NIFS Healthy Living Blog

As we get into the season of gratitude, it’s the perfect time to think about how we can strengthen our bodies and minds. This November, we’re super excited to kick off the holiday season with a Planksgiving Challenge! Whether you’re a fitness pro or just starting out, planks are a fantastic way to build your core strength, improve posture, and up your overall fitness game.

Let’s chat about the benefits of adding planks to your routine and tips to make the most of your Planksgiving efforts. Get ready to boost your fitness while appreciating the strength and resilience of your body by committing to a stronger you—one plank at a time!

Why Planks?

1. Posture and Low Back Pain Prevention: Planks are a great way to help maintain good posture and can prevent lower back pain by strengthening the core muscles.
2. Balance and Coordination: They engage multiple muscle groups at once, which helps improve your balance and coordination, making everyday activities easier.
3. Convenient, Total Body Exercise: Planks are super versatile! Whether you are doing a workout in a gym, at a park, or at home, planks activate multiple muscle groups at once to allow a bigger bang for your buck.

How to Work Planks into Your Routine

There are several ways to incorporate planks into your routine. For example, you can add them at the beginning of your workout as a full-body warm-up before you start. Performing three to four sets of planks before you start your workout is a great way to warm up those tiny stabilizer muscles and help you build a mind-muscle connection before performing your workout. Planks can also be added to the end of your workout as a finisher. Adding in planks at the end of a workout is a great way to strengthen your core and help build endurance in the muscle groups activated.

Sample Plank Circuit

• Standard plank hold: 2 sets, 30 seconds each
• Side plank hold: 2 sets, 30 seconds each side

If you’re new to planks, they can also be easily modified by dropping the knees to the ground, coming up to the hands in a high plank position or by being performed on an elevated surface such as a weight bench or box.

Make November a time to celebrate fitness, resilience, and gratitude by joining us for the Planksgiving Challenge! Whether you’re looking to strengthen your core, improve your balance, or just try something new, this challenge is for everyone. See a NIFS staff member to get started!

Looking to build strength that lasts a lifetime? Squats are a foundational movement that supports health, mobility, and longevity, yet many of us overlook this natural exercise due to our modern, sedentary lifestyles. Incorporating squats into your routine can help you stay strong, flexible, and resilient as you age.

Importance of Squats

Sitting for long periods weakens key muscles like the glutes and reduces hip mobility. But with consistent squatting movements in your routine, you can reverse these effects, improving your posture and making daily activities—from climbing stairs to picking up objects—much easier. Squats help maintain strength, mobility, and stability, making them essential for daily life.

Muscle Activation

When you squat, you’re not just targeting your legs. You’re working the gluteus maximus, quadriceps, and hamstrings, while also activating secondary muscles like the gluteus medius and erector spinae. This full-body engagement helps you move with more power and stability throughout the day, allowing you to perform everyday movements with ease and efficiency.

Benefits Across Ages

Squats aren’t just for athletes—they’re essential as we age. Studies show that enhanced single-leg strength correlates with increased physical activity, particularly in individuals over 50. Increasing single-leg strength can correlate to increased Activities of Energy Expenditure (AEE) and often directly affect activity levels in these populations. The easier it is to move, the more likely we are to stay active and reduce disease risk.

Preventative Health

As we age, muscle mass, bone density, and reaction times decline. Resistance training, including squats, can mitigate these changes. Loading bones through resistance training stimulates bone density, making our pelvic, femur, tibia, fibula, and small foot bones stronger and more resilient to injury. We also strengthen tendons through resistance training, which aids in maintaining joint health.

No matter your age, it’s never too late to start squatting. Building strength, mobility, and bone density now will help you move with ease and avoid injuries later. Start your squat journey today to protect your health for tomorrow.

 

As the seasons shift and fall settles in, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the bountiful seasonal produce that boosts your nutrition and supports an active lifestyle. The cooler weather and fresh produce available at this time of year provide not only a delicious variety but also essential nutrients that help you stay energized, strong, and healthy. Whether you’re training for a race, hitting the gym, or simply maintaining your fitness routine, embracing fall produce can give your body the fuel it needs.

Power Your Workouts with Root Vegetables

Fall brings with it an abundance of root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets, which are excellent sources of complex carbohydrates. These carbs provide slow-releasing energy, perfect for fueling your workouts and helping you power through longer sessions without the dreaded energy crash. Sweet potatoes, for instance, are packed with vitamin A, fiber, and potassium—ideal for supporting muscle function and recovery.

