5 Fitness Crazes to Try in 2012

What’s your New Year’s Resolution this year? Lose a few pounds? Be more active? Try something new? All fabulous goals for the New Year! But, as we all know keeping those resolutions isn’t always easy. One way to help keep you on track is by conquering your fitness goals in a new and exciting way! The American College of Sports Medicine (ASCM) just released a list of top fitness trends for 2012. Based on that list, here are five fitness crazes you can add to your routine to leave you feeling sexy and confident!

 
1. Zumba – A Latin-inspired combination of dance choreography that gets your heart pumping and your body sweating, this method of exercising has proved to be popular for people of all ages. Not only do these fast-paced dance moves work your midsection, but the upbeat, sassy music will also leave you feeling happy and motivated. Don’t have any dance experience? No problem. Zumba is great for beginners and you’ll catch on fast!

2. Tabata Exercising – The Tabata method for exercising is for all of you co-eds out there that have trouble finding time to devote to fitness. It can be completed in 4 minutes! To start, take one exercise and do as many reps as you can in 20 seconds. Take a 10 second rest, and repeat this cycle seven more times. The Tabata program is a simple and effective way to burn fat fast. For an instructional video, visit this site.

3. Barre Method – This method utilizes the ballet barre to do a variety of sculpting and toning exercises. A barre method workout usually consists of one hour of multiple leg and abdominal workouts on the bar that are coupled with free-weight exercise and stretching to give you a well-rounded workout.

4. Beaming – These exercises aren’t complicated. It’s simply doing sets of exercises on a foam beam two or three inches off the ground. The goal: using balance to tone your tummy and your legs. The results are similar to Pilates, but much easier to obtain.

 

5. Small Group Training ­– Speaking of keeping motivated and reaching your goals, group training is a great way to achieve both. Personally, this has been my most favorite way to train. Training with a few friends helps keep you accountable through the buddy system as well as giving you a way to socialize and get fit at the same time. Given all the benefits of group training, it’s not hard to understand why these sessions made ACSM’s fitness trends list.

 

Kelsey Schirm is a junior at Iowa State University pursuing a double major in Journalism & Mass Communication and Art & Design. She loves exercising, cooking, and being outdoors.

GOAL GETTER: Setting & Achieving Resolutions

Holiday treats and comfy oversized sweaters don’t help obtain a six-pack. Unfortunately, neither does having the general resolution of rock hard abs.   Chances are one of your New Year’s resolutions had a health focus. Having one is great, and obtaining it is even better. College Lifestyles has amazing resources—fitness tips, healthy recipes, and fashion advice to show off your hard work! Rather than a blanket goal of “I want to lose X number of pounds”, try this out.

 

Make your goals:

 1. Possible If you have not stepped foot in a gym in months, there is no need to go balls to the wall and pledge yourself to two-a-days. You should challenge yourself, but in a safe and healthy manner.

2. Focused Give yourself an exact goal. Rather than “I want to get in shape,” make it specific. Want to train for a 5k? Lift weights twice a week? Eat three different vegetables today? Drink 8 glasses of water today?

3.  Measurable Now that your goal is narrowed down, can you track your progress? For fitness related goals take measurements of your body, keep a workout log, or see how many push ups you can work up to. Check in on your progress both weekly and monthly!

4.  Have a deadline Replace the “I’ll start tomorrow” mindset with a deadline that gives you a sense of urgency.  It’s healthy and possible to train for a race within 3 months or lose 1-2 pounds per week.

 5.  Focused on how you feel Remember, rest days are when your body changes and repairs itself.  Tune into your body– feeling extremely sore and worn out? Take a day to sleep in, stretch your legs, and refresh yourself.

Celebrate your achievements; be proud of your hard work and dedication! Transformation does not happen overnight, but by remaining committed things will change.

 

Claire Brooks-Schulke is a Health and Sorority writer. Her goals include running a sub-50 minute 10k (by June 1, 2012) and to eat five different types of produce each day. 

New Year, New You: Eat Better

“Lose weight” is always among the highest made New Year’s resolutions each year. However well-intended this is, like giving up sweets or losing 100 pounds, most people set goals that are unrealistic and impossible to achieve and set themselves up for failure. By making smaller, more manageable changes you will be more likely to reach those long-term goals toward healthier eating and a healthier body.

