Praise the Lords of all cultures! Summer is finally here. Well, almost. Just the minor, minor issue of a 20-page paper and a couple exams first. Most of us will be going home in a few short weeks and that means all the hard work we've put into ourselves, figuring out a routine and getting the right foods, will be thrown into disarray as we come home to Mama's sweet apple pie.
How do we keep things going through the summer? As far as the workout goes, it is simple for the most part. In most areas, there exists at least one health club, if only the YMCA which on its own isn't all that bad these days. The Web site http://Digitalcity.com is a great place to look if you're unsure of the availability in your location. Those living in or near the big cities need not worry, at least 10 clubs exists for every city, perhaps multiples of a chain. Most clubs will allow you to join for a three or four- month period, perfect if you're spending your summers sleeping in your old bed until 3 p.m. Some of the most widespread chains around the country include Bally Fitness, Gold's Gym and World Gym. These clubs have Web sites that will help you locate a club near you.
If you like to run, it is never a problem to put on your Nikes and run around in an extended circle around your house. Like I said last week, cardiovascular training is the most flexible and variable health training there is. The public high school near you most likely is equipped with a nice foam track, perfect for those hot and humid mid-summer interval-training days. Every location is different, but one thing is certain, there is never any excuse for not being able to put on some kicks and kick it.
One thing I am obliged to warn you against is the possibility of heat-related concerns. All except the most oblivious people have heard of Korey Stringer. A football player for the Minnesota Vikings, he died due to difficult heat extensive training without enough water intake. At the time of his death, his body temperature was recorded as 108A??F. Heed my warnings: If you are training outdoors, try to do it in the early morning or late evening, when the sun is at its weakness and the temperature is not peaking. Drink at least four ounces, or a half-cup of water, every 15 minutes of exercise. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated. As little as two percent dehydration produces a significant drop in performance.
One problem I have when I come home is the extensive array of junk food in my parents' pantry. On a recent visit to the campus and my apartment, my brother remarked, "Now I know why you hate coming home." He realized that by living alone and by my own standards, I was able to control to a high degree what I ate by not allowing certain foods in my house. Once I arrive at home, I am inundated by massive amount of Mini Oatmeal Squares, ice cream in the freezer, creamy leftovers and Chinese takeout sitting in the fridge and various types of cookies and bagels on the counter. So much complex carbohydrates just sitting around, not the ideal situation for a person trying to keep the layer of fat off.
How do we fix this? The easiest way is to not come home and create an environment that works for you, but what if that is not an option? Then inform your parents and family of your desire to eat healthy. Who knows, they may join you into chucking the Entenmann's donuts into the abyss of the garbage truck.
Summer is certainly a joyous season, at least for the green grass lovers, but for the college student, it represents a dramatic change in routine. There are various ways to adapt, but every situation is different. Summer is truly the time to test your will and determine how well you can resist Britney's allure for Pepsi and stay away from the chocolate cakes. Have a good summer, ladies and gents. I know I will.
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