Do you make New Year’s Resolutions? Our Race Team members have already begun to make strides towards a better 2012 by following the goals defined in the Slide4Life program. Slide4Life is a four-pillared program that encourages participants to develop good fitness and nutrition habits and meshes with the ASF’s mission. ASF is working together with MVP Health Care to provide consistent instruction on healthy eating habits and to promote awareness of the positive impact that physical activity can make on the life of a student with a disability.
So, if our skiers and riders are working on healthier choices, what can the rest of us do to improve our health on and off the slopes? Here are 5 small changes to consider for 2012:
1. Wear Sunscreen: While UV light is reduced in the winter, your skin is vulnerable to the sun reflected off of the snow, and you may have more exposure than you think. Applying sunscreen and moisturizer before you head out will protect your skin from the sun and add a layer of defense against chapping from the wind. Kiehl’s supports the Adaptive Sports Foundation, check out their sun protection and awesome Ultra Facial Cream.
2. Stay Hydrated: Cold air tends to be dry, and even in the cold weather we sweat while we are out on the slopes. You can help prevent an afternoon slump by including some water in your break or snack, and offering water to your students as well. If you are thirsty, you are probably already dehydrated.
3. Relax and Stretch: Join Jo and Bob for a morning yoga session at Adaptive or incorporate your own meditation and stretching routine into your ski morning.
4. Think of your food as fuel for your runs: There are healthy, inexpensive options available on the Adaptive sports lunch bar each day, including soup, yogurt, salads and grilled chicken. Before you head out, try a breakfast with a mix of slow digesting whole grains and protein, like oatmeal with walnuts, banana and maple syrup or Pam’s famous homemade granola (recipe below).
5. Keep it positive: Your attitude can have a big impact on your performance on and off the mountain. Here are some tips for developing positive self talk. If fear is holding you back, check out The Yikes Zone by Windham’s own Mermer Blakeslee for ideas on developing an affirming internal guide for your skiing.
Pam’s Crunchy Nutty Granola
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup of maple syrup (or maple syrup & honey combined)
1 TBS vanilla
1 TBS cinnamon
½ tsp sea salt
¼ cup ground flax seed
1 cup wheat germ
Mix the above ingredients in a large bowl
Add to the bowl and mix thoroughly:
3 ½ cups of oats
1 ½ cups of raw chopped nuts & seeds (pumpkin, cashews, almonds, sesame, walnuts etc)
Spread in an even layer on a cookie sheet
Bake at 375 for 15 minutes
Stir
Bake for another 10 – 15 minutes stirring every 5 minutes.
To test if it is done, take a small amount out and let cool- it should be crunchy!
Add about 2 cups of dried cranberries (or fruit of your choice)
Store in an airtight container.