Whether you are starting your triathalon training, or getting your yard and garden ready – it is time to start.  Be sure to work consistently over the

course of the week. Include strength training, stretching and cardio exercises. Be careful of heavy, repetitive work or exercise – too much, too soon

can put your tendons in a compromised position. No one wants tendonitis, especially at the beginning of the season.  So make a plan and get it started.

Be sure to have your body composition analyzed asap to document the improvements you make with your spring training.  Good luck!

Here are some preventive tips:

- Shovel using your lower body, not your upper body

- Scoop or push snow in the direction you are going to put it (don't scoop straight on, and then throw to the side)

-Keep the handle hip height. Use your core muscles and then push with your legs for power

- Be sure the size of the scoop on the shovel is relative to your level of strength and the type of snow you are shoveling

-After filling the shovel bend your legs, tighten your core and straighten your legs and toss snow forward. This allows you to use the energy from your legs to project the snow forward.

- Be sure to alternate the primary leg and hand as you shovel. This will help you avoid overuse injuries on one side of your body.

Good luck!

Monster Nutrition:  www.nutritionexplorations.org/kids/activities/monster.asp.

MyPyramid Blast Off:  www.mypyramid.gov/kids/kids_game.html.

Nutrition Tracker:  www.nutritionexplorations.org/kids/activities/tracker.asp.

Chef Solus's Cooking School:  www.nourishinteractive.com/en/kids/solus-cooking-game/solus-cooking-game.