Thursday, January 21, 2010

Oh.... THE Bar

Last night I met up with my former co-workers for a few drinks. Things happened so unexpectedly last week that we decided it would be better to wait a few days and get together this week. Unfortunately, not everyone was able to come, but it was really great to see everyone who was there. We were, and hopefully will stay, a family. I'd like to think that ours was a different sort of label, one that was unusually united.

Anyway... last night inspired this morning's post. I'll start by declaring that I am not a big drinker. Truth be told, I hardly drink at all. This is not a typical characteristic of someone in the music industry, or really, someone my age, but all my colleagues were used to it. Even in college I wasn't a huge drinker. Sure, I'd have a few beers at parties and at the bar, a few mixed drinks in there too, but my need to be in control usually overruled everything else. And while I still definitely enjoy an occasional glass of good wine or a beer, the last few years my gym habit and then marathon training have been the most common reasons why I don't drink.

I had planned ahead for last night and decided that today would be my day off from the gym. If I don't plan ahead when I go out, I end up with two choices:
1. Stick to Diet Coke - no drinks
2. Prepare myself for a not-so-great workout the next day

Obviously, I'd rather not have a good workout if I'm going to go to the gym or for a run, so I usually choose #1. Also, I rather eat my calories than drink them plus I often have a tendency to eat more when I drink. So, not drinking is a way for me to increase the odds that I'll have a better workout the next day and forgo unnecessary calories.

Last night I enjoyed a pint, plus a little, and a few great hours with good friends. This morning, I slept in a bit and plan to take a long walk later today.

As an active person, do you find yourself drinking less than the typical person (if there is such a thing)? I know many runners enjoy a cold beer after a race or feel no need to decrease alcohol consumption while training. Do you fall in this category or the less is more category with me? Is there a relationship between food and alcohol for you?


water or beer? which do you reach for?