Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-09-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Medicare comes with important decisions — and areas that often need explanation. For instance, many people think Medicare is free or that it covers everything, including long-term care and routine dental or vision — but that’s not the case. Enrollment isn’t automatic for everyone, and missing your Initial Enrollment Period could lead to penalties unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Understanding what Medicare actually covers — and when and how to enroll — can help you avoid surprises and choose the right plan for your needs.

2025-09-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – National Tailgating Day is coming up! If you’re a frequent tailgate host — whether you gather outside of the stadium or in your living room — you probably have your own game day traditions, but it may be time to call an audible and change your strategy.

This football season, be open to new ideas that can take your tailgate to the next level. With just a few adjustments, you can make your football parties so memorable that your friends, family and fellow football fans will be begging you to host a tailgate for The Big Game later this season.

Not sure where to start? Check out these four tips to help you turn your tailgate into a championship-winning touchdown.

1. Double down on decorations

Show your team spirit with team-themed decorations! You can, of course, find official merch with your team name and logo, but don’t be afraid to get creative.

When shopping, look for tablecloths, cups, balloons and banners in your team’s primary and secondary colors. Head to your local craft store and find stickers, permanent markers and paint to turn these seemingly plain items into bespoke party decorations. Short on time? Print out themed signage, menus and rally banners, turn boxes into party displays or get creative with food spreads that mirror footballs, fields and jerseys — all the small details will help set the scene and get your guests in the zone.

2. Switch up your beverages

Beer and cocktails are traditional game day beverages, but they’re not the only drink options. This year, add boxed wine to your football shopping list. Wine may seem a bit formal for a sports gathering, but a box of wine is a game-changing addition to any fan or tailgater’s playbook.

Choose a high-quality boxed wine like Bota Box for your next game day. Its portable, durable and no-fuss packaging is shatterproof, doesn’t require a corkscrew and is recyclable, making it perfect for any gathering at home or in the stadium parking lot. For large gatherings, each 3-liter box offers the same amount of wine as four bottles and a pourable spout makes it easy for guests to serve themselves a glass. Heading to a stadium tailgate? Toss a few Bota Box “Minis” in the cooler to add variety. Each 500ml “Mini” carton holds the equivalent of three glasses of wine in a lightweight, recyclable sipper that’s just right for sharing with friends before kickoff.

3. Get everyone involved with football game predictions

It’s always fun to try and guess how the game will play out. Make prediction sheets for your guests. This activity can foster team spirit, encourage social connections and ramp up the fun before the game starts.

There isn’t one right way to make a prediction sheet. However, think about questions like who will score the first touchdown and what the final score will be. Don’t forget to have a prize for the winner, like football memorabilia!

Pro tip: If you’re strapped for time, you can even download prediction sheets online to use for your tailgate.

4. Serve up a selection of homemade wings

Switch up your usual burgers and hot dogs this tailgate season and try cheffin’ up wings at home. You can stick to one flavor or provide a selection of sauces for a customizable tailgate experience. Make sure to offer a mix of beverages to bring out the saucy, savory flavors of your wings and take the tasting experience to the next level.

Pro tip: Do you have a wing recipe you’re proud of? Consider entering the “Wing It with Bota” recipe contest for a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Bay Area for a recipe cook-off at Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, and compete for the ultimate grand prize: two tickets to attend The Big Game. To learn more, visit BotaBox.com/Football.

Are you ready for kickoff?

Whether you’re watching in person or at home, make your next tailgate one to remember. With these four tips, you’ll be ready for game day, no matter if your team wins or loses.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at responsibility.org.

2025-09-04T06:01:00

(BPT) – Waking up can be a whirlwind of activity, from making breakfast and packing lunches to getting everyone out the door on time. Luckily, finding a moment to prepare a delicious and healthy lunch for your kids without sacrificing precious sleep is easier than you think.

With a few simple strategies, you can transform lunch-packing from a last-minute chore into an easy routine. Here’s how to get ahead of the morning rush and start your day feeling calm, organized, and ready for anything.

