Take the bite out of frosty days

How to avoid pain and injury when you tee it up this winter

Shake it up before you play

A blended shake or smoothie with the proper ingredients might help you become mentally and physically unflappable on the course.Dr. John Berardi, nutrition director for the Royal Canadian Golf Association, says such a drink should include four elements: a source of protein, such as skim milk or whey powder, to help stabilize blood sugar and maintain levels of energy during the round; frozen or whole fruit, whose complex carbs help sustain concentration; ground nuts or flax seeds for Omega-3 fatty acids to improve mood and mental outlook; and iced green tea to hydrate and stimulate the central-nervous system, critical to physical performance and increasing alertness.__ Berry Blast__1 cup frozen strawberries1/2 cup frozen blackberries1/2 cup blueberries1 scoop vanilla protein powder1 tablespoon ground flax seeds1 tablespoon greens powder2 cups iced green tea12-Ounce Shake:Calories: 300 | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protien: 30g | Fat: 10g

Juniors Encouraged To Use Pullcarts

Pullcarts have an image problem—kids don't think they're cool. But Stephen Hamblin, executive director of the American Junior Golf Association, believes they're a lot better for a child's back than carrying 30 pounds of golf equipment. Starting this year, the AJGA has approved the use of pullcarts for all contestants. Last year, kids 12 to 15 (the youngest AJGA group) were allowed to use pullcarts for the first time.Although there isn't any defin-itive study that cites permanent injuries from carrying a golf bag, Dr. Bill Howard, an expert in sports med- icine, says at a minimum "the heavy load can cause irritated muscles and fatigue in kids."