Health + Fitness for Busy People

Chances are that if you attend FIT, your whole week consists of a maximum of 21 credits of classes, internships, work-study, clubs/associations, leadership activities, meetings, events etc. Being in a creative yet business-oriented environment 24/7 can influence you to take on more than you can handle – which is important to realize. Regardless of the goals we set for ourselves and the social standard we choose to accept, it is crucial we put ourselves first – specifically our health. Whether running to Brooklyn Bagel on 25^th and 8^th during a class break or inhabiting Starbucks the whole day, squeezing in fitness into a busy schedule is the least you can do. Here are some fitness tips for busy people on the go:

1. Take the Escalator/Stairs: Believe me, I KNOW how tempting it is to take the elevator everywhere you go, but taking the stairs or escalator can make a big difference. Avoiding the tremendous influx of students trying to make it to class on time beats wasting time in a sea of people. Burn some calories by climbing the steps to your next class and you’d be surprised to see the results in your toned calf muscles.
2. Utilize Time Between Classes: The best piece of advice I can give is to use your time wisely! Those couple of hours’ in-between classes are VITAL. After class, get your work-out on by heading down to the fitness center in the basement of the Dubinsky building for a few hours. Prepare in advance by bringing a gym bag with a water bottle and a change of clothes for your next class. Going to class and working out in-between is a great stress-reliever and motivation to maintain your physique.
3. Time Yourself: Depending on where you live, it may be simple stroll or a struggle to get to school every day. Most recently, I have discovered it is possible to get to school under 10 minutes from Kaufman Hall, FIT’s upperclassmen dorms on 31^st I encourage everyone to put their phones to good use and motivate themselves by using a stopwatch. I time myself when speed-walking to school as a fun challenge that focuses on my lower extremities and core at the same time. That way, I am working on my fitness and getting to class on time, at the same time!

When it comes to not having the luxury of free time, I believe in making time. Push yourself to the limit and test yourself with personal challenges and utilizing your free time to the fullest. Your body will thank you in the long run.

Melinda