It's Your Life Aug/Sept 2015 | Page 10

10 August/September It’s Your Life Magazine Allow Time for Rest Between demanding sports, study & social schedules, many kids are not getting the rest that they need. Rest is a key component to health, and a lack of it can lead to fatigue and burnout. While it may be challenging (especially for parents of busy teenagers!) try to ensure that your kids are taking a rest day from exercise each week, and getting enough sleep at night. Focus on Nutrition and Hydration Our bodies need appropriate fuel to perform at a high level. Hydration and nutrition both play a key role in athletic performance. Encourage kids to eat a healthy snack 30 minutes to an hour before exercising, and drink plenty of fluids during and after. They may also want to eat a protein rich snack after practice to help aid in muscle recovery. Enforce the Use of Protective Gear I think we can all remember being young, and feeling invincible at times. Encourage your child to wear appropriate protective gear at all times, even when they feel it isn’t necessary. Also, be sure to check often to make sure the gear still fits properly. A single growth spurt can alter the way gear fits, thereby reducing its effectiveness. With the right precautions in place kids can enjoy sports, while reducing their risk of injury. Let’s all do our best to ensure that sports remains a safe outlet for our children. Aimee Shilling is a pastor’s wife and mom of 4 amazing kids ages 3-10. She is working towards a goal of running 40 marathons or ultramarathons before her 40th birthday. She blogs at Forty by Forty Fitness about her goal, training and nutrition tips, and fitness inspiration. http://www.fortybyfortyfitness.com Become a Contributor Are you a natural living blogger/writer? See or contributors guidelines to find out how you can be published in It’s Your Life magazine. itsyourlifemag.com/contributor-guidelines Isssue 3 11 15 One Minute Health Boosters Nancy Andres Do you want to improve your health, but lack ideas and motivation? Perhaps you feel sluggish and want to restore your enthusiasm for daily living. Try out these 1 minute health boosters and see how little time and effort it takes to learn new methods for selfcare. 2015 itsyourlifemag.com