How to find healthy options at the ballpark
Photo: Greg Fiume/Getty Images Sport
Was that sound the crack of the bat...or your pants splitting? Finding healthy food at the ballpark can sometimes seem harder than throwing a perfect game. Use these tips from personal trainer Andrea Metcalf to make the best possible choices, and get her baseball-inspired exercises to burn those extra calories from your hot dog and beer.
"Take me out to the ball game, take me out to the crowds, buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack..."

You can probably justify one bag of peanuts at the ballpark for its healthy fats, but keep in mind it will put almost 1,000 calories on the scoreboard. Instead, try pinch hitting the big-calorie treats with healthier choices at the concession stand.

For instance, Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles offers these options with less than 300 calories:
  • Dodger Pretzel: 160 calories
  • Curried Chicken Salad Wrap: 290 calories
  • Strawberry Yogurt Parfait: 222 calories
  • Roasted Pear and Arugula Salad: 137 calories
  • Farmers' Market Greek Salad: 185 calories
If you can't quite bring yourself to completely cut out junk food at the stadium, you can still make smart choices. Skip the nachos in favor of foods with protein, like a burger or hot dog. Eliminate one of the buns, and you'll shave 100 calories off the scoreboard. Plus, the protein will help stabilize your blood sugar so you won't continue to crave more snacks.

And don't forget to limit liquid calories in beer and soda. Each ballpark beer is about 110 to 180 calories. Alternate with water to cut calories and save some money.
Swing a bat and work your core.
When the game is over, try these baseball-inspired moves to help burn off calories and tone your body.
Hey Batter, Batter...Swing
Swinging a baseball bat can be a great core workout to tone your midline without running the bases. Clear the area around you, hold a bat (or broom or other substitute) at waist height, and swing away! Remember to keep your feet comfortably wide and grounded and control each swing.
Andrea Metcalf's baseball bridge exercise
Baseball Bridge
If your backside needs a little lift, try bridge rolls using a baseball bat. Start on the ground on your back with your knees bent and your feet on top of the bat. Lift your hips and roll on the bat—alternate moving toward your body, and then away your body. This is a great glute and hamstring toner!

Are you cheering on a favorite team this summer? How do you stay healthy at the ballpark or at home watching the game? Share your comments below.

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As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

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