1. Pick lunch themes for faster decisions

Boost your creativity and simplify meal prep by choosing a weekly theme like “Taco Tuesday,” “Breakfast for Lunch,” or “Italian Favorites.” Once you have a theme, it’s easier to choose ingredients, prep in batches, and avoid the morning “What should I pack?” scramble. Kids also love the fun twist, making them more likely to eat what you send.

2. Build your own lunch station, and let your kids pick their weekly lineup

During your weekly meal prep, slice and wash fruits and veggies, prep sandwiches, and portion snacks into easy grab-and-go servings. By getting the work done ahead of time, weekday mornings become a breeze — just hand your kids their lunchboxes and let them choose their favorites.

Store items in Hefty^® Slider Bags to help them stay fresh. The easy-to-use slider is perfect for independent eaters to open and close on their own at school. Plus, the expandable bottom makes filling easier, and the secure Clicks Closed seal lets you know it’s shut tight.

3. Freeze drinks to keep food cool

Freeze a juice box or water bottle the night before to double as a lunchbox ice pack. By lunchtime, it will be perfectly chilled and ready to drink while keeping the rest of the meal fresh. You can also freeze foods like PB&J sandwiches, muffins, or yogurt tubes to help keep lunch cool and make meal prep even easier.

4. Lean into leftovers

Leftovers aren’t just for Friday night dinners. You can easily pack leftovers for lunch! For busy parents, leaning into leftovers can be a huge time saver and a simple way to ensure your child is eating a healthy, nutritious meal. Plus, you’ll save on food waste, helping you save money on your grocery bill.

As soon as dinner is over, pack your leftovers into Hefty Slider Bags, so you don’t have to worry about portioning food out later.

5. Fill up the freezer with frozen meals

During your weekly meal prep, consider making frozen meals for lunch (or even dinner). You can cook multiple dishes in bulk, like breakfast sandwiches, pizza bagels, and taco meat, then freeze them for quick, ready-to-go meals. You’ll have plenty of lunch options, and your kids can even choose which ones they’d like to eat the most.

Once you’re done cooking, store the meals in a large, resealable bag like Hefty’s Gallon sized Freezer Slider Bags. It clicks closed to help keep your food fresh and secure.

Pro tip: Keep some large slider bags on hand. These Hefty Jumbo Storage Slider Bags are perfect for anything life throws at you, from muddy jerseys and sparkly art projects to family-sized snack mixes.

Are you ready for an easier school year? Using these simple tips, you can save time, money and streamline your morning for a positive start to your day.

2025-09-03T14:01:00

(BPT) – For some drivers, their vehicle is just a means of transportation, but for others, it is a reflection of their own personality and, at times, even a partner for adventure. Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index Survey revealed new insights into how deeply connected Americans are to their vehicles, highlighting the emotional bonds and confidence drivers have in knowing their cars inside and out.

Drivers’ Emotional Connection

Most American drivers feel a connection to their cars, with over three-quarters of respondents saying they have some sort of emotional attachment. This bond isn’t uniform across generations, however — younger drivers, on average, feel a stronger emotional connection to their cars while older generations are more likely to think of functionality.

For the youngest generation on the road today, Gen Z, having a car creates a sense of pride: 43% of surveyed Gen Z drivers say they are proud of their cars.

More experienced drivers demonstrate an appreciation for their vehicle’s role in their day-to-day life. The majority of Millennial drivers (43%) say they are dependent on their vehicles. Similarly, when describing their car’s personality, Gen X (45%) and Boomers (50%) were most likely to label their cars as reliable and dependable.

Personalization to Match Personality

The connection that drivers feel with their cars can also be shown in how they personalize its interior and exterior, or even how they create a persona for their vehicle: One in four Americans has named their car, which is especially common among Gen Z (40%) drivers and those living in cities (35%). When it comes to accessorizing, most drivers personalize their cars with wheel or seat covers (27%) and performance upgrades (23%), tailoring their vehicles to match their own style and needs.

City drivers tend to customize their cars more than those in other areas: Nearly a third (32%) of drivers in urban areas have upgraded their car’s performance, including changes to their engine, exhausts and even tires, compared to less than a quarter of rural (20%) and suburban (19%) area drivers. Urban area drivers have also customized the look of their cars more than others, with nearly a quarter (22%) of city drivers having had aesthetic work done to their cars, compared to rural (8%) and suburban drivers (13%).

