Maintaining Health and Fitness While Abroad

Phoebe Faupel, North Carolina State University, United States

Moving abroad to study at North Carolina State University has been an exciting experience, but one thing i realised was how important it is to look after both your physical and mental health while adjusting to a completely new environment.
With busy schedules, social events, travelling and academic pressures, it can be easy to fall out of healthy routines. However, staying active and maintaining balance has genuinely helped me enjoy my year abroad far more.

Here are some of the ways I have stayed fit and healthy while studying at NC State.

Make Use of Campus Facilities:

I immediately noticed at NCSU how incredible the university fitness facilities are.

The gym is huge, well-equipped and accessible to students, which makes it easier to stay consistent with workouts. Whether you enjoy running, strength training, fitness classes, or simply staying active causually, there is something for everyone. Having access to good facilities also made working out feel less intimidating and more like part of everyday student life rather than something extra to add to the list of things to do.

Make Walking Part of Your Routine:

Campus life in the US is so accessible and can involve a lot more walking than you would expect. Between lectures, dining halls, libraries and social events, you naturally spend a lot of time moving throughout the day.

I have found walking everywhere to not only help me stay active, but also improve my mood and give me time to clear my head between classes. Some of my favourite moments have honestly been walks around campus with friends after busy days.

Staying Healthy Is Not About Perfection:

Health does not have to mean strict routines or unrealistic expectations.

There will be busy weeks, late nights, takeaway meals, and days where motivation completely disappears- and that’s normal. For me, staying healthy has been more about balance and consistency rather than trying to do everything perfectly.
Sometimes that means going to the gym. Other times it means getting enough sleep, taking a break, or simply going outside for fresh air.

Find Activities You Actually Enjoy:

Staying active becomes easier when you enjoy what you’re doing. At NCSU there are so many opportunities to try different sports, classes and recreational activities. Whether its track, pickleball, volleyball, free wights or climbing, being active does not have to feel repetitive.

Prioritise Mental Health Too:

Studying abroad can be overwhelming at times. Being far away from home, adjusting to new academic systems, and constantly meeting new people can become mentally exhausting without realising it.

One of the biggest things I’ve learnt is that staying healthy is not only physical. Taking care of your mental wellbeing is just as important. For me, keeping routines, exercising regularly, spending time outside, and staying connected with people back home all helped me feel more grounded during stressful periods.