People consume food every day, but everyone consumes it differently. Some eat simply as a necessity, while others consume a strategic combination of food in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle and/or achieve a goal body weight. There are many types of diets, such as the Keto diet, the Paleo diet and more. Another way many people, especially athletes, like to keep track of their calorie intake and keep a balanced diet is by meal planning.

Meal planning is when one prepares food for a meal at the beginning of the week, and then reheats it at a later date. Many people consider this as a great way to maintain the correct calorie amount needed for their body. This way of dieting is commonly used by athletes, especially when strength training. Strength training is a type of exercise, oftenly associated with lifting weights, used to help grow endurance and develop more muscle definition. One must consume the right amount of calories to maximize the development of muscles.

“For me a lot [of benefits of meal planning] were shown when I was lifting weights because I could last through my entire workout without feeling too tired,” senior Grace Regnier said. “I noticed I just felt better overall, and it helped me develop a schedule for myself”.

There are more benefits to meal planning than just being able to count calories and helping maintain one's fitness level; it is also a way to save money on food. When grocery shopping, people arguably prepare around three meals a day every day of the week, depending on portion preferences. Having a consistent day-to-day meal plan allows shoppers to buy food in larger quantities.

“I am sure [meal planning] is [cheaper] because now you can buy food in bulk which saves a lot of money,” junior Paul Adams said.

While the benefits of meal planning are apparent, many struggle to prepare a week’s worth of food in just one day.

“Sometimes it can be annoying but I know if I want to get stronger and reach my goals that I need to fuel my body correctly,” Regnier said.

Getting started can be one of the hardest things to do, but once the plan begins, the habit can become a part of routine.