Opinion

'Tis the season to get into shape

Stephanie Davis

Many Daily Cougar readers have e-mailed me asking my whereabouts. Well, I'm back after my long hiatus. The truth is I missed writing, but I've had some personal issues that I've been dealing with. Speaking of issues, besides my teething daughter and graduation preparation, I've been trying to work out and lose weight.

It finally dawned on me that summer is right around the corner. My New Year's resolution of shedding pounds has been forgotten. Yes, I must admit I became a slacker. But at one time, I was determined. My refrigerator was filled with Slim-Fast shakes, low-calorie this and soy that. I bought myself a cute little workout suit with matching shoes. 

But as the months progressed, I began to experience withdrawals. The moment I bit down on a Wendy's hamburger, I relapsed. I wanted some Biggie fries and a Frosty. I was like Cookie Monster: "Me want cookies!" I got lazy and my refrigerator smelled like rotten fruit, and so did my attitude. I was hooked again. After I came down off of the hunger high, I was disappointed with myself.

Now, I'm back. I have checked myself into diet rehab; I am pumped up and ready for change. I'll call this my "mid-year" revolution. While many people want to lose weight to improve their appearance, I am trying to lose my post-pregnancy pooch to feel better and be healthy.

Everybody hopes to find a magic pill or patch that will dissolve pounds. It might work, but as soon as the magic wears off, horrible side effects occur, and you might turn in to a pumpkin. Plus, they don't help you firm up. If you want to be lean, there is no way around exercising. So, put that bowl of ice ream down, get off the couch, suit up and get to work. Say it with me: "Thin is not what's in, healthy is what happening." Its sounds corny, but it works. 

I plan to set a reasonable goal and see what I can do before June. Don't worry about gym memberships. Like it or not, you are paying for the Campus Wellness and Recreation Center in your tuition fees. Take advantage of your campus benefits. Friday, I visited the center, and it was great. They have something for every one -- even people like me, who don't want to sweat out a good perm. 

To some people, trying to lose weight is a lot like trying to quit smoking, or to stop using drugs or alcohol. It's not easy, but it's not impossible.

My fellow students, I challenge you to join me in this "mid-year" revolution. Good luck, and here's to a happier, healthier you.

Davis, a columnist for The Daily Cougar, 
can be reached at heavensangel_1_2000@yahoo.com.