High 5s: Back again

September 12, 2012

Each week, Second Half recognizes multiple athletes and teams from around the state of Michigan for their accomplishments while participating in MHSAA sports. We'll begin dishing out High 5s again beginning next week.

While larger stories about the honorees will be posted to the site throughout the week, check back in this spot each Wednesday for the full list of our selections, links to their stories and a running list of honorees for the entire season.

Know an athlete or team with a great story? Email editor Geoff Kimmerly at [email protected] and tell him about it. Again, most of our honorees will be recognized for what they do athletically; but we also enjoy telling the state about the great things our athletes are doing in the classroom and their communities.

Coaches Guide to Nutrition: Snack on a Smoothie

A smoothie is a perfect pre- or post-exercise snack.

Milk Means More logo

Making a smoothie can be an easy way to get a serving of dairy, fruit and vegetables. Add milk, yogurt, berries, bananas, avocado, spinach, and kale to the blender and let the magic happen.

Along with protein and carbohydrates, it will provide vitamins, minerals and fiber.    

Snacking can be detrimental when done out of boredom or in place of regular, balanced meals. But, for an athlete, healthy snacks can aid performance and recovery.

Having a snack in the hour or two before practice and in the “window of opportunity” following practice can help maintain energy levels and ensure proper recovery.

Snacks are important to maintain energy between meals, before exercise and after workouts. Snacks before and after exercise help performance as well as aid optimal recovery.

Information above is excerpted from UDIM’s A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition.