BACK TO SCHOOL: FIND TIME & USE bib

Taken by Michelle D for Earned Runs, Fall 2017. All rights reserved.

COLLEGIATE CONTRIBUTOR: MICHELLE*
The September 11 post featured an interview with Michelle that provides background for her discussion. Check back on September 21 and and 28 for her other posts. 
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"FINDING TIME TO RUN"  
Being in college and finding a time to fit in running and exercising can be hard. Planning around classes, homework, studying, and extracurricular activities is tough, but it makes exercising feel that much better.
 
After receiving my class schedule for this semester, I thought about how I would spend my mornings before class or during afternoons. It has always been important for me to be organized and know when I have free time, including time to work out during the school week. Whether I need to go for a run as a stress reliever while studying for an exam, or wake up and want to go for a quick jog, knowing how much time I have to do so is crucial.
 
This became especially important during my freshman year of college. When I felt like going for a run alone it seemed to be something that would hinder my social life because others were mingling and hanging out enjoying themselves. I learned that one way to avoid feeling FOMO while you are gone to the gym or for a run is to invite a friend! Doing so can mean you get to bond over something you both love to do. Try a fun workout class at the gym with a bunch of friends; even if you don’t totally enjoy it you will at least have created a fond memory to look back on with everyone!
 
If you prefer running alone, use it as your “me” time. Listen to music and relax, or call your family to say “hi”! No matter if you are breathless; your parents will be happy to hear your voice.
 
Using your Earned Runs race BIB as MOTIVATION to remember to work out and run is also a good way to help stay in shape. Whether you find wearing the bib on a long run as motivation, or hanging it on a bulletin board or calendar. I find hanging it on the bulletin board on my desk is encouraging, as I can see it every time I sit studying or on my laptop. If there happens to be a high-profile race such as the Boston Marathon or the Marine Corps marathon on that day, I like to run wearing my bib because it makes me feel like I’m accomplishing a goal of my own.
 
No matter how you fit in your runs or workouts while at school, it is important to keep a healthy mind and body. Getting some fresh air can never hurt, so enjoy your time outside!

RUN HAPPY!

*Earned Runs is pleased to introduce our first ever guest contributor, TULANE UNIVERSITY junior MICHELLE D. To get into the swing of the Back-To-School theme and to kick off the new academic year, Michelle will write on three topics of interest to students.  She is pursuing a business degree as a “Green Wave” fan at the New Orleans, Louisiana institution, with a dual major in Marketing and Management.

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