Iowa State Fair

T1DCarnivoreRunner
T1DCarnivoreRunner Posts: 11,502 Member
I'm excited to go to the Iowa State Fair again this year. I used their online Plan Your Itinerary tool for the day I plan to attend, but I may have to deviate from that based upon time and such.

Anywya, I'm really excited to see how much walking I get on my Fitbit for the day.

Here is my plan:
-Arrive plenty early for the Park & Ride, park far away from the pickup point, and walk across the parking lot.
-Do not use the "tram" (tractor & wagon), even to get up the hill.
-Research whether they allow one to bring in water, and carry hydration pack if yes (to save costs and minimize soda). Note: I do not get any calories from soda, as I only consume diet. However, the amount of intake for that day in order to stay hydrated alone is enough to also make me feel ill due to the high acidity, and/or maybe the caffeine.
-Try to eat at least one snack from the fruit/veggie stands.
-Log everything and no funnel cake unless I can afford it in my calories (but I will allow myself to eat back spent calories).
-Minimal standing / sitting around. This is going to be especially difficult because I want to go to various things where I would be sitting or standing to watch. I won't be in line for the butter cow, but I'll try to make the smartest choice as it presents itself.

Is anyone else planning to go to the Iowa State Fair this year? Do you plan to eat the fried butter on a stick (or other calorie dense foods)? If so, do you plan to offset it or will you consider it to be a cheat day?

Replies

  • T1DCarnivoreRunner
    T1DCarnivoreRunner Posts: 11,502 Member
    OK, So I just read this on the FAQ section of the Iowa State Fair website:

    What can I bring through the gate – like outside food, coolers, or water bottles?
    Outside food and beverage is not allowed on the grounds during the Fair. Coolers are generally not allowed, but exceptions are made for patrons with medical conditions that need to keep medications cooled.

    I'm guessing that means they will not let me bring in water, but I'm thinking I might email just to be sure. I do know they sell water, so I might just buy a few bottles early in the day in order to avoid standing in line as many times.

    Edit: I already received a reply to my email, which told me that I can bring in water bottles (I will assume that applies to a hydration reservoir also).
  • Pegasusonfire
    Pegasusonfire Posts: 41 Member
    I was able to bring in food as I have children with food allergies and special diets.
  • kcthatsme
    kcthatsme Posts: 5,136 Member
    I wish I was going! Next year... The article I read (2012) said they have 57 different foods on a stick. For me, I'd have it be a cheat day. I'd exercise, like crazy, the week before and the week after. I'd still gain weight but, for me, some things/foods I just want to experience.

    Good luck, with your decisions!
  • LifeChangingAmy
    LifeChangingAmy Posts: 22 Member
    I agree with KC... I am not going to be able to go, but to me this is a lifestyle change, and not a diet. I will have those days that only come once a year, thanksgiving, christmas, state fair, camping at Mt. Pleasant. I will not eat like that every day, but to "splurge" is not something that should make us feel horrible. IMHO
  • Pegasusonfire
    Pegasusonfire Posts: 41 Member
    I will be going to the fair this year, as my daughter will be dancing on the 16th. I plan to eat before I go, then maybe share something with my daughter, instead of eating everything there. I have no will power when it comes to food.