Roasted root vegetables can be a simple yet satisfying addition to any meal, offering both nutrition and comfort as the weather cools. Try incorporating them into your pre-workout meals to ensure you have the energy reserves needed for optimal performance.

Fiber-Rich Apples and Pears to Keep You on Track

Apples and pears are at their peak in the fall and are not only tasty but also rich in fiber. Fiber is crucial for keeping your digestive system running smoothly, especially as you increase your nutrient intake to fuel an active lifestyle. The natural sugars in apples and pears can provide a quick energy boost, making them great snack options before or after a workout.

For an easy, on-the-go snack, pair sliced apples or pears with a source of protein like nut butter. This combination will help you stay full longer while giving you the fuel you need to support muscle repair.

Pumpkin for Immune-Boosting Benefits

Pumpkin is a quintessential fall vegetable that offers more than flavor for your lattes. It’s packed with beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A, supporting immune health, vision, and skin integrity. As cold and flu season approaches, adding pumpkin to your diet can give your immune system the extra support it needs. Additionally, pumpkin is rich in vitamin C, another key nutrient that boosts immunity and helps reduce inflammation after intense physical activity.

Add pumpkin puree to soups, stews, or even smoothies to easily increase your intake of this seasonal powerhouse.

By embracing fall’s rich selection of fruits and vegetables, you can not only enjoy the flavors of the season but also fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to maintain an active lifestyle. Whether it’s the sustained energy from root vegetables, the digestive support from apples and pears, or the immune boost from pumpkin, fall produce offers an array of benefits to keep you healthy, strong, and ready for anything.

Looking to optimize your nutrition this season? Connect with a nutritionist at the National Institute for Fitness and Sport (NIFS) to develop a personalized fall meal plan that fuels your fitness goals. Our experts can help you maximize the benefits of seasonal produce while ensuring you get the right nutrients for your active lifestyle. Schedule your consultation today and start fueling your body for success!

What is DEKA?

From the creators of the Spartan Race, DEKA is the ultimate test of strength, endurance, and grit. Known as the "Decathlon of Functional Fitness," DEKA is quickly gaining popularity in the fitness community.

The word "DEKA" comes from the Greek term meaning "ten," representing the ten zones of the competition. It’s inspired by the ancient Greek decathlon, which tested overall athleticism. However, what sets DEKA apart from other functional fitness competitions is its accessibility for every skill level. Before fitness became synonymous with bodybuilding, protein shakes, and Pilates classes, it was simply a means of "survival." People engaged in fundamental movements like lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, jumping, climbing, as well as rowing, skiing, and cycling. DEKA integrates these primal movements into its design, making it a great option if you’re looking for a new competition to train for.

DEKA Format and Zone Sequence

The DEKA competition consists of 10 zones, which progressively increase in difficulty, focusing on full-body movements towards the end.

• ZONE 1: 30 RAM Alt Reverse Lunges
• ZONE 2: 500M Row
• ZONE 3: 20 Box Jumps/Step Overs
• ZONE 4: 25 Med Ball Sit-Up Throws
• ZONE 5: 500M Ski Erg
• ZONE 6: 100M Farmer’s Carry
• ZONE 7: 25C Air Bike
• ZONE 8: 20 Dead Ball Wall Overs
• ZONE 9: 100M Tank Push/Pull
• ZONE 10: 20 RAM Burpees

These zones are based on fundamental functional movements, making them easy to learn without requiring extensive instruction. Whether you’re looking to improve endurance, learn new movements, test your athleticism, or simply get moving, our DEKA classes at NIFS are the perfect fit for you!

 

As university life picks up speed, maintaining a balanced diet can often fall by the wayside. Between classes, study sessions, and social activities, it’s easy to grab whatever is convenient. However, good nutrition is essential not only for keeping your energy levels up but also for enhancing your academic performance, supporting mental focus, and maintaining overall health. Here are some practical tips on stocking your dorm or apartment with nutritious, affordable, and convenient foods.

Power Up with Protein

Protein is key for staying full and supporting muscle recovery, especially if you’re hitting the gym. Here are a few budget-friendly, protein-rich foods that are easy to store and prepare:

1. Greek Yogurt: A versatile, protein-rich option, Greek yogurt is great for breakfast or a post-workout snack. Choose plain varieties to avoid added sugars, and mix in fresh fruit or granola for added flavor and nutrients.

2. Canned Tuna or Salmon: These are affordable, shelf-stable sources of protein. Mix with light mayo, mustard, and veggies for a quick meal, or stuff into a whole-grain pita.

