You're not done yet

You made it the gym after work, or ushered 3 kids happily (mostly happily) into the childcare area or maybe you heaved 2 bikes on the bike rack & brought the kids to a trail they like so you could run while they ride. 

Whatever feats of endurance or hurdles there were, you worked out today! Congratulations!!!! Wooooo hoooo, one point for mom. But you're not done yet.

What? I'm not? Nope, you need to fuel that body for recovery, hydration and prepare it for the next time the stars align for your workout. The good news is it's simpler than you might think.

The basics to keep in mind are carbs, protein and a small amount of fat. Good quality, whole grains are the ideal source for carbohydrates. While lean proteins will provide the protein and appropriate amount of fat.

Most difficult for me, is to remember this is a recovery snack...as opposed to a meal. If you've worked hard for 60 minutes or more you need to replenish without replacing every calorie you just burned off. So think small and mighty.

My favs:

• string cheese & an apple
• almond milk with half scoop of chocolate Juice Plus complete
• 1/2 cup peanuts, m & m's and raisins
• 8 oz chocolate milk (low fat, without high fructose corn syrup)
• 1/2 peanut butter & banana sandwich

For the rest of the day, do what you would tell your kids to do. Wear clean underwear and eat good food.

Read "Raisins are great workout fuel" and "Before you go go" for food tips before and during your workout. Now you'll be ready for the next test of fitness, be it a sprinting toddler chase or cross training session.

Keep movin mama,

Wendy