Sodexo hosts ‘Fit Flames’ health workshop

Sodexo, in cooperation with Registered Dietitian Robin Quay, is hosting a monthly informational meeting called the “Fit Flames” Workshop.

“What we found in surveys is that college students really want information about health, wellness and good nutrition,” Quay said. “We want to make sure we are offering them everything they need to be their best.”

The “Fit Flames” Workshop will be held on the last Tuesday of each month from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The workshops on Jan. 31, March 27 and April 24 will be held at the Reber-Thomas VIP room. The Feb. 28 meeting will be held at the LaHaye Workout Room.

Topics at the workshop include how to read a food label, portion control, easy ways to be active, eating on a budget, buying good snacks, making good choices at the dining hall and more.

“The purpose of the class is to give basic nutrition information to students,” Quay said.

According to Quay, the average college student between the ages of 18 and 21 gains 7-13 pounds during their undergrad years. Quay said that there are many factors that cause weight gain, including buffets, going out late at night for pizza, homesickness, academic adjustments and stress.

“This is one reason the program came about. It’s not inevitable that you will come out of college 13 pounds heavier,” Quay said. “We want to make sure they have every tool available for that not to happen.”

Benefits of the workshop include tips from a trainer who will give health and exercise information and show students simple exercise ideas. A physician will also attend the meetings to share health and wellness advice. Quay will also be conducting a tour of the Reber-Thomas Dining Hall so students can learn how to navigate and make healthy food choices.

“We are going to be taking weight and waist circumference each meeting,” Quay said. Students are encouraged to attend each meeting if possible. The workshop includes regular weigh-ins and those who attend will have their information and progress recorded.

“It’s going to be really informative and really interesting. Students (will) learn a lot of things that will help them in life. This won’t be something to just do today, but something to help them have good habits for the rest of their life so that they will be happier and healthier,” Quay said.

The Fit Flames workshop hopes to make students look their best, feel their best, perform their best and form habits for a healthy future.

Students can register by emailing Robin Quay at Robin.Quay@sodexo.com. Registration is not required, but preferred, and walk-ins are more than welcome, Quay said.