Spring has sprung! The weather is beautiful for some outdoor activities and Spring schedules seem to be packed more than ever. Maybe it’s the delusion of the past few years and limited activities that makes this year seem more chaotic. All I’m sure of is I often don’t know what day it is or where I belong next!
Getting myself organized and checking off the Spring cleaning list is a must-do this time of year. Why talk about this in a health and fitness newsletter? Simple! Getting yourself organized is a great way to decrease your stress, plus it sets you up for success in your goals. I challenge you, this month, to dive into some (or all) of these Spring cleaning tasks that will support your health!
Clean out your pantry: I’d bet you have something expired, stuffed in a corner, that needs to be trashed. Take everything out, toss what you don’t need, and then get things put back neatly. It’s also a great time to make sure you are stocked up on the good stuff. Not sure what that is? Here’s my top 10 pantry items to support good nutrition: Quinoa, brown rice, rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, unsalted nuts, canned beans, coconut oil, olive oil & pasta (whole wheat or red lentil are my current favorites).
Take stock of your medicine cabinet: Your medicine cabinet is another place where expired items can really cause harm. Again, take it all out and toss anything expired. Pharmacies will often have medication recycling programs so you don’t risk hazardous items getting in the wrong hands or in the wrong place.
Refresh your workout clothes in your closet: Unless this is your full time job (ahem...it’s a great perk of the job!), you may not be putting a lot of effort into your workout wear. Even I fall victim to holding onto favorite pieces for way too long. Your workout wear should work for you! Pieces that have stretch will wear with time, breaking down and no longer providing the support you need. And don’t just check your outerwear–the underwear may be the most important part! Don’t forget the shoes too! Who wants to go shopping?
Spring-ify your meal plans: Soup season is over! It’s time to change up your meal plans with the season. Using ingredients that are in season is a great way to not only make more tasty dishes, it also saves money. Fresh produce that is in season is usually what’s on sale! My favorites for this time of year are asparagus, pineapple and artichokes.
Schedule your gym time: Of course, this works year round, but it’s always a good idea to reevaluate your gym schedule as seasons change. Maybe you have Little League every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday (just me?). Maybe your work schedule changed. Maybe you’re spending every weekend at a graduation party. What worked in the dark, dreary winter months may no longer fit. Instead of trying to force it, look realistically at your new schedule and figure out when you’re getting to the gym.
I hope you’re enjoying this new season! We have so many awesome things happening in the club, from Open House to a Mother’s Day celebration to the introduction of a new youth training program. Spring is at Sportsplex, and I hope to see you here for it!