The big game day is almost upon us, and while everyone is surely anticipating the battle that will be going on on the field, I’m just as excited about the feast that is “Super Bowl Snacks.” Whether it be hot wings, queso or burgers, I’m a sucker for ‘em all. While mouth-watering and delicious, the typical Super Bowl spread options are anything but healthy. However, the other day I happened upon a blog that could save our waistlines this Sunday:   Healthy Super Bowl Party Recipes and Tips. Here I found 5 different variations of favorite Super Bowl snacks with healthy twists. Now, before you discard this entirely due to my use of the “h” word (healthy, which can sometimes scare people off), keep in mind that these recipes still sound AMAZINGLY yummy and I will for sure be trying a couple out. So get cookin’ guilt-free this weekend, because the Super Bowl and fried foods don’t have to go hand-in-hand!

7 Layer Bean Dip: This classic party favorite just got better! By using natural Refried black beans, fresh avocados, fat-free Greek yogurt and baked corn tortilla chips you can save plenty of calories but still have a great tasting dip that everyone will enjoy, check out the recipe here

Skinny Baked Mozzarella Sticks: Who can resist mozzarella sticks? I certainly can’t, and now I don’t have to feel guilty about it! This recipe uses part skim cheese which is breaded and baked (rather than fried) to still provide that crisp outside and yummy, melty cheesy inside. I can’t wait to try these out, make them yourself by finding the recipe here

Vegetarian Chili: Vegetarian – another scary word for those who associate “healthy” with “not-as-good.” This smoky recipe still has a “meaty” texture without actually having meat in it. A classic comfort food that is sure to be a hit at any get together this Sunday! Find the recipe here

Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges: A tasty alternative to your traditional French Fries, these wedges bring on the flavor with a sugar-and-spice coating that complements the sweetness of the potato and makes for a delicious (and healtheir) snack! Here’s the recipe so you can make your own!

Homemade Guacamole: The joy of homemade guacamole is that you can make it your own. Whether you’re adding veggies, cheese or spices, it will be preservative-free and most likely contain far less sodium than the pre-made “guac” you find at the grocery store. You can find a classic version of the recipe here

Arugula, Corn and Tomato Salad: This summery salad is sure to be the perfect dish to balance out the other heavy appetizers that are sure to be present on game day – you can even add more veggies for that extra crunch! Check out the yummy recipe

So many options! Which one will you try? Or maybe you already have a go-to healthy dish in mind for this weekend? Let us know @austinfit or on our facebook page. Happy game day!

Becky Beaver, well known in Austin as a prominent and successful lawyer, is a friend and supporter of many philanthropic and cultural organizations in town, ranging from Ballet Austin to People’s Community Clinic to KUT Radio. Readers have seen her in print (Oprah and Texas Monthly, to name a few), on social pages, and quoted regarding family law. But it’s Beaver’s role as a mentor and athlete that brought Austin Fit Magazine to her office situated above Congress Avenue with a breathtaking view of the capitol and an amazing collection of modern artwork. Slim, poised, and perfectly coiffed, Beaver answered questions about her passion—an on-going, women-only, pick-up basketball game. The intensity and precision of her responses gave insight into the professional and athletic competitor within. Her warmth and humor reflected the vivacity with which Beaver embraces life, fitness, and being on the court.

Last month, Austin Fit Magazine (AFM) announced the June 2012 challenge to find Austin’s Fittest. Here is a sneak peek at the ten events used to determine the fittest man and woman in our fair city. (Registration information and other details are coming soon.)

AFM required the tests to be measurable and clear as well as challenging in terms of speed, endurance, strength, and power. With expert advice from international combine consultants, the tests were selected. Here is the list, in the order competitors must complete them (because the order is part of the challenge):

Check back soon for more details about these tests; you’ll find demonstration videos and be able to read more here on our FITblog. Also, check out Diane Vives’s “Muscle Movement of the Month” in each issue for help in your training. Pick up next month’s issue for information about how you can get ready to take the challenge!

Here’s who’s out in front prior to the 3M Half Marathon on January 29, 2012. The times given are cumulative times from the first three Austin Fit Magazine Distance Challenge races. As of December 31, 2011, the AFMDC leaders split into two groups: half (runners complete a total of three half marathons, ending with the half distance at the Austin Marathon) and full (runners complete the same two half marathons as those doing the half track but end with the 26.2-mile distance at the Austin Marathon). Note that these leaderboards do not reflect the 3M Half Marathon results, run on January 29, 2012. Look for an updated leaderboard in the March issue of Austin Fit Magazine.

How are those New Year’s resolutions coming Austin? Do you have that lean, cut bod you were aiming for? Well here’s your chance to show it off! The 2012 Austin Fit Magazine Swimsuit Contest has officially begun, so suit up and show us what you’ve got by publishing a photo along with your name on our Facebook page. AFM fans will be able to vote for their favorite contestants – the top ten entries after Feb. 14th will move on to the final round, where the public will choose a select few to be featured in the May “Swimsuit” issue of Austin Fit. Do you have what it takes to be our next sizzlin’ swimsuit model? Check out the contest HERE where you can find more information and submit your photo. Guys and girls are welcome, good luck!