Getting fit and staying healthy requires commitment, dedication and the right approach to both exercise and nutrition. While many people understand the importance of working with a personal trainer to create an effective workout routine, not everyone recognizes the role nutrition plays in fueling and supporting their fitness goals. In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between nutrition and exercise, review some common questions and concerns about nutrition for workouts and explain how Wellbridge Athletic Club is here to help you get the support you need.
Nutrition’s Critical Role
At its simplest level, nutrition plays a critical role in fueling your workout. The foods you eat before, during and after exercise provide the energy and nutrients your body needs to perform at its best. Good pre-workout foods include complex carbohydrates like whole grain bread, oatmeal, and sweet potatoes, as well as lean protein sources like chicken, fish and turkey. During your workout, you’ll need to stay hydrated and may want to supplement with snacks to help you power through, such as bananas, almonds and energy bars. After your workout, aim for foods to restore and rebuild your muscles including plenty of fluids, lean protein options like eggs or tofu and vegetables high in antioxidants.
Losing Weight
Nutrition is not only critical for energy and muscle recovery, but it also plays a significant role in how much weight you can lose when paired with exercise. While losing weight is never easy and requires a combination of careful calorie control and consistent physical activity, proper nutrition can make all the difference. By focusing on a diet high in protein, fiber and nutrient-dense foods, you can help your body burn fat more effectively and give yourself the energy you need to move more and build lean muscle.
What to Eat for Fitness
If you’re wondering what the best fruits and vegetables are for fitness, the answer is simple: any and all! Fruits are fantastic sources of natural energy and are high in fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. In addition to their naturally sweet flavor, fruits like berries, melons and citrus fruits pack a serious punch when it comes to keeping you fueled and hydrated. Vegetables, on the other hand, are essential for their nutrient density and the range of vitamins and minerals they provide. Leafy greens like kale and spinach, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts and colorful options like carrots and peppers all provide unique benefits to support your body during workouts and recovery.
Nutrition Coaches
At Wellbridge Athletic Club, we understand the importance of nutrition to your workout success. Which is why in addition to our expert personal trainers, some of our locations also offer nutrition coaches who can work with you directly to help you optimize your diet and reach your fitness goals. Our coaches have extensive experience working with both athletes and everyday people, and they can help you make smart choices about food, timing and portion sizes to optimize your workout results. To learn more about our nutrition coaching and to find a location near you offering this service, visit our website today.
At Wellbridge Athletic Club, we are committed to helping you achieve your fitness goals safely, effectively and sustainably. By recognizing the important role nutrition plays in fueling and supporting your workout, you can empower yourself to achieve greater gains and feel your best both in and out of the gym. If you’re struggling to find the right pre-workout snacks or are looking to overhaul your entire diet for better health and fitness outcomes, our team of skilled trainers and coaches are here to support you every step of the way. Visit one of our Wellbridge Family of Athletic Clubs (Colorado Athletic Club, Sports & Wellness, Maryland Athletic Club) near you to learn more and start your fitness journey today.