East Coast-West Coast Hobie Girls! As water people, April Zilg (Hobie SUP Pro Racer) and I, both agree nutrition is just as important to fueling yourself as it is for mental clarity. Whether standup paddling, kayaking, sailing, surfing or standup pedaling on the Hobie Mirage Eclipse, we all require sustaining foods for day trips, weekends, and paddling for hours on end.
Whether fitness, recreation or racing, I believe the human body always functions more efficiently if properly nourished. Carbohydrates, fats and protein, I enjoy them all! Did you know carbohydrates are your first source of fuel? Choosing the proper ones is my favorite go to food. It fuels your muscles and brain, and it certainly makes a difference when out on the water, enjoying what we all love.
I was taught very young to eat healthy and whole foods and omit fast food. Nate and I love to eat healthfully, even when vacationing. It is fantastic when your GI tract, mental clarity and body all work at 100 percent, no matter where we adventure or travel to.
Being in the fitness field for over 20 years, I have learned and realized how 85 percent of the time I’m eating to fuel and heal myself, the other 15 percent you better believe is for pleasure i.e. gelato, juicy hamburgers, and the like. (But don’t tell my clients, wink-wink.)
RELATED: Suzi P’s Top Twelve Reasons to SUP
“My favorite fuel food is definitely the Taco Salad from registered dietician Veronica Hayes (rdveronica.com). Although I also love protein pancakes in the mornings to get my day started. Those two may be a tie!” April says.
Here’s the taco salad recipe courtesy of Veronica’s website rdveronica.com. Simply toss the ingredients and enjoy.
Taco Salad:
2 Handfuls Spinach
1/3 Cup Shredded Carrots
1/3 Cup Chopped Tomatoes
2 TBSP Chopped Onion
1/2 Cup Sliced Peppers
1/4 Cup Avocado
1/4 Cup Salsa
4oz Shredded Chicken (cooked)
1 Cup Rice (cooked)
“I think nutrition is very important for paddlers (and humans in general) for proper recovery, energy levels, and mental clarity. All-to-often people don’t practice good nutritional habits and then wonder why they struggle with a foggy-brain, headaches, strange moods… or, worse yet, slow paddle speeds!” April adds.
“The food we eat has A LOT to do with both our physical and mental health. So, to paddle your best and be super happy while doing it, you should take a closer look at nutrition,” April says
