Winter school holiday is about to start (or have started already for the lucky ones!) and you're mostly likely going to attend holiday workshops. A full day of dancing, great! Let's make the most out of it by fuelling and nourishing enough. I want to focus on snacks this time because these mini-meals can really help you reach your energy and nutrition goals.

And you might even find new snacks this holiday that you can incorporate into your school-term days. 

How can snacking be helpful for dancers?

Snacking is a great way to refuel without feeling overly full or stuffed.

If you've refuelled adequately then you'll have enough energy to accelerate through the following classes.

Taking a little time to organise your dance bag to include some snacks can save you time (running around finding something) and money (buying things from a cafe is never cheap). 

Things to remember about snacks between-classes

Don't make the mistake of skipping carbs.

Some protein is important too

Easy-to-digest food is important, which means lower in fibre and fats, because too much fibre and/or fats can slow down digestion and lead to stomach discomfort.

Try bite-size portions so (1) you can choose how many/much to eat and (2) it's less messy. 

So, what does this look like? 

Snack ideas for dancers

• Fruits in season. Cut them up into bite-size pieces; this way you can pick on them without having to eat the whole thing in case your teacher calls you in early.

• Sandwiches. Think peanut butter and jam; cheese and tomato; smoked salmon. Cut them into 2's or 4's so it's easier to eat.

• Sushi rolls. Pre-cut ones are easy too!

• Trail mix.

• Crumpets, English muffins or bagels with cream cheese spread.

• Yogurt with some fruits or muesli. If you have a fridge to keep them cool, perfect!

• Pop corn.

• Plain crackers with hummus and/or other dips.

Holiday's a great time to experiment with different food/meal ideas.It's also a good time to play around in the kitchen, cooking and baking. So get your hands on and prepare a meal or snack for yourself.

 Do you have a favourite snack? Let us know!