3. Eggs: Eggs are a cost-effective protein source. Hard boil a batch at the start of the week for easy grab-and-go snacks, or cook up an omelet loaded with veggies for a nutritious meal.

Color Your Plate

Including a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet ensures you’re getting a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here are some options that are easy to keep on hand:

1. Baby Carrots and Hummus: A crunchy, satisfying snack that pairs well with hummus, which also provides a bit of protein and fiber.

2. Frozen Berries: Just as nutritious as fresh, frozen berries are perfect for smoothies, yogurt toppings, or thawing for a quick snack.

3. Spinach and Mixed Greens: Pre-washed greens are a convenient base for salads or can be added to sandwiches, wraps, or smoothies for an extra nutrient boost.

Quick and Easy Meal Ideas

When time is tight, having simple meal options can help you avoid less healthy choices:

1. Overnight Oats: Combine rolled oats with Greek yogurt or milk and add your favorite toppings like nuts and berries. Prepare it the night before for a quick, ready-to-eat breakfast.

2. Protein Smoothies: Blend protein powder, spinach, frozen berries, and a banana with milk for a quick, nutritious meal.

3. Whole-Grain Wraps: Keep whole-grain tortillas on hand for easy wraps. Fill with lean protein like turkey, mixed greens, and veggies, and add a spread of hummus or avocado for healthy fats.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Eating well on a budget is possible with a few smart strategies:

1. Buy in Bulk: Bulk items like oats, rice, and nuts are often cheaper and can be stored for long periods.

2. Shop Seasonal Produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to be less expensive and more flavorful. Check out local markets or the produce section for deals.

3. Frozen Options: Frozen fruits and vegetables are often more affordable than fresh and retain their nutritional value. They’re perfect for quick, healthy meals.

By keeping your dorm or apartment stocked with these nutritious, budget-friendly options, you’ll be better prepared to fuel your body and mind for the demands of university life. Remember, healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—a little planning can go a long way.

For more nutrition, overall health, and fitness tips, be sure to subscribe to our blog!

We can concur with many years of research that obesity can increase the risk of immune dysfunction. This is a multifaceted phenomenon often associated with factors such as physical inactivity, poor nutritional profiles, increased adiposity (fat tissue), and metabolic disorders/diseases. Commonly, the latter can gradually progress from the aforementioned factors.

What we have also seen in recent years during the COVID pandemic is how important it is to address the risks to public health and mortality caused by poor health status and possible exposure to infectious diseases. The solution to shelter in place (reducing transmissions) was a band-aid to the very real problem that our culture is not perfect, and we have many individuals at risk due to unhealthy lifestyles. To improve public health on a broader scale, we need to make interventions at the community and individual levels.

Immediate Lifestyle Changes for Better Immune Health

1. Increase Sunlight Exposure One immediate lifestyle change at-risk individuals can make to improve their immune health is to increase their exposure to sunlight. Sunlight exposure triggers Vitamin D synthesis via UV light and 7-dehydrocholesterol. This essential vitamin plays a critical role in respiratory immune response, including both inflammation and acute damage responses.
2. Boost Physical Activity Another crucial intervention is increasing physical activity. This has a two-fold benefit: improving body composition and metabolic health, and potentially increasing Vitamin D levels (even without sunlight). This is because Vitamin D is stored in adipose tissue and can be released through the metabolism of fat cells.

Moving forward, we can improve the health of our community by helping each other enhance diets, increase physical activity, get outside in the sun, and maintain hygiene for others.

NIFS: Supporting Your Health Journey

Here at NIFS, we encourage members to participate in our outdoor classes, such as boot camp and Tabata. We also offer nutritional services and unconditional support for improving nutrient content and sustainability in dietary practices.

If you feel you may need a body composition assessment, we offer BodPod and NIFS3D scans that can provide more information on your health, including risk factors such as BMI, body fat percentage, waist circumference, and total energy expenditure. Our staff can educate you on what your readings mean, how they are relevant to you, and what strategies could improve your overall health and fitness in the long term.

We also maintain the utmost cleanliness on each machine and encourage our members to be diligent about cleaning machines after usage.

Please reach out and utilize the many free and additional services we offer to aid in your health journey. We are excited to have a great community, and we look forward to you being a part of it. Get outside and join us for some excellent fitness and health services!

What you eat before hitting the gym can significantly impact your performance and recovery. The right pre-workout nutrition can help fuel your workout, prevent fatigue, and optimize results. Here’s a guide on what gym-goers should consider eating before a workout.

