Wednesday, February 16, 2011

The January Syracuse Stars!

During the month of January, these students proved to be exceptional. They were voted stars by their peers and Mr. Recker. The "star qualities" that are considered include WORK ETHIC, FOCUS, POSITIVE ATTITUDE, SPORTSMANSHIP, AND LEADERSHIP.

3rd Grade




4th Grade




5th Grade


Sunday, January 30, 2011

Basketball Action!

Protein after exercise boosts muscle growth!

A new study out of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that 20 grams of protein following exercise can turn on gene signals in the body that stimulate muscle protein synthesis. So if you want to build/rebuild muscle easier, get some protein in your life after you exercise! Some of my favorite choices include beef, turkey, whey protein, cottage cheese, or almond butter.

Journal article: Bart Pennings, RenĂ© Koopman, Milou Beelen, Joan MG Senden, Wim HM Saris, and Luc JC van Loon. Exercising before protein intake allows for greater use of dietary protein–derived amino acids for de novo muscle protein synthesis in both young and elderly men American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2011 February vol. 93 no. 2 322-331

Study says Kids Happier & Healthier when involved with Sports

Researchers from West Virginia University studied 245 middle school students to see if physical activity and sports played a role in happiness and life satisfaction. The students were asked to fill out questionnaires that described their feelings when involved with sports/physical activity and when they are not. The authors, led by Dr. Keith Zullig, reported the following: “Our study demonstrates the benefits of youth sports participation on self-rated health and life satisfaction among young youth at a critical juncture in adolescent development. Our findings suggest that sports team participation may enhance school connectedness, social support and bonding among friends and teammates.”

This study shows that students like to be involved. They want to feel like they are contributing to something great. And they want to have personal relationships with each other.

Link to study: http://www.springer.com/about+springer/media/springer+select?SGWID=0-11001-6-1000421-0

Monday, January 3, 2011

2010 Nov-Dec Syracuse Stars

These students showed excellence in the 5 Star Qualities:
1. Work Ethic
2. Focus
3. Positive Attitude
4. Sportsmanship
5. Leadership

Awesome job!







Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Strength Training is great for kids!

The National Strength and Conditioning Association and a recent study published in the scientific journal "Pediatrics" recommend strength training for kids. Using both body weight and/or additional weight (dumbbells, barbells, medicine balls) is beneficial.

The research shows that most kids age 10 and above increased their strength 20-40% when participating in a regular strength training program. The NSCA recommends strength training 2-3 times per week under the supervision of a trained professional like a physical education teacher. And if you're worried it's dangerous, don't be. Researchers discovered that strength training is no more dangerous than any other common sport kids may be involved with at a young age! Some basic strength training can be started around age 7 or 8.

Strength training is taught throughout the K-5 PE program in Syracuse. Besides increasing strength, strength training has a positive effect on metabolism, bone health, circulatory health, and self-esteem!




Study Source: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/126/5/e1199