We have all been through it. Everybody has had those times where they know they want to go to the gym and get a solid workout regularly, but it just doesn’t happen for one reason or another.

Procrastination is, after all, is in our college student nature. However, there are still some ways to stay fit in college that can fit be worked into a busy schedule and modified to your convenience and need.

Wake up earlier

We all hate getting up in the morning, but there are quite a few benefits to waking up even twenty minutes earlier.

The morning has fewer distractions and there is less going on, giving you time to eat a healthy breakfast and perhaps do some pushups or crunches in your room.

You don’t need a very long time, and it shouldn’t get in the way of anything else, not to mention gives you a good feeling and a fresh start to the day.

Instead of hitting snooze over and over again, try getting up a half hour earlier and doing a few sets of crunches, pushups, or squats. Try 2-4 sets of 20 and you could be on your way to getting fit and toning up quicker than you thought.

Snack Healthier

Instinct tells us to reach for the chips while bored or doing something tedious like studying.

But cutting down on the little bits of junk food can really make a big impact. Simple things such as carrots instead of Bugels or a salad instead of microwaved Popcorn Chicken go a long way.

Also, try eating better at the Dining halls. Add a healthy edge to your daily diet by eating less cheese, adding a side of veggies, and a salad to finish up.

Walk more

We all have to get to classes. Try walking more often instead of taking the bus.

Every mile walked (by an average sized man) burns roughly 100 calories.

Take the stairs instead of elevators, not only to burns calories, but to save a ton of energy. If you’re not doing it for yourself, do it for the environment! Walking to classes is also much more enjoyable if you’re going with friends.

Grab your roommates and head to campus early so you can hang out in the union, a cafe or library before classes start. This way not only are you getting in an extra workout, but spending time with friends as well.

Weightless workouts

Going to the gym can be a hassle. However, there are plenty of ways to work out without weights.

Many exercises like pushups, crunches, leg raises, squats, lunges, shadow boxing, jump roping, or running in place take very little space, no travel time, and are easy to do.

If lifting is your thing, try buying a medicine ball or a small set of weights for your dorm room.

Playing sports (intramural or club) is also a great way to have fun, socialize and compete with friends, and stay in shape at the same time.