How to Make Healthier Choices When Eating Out: A Pro Cheerleader’s Guide
Despite their commitment towards a healthier, fitter body, professional cheerleaders are still very human. Yes, we do love food and sometimes our hectic schedules can be a reason to dine out at a restaurant - it’s way more convenient. It can also be that we have family gatherings we cannot say no to. Not to mention, a dinner date with someone special!
I’m here to tell you that eating out doesn’t have to be a bad experience. If you allow yourself to, you can make great food choices. You don’t have to feel like a victim of a circumstance because you are in control of your body. Healthy decisions are yours to make.
So, how to eat healthy at a restaurant? Read the tips that follow.
Ask for more vegetables to replace meat or carbs.
If you’re ordering a combo meal, a useful trick would be to ask the waiter to triple your vegetables - if the vegetable serving looks more like a garnish. Most restaurants won’t have problems honoring such request. It doesn’t hurt to be assertive when you order. Also be willing to pay extra just in case.
Order one or two appetizers instead of the main course.
Concerned with your portions but want to eat something yummy? Instead of a large meal, choose an appetizer or two. After all, the goal is not to stuff yourself but to feel satisfied. If you want, you can even order a low-calorie appetizer such as baked chicken taquitos, tofu and beef lettuce cups, and potato wedges with garlic sauce.
Skip the sugary drink.
Want to have a burger? Sure! But don’t pair it with a sweetened drink. If you must order something you’ve been craving for a long time now (but happens to be loaded with unhealthy fats), ditch the beverage that comes with it. Soda, iced tea, and even fruit juice will only add extra calories on top of your meal. The best choice would be plain water.
Eat more slowly.
Mindful eating helps you avoid packing on the pounds - even when you’re dining out. You don’t have to stress yourself with calorie counting, as long as you take a mindful approach. Study shows that slow eaters are less likely to be obese by 29%. Here’s why eating slowly helps with weight control: It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to receive hunger signals. Eating slowly allows enough time for this process.
Take leftovers home.
It’s time you quit the clean your plate club. Yes - people, including ourselves, see finishing what’s on your plate as normal behavior. Sometimes too, it’s our pride as adults. The only problem with having a clean plate is that it results in overeating. Stop when you’re satisfied and you’ll do your body a huge favor. I suggest you bring home leftovers and chill them in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
Dining out can be challenging if you don’t know how what steps to take to eat healthier. Again, this doesn’t have to be an "opportunity" to sabotage your pro cheerleader diet.
These five tips will help you enjoy eating out without experiencing guilt later on.
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