Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Athletics are a big part of life in the Gladbrook Reinbeck community. Sophomore Taylor Petersen and teacher Pattie Bailey attended a student leadership summit at Iowa State University and applied for a $500.00 US Department of Agriculture grant to implement a community heath awareness day in their community. Petersen wanted to do something that would raise awareness about kid's health and their behaviors towards it.

Response:
A Nutrition and Wellness Fair was planned to be held during March for National Nutrition Month. On March 22, 7th and th grade students walked from the school to the theatre in Gladbrook to attend a 100-minute Eat to Compete workshop led by Nutrition and Health Field Specialists Jill Weber and Paulelda Gilbert. Students participated in the Training Diet and Fluids sessions. Additionally, they participated in activities at their school about healthy eating, strength training and the benefits of exercise. Covenant Clinics, Midwest Dairy, Iowa Beef Council, Hometown Foods Gladbrook and Gladbrook Gals and Guys 4-H club Go the Distance team were additional supporters of the days activities. That evening, a community wellness fair was held at the theatre and a community session of Eat To Compete was offered to parents and coaches.

Impact:
120 junior high students participated in a 100-minute Eat to Compete session on the Training Diet and Fluids. Students reported learning about the fat in fast foods, new snack ideas for training and the role that carbohydrates play in athletic performance. During the evening program, the head football coach, his assistant and their wives attended the community program. After the presentation, the group stayed to ask additional questions. The coach revealed that he had spent over $500.00 on Whey protein supplements for his team. He was realizing that this was not necessary. He also asked questions about timing of pre-game meals and the content of what those meals should be. His final comment was, we need to take a look at our training table.

 

Contacts:
Jill Weber
Nutrition and Health Field Specialist
3420 University Avenue, Suite B, Waterloo, IA 50701-2008
Phone 319-234-6811
Email jrweber@iastate.edu

Paulelda Gilbert
Nutrition and Health Field Specialist
108 S 8TH ST, Fort Dodge, IA 50501-4680
Phone 515-576-2119
Email pgilbert@iastate.edu