1. Eat three food groups at breakfast.
   We’ve all heard that those who eat breakfast have a healthier weight than those who skip it, but not all breakfast foods are created equal. Make sure you having lean protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats in your meal to keep you satisfied, give you energy, and help build and repair your muscles! Check out our edition of Eat This, Not That for some healthy breakfast swaps!
2. Consider going meatless.
   The average American eats 8 oz. of meat a day. Too much fatty meat increases your risk for heart disease. By going meatless just one day a week you can help cut these risks. Check out the Meatless Monday movement for more information.
3. Make half your plate produce.
   Fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables. This will leave less room for higher-calorie options and is full of fiber, which makes you feel full. Plus, fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients to keep your cells healthy. Remember, the more colors of the rainbow that are on your plate, the more nutrients you’re getting!
4. Say “No” to packaged diet foods.
   Low-fat peanut butter, cookies, and chips may sounds like they’ve been heaven sent, but they’re often high in added sugars and sodium. Low-fat products also try to trick people into eating more since they’re a “diet” food. Don’t fear the fat! A square of quality dark chocolate can be just as satisfying as a few of those no-sugar, fat-free chocolate cookies.
5. Get more calcium.
   38% of Americans don’t get enough calcium in their diet. Calcium helps keep your bones strong and prevents fractures further down the road. So, drink a glass of milk and eat some yogurt. You can get it from non-dairy sources as well! Dark leafy greens, tofu, and fortified fruit juice and soy milk are excellent sources as well.

Whether you want to lose a few of those pounds you put on over the holidays or just want to not eat as many slices of pizza this year, make small, specific goals to help you achieve that bigger goal of fitting comfortably into your favorite pair of jeans! Recruit friends and family to help and join the path to healthier eating alongside you! Make 2012 your year with a new you.

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Ellen Ratliff is a Senior Health Writer at College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Dietetics with a specialization in Health Promotions. In 2012, she aims to run in two marathons, keep her grades high, and gain confidence in driving her new manual transmission car.

CL’s Top 10 Ways to Stay Fit While Studying Abroad

Remember the Freshman 15? There is a similar, lesser-known college-related weight gain: the Study Abroad 15. Y0u don’t think about it when you’re leaving, or even while you’re away. But suddenly, one day, you realize that your jeans are a little bit too tight, and that everyone in your program is just a little bit chubbier than they were at the beginning of this semester.. Avoid this aha moment by following these tips.

 

1. Pack right. It’s hard enough trying to find the motivation to exercise while studying abroad. Don’t complicate the situation by having to by workout gear too. Make sure to bring your regular workout wear with you, whether that’s sneakers or a swimsuit, cap, and goggles. The one thing you probably want to buy abroad is a yoga mat. Most countries will have them, and they take up too much room in your suitcase.

2. Sign up for a gym your first week. This sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people neglect to do this (myself included). You’ll be overwhelmed your first week, but signing up for a gym during this crucial time will ensure that exercise stays high on your priority list. Gym membership also encourages you to make good use of all that money you paid.

3. Take a class. An exercise class is a fun way to keep fit, adds routine to your hectic schedule, and holds you accountable to staying fit. Even if you don’t know the language, it’s easy to follow the movements in a Zumba or kickboxing class. And if you’re studying the language, you can practice with other native speakers i.e. your classmates.

4. Drink responsibly. Studying abroad, for many college students, means finally being able to drink legally. Not to burst your bubble, but drinking that often also means consuming tons of empty calories. Try sticking to light beer, dry white or red wine, champagne, and low-calorie cocktails. (Think gin and tonic, not a chocolate martini.) Also, stick to 1 or 2 shots a night.

5. Drink responsibly, part 2. Speaking of empty calories, soda and juice are exactly that, and they don’t even provide you with the buzz that alcohol does. Buy a canteen, fill it with water, and carry it around with you. It’s cheaper, and better for you. As for coffee, stick with the classic drinks, not frothy Frappuccinos. The coffee probably tastes better anyway.

