Staying Healthy While Tailgating

Monday, Oct 06, 2025
FAU Owl tailgating in front of the stadium

Staying Healthy While Tailgating

Tailgating before football games is a fall tradition on many college campuses, and no university does it better than Florida Atlantic! The student tailgate atmosphere is second to none.

As you take advantage of this exciting time to celebrate school spirit, enjoy food, and connect with friends, it's easy to lose track of your health. Here’s how to enjoy the fun while staying smart and healthy:

  1. Hydrate First — and Often

Before reaching for that first drink, make sure you’ve had water. Alcohol is dehydrating, and standing in the sun or being active makes it worse. Alternate each alcoholic drink with a full bottle of water to stay ahead. Make sure you don’t miss out on the popsicles handed out by Owls Care Health Promotion at the Cooling Tent!

  1. Eat Before You Drink

Tailgates are full of heavy, greasy foods that can be hard on your stomach — especially on an empty one. Eat a balanced meal beforehand that includes protein, carbs, and healthy fats to slow alcohol absorption and keep your energy steady.

  1. Pace Your Drinking

Don’t treat drinking like a race. Keep track of how much you’re consuming and know your limits. Stick to one standard drink per hour and skip drinks from sketchy sources — you don’t always know what’s in that jungle juice.

  1. Be Mindful of Food Choices

Sure, enjoy the occasional burger or wings — it’s part of the fun. But balance it out with some fruit, veggies, or lighter snacks if they’re available. You’ll feel better later and avoid the dreaded post-tailgate food coma.

  1. Protect Your Skin

Fall doesn’t mean you’re safe from the sun. Tailgating for hours means UV exposure, even on cloudy days. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses and consider a hat for extra protection.

  1. Watch Your Energy

Tailgating often turns into a marathon. Know when to take breaks, sit down, or step away from the crowd if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Listen to your body — it’ll tell you when you’ve had enough.

  1. Attend the Game!

Make sure you get into the game early! College football is exciting and a core part of the college experience. Don’t miss the game!

  1. Have a Game Plan for After

Make sure you have a safe ride home and a buddy system in place. If you're staying out late after the tailgate and game, make time to rehydrate and eat a decent meal before bed.

If you want to learn more about staying healthy tailgating and attending sporting events in the hot Florida sun, schedule an appointment with a provider at Student Health Services by visiting https://shs-portal.fau.edu or call or visit one of our clinic locations:

Boca Raton Clinic 561-297-3512

2nd Floor Across from the Food Court, SS-8W, Room 240

 

Davie Clinic 954-236-1556

Student Union, SD Room 206

 

Jupiter Campus 561-799-8678

Student Resources Building, SR Room 106