Ask an Expert: Tommy, I’m starting college and I love fast food!
Written by Tommy Europe, host of The Last 10 Pounds Bootcamp
Q. Hey Tommy, I’m starting college and with all the stress going on I have gained weight. I would love to lose 10-15 pounds so I can get to my ideal weight and how I was before I started college. The problem is I have no motivation and eating right is hard. I love fast food. What work outs do I need to do? I need to lose my belly but I would love to keep my booty! Can you help me?
A. The college days bring on many challenges and changes; back in my day we called it the “Frosh 15”, a college trap that imprisoned many into years of unhealthy living and accelerated weight gain. Late night eating, increased alcohol consumption, fast food, stress and inactivity make college an easy place to pack on the pounds, unless you are focused and armed with a game plan.
If you lack motivation I can guarantee that there are many people at your college with the same problem and aspiration to get into better shape. With that said I suggest joining a fitness class, bootcamp, or grab some of your friends and have your own personal fitness challenge. Some elements to include in your challenge should include a weigh-in (with measurements), an agreed upon time period and a few rules to help to outlaw “fast food”.
Making better food choices are a must. Here are a few great tips:
1. Ensure that you are having 7-8 servings of fruits and vegetables every day
2. Stay away from fried, low nutrient and starched foods
3. Break your meals down into 3 mains (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and 2-3 snacks per day.
The nutrition component is just as important as training, so if you don’t change your eating habits, then I can guarantee that you will NOT reach your ideal weight.
Although you want to shrink your belly and keep your booty you will still have to concentrate on full body workouts (3-5 per week), they must include cardio and resistance training. If you need some guidance for workouts or meal plans I would recommend hiring a trainer or nutritionist – it is money well spent. Another option is my 10 LB SHRED eBook training program, available at www.tommyeurope.tv, which has all of the elements you will need for success.
With these changes and tips, you are on your way to dropping the extra baggage and enjoying a healthier college experience. To be successful, you will need to make a lifestyle change, be accountable to yourself, and have the discipline to implement the plan. You made it to college, so you already know how buckle down and get after it, so don’t try, just do!
Play safe!
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