As a runner, equestrian and foodie, I am fairly knowledgeable about my dietary preferences and needs. Unfortunately, grocery shopping has become a necessary task rather than an experience. I have become uninspired in the meals that I prepare, which can lead to multiple stops at the store during the week or not having the necessary ingredients in my kitchen as meal time approaches.
In 2017, I discovered Lauren Mahr, the founder of The Fit Equestrian, while scrolling through her healthy food posts on Instagram as I ate tuna sashimi at a Whole Foods after a riding lesson on my hunter that lives out of state. I contacted her and Lauren's Story was soon featured on Street to Stable because we found we share similar fitness and dietary philosophies. As Lauren says, “trust me, it’s a sport!”
The Fit Equestrian Grocery Guide was recently published to help each of us adhere to a healthy and balanced diet starting with the fundamental of how to create a well thought out assortment in your pantry and refrigerator/freezer. The guide addresses pantry staples, sample meal plans, building a grocery list, recipes, weekly meal prep and more. For me, it has served as an inspiration to want to spend time in the kitchen again. Below are my favorite take-aways.
The meal planning process is personal. We all have different schedules, preferences and dietary needs. One size does not fit all! I adore a variety of fresh raw greens often using nuts as a protein source and my husband steers clear for lean meats and sprouted breads!
Always have an emergency meal on hand. I was so happy to see this can include a healthy frozen meal Occasionally, I just don’t find the energy to prepare a meal, particularly on Sunday nights after a busy weekend of riding and running.
When planning your meals for the week, save ideas from Instagram and Pinterest. Not sure about you, but I often get stuck in a rut.
At the grocery store, stick to your list to keep costs down and prevent buying extra food, BUT listen to your cravings and allow yourself to buy 1-2 items not on your list. I can be so rigid that I found this advice has relieved some of the anxiety of not being perfect. My go-to: high quality dark chocolate!
ABOUT LAUREN MAHR
Founded by Lauren Mahr, The Fit Equestrian strives to help riders unleash their full potential in the saddle using exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Many riders neglect their fitness due to a lack of time or simply the misconception that it isn't necessary for riders to cross-train. The Fit Equestrian serves to provide equestrians of all ages and disciplines with exercise programs and nutrition information tailored specifically for riders that are simple and effective.
Lauren is a NASM certified personal trainer and is pursuing a degree in Applied Nutrition with a minor in Equine Science at the University of Delaware. At home, Lauren rides in Brewster, NY and at school she enjoys riding on the UD Equestrian Team. As an equestrian, personal trainer, and Applied Nutrition major she is knowledgeable about all aspects of training and is well equipped to design exercise and wellness programs for other equestrian athletes.
DISCLAIMER: Street to Stable offers health, fitness and nutritional information that is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment
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