Nutrition and Fitness
Nutrition
Good nutrition is a fundamental element of wellness. A healthy, well-balanced diet
boosts energy, contributes to positive mood, promotes physical health and helps prevents
certain illnesses. If you are away at school or busy with a job, taking the time to
care for yourself by eating a healthy diet can seem difficult or inconvenient – however,
following some simple guidelines, it is possible to enjoy healthy eating habits even
at a school or workplace cafeteria.
A healthy diet includes a balance of high protein foods (poultry, fish, beans, eggs, nuts and lean meats), fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Simple goals to think about:
- Avoid high sugar foods and drinks like candy and soda; water is a wonderful thirst quencher and good for your body.
- Avoid highly processed foods and meats (chips, lunch meats, etc.).
- Avoid fried foods – grilled, steamed, baked and raw foods are best.
Fitness
In addition to being an important part of a healthy lifestyle, exercise can also enhance your emotional well-being. Exercise has a positive impact on sleep, weight, mood, energy and overall health.
Try to stay active every day! Aim for:
- 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity (such as brisk walks or tennis) per week. This is only 20 minutes per day-the amount it takes to walk from South to North Campus
- 75 minutes of vigorous intensity physical activity (such as running or biking) per week. This is only 10 minutes per day.
- Any combination of moderate and vigorous intensity physical aerobic activity.
Where to exercise on campus:
- Forrest Fitness Center. Current Cal Lutheran students, faculty, and employees enjoy free membership to the Forrest Fitness Center.
- Group Fitness Classes are a fun and community-focused way to mov your body. All students, faculty, staff, and Forrest Fitness Center yearly members are welcome! All fitness classes are free and located in the Dance and Fitness Studio on the second floor of the Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center, excluding Bootcamp.
Want to compete? Join a club sport or compete in weekly intramurals.