Are you finding it hard to stay healthy with your packed college schedule? You’re definitely not alone.
A big part of having a successful college experience is learning how to prioritize your overall well-being while juggling everything on your plate. Between classes, campus organizations, and extracurriculars, it can be challenging to find the time and the right resources to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
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At Rambler, we’re committed to supporting our residents’ goals for health and wellness. That’s why we’re pursuing a Fitwel certification to ensure we’re providing everything our residents need to reach their health and fitness goals.
To help you save time and stay healthy, we’ve put together a list of five great restaurant options near Rambler that align with Fitwel’s standards for nutritious dining.
What is a Fitwel certification?
To start, let’s tackle the main question- what is Fitwel? Fitwel is a certification focused on enhancing health and well-being in buildings and communities. According to the Fitwell website:
Fitwel is the world’s leading certification system committed to building health for all®. Generated by expert analysis of 7,000+ academic research studies, Fitwel is implementing a vision for a healthier future where all buildings and communities are enhanced to strengthen health and well-being.
Fitwel was originally created by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention and U.S. General Services Administration. The CDC remains the research and evaluation partner for Fitwel. The Center for Active Design was selected as the licensed operator of Fitwel, charged with expanding Fitwel to the global market.
Fitwel also emphasizes clean indoor air as key to building health. Better ventilation and filtration not only curb virus spread but also boost focus, reduce allergy triggers, and block outdoor pollutants. Learn more about the benefits of clean indoor air.
One of the pillars of a Fitwel-certified property is easy access to healthy food options. To meet Fitwel criteria, the building must be within a half-mile walking distance of at least two off-site locations that provide food and drink that meet a lengthy list of health and wellness requirements.
These requirements range from daily fresh fruit and vegetables to meat- and plant-based proteins and no-sugar added desserts. For the full list of requirements, see the bottom of this article.
Fitwel Approved Healthy Food Options Near Rambler Tempe
Eating clean and opting for healthier food and drink has a multitude of benefits. The American Heart Association stresses this:
“Eating healthy is a key way for individuals to take control of their health. Unfortunately, too many people consume too many foods high in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium, and they eat too few fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, placing them at increased risk for cardiovascular disease.
Understanding what we feed our families and how we cook our meals is the first step to preventing and treating health conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.”
If your goal is to make healthy choices during the school year, there are plenty of restaurants offering clean ingredients and healthy food options all within walking distance of Rambler. Here are three restaurants near Rambler that meet the Fitwel criteria, plus two extras that meet the healthy food requirements but are just a bit further than half a mile from Rambler.
1. Kuka Izakaya Sushi & Bar
Distance from Rambler: 6-minute walk (0.3 mile)
First up is Kuka Izakaya Sushi & Bar, serving authentic Japanese tapas and traditional-style sushi. The menu features omakase courses, rice bowls, ramen, and a fresh selection of sushi offered as rolls, nigiri, or sashimi.
Photo curtesy of kukasushi.com
2. Ahipoki
Distance from Rambler: 8-minute walk (0.4 mile)
Next up, Ahipoki, a modern poke spot putting a contemporary spin on traditional Hawaiian flavors. The restaurant offers a build your own menu with options like bowls, burritos, or salads, all made with fresh, flavorful ingredients that honor the dish’s roots. For those who prefer cooked options, Ahipoki also serves a variety of grilled dishes.
3. Board & Brew
Distance from Rambler: 8-minute walk (0.4 mile)
Board & Brew is known for its wide selection of specialty “sandos” made with the highest quality ingredients, including gluten-free, nut allergy-friendly, and vegan options. It’s the perfect spot to grab some friends, indulge in a great sandwich, and don’t forget to ask for the scratch-made Secret Sauce!
Photo curtesy of boardandbrew.com
4. Nautical Bowls
Distance from Rambler: 6-minute drive (delivery available) (0.9 mile)
Nautical Bowls is worth the short drive from campus and has become a go-to spot for students seeking a refreshing, fruit-filled pick-me-up. Their açaí bowls are packed with superfoods, essential vitamins, and nutrients, making them both delicious and nourishing.
5. Original ChopShop
Distance from Rambler: 9-minute drive (delivery available) (1.2 mile)
Last on our list is Original ChopShop. While it’s located a bit further from Rambler, the restaurant is a healthy food spot serving protein shakes, flavorful vegan salads, and a wide variety of delicious bowls. They also offer an all day breakfast menu, from avocado toast to a classic American breakfast with scrambled eggs, bacon, and toast.
Photo curtesy of originalchopshop.com