Knowing the Car Inside and Out

Getting to know your car is more than just how it looks and feels. Many drivers report they understand their vehicle’s performance and what it can handle. For example, 85% of all drivers say they know their car well enough to continue driving with the fuel light on. Exactly half of the drivers surveyed tend to fill up their tank before the light appears on their dashboard, yet more than a third (36%) say that they know their cars well enough to push those limits regularly.

Despite how many people say they know their cars’ fuel limits, running out of gas isn’t as rare as it might seem — almost half (46%) of all drivers say they have run out of gas before, and over half of those respondents say that it has happened more than once. More experienced drivers tend to pay closer attention to their fuel level, with three-quarters of all Boomers saying they have never run out of gas while driving, compared to 67% of Millennial drivers who have, and often more than once.

The blend of emotional attachment and practical understanding underscores a unique relationship that Americans have to their cars: Personalizing vehicles, naming them and knowing their quirks all point to a deeper, more meaningful connection that drivers have with their cars.

2025-09-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages are having a moment. Vodka iced teas and vodka lemonades have become summer’s hottest drink trend, covering the crowds in sports stadiums, lining the beaches, and flying from coolers during backyard hangouts. And Sun Cruiser Iced Tea & Vodka is leading the pack for good reason – made with real iced tea, premium vodka and without carbonation to achieve the perfect balance of light sweetness and big refreshment.

Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team at a ballgame, vibing at a concert or unwinding at your go-to local bar, chances are you’ve probably spotted a Sun Cruiser can in the wild. Hospitality insiders agree: Sun Cruiser’s super smooth, deliciously refreshing profile with no bubbles is the perfect choice when looking for something both familiar and fresh. And with just 1 gram of sugar, 100 calories and 4.5% ABV per 12oz. serving, Sun Cruiser’s smooth flavor is the perfect choice for savoring the final days of the summer season.

New hospitality survey reveals increased interest in ready-to-drink beverages, with recent entrant Sun Cruiser Iced Tea & Vodka making waves across industry

Since launching in market just over a year ago, Sun Cruiser quickly became the fastest-growing RTD in on-premise locations nationwide, selling faster than long-established competitors like High Noon, Surfside and Nutrl¹.

According to a recent survey² of hospitality industry professionals conducted by Dynata, about 60% prefer RTDs when off duty, with 72% who said they choose RTDs instead of mixing a drink for themselves when off the clock. Among survey respondents who have tried Sun Cruiser, two-thirds say they would recommend it to others, with more than half crediting its convenience – particularly its portability and no-mix format – as major factors in their choice.

Savor the Last Summer Moments with Sun Cruiser

Curious to try the new RTD that hospitality insiders are buzzing about? The Sun Cruiser variety packs slide perfectly into any cooler situation — lakeside lounging, post-volleyball celebrations in the sand, pool parties and outdoor concert moments. It’s the sweet spot between effortless and elevated. Sun Cruiser is available in a variety of flavors, including Classic Iced Tea, Peach Iced Tea, Raspberry Iced Tea, Lemonade + Iced Tea, Lemonade, Pink Lemonade and Strawberry Lemonade.

Summer days may be coming to an end, but Sun Cruiser is here to let the good times cruise all year long. Visit DrinkSuncruiser.com and follow @DrinkSunCruiser on socials to find Sun Cruiser near you and make the most of your warm weather days and transition into fall.

Please drink responsibly. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, visit Responsibility.org.

1 Nielsen CGA On Premise Data Total US L12W Through 6/14/25

2 About the Survey

1,000 U.S. Hospitality industry professionals aged 21+ at venues serving alcohol were surveyed in a project commissioned by Boston Beer and conducted by Dynata (formerly Research Now/SSI), an independent research firm, between June 21 and June 30, 2025. The maximum margin of sampling error was plus or minus 3 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence.

