By ClubSport Wellness

 

There's a voice in your head – sometimes conscious and sometimes unconscious – that, when you're on the brink of starting a health or fitness program, will say "I can't do it," "I'm afraid I'll fail," or "I'll start next week." These and the countless other excuses you come up with are nothing other than self-sabotage trying to hold you back.
 

By Amanda Richert

 

Before you indulge in a wonderful meal with family, watch some holiday gridiron, and slowly sink into a food coma, join hundreds of thousands of Americans who start their Thanksgiving Day with a turkey trot.

 

Much like roasted turkey is a vital component of Thanksgiving dinner, a strong core is essential for total-body health. Our workout of the month for November, which we aptly named Planksgiving, focuses on strengthening your midsection, which translates beyond enhanced sports performance to benefit normal everyday activity.

Sometimes, some of us can go to the unconventional in our attempts to eat healthier. For example, my first memory of "eating healthy" is that of my father coating my Cheerios with orange juice instead of milk. He thought dairy wasn't healthy and that OJ boosted the nutritional value of my plain cereal; I thought it tasted gross.

 "Tuck," "pulse," "bend," "lengthen," "point," and "turn out" are all terms much more associated with dance than with one of the most inclusive, effective, and popular workouts in recent times. And while barre does have its origins in ballet, the rhythmically challenged shouldn't worry: No tap shoes, leotards, or fancy footwork are required (unless that's your thing, in which case please carry on).

 

A snack before your workout will give you the energy and stamina to go the distance, but it's what you eat right after your workout that's more important. Eating a snack with ample protein combined with a carbohydrate helps your body repair muscle tissue and replenishes glycogen stores, which are depleted after a strenuous workout. Build your own Peanut Butter Cup Recovery Smoothie at the club or at home after your next sweat session for faster muscle recovery.