6. Vacation wisely. When my friends and I went to Mendoza last semester, we went on a wine tour by bicycle. Look for good-for-you options like this one on your own vacations. Think winter sports, hiking, or bike tours for the more urban-minded.

7. Treat yourself, but wisely. It is likely that you will find a treat that you find yourself wanting every day, whether that is gelato in Italy or macaroons in France. It’s OK to indulge yourself once in a while, but eating them all the time is overdoing it. A good way to control your intake is to only eat these sweets on the weekends.

8. Chew 10 times.  If you follow nothing else on this list, follow this one. It takes time for your body to communicate to your brain that it’s full. So eating more slowly means that you eat less. This alone won’t keep you fit, but it helps a lot.

9. Walk around. You may take a car everywhere in the US, but follow the locals’ lead while you’re away. This likely means walking and public transport. Also, see if the city that you’re studying in has a free bike share – another fun, easy way to get fit.

10. Keep a food journal. While you’re abroad, you’ll be trying lots of new food. By keeping a food journal, you’ll be able to remember what you liked, and what you really really didn’t. It also helps you keep track of what you’re eating, so you can balance your super-heavy dinner with a light lunch the next day.

Need more advice for studying abroad? Check out our guides on what to pack, and how to stay stylish on your flight over!

Sasha Graffagna is a current junior at NYU studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She studied abroad in Argentina last semester, and will be studying in Puerto Rico this semester.

The 2011 Healthy Holiday Gift Guide

Have a yogini or road runner on your holiday gift list this year and no clue what to get them? Take a look at this guide to find the perfect gift for that fashionable activity lover in your life below. We’ve got you covered with all of the hottest fitness gifts of 2011! These gifts would also be great for anyone looking to complete some fitness-related resolutions in the new year.

For the yogini:
- A mat bag from oGorgeous – “Perfect bag for the uber hip yogi. The sweetheart trims are feminine and pair nicely with the exquisite eyelet fabric. Will fit any size yoga mat with room for much more.”

- Mat towel – If you’ve ever taken a hot yoga class, you know how badly you want a towel to keep you from slipping and sliding all over the place as you attempt the perfect Sun Salutation.

- lululemon Power Y Tank – “This tank’s thin racerback straps allow for open, unrestricted movement in the shoulders while the body-skimming fit is a welcome feature for those of us who have set our intention on a handstand. No need to tuck this tank in, the Power Y stays put.”

For the runner:

- lululemon Reflective Key Cuff – great for those who prefer to bring their workout outdoors and also works great to wipe away the sweat!

- race registration – race registration fees are expensive and they really add up over time. With a race costing anywhere from $15-$200+ we’re sure that any donation to their race fund would be greatly appreciated.

- Without Limits DVD – this film follows the life of famous 1970s runner Steve Prefontaine from his days running in Oregon, to Oregon University, and the Olympics in Munich. Stars Billy Crudup and Donald Sutherland.

- B.I.C. bands – the headband that will not slip. Great for wearing to class, meeting friends for lunch, or a high-intensity cardio session. They come in dozens of fun colors, patterns, and thicknesses!

For the at-home exerciser:

- Gymboss interval timer – create your own circuit workouts or use with Bodyrock workouts for the most intense (and quickest!) workouts of your life. Comes in 7 colors.

– Swiss ball – versatile, portable, and easy to use. These inflatable balance balls are great for improving core strength and stability.

- P90X2 – almost everyone is familiar with the P90X Muscle Confusion system. The creators over at BeachBody have upped the ante with this sequel utilizing a Post-Activation Potentiation technique instead. The complete 90-day program comes with a workout calendar, fitness guide, 12 workouts on 13 DVDs, and a nutrition guide to help you achieve your fitness dreams.

I hope that this list has given all you classy CL readers some great ideas for your favorite fitness buff, or maybe even some ideas of what to add to your own wish list this year!

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Ellen Ratliff is a Health Writer at College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Dietetics with a specialization in Health Promotions. On her wish list this year are Brooks Adrenaline GTS running shoes, Femme Fitale fitness gloves, and the DVD “Stick It”.

Five Ways to Unwind (and Sweat!)