2025-09-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’ve already visited Italy and yearn to return, or you’re dreaming of your first trip, you may not be fully aware how much charm, beauty and history the country offers apart from its most famous cities. When you’re searching for “la dolce vita,” you may want to focus more attention on the authentically engaging character of some of Italy’s lesser-explored cities and towns.

To immerse yourself in warm sun and warmer people, stunning scenery, exquisite art and the best food on the planet, look beyond Italy’s largest cities to explore the irresistible cuisine, fascinating history and lush beauty found in many smaller towns. Travel expert Steve Perillo, president and third generation owner of Perillo Tours, offers his experience to help travelers enjoy the best of Italy, in honor of Perillo’s 80th anniversary.

“Italy contains so many hidden gems that travelers may be unaware of, especially when they are new to visiting the country,” said Perillo. “To help our guests make the most of their trips, we create itineraries specially designed to introduce less-explored towns and areas that allow guests to dive deeper into the culture and truly experience what makes Italy one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.”

Here are Perillo’s top picks for 5 lesser-known Italian gems.

1. Birthplace of Christopher Columbus: Genoa

Not far from Portofino and Turin, Genoa’s position on Italy’s northwest coast lends it a rich maritime history. You’ll imagine you’ve traveled back to medieval times as you stroll narrow alleyways and explore stunning churches and historic palaces.

When you’re not soaking in Genoa’s timeless beauty, savor cuisine like fresh seafood, local specialties like focaccia and the renowned “pesto alla Genovese,” a vibrant sauce made with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Sardo cheese and extra virgin olive oil.

Enjoy Genoa’s stunning coastal views with Perillo’s new 9-Day Gems of Italy Tour, combining Genoa’s maritime heritage with Florence’s Renaissance wonders for an authentic taste of Northern Italian culture.

2. Food lovers’ paradise: Val d’Orcia

Gorgeous rolling hills and cypress-lined roads in Val d’Orcia resemble a living painting, perfect for photography or just soaking in the Tuscan countryside’s breathtaking beauty. The climate and soil around this town, 30 miles from Siena, make it ideal for creating the world’s finest wines, cheeses and olive oil. A trip to Val D’Orcia is not complete without visiting charming area vineyards like the home of Brunello di Montalcino wines.

Val d’Orcia is featured in Perillo’s 9-Day Gems of Italy Tour.

3. Medieval masterpiece: Todi

For history buffs and beauty lovers, Todi’s well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets and charming piazzas will charm the eye, as will stunning panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside. Perched atop a hill, Todi’s rich cultural legacy is filled with historic landmarks like its beautiful square featuring the impressive Palazzo del Popolo, and the Cathedral of Todi. Stop at a local trattoria to enjoy Umbrian cuisine celebrating local ingredients like wild boar, wild mushrooms and truffles.

Discover the wonders of Todi through the 10-Day Heart of Italy Tour, featuring Rome, Florence and smaller gems like Todi with activities like chocolate and wine tasting, plus plenty of free time to explore.

4. Legendary town: Gubbio

Legend has it St. Francis (San Francesco in Italian) once tamed a wolf that struck fear into the hearts of Gubbio’s residents. You can imagine saints and monks strolling the narrow medieval streets and entering beautifully preserved buildings in Gubbio, a town not far from Perugia. Highlights include the beautiful Palazzo dei Consoli, Roman Theater and Church of San Francesco, which all transport you back to the Middle Ages.

Gubbio is also famous for the world’s largest “Christmas tree”: a giant tree made of lights arranged along the slopes of Mount Ingino, nearly 2,460 feet high and over 3,280 feet wide, which is visible from miles away. You can ride the funivia (cable car) to the top of Mount Ingino for breathtaking views of the Umbrian countryside.

Gubbio is also included in Perillo’s 10-Day Heart of Italy Tour.

5. Beach lovers’ utopia: Otranto

Otranto’s crystal-clear waters and stunning sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing. Just 30 miles from the town of Lecce on Italy’s eastern coast, Otranto is known for its rocky cliffs with breathtaking views of the Adriatic. You can also step back in time by visiting the town’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, plus nearby Aragonese Castle and Otranto Cathedral.

