Name: Rawan Hammoud
Department: International Relations
How often do you exercise?
Five times a week.
How has regular exercise affected your life?
I started weightlifting two years ago. I’d been stuck in a vicious cycle of dieting and binging because I wanted to be skinny. Somewhere along the way, I learned that I had to respect my body and give it the proper fuel. My commitment to becoming stronger helped me heal my relationship with food and grow physically and mentally.
What are the first three things that come to mind when you hear the word “sports”?
Consistency and patience; proper nutrition; progressive overload.
What do you suggest to those who are just taking up a sport or starting to exercise?
Educate yourself. The problem with the fitness industry is that it’s poisoned by social media influencers who sometimes reinforce fitness myths as well as unrealistic body goals. This harmful exposure could definitely demotivate anyone. One of the myths that affected me personally was that girls shouldn’t lift heavy weights because they’ll look “bulky.” This myth prevented me from challenging myself for a long time, and I’m sure it’s still holding many other girls back. The first step is to clean up your social media platforms. Follow people who provide scientific evidence to back up their training and nutrition plans. Second, come up with a plan that’s tailored for your own goals and then make changes along the way.
Which Bilkent sports facilities (Sports Halls, playing fields, tennis courts, etc.) do you use?
The Dormitories Sports Hall gym is my second home.
Have you taken any courses or participated in any activities (intramural tournaments, swim festivals, Zumba master classes, etc.)?
I tried a boxing course, and I loved it, but it was cut short when the pandemic broke out.