Happy fall, y’all! 
Crisp, cool weather is back. And along with it, all of our favorite fall activities. Being a Nebraska-based company, we love our football. But we know we’re not the only ones! For so many people, fall means football season.
For a lot of those people, football season means tailgate season. There’s nothing like gathering with loved ones to eat great food and enjoy awesome weather before cheering on your favorite team.
You can keep your employee wellness program relevant by choosing wellness activities that tie into the things people enjoy each season. Tailgating is already on everyone’s minds. So jump on in and host a healthy tailgate.
It’s a great opportunity to support a local team or even to teach your employees and your community about simple, healthy habits that fit into the activities they love. Here are a few staples to a healthy tailgate event.
Make the Simple Swaps
Small healthy swaps can add up to a huge health improvement. Try to make simple swaps so it doesn’t feel like you’re sacrificing your favorite tailgate essentials. You can put tomatoes on your burger instead of sugar-loaded ketchup, for example. Or consider opting for a dip made from Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. For most unhealthy favorites, there’s a simple healthy alternative — think outside the box!
Choose Fresh Foods
Make fresh food choices—even if you know they’re not the healthiest foods you’ve eaten all week. If you’re choosing fresh foods or preparing the food yourself, you’ll know exactly what’s going into the recipe. You’ll also have more opportunities to make healthy swaps. So put down that pre-packaged potato salad and go make your own!
Have Water Ready
Especially in the early parts of the season, it can get pretty warm. Spending all day in the elements can take a toll on your health if you’re not hydrated. That’s magnified by the alcohol that’s usually present at tailgating events. So be sure you have water at the ready, and that you encourage your friends and family members to stay hydrated.
Plan Activities and Games
Munching on snacks all day and then sitting in the bleachers all night is a recipe for disaster when it comes to a physical activity routine. Try to work your lost activity into your tailgate party. Plan some activities and games that get people up on their feet and moving around. That will keep your body moving all day long.
Make Veggies the Foundation
Fall is football season, yes. But it’s also farmer’s market season — so take advantage! Head to your local market or grocery store to stock up on fresh, local produce. Then, plan your tailgate side dishes with your favorite veggies. You’d be surprised how many people love corn on the cob, grilled zucchini, and a freshly sliced veggie tray.
You can host a symbolic healthy tailgate over lunch at the office or head down to the stadium to root for the home team. Either way, you’ll be matching your wellness activities with the excitement of the season — and teaching some healthy habits along the way!
Share your healthy tailgating tips with us in the comments below!