This time of the year is crawling with stressful activities. Studying for finals, pinching pennies for holiday shopping, and applying for summer internships will get the best of anyone. An intelligent co-ed can only keep her head in a book, work long hours, and stare at a computer for so long! When stress starts to consume you, remember these tips when you’re craving fun and healthy ways to de-stress.

 

Zumba

Combine high-octane dancing with an upbeat Latin sountrack, and you’ve got a Zumba session! This fitness class, created back in the mid 90′s, has become wildly popular within these last few years, especially on college campuses. If your campus doesn’t offer a Zumba class, the first thing you should do is try to get Zumba on your campus! If that fails, there’s always YouTube, which has tons of recorded Zumba classes that you can dance along with. Or, you can buy the new Zumba video game, called “Zumba Fitness 2″ and “Party Yourself Into Shape” if you own a Wii™. Sweat Level: 10

Sauna

Grab a towel and lay back as the steam clears your pores of any toxins and buildup. Sitting in a hot sauna has multiple benefits, including improving your blood circulation and relaxing your mind, according to pureinsideout.com. For this sweaty activity, head to your local gym, in which a sauna is most likely to be. Sweat Level: 9

Yoga

Yoga hushes the noise of the outside world, allowing you to connect deeply with your mind and spirit. The strength that you will obtain after committing to doing yoga is unlike any other physical activity. “Yoga tones muscles all over your body in balance with each other. Weight training exercises typically isolate and flex one muscle or muscle group at a time,” said Kelly Turner from life.gaim.com. Classy actress Michelle Williams, attributes yoga for making her into the woman she is, stating “Yoga gave me relief like nothing else; it made me a better person and a better mother…,” according to mindbodygreen.com. Sweat Level: It rises with the intensity of the class

Hiking

If you live near a trail, challenge yourself and your family or friends to go hiking if it’s something you’ve never done before. Hiking will teach you a lot about willpower–when you’re halfway up the mountain and reaching the top seems absolutely unreachable, think about the breathtaking view awaiting you at the summit. Let this grueling activity forge a bond with you and those that you’re hiking with. Remember, you’re all in this together! Sweat Level: 10 (if you’re inexperienced on a tough trail)

Dancing

Cap off a stressful week with a night of going out and dancing with your girl friends! Start out by getting ready together–this process allows you to fill each other in on anything new that may have occurred during the week. Chat while curling your hair or while using your eyeliner to finish off that angle on your cat eye. Make a powerful entrance into a party with a killer outfit and your friends by your side, throw your hands above your head, and get to dancing! Sweat Level: 7

Tiana Blue is an intern for College Lifestyles™ and is a print journalism major at Penn State. This sophomore is an avid blogger that loves to write, draw, roam the streets of Manhattan, and channel her inner chef by watching Food Network re-runs.

The Myth of the ‘Freshman 15′

Last week, a new study was released that sheds new light and truth on every college freshman’s dread: the “freshman 15”, referring to the weight many students put on in their college years.

According to the study, freshman actually gain an average of 2.5 to 3.5 pounds and it has very little to do with actually attending college.

Ohio State University looked at data from 7,418 interviews from subjects aged 17 to 20 and found that both men and women in their first year at college gained about 3 pounds. Those who drank heavily gained more and those that had a job gained less. Only about 10% of freshman gain 15 pounds and these are the same ones that drink heavily every weekend.

Whether or not a person was living in a dorm has no significant effect, neither did going to a public or private college or attending a two- or four-year college.

As I mentioned though, college attendance was not the reason for the weight gain. Another study published last December found that young adults who do not go to college gain weight as well, about 2 to 3 pounds in the first year after high school.

While you may not gain 15 pounds during your freshman year, female students do gain an average of 9 pounds by the time they graduate and males 13.4 pounds. This gain continues after college to about 1.5 pounds per year during the first 4 years after college.

Is this something to worry about though?

Absolutely not.

“Teens are not fully grown at age 17 or 18. We would expect growth and weight gain during these years that have nothing to do with college,” says Lawrence Friedman, MD, director of adolescent medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

But, that does not mean that we should not be wary of our food and health choices. A growing body needs to be properly fueled and what you put into it is what you will get out of it. You would not want your car to run on pizza grease, so why would you let your body run on that fuel either?

