Healthy meals … Fuel for fun
Because I don’t live with my patient athletes many of the adjuct approaches I use with Lauren I can’t always use with my patient athletes. Much of our training rationale for Lauren is very comprehensive and thus more like a lifestyle approach than a training approach. What do I mean? Example: One day before volleyball practice a few months ago, Lauren said she was really hungry and thirsty (not sure why she had a snack earlier so she wouldn’t be hungry , why ask why). I said what would you like to have? She replied I would like a 7-11 Slurpee…HUMMMM
I replied aren’t you getting ready to go to practice what would be a better choice?
She laughed out loud and replied “I know Mom just pulling your leg, water and some fruit not chips” Exactly. And that is what she had. I am totally not against a treat but this wasn’t treat time so we stuck to our plan. Our lifestyle choices dominate the way we make food choices in this case. I am building a productive, strong athlete that perhaps one day will be a high school , collegiate athlete even an Olympian. If she reaches all that we dream for her she will be well prepared for a healthy lifestyle regardless of her athletic pursuits.
Healthy Food Choices always begin one meal at a time ,one snack at a time one day at a time.I don’t over whelm myself with a week of what to eat ..I think what’s for dinner in general. and over the week go with the flow,plan the shopping and create the meals as I go. Planning weekly is good if you can do it.
Introducing new healthy items when they are hungry and can’tthink straight is a great way to offer good choices for snacks and set a side something you want them to try but pretend it’s really just for you.This always works woinders for me. Food ie fuel is the corner stone of a great performance.No fuel, no go fast or jump high, so focus on food as fuel and put some high octane in your athletes tank every chance you get.
this is a ? about my grandaughter.i need some tip on my grand-daughter, she is a great runner in the 100 meter, but when it come to the 400 and maybe the 800. she start out fine, but it when she get to the 300 mark she run out of gas. what can u advise me about strenghting her. i am very much confuse. thank u
Hey Trackmom,
Wings of Eagles Track is Loving life in Seattle WA. We run rain I thank goodness for the day I saw your website. I appreciate the access you give to the baby trackmom. Maybe
we can all grow up to be like you, even those of us that have more years behind us.
I believe you are never too old or too young to learn. I have been waging a pro-vegetable battle at my house for almost twenty years. I have converted my husband and slowing am reconnecting my son with vegetables. He liked the smoothie with the spinach until he caught me putting in one time. I still use it if I am using a really dark fruit or juice.
My tips to keeping on the good foot-
I know it easiest for me to keep to healthy eating if keep my freezer stocked with quality low fat cuts of meat that my local butcher wraps for my family of three to my order. I only to have to thaw what I am using that and maybe the next if am planning ahead.
Keep the pantry stocked with pasta, canned or dried beans, rice, etc. Keep the packaging to a minimum and you know you are eating pretty well. Even jar sauces and pasta/rice mixes can have a lot stuff you dont need.
Keep a list of the foods you like and try to keep the basics on hand. I mentioned my favorite butcher. He has organic, restaurant grade meat, but because I buy for 2 weeks of basics like boneless skinless chicken breasts, lean point loin, etc he gives a discount and wraps it how I will use it.
If you have good habits, don’t let the rush of the season cause you to lose focus. Give yourself time to plan, shop, and prepare for your meals.
It is easier to get the prodigals back on track if you focus on the health and development of the child when making choices for the family. My husband doesn’t argue with me about HFCS anymore and is now checking labels as I do.
Hello Seattle TrackMom,
Thanks for the great tips and enthusiasm. We Track Moms have to help each other!! Please send more.