What to eat to boost your fitness

When it comes to working out, it’s important to boost energy levels so you feel physically and mentally motivated for the task at hand, but unfortunately the answer isn’t as simple as grabbing a snack on the way to the gym. Eating too close to an exercise session will leave you feeling uncomfortable and bloated, but arriving at the gym hungry is a no-no, too. A decent meal combining carbs, protein and fat (for example: a chicken breast with sweet potato and hummus) a couple of hours before working out will fit the bill, and make sure you stay hydrated as starting a strenuous sweat session with a water deficit will stall your progress and can leave you feeling lightheaded. If you’re in a hurry, a banana and a handful of nuts or a small bowl of banana porridge will provide enough fuel to keep you going.

How you fuel up after your session ends is just as important as what you eat before, and while you might feel like that massive piece of chocolate cake, it’s a surefire way to blow all the hard work you’ve put in. Instead gulp down a protein shake to help rebuild and repair muscle tissue or a protein-based snack, like Greek yoghurt, with nuts and grapes. Your body will thank you for it, we promise! And if time is short, here’s what to eat to boost your fitness potential…