I can hardly believe it, but 4th of July is tomorrow! I know many of you have great plans for BBQs with family and friends, however, I wanted to give you a few pointers on how to not only enjoy your weekend to the fullest, but also keep it healthy and guilt free.
It only takes 5 minutes to eat a big ol’ greasy burger with all the fattening trimmings. Remember, it only takes 5 minutes of culinary pleasure compared to weeks of intense workouts… the math just doesn’t add up. One thing you’ll gain from indulging too much is all those pounds you’ve worked so hard to lose.
Don’t wake up Saturday with a bad case of July 4th Remorse. To help, I’ve provided six BBQ Survival Tips for Friday.
BBQ Survival tips
- Be prepared. This is VITAL. If your trying to keep the calories low, bring your own piece of marinated chicken breast to that BBQ and throw it on the grill. I’ve done this. My experience is that whoever is manning the grill for the day will not mind one bit cooking your chicken for you along with everyone else’s greasy heart attacks.Bring your own healthy snacks as well such as bakes chips or nuts so you won’t be tempted with those fried goodies that will be in abundance. If you really want that burger and nothing else will do, by all means indulge, but at least bring a whole wheat bun to eat it on.
- Be careful with the sides. Side dishes can really get you on calories. A potato is all natural… right? Well, when you cover it in mayo, it’s not very healthy. Stick to the green salads, fruit salads and bean salads. Better yet, most BBQs are potluck style, right? Offer to make a side dish and make one that you know will be guilt free. If you’re really concerned that the sides are going to be very bad, bring your own avocado to sweeten your plate.
- Be aware of your servings. One trick I use to control serving sizes is you should be able to see space between each food item that you stack on your plate. For example: A healthy side of baked beans is 1/2 cup, a healthy portion of salad dressing is 1-2 tbls.
- Be properly hydrated. Don’t drink your calories! This is a BIG one at gatherings. Everyone sipping on a soft drink of one kind or another. Bring your own water bottle. Crystal Lite makes WONDERFUL tasting packets to add to your water if you need flavor. My favorite is pomegranate.
- Be active. Most family gatherings end up with everyone crowded around the table talking, catching up… and EATING the entire time. Why not shake things up a bit and go on a walk, go play a game of catch, tag football?There are active ways to hang out with your loved ones that don’t involve stuffing your face and that will benefit everyone involved. I also recommend if you’re currently doing a program and you’re really on track, don’t lose momentum. Take it with you. I’ve taken my P90X videos and weights with me on several vacations so I could stay on track.You’ll find that you feel GREAT and VERY proud of yourself for sticking with your commitment. It also is a way to pay it forward to your family members. They’ll see your dedication and it will inspire them. Pass on the vision of a healthier lifestyle. That’s an amazing gift that you can give to your loved ones.
- Be relaxed. Take advantage of your time off work and just really relax. Let your mind and spirit soak in the closeness of family and friends and truly enjoy your time together.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
By Mary Collins
For more tips and tons of ways you can live a healthier, happier life follow me on Facebook and Instagram! www.facebook.com/oneREVfit | @marycollinsfitness