A healthy diet and regular physical activity will keep you classy co-eds fighting fit and looking fine. Walk to class, take the stairs, take a fun fitness class with your friends at the campus gym, make half of your plate vegetables, and drink lots of water. Small choices lead to lasting results.

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Ellen Ratliff is a Health Writer at College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Dietetics with a specialization in Health Promotions.

A CL Intern Reviews: The New Rules of Lifting for Women

After getting barred from running with an injury in late August, I scoured the internet looking for the next big thing to keep up my fitness level but still allow my injury to heal. I had been reading about The New Rules of Lifting for Women for several weeks as it began popping up all over the Healthy Living blog world and I decided to give it a go. With a tagline like “Lift like a man, look like a goddess” I couldn’t resist.

The New Rules of Lifting for Women is written by Lou Schuler who was a fitness editor at Men’s Fitness and Men’s Health magazines as well as writing several popular books on diet and strength training with input from Cassandra Forsythe, M.S. on diet and nutrition and workouts designed by Alwyn Cosgrove.

Schuler refutes several misconceptions that many women today have about lifting weights that keeps them glued to the cardio machines and “Barbie weights”:

- You will not “bulk up” if you lift heavy weights. Men have a hard enough time building muscle and they have much more of the essential ingredient:  testosterone. So, unless you are injecting yourself with testosterone you will not look like a female version of The Hulk.

- No workout will give you “long, lean” muscles. Muscles have a genetically predetermined shape just as your height is largely determined by genetics. Those women doing the exercises promising “long, lean” muscles in the women’s magazines are already tall and so of course have longer muscles than the average-height woman.

- The muscles in men and women are essentially identical. We do not need to do “special” exercises designed especially for women. Men and women have all of the same major muscles and both of our muscles are made of the same basic materials. A muscle fiber in a woman is structurally the same as a muscle fiber in a man, we are still of the same species after all. However, women do seem to have an advantage over men:  our muscles recover faster than male muscles. We may feel sore faster, but men will feel sore longer. The provided workouts are actually harder than those recommended for men since our muscles will be able to handle the work better.

- Calorie restriction is the worst idea ever. Eating too little leads to depression, loss of strength and muscle mass, deteriorating bone mass, hormonal disruption, and diminished energy and sex drive. By cutting calories you will lose muscle mass and actually slow down your metabolism. In fact, Schuler advocates eating more in order to reach your goals and eating five or six times a day. Also, don’t fear fats and don’t fear carbohydrates. These are not your enemies.

A little over halfway through the book you finally enter in to the workout plan. This book provides 7 stages of progressionwhich should take about 6 months if followed as recommended. One of my favorite things about the book is that it includes real photographs of a woman performing the exercises in the back with full text explanation.

Also, I am thrilled that the workouts do not depend heavily on the use of machines. Many of the moves use free weights which causes you to use more muscles for stabilization. These are truly “total body” workouts. Because you use all of your major muscles each day, it is recommended that you only lift three days a week. Many other programs suggest 5-6 days a week since they focus on only one set of muscles each day. This is perfect for the busy co-ed who struggles to balance health, school, and a social life.

The take-home message? Strong is the new skinny.

Ask for this book at your local Barnes & Noble bookstore or order it online from Amazon.com.

As a special treat for all of you classy co-eds that are looking for a new workout and want to gain strength and confidence, here is a video straight from the College Lifestyles YouTube channel that I created illustrating some of the exercises you can look forward to performing:

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Ellen Ratliff is a Health Writer at College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Dietetics with a specialization in Health Promotions. She has been weightlifting since September 2011 and isn’t afraid to lift heavy. Muscles are beautiful.

Food Tips: CL Interview with Big Girls Small Kitchen

College Lifestyles interviewed the food connoisseurs Phoebe Lapine and Cara Eisenpress, the founders of Big Girls Small Kitchen. Big Girls Small Kitchen is a food website with recipes and cooking tips for young women. The site provides information on how to do everything from making the most of your leftovers to frying an egg. Small Kitchen College is segment of Big Girls Small Kitchen that relates specifically to college women.

