One of the things I feel strongly about is that learning how to stay physically fit is an important part of any college education. A vast array of common diseases can be entirely prevented with a consistent level of overall physical fitness as an adult. Getting excercise is the VERY BEST way to overcome stress, especially the kind of stress and anxiety that are so common among college students. Try going out for a run when you are feeling particularly stressed. It will reset your brain chemistry to a much better place. Neuroscience has confirmed that this works better than anything elso you can do to manage high stress and anxiety! Seriously, TRY THIS!!

I believe that the college years are the best time to begin a lifelong pattern of staying fit. Believe me, it is much harder to get into shape the older you get, and the older you start, the less likely you are to stick with it. If you plan to be a physician, you should strive to model being fit to help inspire your patients to live a healthier life as well!

There are many great ways to stay in shape, and I prefer running. My family and I have run in a lot of local races and I hope you will give it a try. I have many former OChem students who still run, and they comment that learning to enjoy running was perhaps the most important thing they learned in my class.

The Loop Running Supply Company and Rogue Running are two local stores/organizations that can help you get into running. They offer a number of running groups at various levels to help you get in shape. There are also many other programs on the UT campus and with other organizations that can help you get started. If you run the trail around town lake in the early mornings, chances are you will see me and my dogs Felix and Poptart a few times this semester.

If you want to take the next step and sign up for some local races, you should click here to see what races are coming up in the Austin area.