University Life: The Best Workout Gear and Fitness Moves for Your Dorm

Ever wanted to work out at college, but rarely found the time? Between classes, homework, and events, it's difficult to find the time and motivation to exercise and eat well. But procrastinate on your health no more, for I have the tips to keep healthy while you're busy, on-the-go, and/or simply unmotivated.

When your time is cut short and you need to find a workout plan that suits a busy, college girl lifestyle, here is the place to be. In my case, the on-campus gym is quite a walk from my dorm room. And last year, I came to Iowa completely unprepared for a dorm workout (or a workout of any kind!)

I was a much different person a year ago. I never hit the gym, didn't watch what I ate, and didn't care about my emotional or physical wellbeing. The old me might have said that she did, in fact, care about her wellbeing, though she didn't do much to keep her mind and body healthy. If this is you, unmotivated and uninspired woman on the go, I've got your health and fitness answers here.

For one, purchase workout equipment for your room. Whether you're more into weights or cardio, there's gear for each individual workout need. If you're low on cash, stop at a regular department store, like Walmart, to find what you're looking for, and for a cheaper price.

My favorite dorm room workout essentials include:

• a 12-lb medicine ball - for core and arm workouts
• a foam yoga mat - for yoga or pilates
• a set of 10 or 15-lb weights - for more reps and stronger arms
• a few different workout DVD's or CD's - to switch up your workout when needed (you can also get an app on your phone for fitspo!)
• an ab wheel - for core strength and a great workout tool (mine was only 2 dollars on sale!)
• a jumprope - for a full-body workout and lots of cardio, also easily stored and doesn't take up too much room in a dorm
• a kettlebell - to strengthen your arms and core (totally works in a tight space!)
• Wii Fit - if you have a Wii already, invest in the Wii Fit game, I PROMISE it will be worth it. I've used this game for over 4 years and it really helps you lose weight and get healthier. The game measures your BMI/weight, lets you set goals, has hundreds of fitness games (focused on aerobics, strength, yoga, balance, etc.), and is a great motivator for working out and measuring yourself daily or weekly to see progress.

Some of my favorite dorm-friendly workout moves include:

• high-knees - easily done in a tight space
• running in place - good cardio (try the Wii Fit's running game!)
• jumping jacks - great for a full-body cardio workout
• bicep curls - want toned arms??
• sit-ups or crunches - flat tummy time!
• wall-sit - builds your core
• chair squats - want a nice butt? Get your squat on!
• plank - perfect for core strength
• burpees - these will burn calories quick and work your entire body!

Remember, the freshman 15 is not inevitable. It CAN be avoided! It just takes some serious fitspo and self-control. Especially when you see those freshly-baked cheese curds in the cafeteria. Go, girl! Work it in your free time to avoid that baby fat coming back! EEK.