Unfortunately, the infamous freshman 15 isn't a joke. A 2005 study conducted at a mid-sized university followed 159 students during the fall semester. The results showed an average weight gain of 3.3 pounds. In addition, 23% of the group gained 5% or more of their body weight (See Reference 1). These numbers may seem daunting, but the truth of the matter is that there are several easy ways to battle this weight gain and actually lose weight in college.
Walk Everywhere
Walking is perhaps one of the greatest weapons that college students can employ to lose weight. However, college students tend to do very little walking and way too much driving. Challenge yourself to walk everywhere in campus. If you live in a larger city, obviously walking around the entire area isn't an option. However, most college campuses aren't big enough to warrant driving all the time. A 2009 study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition addresses the benefits of walking. It "demonstrates that walking has an independent protective effect on weight gain" (See Reference 2). You're staring at one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to lose weight in college.
Start Cooking
If you've ever walked into the college cafeteria, you probably understand that the food isn't the healthiest option available. For the most part, cafeteria food is unhealthy and a large contributor to college weight gain. One of your best fat loss options is to ditch this food outlet. Start cooking on your own. This allows you to regulate what goes in and out of your body. You won't have to worry about what the cafeteria is serving on any particular day. Cooking takes a little extra effort, but if you want to lose weight during college, it's one of your best bets.
Hit the Rec Center
Almost every college in the nation has some sort of recreational center available to students. It's one of the additional fees you are likely to pay each semester in addition to tuition. If you're paying for it, you might as well use it. Although some college rec centers aren't exactly up to par, most contain at least the bare minimum equipment. Find a workout program and stay consistent with it. If consistency is difficult for you, drag some of your friends with you. The rec center is quite possibly one of the best aspects of college, as it allows you to have fun and stay healthy at the same time.
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