Easiest Protein Smoothie Ever

by Angie Miller

Smoothies aren’t just for summer, and nothing tastes better than a cool smoothie after a hot workout. Too often, people share with me that they don’t have time to eat before coming to the gym in the morning. I know that mornings especially can be crazy, but time is about management and priorities and if we want the best return on our investment we have to invest wisely. That means that we have to practice sound nutritional principles to supplement our workouts. Just as we can’t drive to the gym on an empty gas tank, we can’t workout to the best of our abilities with no fuel. Staying fit and healthy is hard work, no doubt; but smoothies are one way to amp up our nutrition intake while keeping us hydrated and refreshed. Not to mention, they’re easy to make. For someone like me who doesn’t feel at home in the kitchen that’s music to my ears!

The smoothie I made this morning included the following ingredients:

• ½ Cup of Water
• 1 Serving of Chobani (peach on the bottom) Greek Yogurt (this is strictly preference. I prefer Chobani yogurt, and I love the peach flavor mixed with apples and bananas)
• 1 Medium Banana
• 1 Small Apple
• 1 Scoop of Vanilla Whey Protein Powder (you could add a second scoop, depending on which type of protein powder you buy and how many scoops equals one serving)
• 1 Cup of Ice
• 1 Tsp. of Cinnamon (optional)

Put all of the ingredients into your blender, in the order listed. Start with a low speed then slowly increase the speed to a high. Blend for one minute or until smooth.

This makes almost a full pitcher. Therefore, there’s plenty to share for your kids, or more than enough for you to drink one smoothie before your workout and one afterwards. If you’re not drinking your smoothie right away, put it in a shaker bottle and keep it refrigerated. When you’re finished with your workout shake it up and enjoy!

Wishing all of you a healthy, productive week!

Sincerely~

Angie

Angie Miller, M.S., is a fitness educator, university instructor, and Licensed Professional Counselor who blends her skills and expertise to empower individuals, mentally and physically, and provide them the tools they need to succeed. A veteran group exercise instructor and personal trainer, Angie is the star of acclaimed exercise DVD’s, including the Bedroom Body™ workout. Her passion for progressive education brought her to Northern Illinois University, where she teaches in the Dept. of Kinesiology & Physical Education. Outside of the university, she presents at fitness conventions worldwide and leads industry trainings as an AFAA Certification Specialist and Kettlebell Concepts Master Instructor. Angie writes for fitness journals and digital communities, and blogs for Collage Video. Connect with Angie at: http://www.angiemillerfitness.com