Wellness on the Road: Staying Balanced at the U.S. Open

Written By Edwina Rich

Traveling to major sporting events like the U.S. Open at Flushing Meadows is thrilling, but long flights, packed schedules, and stadium indulgences can challenge your health goals. With a few mindful choices, you can enjoy world-class tennis while keeping wellness front and center.

Traveling Smart to NYC

There’s nothing like the buzz of boarding a plane bound for the U.S. Open. But before you dive into the energy of Flushing Meadows, set the tone for a smooth, energized trip.

  • Hydrate before, during, and after flying. Traveling by plane can be dehydrating, and that first Honey Deuce® hits harder if you’re already running low on fluids.

  • Stretch often in-flight. Simple calf raises, ankle rolls, and neck stretches can keep circulation moving.

  • Reset your internal clock. If you're crossing time zones, ease into NYC time the day before departure with sleep, meals, and movement.

“Think of your travel day as the warm-up. You’re priming your body to enjoy the main event.”

Courtside Fuel: What to Eat Inside the Stadium

The U.S. Open is known as much for its food scene as its tennis. Wellness-friendly picks include poke bowls, Mediterranean grain salads, sushi, and fresh seafood. And if you have specialized needs, don’t worry, you have options too. If you want a classic Honey Deuce®, balance it with hydration and lighter meals.

Highlights:

·      Farm 2 Fork

·      pastaRamen

·      Fare by Chef Alex G

·      Gluten-free and vegetarian options:

o   Korilla BBQ

·      Gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian options

o   Poke Yachty

·      Gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free options:

o   Migrant kitchen

o   Nourish Spot- Fresh Smoothie

For a complete list of food and beverage vendors visit: https://www.usopen.org/en_US/visit/dining/index.html

Smart Tips:

  • Bring a collapsible water bottle—hydration stations are everywhere.

  • Split heavier meals with friends to sample more, without the post-meal slump.

  • Save indulgences for moments that matter—like a desert during a tiebreak.

Find Movement and Balance

Sitting through epic matches can stiffen your body. Take walking breaks around the grounds, stretch in shaded corners, and wear supportive shoes. Even mindful breathing between sets can recharge your energy.

Try This Between Matches:

  • Stretch near the fountains—hamstrings, hips, and shoulders especially

  • Walk the souvenir promenade to get your steps in

  • Breathe deeply and let your senses take it all in the sound of rackets, the scent of food, the pulse of the crowd

“Wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about pausing to reset, recharge, and reconnect with your body.”

Final Serve

The U.S. Open is more than a sporting event — it’s an experience of culture, food, and energy. By making mindful choices about travel, food, and recovery, you’ll leave New York not just inspired by the athletes but feeling like a champion of your own wellness journey.

 

Edwina L. Rich, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
Rich Nutrition Consulting Group, LLC
Pinehurst, NC

Edwina Rich
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