Explore Otranto on the 12-Day Best of Southern Italy Tour, highlighting two of Italy’s most beautiful regions: Campania and Puglia, to visit important historic towns and sample some of Italy’s finest food.

Since 1945, three generations of the Perillo family have perfected the art of traveling to Italy, making Perillo Tours America’s leading tour operator to the country. Crafting itineraries with an ideal balance of sightseeing, free time and activities, Perillo offers glimpses into each Italian city and region’s rich traditions. As a growing company, Perillo has expanded to new destinations, offering fully escorted tours to Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and Hawaii. Through Perillo Custom Vacations, independent travelers can also design and book a customized vacation to meet their individual needs and desires. For parties of 10 or more, Perillo’s Custom Groups will create bespoke itineraries to various European destinations.

Visit PerilloTours.com to plan your trip today.

2025-09-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re single or have a family, budgeting for household expenses can be challenging. Balancing necessary expenses like rent or a mortgage payment, groceries, utilities and health care costs with discretionary spending like shopping for clothing, eating at restaurants and going to the movies can seem almost impossible.

However, with just a few adjustments to your spending habits, you can simplify your budget. These five simple tips can help you keep your household expenses in check so you can save money and have some cash left over for fun experiences.

1. Meal prep and batch cook to reduce grocery waste

Prepping meals for the week is a great way to spend less money. When you prepare meals at home, you won’t have a reason to spend money on food at the cafeteria, coffee shop or a restaurant. Plus, cooking multiple meals ahead of time can help you reduce grocery food waste!

Batch cooking — cooking a lot of food for multiple meals ahead of time — allows you to buy ingredients in bulk, which can cost less than buying food items one at a time or in smaller quantities. Plus, not only are you saving money, but meal prepping on the weekend means you are also spending less time cooking during the week.

2. Bundle internet and streaming services

Paying for internet and subscription streaming services individually can quickly add up. Instead of deciding which subscriptions to keep or cancel, consider looking for bundles. Check with your internet or phone provider to see if they offer discounts or bundles for multiple services and streaming platforms.

3. Enroll in low-cost, affordable vision insurance coverage

Taking care of your vision can be costly. However, don’t let the cost keep you from taking care of your sight. You can enroll in an individual vision plan to help reduce vision-related expenses and stay on top of eye health.

A great vision insurance option that can help you save money without compromising your well-being is a VSP^® Individual Vision Plan. When you enroll in a low-cost VSP vision plan, you can easily manage exams, glasses and contacts for everyone in the family — even when employer insurance isn’t available.

There are several benefits to purchasing an individual vision plan through VSP. Unlike other vision coverage options, you can purchase a customizable vision insurance plan at any time. No need to wait for open enrollment or deal with waiting periods. VSP Individual Vision Plans offer same-day use of benefits once you are enrolled; use your plan the same day you buy it!

You can also save an average of $350 annually, which includes 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. Plus, VSP members have access to over $3,000 in savings with Exclusive Member Extras. Compare vision plans and find the best fit for you.

4. Shop secondhand or hold clothing swaps

Shopping for clothing can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of hitting your local department store, find thrift and consignment stores in your area. By buying gently used clothing, you can pay a fraction of the cost of a new item while refreshing your closet. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to keep clothing out of the landfill.

Another option is to get new-to-you outfits by organizing clothing swaps with friends. Ask everyone to gather their unwanted clothes and set a day, time and location to hold the swap. Not only will you get free clothing, but you can also spend time with friends.

5. Choose energy-saving home upgrades

If your electric bill is one of your highest utility expenses, consider upgrading your home appliances with energy-saving models. When shopping for a new fridge, washing machine or dishwasher, opt for an Energy Star certified model. By choosing an Energy Star appliance, you can save 10-50% compared to conventional models, including older models like the one you may own.

You don’t have to give up the things you love to stay on top of your budget. Try these five easy money-saving tips and see how far your budget can stretch.

2025-09-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Mornings during the school year can be hectic, especially those at the beginning of the year when we say goodbye to summer sleep-ins and hello to an earlier routine.

You don’t have to settle for a rushed start to your day. Check out these five simple tips that can help you ease into your morning routine for the back-to-school season.

