Fit, Smart, and Social

How to Maintain a Balanced Life in College

by Chloe Saint Mard

Photo by Sarah Cruz

Balancing academics, fitness, and social life in college can feel challenging. But with a few strategies, you can thrive in all areas of your life.

Start by creating a realistic workout schedule that fits your lifestyle. Personally, I enjoy doing Pilates classes on the weekends and a ballet PDP class twice a week. On the days when I don’t have these classes, I focus on 30-minute gym workouts that maximize efficiency. This structured approach helps me stay committed to my fitness goals without feeling overwhelmed.

Working out with friends is another fantastic way to stay motivated. Whether it's trying a new class at FitRec together or catching up during a walk while sipping matcha, these shared experiences keep me accountable and add some fun to my fitness routine.

You can also get creative and discover new ways to sneak in physical activity throughout your day. I love to walk everywhere on campus, and it's amazing how quickly you can get from East to West Campus in just 25 minutes. Every bit of movement counts—I find that these breaks not only energize me but also help improve my focus during study sessions. They also definitely contribute to a better night's sleep!

If you have access to a kitchen, consider meal prepping or keeping healthier options available. I enjoy making overnight oats, buying veggies, and easy-to-cook proteins for quick salads, or grabbing an acai bowl from The Juicery.

When it comes to academics, mastering time management is crucial for balancing college life effectively. One strategy that has truly transformed my routine is time blocking. By scheduling 20-minute review sessions between classes, I’ve been able to maximize my productivity, freeing up more time for relaxation and social activities.

Another helpful tactic is to distinguish between high-energy and low-energy tasks. I prioritize my workouts and study sessions for the morning when my energy levels are at their peak and I save lower-energy activities—like rewriting lecture notes or completing readings—for the afternoon. This approach prevents me from feeling frustrated when tackling difficult tasks when I’m tired. 

In the end, it’s all about choices. It’s okay to skip a dinner with friends or a workout when exams are approaching. I focus on what will bring me the most fulfillment and ensure I’m aligning my activities with my goals.