TZUTC: -0500   
   MSGID: 399.fidonet-ls_arrl@1:2320/33 28a4ae15   
   PID: Synchronet 3.20a-Win32 master/a59d7d36d Apr 13 2023 MSC 1929   
   TID: SBBSecho 3.20-Win32 master/a59d7d36d Apr 13 2023 MSC 1929   
   BBSID: TBOLT   
   CHRS: ASCII 1   
   Contest Consumables   
      
   Contest season is definitely here, even though it appears the ionosphere   
   didn't get the memo. The essentials like rigs, antennas, and amplifiers   
   have probably been checked, and are at the ready. Other items now bubble   
   up in importance. How are your station ergonomics? If your shoulders or   
   neck hurts after a few hours at the rig, it's time to evaluate why, and   
   remedy the situation, before it leads to other long-term problems. Good   
   sleep before a serious contest effort is important. Getting enough sleep   
   can help minimize the chances of catching and keeping a cold or flu   
   before contest weekend, and operating when tired just makes everything   
   more difficult.   
      
   Keeping yourself nourished should also be part of the operating plan.   
   If you have special dietary requirements, make sure you're not ignoring   
   them just because you're participating in a contest. If you really are   
   attempting long stints in the operating chair, you want what you eat to   
   help you accomplish that goal. I like to have a mix of foods that can   
   be prepared with minimal effort and eaten at any hour, prioritizing   
   protein, then fats, and lastly, sugars. For example, I've made chili,   
   BBQ ribs, and chicken wings ahead of time, so they could be microwaved   
   when needed, adding a bag salad or vegetable plate for a small amount   
   of variety and fiber. Too many calories can lead to grogginess... I   
   find eating a little bit, frequently, works well for me.   
      
   Lastly, don't forget to get up every now and again and move around. It   
   can enhance alertness, and may assist in avoiding issues related to   
   physical inactivity, such as DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis).   
      
   Check your station, and take care of your body to make sure all systems   
   are go for the contest.   
   --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32   
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (1:2320/33)   
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