As one of our nation's accomplished Grand Prix riders, Georgina Bloomberg has an impressive riding career which she fuels with her healthy lifestyle choices. She maintains a nutritious diet, strives to get at least 7 hours of sleep every night, and aims to get some form of exercise each day (in addition to riding, of course).

When traveling to the shows, Georgina has developed a few strategies that help her stay on track. She always requests that a mini-fridge be in her hotel room so she can stock up on healthy options and bring her own food to the show in a cooler bag. She also travels with some Tupperware and silverware from home because she strives to be environmentally friendly as well. In the mornings, Georgina always makes sure to have a meal that will help sustain her energy as the hectic showing schedule gets underway. Some of her breakfast favorites include veggie and egg white omelets, or organic cereals that are low in sugar. If she needs a quick energy boost during the day, her favorite go-to snacks are honey whole-wheat pretzels or simply, an apple.

Georgina also recognizes the importance of sleep and relaxation. She needs a good night's sleep to heal her muscles, feel recharged and be ready to ride well the next day. During competition, and especially before a big class, she likes to have time to herself to read a magazine or listen to music. She finds this keeps her relaxed to ride her best and helps her to not over-think
the questions asked on course.

1.  At holiday dinners, the festive entree plates are often much larger than we use at our regular meals.  Keep this in mind when serving yourself - you can always go back to get more food if you are still hungry.  However, if you load up your oversized plate the first time around, chances are you will polish it off even if you are full half way through the meal.  Also, use an hors d'oeuvre plate or cocktail napkin if the party has an appetizer spread.  That way, you will know how much you are consuming and will avoid mindlessly picking away at the finger foods when in conversation.  

2.  You don't need to eat everything that is brought to the party.  If there are 3 kinds of potatoes, choose a small portion of one - or select 1 or 2 bite size servings of each if you must have a taste (my mother called this a "no thank you" serving when I was a kid, but it's a great strategy to avoid overflowing your plate and eating too much.)  Don't feel obligated to eat everything that is put out just because it is a classic holiday food.  

3.  Keep it colorful.  If your plate consists of only white food (turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls, etc.), add a nutrient boost by including some color - such as a salad, green beans, or try going for the sweet potato instead.  

4.  Watch the cocktails.  Many holiday drinks are loaded with sugar and added 'flavoring'.  If you must indulge, limit yourself to one.  It is also a good strategy to drink a glass of water between your other drink of choice to stay hydrated.  

5.  Create a pre-party strategy.  If you know the food will be heavy and not in line with your healthy eating habits, have a small meal before you go so that you can enjoy yourself.  If you are tempted to overindulge, have your partner or friend be your buddy - you can share the dessert and keep each other in check.  

Most importantly, have a happy holiday season!