Timing Your Pre-Workout Meal
Timing is crucial when it comes to pre-workout nutrition. Aim to eat 30 to 60 minutes before your workout. This allows your body some time to digest and utilize the nutrients for energy without feeling too full or sluggish.

Carbohydrates: Your Primary Fuel Source
Carbohydrates are your body's preferred source of energy, especially during high-intensity workouts. Aim for 30-45 grams of easily digestible carbs before your workout. Carbs help maintain blood glucose levels and maximize glycogen stores, which are essential for sustained energy. Good options include a banana, a slice of whole-grain bread with honey, or a handful of pretzels.

Moderate Protein for Muscle Support
Including a moderate amount of protein in your pre-workout meal can help support muscle repair and growth. Consuming around 10-20 grams of protein before your workout provides your muscles with the amino acids they need to begin the recovery process even before you start exercising. This can enhance muscle protein synthesis and improve overall workout performance. Opt for sources like a hard-boiled egg, a couple of slices of turkey, string cheese, or a small portion of cottage cheese. These options are easy to digest and work well alongside carbohydrates to fuel your workout.

Low Fat for Quick Digestion
While fats are an essential part of your diet, they should be limited before a workout. Fat slows digestion, which can make you feel sluggish and uncomfortable during exercise. Stick to low-fat options and save the healthy fats for your post-workout meal.

Keep Fiber in Check
Fiber is crucial for overall health, but too much fiber right before a workout can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Foods high in fiber take longer to digest and can lead to bloating or cramping during exercise. Opt for lower-fiber options like pretzels, a bit of granola, or rice cakes.

Hydration is Key
Don’t forget about hydration. Drink 16-20 ounces of water about two hours before your workout and another 8-10 ounces 20 minutes before starting. Proper hydration ensures optimal performance and helps prevent dehydration-related issues like cramps and dizziness.

Sample Pre-Workout Snacks

• Banana with a small handful of almonds: Provides a balance of carbs and protein without too much fat or fiber.
• Whole-grain toast with honey and a slice of turkey: Combines carbs and protein, low in fat, and easy to digest.
• Pretzels with a low-fat cheese stick: Provides a good mix of carbohydrates and protein without adding too much fat. 

Choosing the right pre-workout nutrition can make a big difference in your gym performance. Aim for a balanced meal that’s high in carbs, moderate in protein, low in fat, and easy to digest. Remember, what works best can vary from person to person, so it may take some experimenting to find your ideal pre-workout snack. Listen to your body and adjust as needed to fuel your workouts effectively.

Fuel right, perform better, and enjoy your workouts to the fullest!

If you need assistance in finding your ideal pre-workout snack, feel free to contact Michael Horner, RD, LD.

Starting your fitness journey is always an exciting step forward, but it is essential to make sure you are listening to your body and prioritizing your recovery and self-care. Many people tend to neglect their bodies' needs and push themselves past their limits, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The importance of recovery and self-care play a crucial role in ensuring your long-term success in the gym, and one mistake can lead to a possible injury that can take away and/or limit that progress.

The Importance of Recovery

Recovery is one of the most important aspects of any fitness regimen. Giving yourself enough time to recover helps your body repair and strengthen itself. Without giving the proper recovery your body needs can lead to a higher risk of fatigue, decreased performance, and increased risk of injuries. Here are a few key components to ensuring you have an effective recovery period:

• Rest Days: Incorporating rest days is essential in allowing your body to heal and grow your muscles. You typically want to aim between 1-3 times a week depending on your fitness level and intensity for your workouts, so it may vary from person to person.
  
  
• Sleep Quality: Quality of sleep is a must for effective recovery. Anywhere between 7-9 hours a night is optimal to support muscle repair, hormone balance, and overall mental and physical health. Maintaining a consistent sleep routine will help manage your body's recovery each day.
  
  
• Hydration and Nutrition: Proper hydration and nutrition play a significant role in your body’s growth and recovery. Ensuring that you are drinking plenty of water during the day, and focusing on a balanced diet with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates will keep your body properly replenished and aid in muscle growth and repair.

Self-Care Practices

• Mobility and Stretching: Practicing stretching and focusing on mobility work regularly can help enhance flexibility, reduce muscle soreness, and prevent injuries. Incorporating dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretches after workouts helps maintain your muscle's elasticity and joint health. This can help with knee pain, lower back issues, and posture over time.
  
  
• Mindfulness: Mental wellness is just as important as physical wellness. Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve your focus, and enhance your overall well-being. Focus on relaxing the mind for a few minutes a day to help clear your head, such as deep-breathing exercises to calm the mind and body. This can be paired with your static stretches to help your mind and body at the same time.
  
  
• Active Recovery: On rest days, engaging in active recovery activities such as swimming, biking, yoga, or walking can help promote blood flow, reduce muscle soreness, and aid in muscle recovery without straining your body. Ensure that you are keeping a low intensity when engaging in these activities.

Prioritizing your recovery and self-care can play an important role in enhancing your performance, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and helping prevent injuries. These practices will not happen overnight and will take dedication and time to achieve but will help you in the long run. Embrace, motivate, and stay consistent, and embark on your fitness journey prepared and ready to take on any challenge.

If you're unsure where to start or want to ensure you have the right balance between your fitness goals and recovery, or if you're simply looking to work with a professional, NIFS offers personal trainers who can help guide you every step of the way. Take the next steps with the support you need!

Running in the summer can be a pleasantly dangerous experience! As the sun shines and temperatures rise, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases. Listening to your body and adhering to the following recommendations will not only help prevent heat-related illnesses but make summer running an enjoyable experience!

1. Timing and Planning

The coolest parts of the day tend to be mornings and evenings. If you are planning to run, be proactive and look ahead at the weather forecast. Planning your runs at these times of day will limit the risk of excessive heat exposure. If you must run in the heat of the day, plan a mostly shaded route to limit sun exposure.

2. Find Your Happy Pace

Running in the heat naturally puts more strain on your body leading to increased heart rate. In many cases, runners are unable to sustain their regular paces in hotter conditions. If this occurs, settle into a slower pace that feels comfortable and sustainable to you.

3. Hydration & Electrolytes

Hydration is key in summer running. Increased sweat is associated with increased temperatures. Drinking an adequate amount of water before, during, and after your run is crucial in preventing dehydration. I would recommend drinking at least ½ your body weight in ounces of water to ensure proper hydration. Electrolytes are essential nutrients our body expels in the form of sweat. Consuming an electrolyte drink, banana, or salty snack after a run can help replenish the contents lost in sweat.

4. Listen To Your Body

Knowing and recognizing the signs of heat illness are important when embarking on summer runs. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, headache, nausea, and weakness. If these symptoms occur, find the quickest way to cool off immediately. Symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, rapid pulse, and confusion. If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.

With the right approach, running in the summer can be a safe and enjoyable experience! Make sure to check the weather, plan runs during cooler times of day, adjust your pace, and recognize the signs of heat illness to ensure safety during these warmer months. Stay cool, and happy running!

Starting school can be exciting and overwhelming. Whether it is meeting new people, trying to manage a demanding class schedule, handling new responsibilities, or facing academic pressure, balancing everything can seem challenging. Many students also want to focus on their personal fitness goals but struggle to find time to manage with everything else going on. However, finding a balance between academics and health can be extremely beneficial for you, both physically and mentally. Here are some tips on how to manage both your academics and fitness goals. 

Prioritize Your Schedule

This is a key point when creating that balance between academics and fitness. Start off by planning your class schedule with your free time, and implement time for both your study hours and exercise. Use a planner or calendar to track your commitments, blocking off time for classes, studying, and your workouts. Prioritizing your exercise time should be as important as a class or meeting, treating it as a non-negotiable to hold yourself accountable.

Optimize Your Workouts

Your workouts do not have to be hours on end at the gym, especially if you are already pressed for time in your schedule. Focus on short, effective workouts, such as a 30-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT), a 2–3-mile run, or a heavy lifting day with low rest time intervals. Consider your workout type when deciding your workout space, such as your local gym, dorm room, or the outdoors.

Combine Studying and Fitness

Using stationary bikes or treadmills can also be a great exercise to be able to study, take notes, and listen to recorded lectures, or audiobooks. Try to find ways to implement studying time with different exercises so you don't have to sacrifice any studying time.

Fitness Classes and Social Time

Most colleges offer a wide variety of fitness classes, such as here at NIFS! These classes can range anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, giving you some direction if you are unsure of what to do. This is also a great opportunity to meet new people and create new relationships and open new doors to things you may not have known beforehand.

Adjust Accordingly

Your schedule will change as the year goes on, so you want to make sure you can be flexible with it and make adjustments as you see fit. Consistency is key, don't let a few hiccups in your schedule take away from your motivation to stay on track.

Balancing your academics and fitness may initially be challenging, but once you start to create that consistency, you will notice a significant improvement in your overall health and lifestyle. Learning how to do this early on will help you achieve a much healthier, well-balanced lifestyle that you can follow all through college.