At least I am Eating To Win! Lol... The program is now in Week 2 and so far so good - it is really helping my training and motivation. Thanks to all who have taken part so far. It's great to have you join us!
As all things fuel and food are on my mind (maybe more than usual, what with running the current group challenge online), I thought I'd dedicate this post to those energy-giving, oft misunderstood 'carbs' (and Three Wise Men, but we'll get to them) and dispute the two main things that I hear repeatedly.
1) "Carbs will make you fat." Carbs will NOT make you fat. They are your body's preferred energy source and the only fuel your brain needs too. They should make up the majority of your diet. Aim for fibrous, wholegrain, whole food options: oats, rice, quinoa, rye, pumpkin, sweet potato, ALL vegetables and fruits, chickpeas and other legumes/pulses.... So, 55% of your diet would ideally be from carbohydrates, but if you're training or running/exercising, this would go up to about 60% to up to 70% during the week leading up to a race.
2) "Carbs are bad for you." What?! NO! See the point above.
Ok, whilst I generally abhor labelling food as 'bad', this image is quite handy all the same:
Now, most of you know I love living here in Hanoi. That's no secret or surprise. I have met so many wonderful and inspiring people since moving here in March this year (although continue to miss all those amazing people back in Oz and England of course). It struck me the other day while running, that I feel particularly grateful and fortunate to have some of the most intelligent, wise, and inspiring men as my close friends (who don't really know each other either). There are, of course, many intelligent, wise dudes over here and who I am friends with, along with many a wise and intelligent chick too, but there are three very good friends who I'm particularly close to and have given me nothing but gold advice and wonderful company. Just a shout out to you three for being AWESOME and I hope you know how much I value and respect you three wise men. I'm sure you'll know who you are.
With that, it's off to do yet more lesson planning malarkey for this week ahead. Loving being back in the classroom, and the students are brilliant. I've even been covering for various primary schools (eek!) but it turns out I might be better with kids than I previously thought.
Have an AMAZING week everyone! If you're training: eat to win!!