Hello! My name is Clara Peterson. I am a professional 5k and 10k runner and before that ran for Duke University where I was a five time All-American. From my picture you may notice that I am on maternity leave however. In the beginning my running career I suffered from something called Athletic Energy Deficit (AED). What this means was that I was not providing enough fuel for the amount my body was exercising and as a result I suffered some serious bone loss. Since I became educated on how to fuel my sport, I have built my bone density back and feel stronger than ever. I am here today to help other young athletes like myself become strong young women who do a good job eating for their sport so their bones done suffer the way mine did. Enjoy!The Holiday Season!
Now that it’s December, I can finally feel the season changing. From the frost on the ground in the mornings to the packed parking lot at the mall near my house, it’s clear that we are smack in the middle of the holidays.  Sports seasons are changing too. Volleyball and cross-country should be just about finished and basketball and soccer season are just around the corner.  Your sport and training regimen is changing as well.
It is important to start new seasons out right. The month of December is special for most athletes since most sports do not have any serious competitions. Of course there are the off-season basketball tournaments, New Year’s Day 5K’s and family flag football games, but these are for casual fun and don’t represent the accumulation of your season.  December is a month where everyone can truly cut back a little and let their bodies rest, recuperate and prepare for the New Year ahead. Now is the best time of the year to slack off a little.Â
As athletes we work our bodies hard and if we don’t dedicate at least one month to true rest and a break from all of the constant energy burning and practicing we can burn out. December is the perfect time of year to take this break. Not only is it chilly out (which makes it harder to get out there for the outdoor sports) and in-between athletic seasons, but also there is delicious food everywhere. You have the whole year ahead of you to work hard and play hard, so enjoy this time of no school, no exercise and holiday cheer!
Nutrition tip of the Day: Have a holiday cookie party! Invite your friends/teammates over for a cookie party. Sugar cookies, chocolate chip, gingerbread or all of the above. Eating cookies is a great way to enjoy food and support our bodies and bones during this season of love, joy, presents and best of all, sweets!!!