1. Lay out clothing the night before

Laying out everyone’s outfits the night before takes the pressure off mornings and allows you to complete other chores at the start of your day. Younger children may need some help, so take a few minutes every night to help them choose weather-appropriate outfits for school. Older children can make their own fashion decisions but may need reminders and encouragement from you.

2. Create a morning routine

Both parents and children can benefit from a predictable routine. Setting expectations for a morning schedule that builds in time for breakfast, hygiene and last-minute tasks like signing permission slips can save time and make mornings less daunting. A set routine can be especially helpful for parents and children who aren’t exactly morning people.

3. Have convenient meals on hand

A hot breakfast can feel like a luxury as you’re walking out the door. Consider keeping convenient heat-and-carry meals on hand so your family can enjoy a tasty and nutritious breakfast without being late for school or work.

The next time you go grocery shopping, add a box of APPLEGATE NATURALS^® Breakfast Sandwiches to your cart. In under five minutes, you’ll have a convenient and essential go-to breakfast that can make eating during transitional life moments easier.

Whether you choose the APPLEGATE NATURALS^® Chicken & Maple Breakfast Sausage, Egg & Cheese on a Biscuit or the APPLEGATE NATURALS^® Savory Turkey Breakfast Sausage, Egg & Cheese on an English Muffin, you can count on 12-14 grams of protein per serving and high-quality, recognizable ingredients — including meat sourced from animals raised with no antibiotics ever. You can feel good about the breakfast you’re feeding your family, too, since all APPLEGATE^® products meet the Applegate Humanely Raised standard, in which animals are raised with space to engage in natural behaviors and promote natural growth.

4. Get the kids involved

Parents don’t have to be responsible for every weekday morning task. Give your children simple chores like packing their own bags, feeding pets and preparing simple breakfast items.

A tasty, fun and easy-to-make breakfast item your kids can heat up on their own is an APPLEGATE NATURALS^® Pancake & Sausage Stick. Both the APPLEGATE NATURALS^® Pancake & Pork Sausage Stick and APPLEGATE NATURALS^® Pancake & Chicken Sausage Stick feature a fluffy pancake wrapped around savory sausage on a stick and offer 7 grams of protein per serving for a balanced and delicious start to the day.

Even better, these compact, mess-free sticks are easy to take along or pack in bento boxes — making them a convenient choice for breakfast on the go.

5. Be flexible and adapt to changes

No two mornings are alike. As you go through your morning routine, remember to stay flexible so you can adapt to unexpected changes. That may mean changing an outfit because of a spill or spending less time on breakfast to finish a last-minute book report. No matter what life throws your way, embrace the unknown and adjust your plans to ease stress.

This back-to-school season, take the rush out of your mornings. Try these five tips and see how you can make the start to your day less stressful this fall and beyond.

2025-09-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – The 2025-2026 school year is here, and many student-athletes have their eyes set on making the roster for their chosen sport.

But what does it take for young athletes to perform at their best? The U.S. Army’s health and wellness experts can help with practical tips rooted in the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system, a program dedicated to optimizing the performance of the force’s tactical athletes — Soldiers — across all aspects of health: physical, nutritional, mental, spiritual and sleep.

These are the same experts who help the Army’s elite Soldier-athletes — from the Army Warrior Fitness Team to the World Class Athlete Program — compete and win at the highest levels of their sports.

Ready to up your game? No matter your sport of choice, check out the following battle-tested tips to prepare for this year’s tryouts and beyond:

1. Strengthen your bones and joints with multi-lateral movement

Long-distance running is great for building cardiovascular health and endurance, but the low-load, long-duration activity can desensitize the body’s osteogenic response — the process of building and strengthening bones — and can sometimes lead to bone stress injuries (BSIs). Like running, rucking — or a long-distance march with a weighted backpack — has long been a staple of building physical readiness and morale among Army Soldiers. To avoid injury during this activity, Soldiers are encouraged to incorporate short-duration, high-impact multi-directional movements into their workouts to strengthen their bones and joints.

