ways. There are also tonnes of online classes you can access at anytime in your schedule, with some available for free or a small fee.
• Join in on a pre-scheduled Residential Life physical activity!: UniLodge properties may offer free fitness classes or membership to a UniLodge social sporting team. These events are pre-scheduled for you and included in the Residential Life program each week. They are a great way to stay active and also make friends at your property! Accountability partner (or team) here you come!

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is certainly possible with a little planning and effort. By incorporating healthy nutrition and exercise habits into your daily routine, you are on track to maintaining great mental health, a solid social life and the stamina to get through everything uni life throws at you!


*These tips are not to be considered as medical advice. 

*Fitness Res Life events vary between all UniLodge properties.