BEEF: The fuel for fitness!
- Amarie Griffeth - Bartel
- Oct 3, 2022
- 2 min read
Though it may sound quite frank to say, every animal that passes through the Oklahoma National Stockyards will — eventually — become a contributor to putting beef on consumers’ tables; This is a simple fact of which we are quite proud.
But, today, beef is debated as a healthy source of protein. Such discussion has the potential to harm our complete protein’s reputation.
For example, according to the American Heart Association, “The American Heart Association recommends choosing healthy sources of proteins, mostly from plant sources.”
And while every consumer has the right to choose how they feed their family, those who make up the Oklahoma National Stockyards consider it a responsibility to connect consumers with both livestock and beef.
One way the stockyards is working to do this is by partnering with the Oklahoma City Running Club, the Landrunners.
Chuck Mikkelson, a member of the club, said the purpose of the group is, “To support health and fitness through recreational running. Fall training is based for the Tulsa Route 66 Marathon & Half Marathon. However, we have runners also training for numerous other fall races: Chicago, New York, Berlin, London, Cape Cod, Albuquerque, Wichita, Salina, and then we have some that just like to stay in shape and enjoy running with the group.”
This year, Stockyards City Main Street is set to host Stockyards Stampede on Oct. 15 at 10:00 a.m. Prior to the kick-off longhorn processional, the Oklahoma National Stockyards arch will serve a very different purpose than the start for our favorite longhorn friends. At 7:00 a.m., the arch will be the starting line for the Landrunners’ training run.
“Stockyards Stampede falls on our longest training run, which is 10 miles for those training for the half marathon and 20 miles for the marathoners. 80% of the group will run the 10-mile route, or less, so they all should be back in time for breakfast and the stampede,” Mikkelson said.
In an effort to connect the runners with beef, the Oklahoma National Stockyards partnered with Redgate Beef, a local beef operation in Northwest Oklahoma, to provide beef sticks at the starting line.
What better, and delicious, way for these athletes to refuel, and build and repair muscle than with a high-quality protein source like beef,” said Sheri Glazier, Oklahoma Beef Council nutrition consultant. “Beef sticks and jerky are such a great and nutritious way to conveniently add protein for those with an active lifestyle.”
I like how this highlights food as real fuel, not just calories. Proper nutrition plays a huge role in physical strength, energy, and long-term performance, whether you’re training hard or rebuilding your health. I’ve seen how balanced meals and protein-rich diets support the body during recovery, especially when combined with structured care. During drug detox, the body needs stability, hydration, and nutrients to regain balance, not shortcuts. That’s why medically supervised treatment, mental health support, and healthy routines matter so much. A strong foundation, inside and out, makes lasting progress possible and helps people move forward with confidence.
As someone new to learning about the connection between agriculture, nutrition, and fitness, this was interesting to see how beef producers are engaging directly with active communities like runners. It kind of feels like fnf —fueling your body is about timing and rhythm, and for these athletes, beef fits right into that routine.
You enter a world in Geometry Dash where timing is the armor and rhythm is the sword. On a neon-dangerous canvas, each leap is a bold brushstroke. The world might descend into chaos with only one mistake.
It’s interesting how discussions about food sources can spark deeper debates about health and sustainability. The Oklahoma National Stockyards’ commitment to transparency shows respect for both the industry and the consumer’s right to choose. While preferences for plant-based protein are growing, beef remains a vital source of complete protein for many families. Similarly, in education, making informed choices like seeking Law assignment help can ensure quality and understanding in complex subjects.