Here is what the food-savvy ladies of BGSK said:

College Lifestyles: What inspired the creation of Small Kitchen College?

Big Girls Small Kitchen: We launched Small Kitchen College back in March 2011 as a virtual little sibling to Big Girls Small Kitchen. Cooking brings people together, even if it’s done in a dorm room, and we wanted to take our original mission of providing accessible, affordable recipes for twenty-somethings and apply it to a younger generation with even fewer kitchen resources! Small Kitchen College gives current students and recent graduates, who may or may not yet have access to their own kitchens, the tips, tricks, and recipes they need to scrape together a satisfying meal for themselves, and for friends.

CL: What is your top tip for healthy cooking?

BGSK: We love using whole grains. It’s important not to deprive yourself of the things you crave. For us, that craving would be carbs. Brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta are great ways to stay healthy and still eat your comfort dishes. Some favorites include: Brown Rice Jambalaya; Nutty Quinoa Cakes; Moroccan Chicken Salad Sandwiches on Whole Wheat Pita

CL: What are two nutritious snacks that are perfect for on-the-go girls?

BGSK: Homemade Sweet Potato Chips if you’re making the snack yourself, and sunflower seeds if not. We give a run down of the healthiest vending machine snacks, and sunflower seeds are top of our list!

CL: What is your favorite quick and easy dinner recipe for college students?

BGSK: One of our first recipes developed for the site was a Cashew Chicken dish that you can make in the microwave! It doesn’t get quicker than that.

CL: How can students easily add veggies to their meals?

BGSK: Never underestimate the power of a side salad, at the dining hall or at home. Keep a box of greens handy and some homemade Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette, and you’ll always have a quick veggie side dish at your fingertips!

CL: What is one piece of advice that you would give to college students struggling to cook meals?

BGSK: Don’t be intimidated by your lack of money, equipment or skill—just get in the kitchen! If you’re just starting out, try cooking for one. If you mess up, you’ll be the only one witnessing the results. Once you get more practice ou can share all your wonderful creations with friends and really have fun with your cooking.

CL: What are two nutritious breakfast recipes that college girls can make within ten to fifteen minutes in the morning?

BGSK: Perfect scrambled eggs on whole wheat toast is your best go-to basic breakfast. If you want to get a little fancier, spinach pie quesadilla helps you get a good dose of veggies in the morning, and comes together in a flash.

CL: What is one cooking utensil that every student should have in their kitchen?

BGSK: A good chef’s knife! Here’s a list of 10 other must-have items for a first kitchen if you want to go from there.

CL: What is a good rule for navigating the dorm cafeteria?

BGSK: Get creative, and put those microwaves to work. There are many DIY dining hall meals that you can “cook” yourself right on the premises.

CL: What is a universal cooking tip that you feel every college student should know?

BGSK: The art of the olive oil “fried” egg. It’s a great way to add protein to any dish without having to go out and buy meat, which can get expensive.

CL: What is your favorite recipe?

BGSK: Cara: Pancakes are really amazing, and these Pumpkin Pancakes are perfect for fall. Phoebe: I love a great stew, and this Beef Bourguignon is always a winner.

CL: Do you have a favorite quote about cooking? If so, what is it?

BGSK: “Playfulness and passion trump propriety.” –Frank Bruni

CL: What do you see in the future for SKC?

BGSK: We have a new group of writers who just joined the team—now we have over 30 contributors! We’re excited to keep building our recipe database with accessible, affordable dishes for college students. We’ll also be visiting campuses this fall to promote our book, In the Small Kitchen, bringing our recipes to a dining hall near you!

Big Girl Small Kitchen is an excellent resource for college women to learn how to cook nutritious meals on a budget. Happy cooking CL ladies!

Maggie Young is a junior at the University of Kansas majoring in journalism and loves to cook healthy meals. Her favorite recipe on BGSK is the Arugula Caprese salad because it is light and refreshing. 