Maj. Gary Helton, Army physical therapist and sports medicine expert, stresses the importance of beginning this type of movement early in life to reap the benefits as one gets older. He notes that the foundation of bone health and architecture is laid during adolescence, so making sure that young athletes are exposed to bone stress early will set them up for success down the road.

In addition to cardio and endurance training, try incorporating multi-directional movements to help your bones adapt to different stress patterns, strengthen tissue and enhance balance:

• Jumps and plyometric exercises like jump squats and box jumps
• Forward, backward and diagonal lunges
• Agility and balance training like cone shuffles, ladder runs and grapevines

2. Work out with weights to build muscle and endurance

Like multi-directional movement, incorporating weights into your workout is essential for building muscle, increasing endurance and preventing injury. Weight work can give you the power and explosiveness needed to engage in a competitive sport as well as increasing muscle mass, which can improve speed and agility.

If you’re new to lifting weights, it’s not necessary to pick up the heaviest weights in the gym to reap the benefits. Army physical therapist and injury prevention expert Maj. Shay Lopez recommends:

• To start, incorporate body weight circuits or bands into your workout to continue challenging the bones and muscles.
• Once you have your foundation, start to steadily incorporate weights into the workouts.
• Pay special attention to the fatigue of your muscles, and if you’re sore for more than a few days, try revisiting your workout with a lighter set of weights.

3. Strengthen your core to build athleticism

Building a strong core is crucial for maintaining balance and stability throughout everyday activities, but it can also improve your overall athleticism. Core strength allows you to change directions quickly and stay on your feet during a fast-paced game, and a strong upper body will help you build power and control.

Lt. Col. Jason Barber, high-performance coordinator for the Army’s World Class Athlete Program, recommends leveling up a traditional strength workout by incorporating aspects of instability. This requires you to engage additional muscles to stabilize, successfully strengthening your core and upper body.

An effective movement is to complete a chest press on an exercise ball:

• Select your preferred weight of dumbbells. With one dumbbell in each hand, lie back on an exercise ball at a 90-degree angle with the hips lifted in line with the shoulders.
• From there, fully extend your arms toward the sky with your palms facing forward, then slowly lower each arm into a chest press with slow, controlled movement.
• By keeping your shoulder blades on the ball, your back flat and your core tight, you are effectively strengthening and stabilizing your upper body.

4. Warm up and cool down

Like the “summer slide” in academics, taking extended time away from your sport might require some extra attention on mobility to get back to full speed when tryout season comes around. Reserving time for a proper warm-up and cool-down will help prevent injury and help you feel ready to take on a hard practice.

Maj. Max Dummar, orthopedic and sports physical therapist, suggests starting with regular daily stretches in the areas and directions that you may utilize depending on your sport. “Dynamic stretches or foam rolling may be of value when you begin your workouts.” These can include:

• Leg swings and walking quad stretches to open the hip flexors and loosen the leg muscles
• Arm circles to increase shoulder and chest mobility
• Torso twists to loosen the spine and core muscles

When you finish practice, Maj. Dummar recommends that you “take some time to do sustained static stretches for the areas that you used during your workout and any specific muscle group that you know you are particularly tight in.”

5. Take your prep off the field

As you prepare for a big tryout, remember that training is just one piece of the puzzle. During your back-to-school shopping, be sure to include healthy snacks and hydration on the grocery list. Lt. Col. Kelly Calway, Deputy Athletic Director at West Point, says, “School days are long and involve a lot of walking around. Making it to practice with a full battery at the end of the day requires good hydration and fueling. If you need to eat less than three hours before practice, look for a snack with simple carbohydrates like pretzels or a bagel to help prevent stomach issues.”

Additionally, incorporating rest and recovery into your routine is essential for making progress and staying healthy. Your bones and muscles regenerate when you sleep, so to see the results of your work in the gym, you need to develop a routine where the rest is just as important as the work.

