Spring is officially here and more people are taking advantage of the warm weather and longer days by heading out on the bike trails, walking, running and going to the beach. The kids are starting their spring sports and playing in the parks. All of these activities are perfect for the active lifestyle that we strive for, but we have to make sure what we eat doesn't suffer just because we get busy.   

Last month's newsletter highlighted the importance of involving the entire family in shopping for healthy food choices, preparing meals together and even gave a couple of snack and dessert options that were fun for the whole family. But what do we do when time is so limited? 

Here are a few options from Runner's World for some fast foods "to go" and a couple of notes as to why they are a healthier alternative to the common junk food / fast food diets that people traditionally turn to when things get hectic. 

Immunity Smoothie
In a blender, whirl together 1 1/2 cups frozen berries, 1 medium peeled carrot, 1 cup plain kefir (a yogurt-like drink), and a dash of cinnamon. Transfer to a thermos. Immunity-boosting kefir and berries packed with anthocyanin (a type of antioxidant) help keep you healthy after a busy day or great workout.

Microwave a packet of frozen, ready-to-eat steel-cut oatmeal. Put into a wide-mouth thermos. Top with chopped dates, shredded coconut, nutmeg, and plain Greek yogurt. The combination of protein from yogurt and whole-grain carbs and fiber from oatmeal help to keep you full and alert all morning.

Whisk two eggs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Microwave for one to two minutes. Place on a whole-grain tortilla with sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup Asiago cheese, and baby greens. Wrap in foil. Two eggs provide 12 grams of protein, plus brain-boosting choline. Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and the antioxidant lycopene.

Combine 3 ounces shredded roasted turkey, 1 ounce grated smoked Gouda, 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, 1 tablespoon mayo, half a diced pear, and a sprinkle of poultry seasoning. Spoon into a whole-wheat pita. This meal provides a third of your daily protein needs. Walnuts are rich in omega-3s, which soothe inflammation and boost your immune system.

Smash 1 cup canned, drained black beans with 2 tablespoons green salsa. Spread between a four-inch wheat roll and top with 1/2 cup green cabbage and cilantro. Black beans provide carbs, protein, and fiber; cabbage contains compounds with anticancer properties.

We're currently looking for energetic, qualified instructors to teach a variety of land and water fitness and dance classes. We have several openings to teach class formats that we already offer and we're always looking for innovative formats to add to our schedule. Some combination of certifications and/or experience is required, depending on the class format. 

We also have personal training positions available at a variety of times and locations for those certified to work with clients in a one-on-one or small group setting. For more information on instructor and personal trainer openings, contact Kasey Rich at Princess Anne Recreation Center (757-426-0022). 

We are also very excited to offer our new water fitness instructor internship program, specifically designed for instructors that need to gain more experience before taking on a class of their own. This program is also well-suited for experienced land instructors that are looking to expand into another fitness format. For information on the water fitness instructor internship program, contact Robert Arbogast at Great Neck Recreation Center (757-496-6766).

Gentle Flow Yoga
There are several benefits to adding Yoga to your weekly routine; improved flexibility, posture, concentration and reduced stress levels are just a few. But for many people, traditional Yoga classes can be intimidating. We have the solution. Gentle Flow Yoga, our newest yoga class, is specifically designed for those new to the format or participants that may need traditional yoga postures modified to their fitness level. This class would also be well-suited for our senior participants. Gentle Flow Yoga will be offered at Bayside on Mondays at 10:15 am beginning in April. View Bayside's schedule.

Kettlebells

You asked and we heard you! Kettlebells is now offered on our group fitness schedule at Kempsville, with two classes starting in April. Wednesdays at 5:45 pm, it's a solid hour of pure Kettlebells taught by Kerry and Waukesha. On Tuesday nights, we mix it up with Kettlebells, Kickboxing & Core with Chuck at 5:45 pm. We've even purchased a set of light weight kettlebells, perfect for those trying it for the first time. View Kempsville's schedule.

As a reminder, everyone can try one group fitness class per season for free. Just go to any recreation center's front desk and ask about our Group Fitness Sampler Pass. This pass can even be used without a recreation center membership. It's a great way to bring a friend with you, or to try out a new class yourself.