Published: September 08, 2009 05:11 pm      

Wise Beyond Her Years

17 year old Knows Nutrition

By: Bill Hanson

Just say never!

Allison Chumbley knows nutrition. She knows what works and what doesn’t when the time comes to power her body. What foods does Allison say ‘never’ to?

“Any fried foods — hamburgers, fries, fried chicken, etc. as well as any chips, red meat, or soft drinks. I’ve gotten to a point where I don’t even crave those kinds of foods anymore. I kind of have a sweet tooth, and ice cream is my favorite. But I have Weight Watchers and Skinny Cow ice cream bars I keep at home if I ever want it.”

Allison Chumbley may be just 17 years old, but when it comes to nutrition, she’s wise beyond her years.

Allison is a junior at Corbin High School and has been a competitive swimmer for the past seven years. Her accomplishments include placing eighth in the 50-yard freestyle for her age group at state competition as well as winning the 100-meter backstroke at the 2008 Junior Olympics.

She stays fit by swimming from 7-10 a.m. five days a week in the summer months. During the school year, her team competes more often so practice time is limited to three or four days a week after school. To get a competitive edge, however, it is common to find Chumbley with her coach at Baptist Family Fitness for 6 a.m. workout sessions. She also uses weights, resistance cords and medicine balls to get strong.

Allison is especially committed to a healthy diet.

When asked why it is important to eat properly, she states, “Because it helps you train and compete better athletically, as well as improving your appearance and having more energy throughout the day.”

Chumbley says a typical meal might be a turkey sandwich on wheat bread with an apple and natural peanut butter or a handful of pretzels.

“I only drink water, juice or milk,” she adds.