Maj. Lina Ochoa, occupational therapist and sleep readiness expert, says, “Teenagers usually require 8 to 10 hours of sleep […] When you are well rested, your brain functions more efficiently, you think clearly, process information faster and make better decisions.” A few ways you can set yourself up for a successful night of sleep include:

• Incorporate muscle relaxation and breathing exercises to your sleep routine to unwind from social stress and schoolwork before bed
• Dim the lights to release melatonin, the hormone that helps you fall and stay asleep
• Limit screentime and keep electronics out of sight at least an hour before bed to improve your sleep

As tryouts approach, remember that great performances are built long before game day. By incorporating small, consistent elements of holistic health into your routine, you can begin building habits that last well beyond this year’s roster. For more advice on how to maximize your training, visit the GoArmy channel on YouTube.

2025-08-31T23:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know nearly 1 in 4 American adults is a family caregiver? And according to a new study from the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP, one-third of all caregivers are also members of the “sandwich generation” — caring for an adult and a child under 18 at the same time. Family caregivers provide help with daily activities, transportation, advocating during medical appointments, companionship and much more.

Especially for those caring for a parent with dementia or Alzheimer’s, the challenges are great — as are the rewards. A recent National Day of Joy survey by Talker Research on behalf of Comfort Keepers, market-leading provider of in-home care for adults, reveals nearly 3 in 4 caregivers (74%) find the role to be one of the most rewarding of their lives, and nearly all (91%) say it deepens their bonds with the senior in their care.

“Caregiving for an older loved one is a role most of us will play, and the connection you make with your loved one can be incredibly meaningful,” said Sherri Snelling, gerontologist and Comfort Keepers spokesperson. “The key is to remember to care for yourself, and focus on the joyful moments.”

To help provide care for your loved one with compassion and resilience, keep these approaches in mind.

You don’t have to go it alone

Especially for caregivers who want to ensure everything is done right, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing everything yourself.

“I didn’t trust other people to give my father care or understand him like I did,” said Joni. “But that led to exhaustion, so I couldn’t be my best when we were together.”

By assembling a care team, you can consistently provide the assistance your loved one needs. This may include family members, neighbors, friends, community groups and other resources. Ask your loved one’s health care provider about resources in your area.

Another way to ensure extra support is through Comfort Keepers, which employs thousands of caregivers nationwide who deliver joy through interactive caregiving by continually communicating with, involving and engaging with seniors in everyday tasks and activities, providing trusted respite care when you need it.

Self-care isn’t selfish

While your loved one relies on you, it’s crucial to take care of yourself. Find ways to support your own well-being, including getting restorative sleep, eating well and even just a few minutes of walking but most importantly find time to simply do things you love.

“When I stopped doing things that made me happy, so I could care for my mom, I got easily irritated by little annoyances that might not have bothered me before,” added Bryan. “After I resumed my hobbies just once a week, I felt more positive. I needed to fill my cup so I could have the physical and mental strength to give to her.”

Self-care takes many forms, so it’s vital to learn what’s important for you. Ask yourself what you need to bring your best self to caregiving. This is even more important when you’re in the “sandwich generation” with kids at home.

A Comfort Keepers caregiver can also give you peace of mind that your loved one is in good hands, opening opportunities to care for yourself and others in your family who may need you.

Find moments of joy and gratitude

As you spend time caring for your loved one, notice those moments when you laugh together, share a special memory or just enjoy a good day when the sun is shining.

“Some days feel ordinary, then something breaks through: My dad tells a story I’ve never heard before, or smiles when the family’s cat hops on his lap,” said Saudia. “Those are the moments I’ll remember.”

Caregiving for a family member involves a commitment that demonstrates love and a sense of belonging that’s fundamental to being human.

“Many caregivers call caregiving a blessing,” said Snelling. “When people care for aging loved ones, they also get something back — deep emotional rewards, personal growth and joy.”

Caring for loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s

Comfort Keepers understands the struggles families face caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, especially when you’re helping them live safely at home. Choosing Comfort Keepers, families receive support including:

• Specially trained caregivers
• Family education to better understand dementia
• Tasks built into their care plan and geared to each senior’s interests to engage them physically, mentally and emotionally
• In-home services like personal care, companionship, medication reminders and family respite care
• SafetyChoice^® in-home safety technologies including medical alert systems and motion detectors

Learn more about caring for your loved one at ComfortKeepers.com.