This week really feels like spring. The warm sun uplifts your mood and you’re in much better spirits especially over the long dreary winter you’ve had. There’s nothing like a dose of sunshine to brighten up your day and keep you motivated to work harder towards your fitness goals. You also get a healthy dose of Vitamin D which your body makes when you are exposed to UVB rays. You should always use a sunscreen but some of the health benefits may protect against a variety of diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, breast caner, prostate and colon cancer. It may also combat depression, insomnia and an overactive immune system. Staying out for 10-15 minutes a day a few times a week may be enough to do the trick.
Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium to maintain healthy bones. You can also find it in food sources such as tuna and salmon as well as fortified milk and cereals. If you are vegan, another option would be to take Vitamin D supplements with calcium.
Exercising outdoors can be a breath of fresh air especially when you’re stuck in the office all day long. I am excited to take the class back outdoors so everyone can appreciate nature while getting the butts kicked. Tonight in Central Park will be the first outdoor boot camp of the season and Saturday, we will be swinging and chopping kettlebells off the west side highway.
Since you are all motivated to get into better shape, here are 2 quick food suggestions for the day:
1/Heart Thrive Vegan Oat Bar which comes in a Date and Apple Flavor -
This is a great snack made of oats, dates, dried fruits, oat floor and brown rice flour, non-GMO, wheat free and Dairy free, filled with fiber and some protein. It contains more calcium than an 8 oz. glass of milk.
http://www.heartthrives.com/
I also found the bar in the east village at Juicy Lucy’s on Avenue A between 5th and 6th street
2/ Chobani Pomegranate Flavor Greek Yogurt -
This is a 0% fat yogurt which is high in protein but beware because it is also high in sugar (19 gms). Nonfat is always tricky so treat yourself once in a while if you crave something sweet. It is better to have lowfat plain yogurt and mix in natural fruit. Greek yogurt is better than regular yogurts since they are normally higher in protein. Also there are no preservatives or hormones, it’s vegetarian friendly and kosher certified. There are actually real pomegranate seeds inside this yogurt. This is one of my favorites along with the pineapple flavor. I will treat myself to the higher sugar yogurts on the days where I know my training will be intense.
http://www.chobani.com/products/c/nonfat
Until next time, let’s get ready to rock and rumble. Go Team CLF!
Cindy Lai Fitness