 

CL Interviews Clean Eating Chelsey

Chelsey S. is a fabulous 20-something and self-proclaimed foodie and health enthusiast who created the blog Clean Eating Chelsey. After graduating from Illinois State University, she began to experience health problems: stomachaches, migraines, joint pain, low energy, mood swings, and more. Soon thereafter, this classy co-ed learned that she was gluten and corn intolerant and probably lactose intolerant as well. No wonder she felt so sick! So, she eliminated these products from her diet and is now back with a healthy glow and a new food philosophy. Put simply: “If it comes from a box, I most likely will not be eating it.”

CL: How long have you been blogging for? What got you started?

Chelsey: I have been blogging since June 2010. I originally began blogging because I really and truly love blogs! I had been reading for a while, but I knew I had to reach out to others to share my story. After being diagnosed with multiple food intolerances in October/November 2009, I had a very difficult transition period that I knew many others could identify with. Now, I can’t imagine my life without blogging!

CL: What is “clean eating”? What about it appeals to you?

Chelsey: Everyone has their own personal definition of clean eating. To me, clean eating is eating whole, unprocessed foods devoid of artificial ingredients or preservatives. Knowing that what I am eating is safe for my husband and me puts my mind at ease. With so many chemicals, processed foods, and genetically modified foods out on the market, I know I don’t want them in my body.

CL: What would be your advice to someone who wants to start eating “cleaner”?

Chelsey: Clean eating isn’t all that hard – and it really is not boring. In fact, my blog’s tagline is “where clean eating is anything but commonplace”. My main advice though is to start slow. Think about cleaning up your food choices as a lifestyle change, not as a diet to lose weight, but to feel better all around. For example, if you eat instant oatmeal for breakfast every morning, try eating bulk oats instead. If you usually buy prepared salads for lunch, try making your own at home with organic and fresh ingredients. If you are craving Thai takeout for dinner, look up a recipe to make your own stir-fry. Obviously time is always an issue, so plan ahead! Most meals that I make take less than 30 minutes on a weeknight.

CL: You have a full-time job, a blog, are married, AND run half-marathons, how do you find the time to fit in family, fun, work, and fitness?

Chelsey: Wow, I do sound busy, don’t I? In life, it is all about balance. I have always been good at managing my time, and that really helped me transition into the “real world” when I got married, bought a house, and took on a job. There is always something to be done, but living life always comes first. Sometimes the dishes can stay in the sink for a few hours a night. Sometimes the blog can wait until the next day because I have a family obligation. By planning ahead (key!) and really zoning in on my priorities, I have found what works for me.

CL: What does a regular week look like for you in terms of working out?

Chelsey: Most mornings I will exercise before school (I am an elementary school teacher). I get up around 4:15 (yes, I am a little bit crazy), get to the gym by 4:30, and am done with my workout by 5:15 every morning. I have so many other obligations after school between work, my family, and my other job (blogging!) that exercising in the morning works much better for me. On the weekends, I usually take a hot yoga class or complete longer runs when I have more time. Sundays are always rest days for me!

CL: What was your college experience like? What advice would to give to co-eds?

Chelsey: College was a blast. There is nothing I would change about my experience except for getting more involved with different organizations on campus, especially my first semester away from home. Any sort of change can be scary and stressful, so having a “home base” organization like a club or a sport can be very helpful to help ground you and keep you busy! Obviously staying healthy in college is difficult, so I would really urge college students to find exercise they enjoy, healthy snacks and food to keep their brains on top of it all, and to keep drinking at a reasonable level.

CL: Can you share your favorite healthy recipe with us?

Chelsey: Asking a food blogger to share her favorite recipe is like asking a mother to choose her favorite child. You do realize this, don’t you? I suppose I am a rule breaker, so I am going to share one sweet and one savory recipe. One of my favorite snacks is granola – I usually eat a bowl of it every night as a snack. My favorite granola recipe is Trail Mix Granola – I could eat this by the tubful. One of my favorite healthy and savory dishes is Creamy Pasta Primavera.

Check out Chelsey’s “How I Do ‘It’” series! She covers topics all of us CL girls worry about: time management, healthy eating, self-worth, and exercise.

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Ellen Ratliff is a Health Writer at College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Dietetics with a specialization in Health Promotions. She tries to eat “clean” as much as possible, but still enjoys her Enjoy Life Allergen-Free Dark Chocolate bars from time to time.

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