HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

I hope everyone has a happy and safe holiday. Enjoy all the good food (I know I did and my guts are hurting for it) and drink and great company this season. Here is a little taste of what to expect at CrossFit Kingston in the new year. Hahaha!

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are substances that help in the protection of cells against the damaging effects of free radicals.

Free radicals are atoms or a group of atoms that do not have an even pair of electrons. They can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. This occurs during the digestion of foods, normal metabolism, exercise, and environmental factors (pollution, cigarette smoke, etc). Eventually, they interact with DNA or cell membranes causing cells to die. Exercise increases oxygen utilization by the muscles and cells significantly more than being in a rested state leading to a greater production of free radicals. They are produced in significant numbers which can lead to damage of muscle and tissues. Scientists cannot measure the amount of free radicals that are formed by exercising or any of the aforementioned causes. Antioxidants help prevent vital cells to be damaged by the effects of free radicals. It is unknown how much antioxidants can/should be taken post-workout. Vitamin E has been shown to help protect the cells from the free radicals produced by exercise.

NUTRITION CHALLENGE

The start date for the challenge has changed. It will start on Monday, January 4 and run until Sunday, February 14th. Just in time to look even better for your loved one on Valentine's Day. And maybe even kick his/her ass if they don't compliment you.

The workouts will be held Monday January 4, 2010. If you are unable to make it on Monday, arrangements can be made for Tuesday.

Feel free to post questions, concerns, suggestions, helpful tips, recipes, etc in the comments section.