Executive Director Report - Gateway PGA

Brought To You by Optimal Lifestyles, Inc.Golf requires a certain level of energy, but it’sdifficult to maintain energy throughout theday. The problem is compounded when you’replanning an after-work golf game (ever feelthat 3 p.m. energy slump?). With minimaltweaking to your daily routines, however,you’ll be able to both work hard and play hard.Keep your energy flowing by following thesesimple, but effective tips:* Sweet Dreams – Call it a day at a reasonablehour and get a good night’s sleep. Resist thatnext cup of coffee or caffeinated soda duringthe day if it keeps you awake.* Fuel Up at Breakfast – Going withoutbreakfast is like pulling out of the garage withno gas in your car. Oatmeal with fresh fruit is agood choice, or whole-grain bread with peanutbutter and banana.* Stay Hydrated – Although this is difficult toremember when you’re busy at work, drinkingplenty of water during the day is essential. Ifyou feel that afternoon slump coming on, itcould be dehydration setting in, which affectsmental alertness, as well as energy levels. Youalready know drinking liquids during a golfgame is smart – make it a daylong habit.* Avoid Large Meals – Try eating smallermeals and snacks four to six times a day, ratherthan the typical three large meals. Eatingthroughout the day helps maintain more consistentenergy levels. Have energy-rich snackson hand such as bananas, apples, grapes, carrots,celery sticks or whole grain crackers withpeanut butter or cheese.* Keep Moving – Get up from your desk andmove around during the day. Take a walkdown the hall (or better yet, up and down thestairs). A short break can recharge your batteriesand leave you feeling refreshed by the timeyou return to the tasks at hand.* Take a Stretch Break – Whether you canget up and walk around or not, it is helpful totake a stretch break. Stretch both sides of yourbody, do some seated cat/dog movements,move your neck from side to side and do lightside twisting. These movements get bloodflowing, which sends energy throughout yourbody. Be cognizant of your posture, too. Situp tall, starting with your tailbone and movingup your back.* Clear Your Mind – Every now and then,take a couple of minutes or more to clear yourmind: Assume a comfortable position; closeyour eyes; focus on your breathing; breathe inand out of your nose (if possible) slow, longbreaths. If any thoughts come in let them flowthrough and come back to your breathing. Justlike in golf, this mental exercise helps you focusand stay in the present moment.* Avoid the Vending Machine – When youfall into an afternoon slump, indulge in freshfruit, or better yet, peanut butter or cheese on awhole grain cracker or roll. Stay away fromthe vending machine that may be filled withoverly salty or sweet snacks.Following these eight simple tips, you shouldfeel more energized for those late afternoonrounds of golf. For extended fitness information,contact Barb at Optimal Lifestyles.Email: barb@optimallifestylesinc.comwww.optimallifestylesinc.com(314) 984-0592Optimal Lifestyles, Inc is a health and fitness consulting company and fitness education sponsor for the Gateway PGA. Optimal Lifestyles, Inc.provides personal training, golf fitness and yoga for golfers. The information provided by Optimal Lifestyles is for educational purposes andshould not replace care or advice of a physician. Please check with a physician if you are starting an exercise program or suspect you are ill.Gateway Section | 17269 Wild Horse Creek Rd, Ste 110 | Chesterfield, MO 63005-1360 | gateway@pgahq.com | www.gatewaypga.org8