Karate update.

I'm still having a blast at karate. Sensei and I have even arranged a little barter, he is utilizing my Excel knowledge to design a worksheet to really manage his students' learning, and in return, giving me a couple extra private lessons. Normally I wouldn't say much about this, but since I'm 99% sure I'm the only one reading my blog, I think it's safe. The last thing I want to do is get a bunch of students standing at his door, trying to do barter for lessons, instead of paying cash!

Anyway, the ranking belts in this studio go white,yellow,orange,purple,blue,green,brown,black, with some gradations (for example, blue with green stripe rank, between blue and green) When I left, I was blue belt rank, and currently I have caught up to almost all of my orange belt material. I'm hoping to catch up in, say, 3 months, then start getting ready for my blue+stripe test.

oh, and in the last month, I have managed to put on a whopping 3 pounds, putting me at 125. Here's an interesting link regarding weight-gain nutrition:

http://www.active.com/nutrition/Articles/Protein__Pros__Cons_and_Confusion.htm

There is a paragraph near the end that I thought was REALLY interesting:

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Question: How much protein should I eat right after I exercise?

Answer: A study with Marines during 54 days of basic training reports those who refueled with 100 calories of a recovery drink that contained only 10 grams (40 calories) of protein not only enhanced muscle protein deposition but also contributed to 33 percent fewer total medical visits, 28 percent fewer visits due to bacterial and viral infections, 37 percent fewer visits due to muscle and joint problems, and 83 percent fewer visits due to heat exhaustion. (Flakoll, Med Sci Sports and Exercise, 2004)

Seems amazing that just 100 calories of a recovery drink could make such a strong impact on health, muscle soreness and hydration, but the message is clear: proper fueling at the right times is worth the effort. Don't underestimate the value of refueling soon after you exercise. Cereal with milk, chocolate milk, fruit yogurt, turkey sandwich and spaghetti with meatballs are just a few suggestions that offer a foundation of carbs accompanied with some protein.

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