Okay, Xmas is over now people and we’re all feeling a little worse for wear in more ways than one! But let’s stop talk-ing about it and do something about it. Firstly, DIETS! Yes, that dreaded word... but the results are worth it. Now’s the time to cut out the rubbish and replace it with those healthy greens to help get those little brains working through your final semester.

You need to decide what’s good for you and what’s not. Here are my fantastic top 5 tips to stay looking amazing!

1. Breakfast: it’s essential you eat break-fast so something like toast, cereal or fruit help get that metabolism started!

2. Snacks: limit them to one or two be-tween meals, and ensure that they are something light, healthy and low in fat like a yoghurt.

3. Lunch: something light but filling, like a sandwich, will help to get you through the day. However, let’s be sensible, those filling crisp sandwiches do not fit in to the healthy balanced diet we’re looking to create!

4. Ensure that you’re eating regularly and at reasonable times. Eating tea at 10pm doesn’t give your body enough time to

digest the largest meal of the day, meaning of lot unwanted fat!

5. Tea time: always attempt to incorporate at least two pieces of fruit or veg into your meal. Try putting them in your mash or hide them in pasta to ensure that they’re present and delicious.

The best tip is to keep it simple and fun!

It’s important to treat yourself occasionally whether it’s a kebab on a night out or pop-corn with a film, just remember to maintain a balance and your motivation!

Now that we’re eating healthily, let’s get fit and tone-up to get rid of all that unwanted christmas flab! Gyms can be overpriced and boring so below, I’ve thought of some different forms of exercise, that are cheap, cheerful and also a great way to socialise.

Running is a fab way to stay fit. Why not encourage your roommates to join you in a regular jog? Get out the IPod and trainers and take to the streets. Running works all the muscles and is a great way to keep the heart healthy, while having a good old chat!

Not up for running how about swimming? It’s approximately £3.50 to go to a public swimming pool and cheaper if you pay monthly. Swimming, again, is a great way to exercise the mind and body and it’s also a great way to relax!

Or why not join a club! Our Students’ Union has some great teams, consisting of rugby, swim-ming, football, hockey and many, many more! It’s simple to find out more, just go to the student activities centre or visit www.birminghamcitysu.com. It’s never too late to sign up!

And what about keep fit DVD’s? They’re great (mostly), not to mention extremely cheap in the January sales and they last a life time. Buy one and make a plan to do it on a weekly basis! Getting into a routine is essential for long lasting results.

Those are just a few ideas, I’m sure you can think of many more.

Keep it simpleKeep it fun Be consistent with it!

Written by Stacey JamesDesigned by Emma Buckley

New year, new you!

Healthy tips to help you get back in shape for the new year.