Graduation is upon us. With less than three months left until they’re thrown out into the “real world,” graduates have a lot to think about.
While graduation is an exciting time, many questions run through the minds of graduates. Where am I going to work? Where am I going to live?
But what about health?
The transition from college to the workforce can be challenging when it comes to personal fitness.
Diets and gym routines change with new locations and a lot has to be reconfigured. However, it can be done!
ASU nutrition professor Simin Levinson shared some insight on the matter. Graduates may be able to maintain their health and weight, she said, because they establish healthy habits during college years.
“With that said, when you are a full-time student, you have access to the fitness center,” Levinson said. “Once you graduate you may not have that access anymore. But there are lots of other opportunities.”
Levinson added that engaging with coworkers who prioritize health and wellness is one of the best ways to maintain healthy habits.
“Typically our graduates enter into the workforce upon graduation, so that’s one great way to stay motivated,” Levinson said. “Just be mindful of the habits you have in school and try to maintain them out of school. But it can definitely be challenging so I think an immediate transfer into the workforce can really help.”
Whether taking hikes over lunch, keeping nutritious snacks around the office or making sure you’re staying hydrated, workplace habits can be a great way to maintain your health and wellness.
Ultimately, discipline is probably the most important thing to adhere to after graduation. Make sure to monitor changes in your diet and exercise so that you can adjust accordingly and craft a health regimen that fits your new schedule!
For instance, if you find yourself shying away from your workout routine because a gym is no longer free and part of your university or apartment, address this issue. Explore what’s around you and make sure to find a gym that’s nearby. To maintain a good diet, if you find that you’re working in long blocks of time instead of having the usual breaks during college classes, pack some healthy snacks, such as veggies or a protein bar.
Like Levinson said, it’s all about mindfulness. Being mindful and acknowledging what has changed will help you figure out a way to adjust and grow as you blossom outside of the college atmosphere.
Stay healthy, my friends!
Contact the columnist at wshahid@asu.edu
