Make sure that you get the most out of your workout by eating the best foods before, during and after exercising. It’s important to eat the right foods and drinks pre-exercise in order to maximise results and enjoy your workout. People often get into the bad habit of avoiding food before a workout because they are worried about feeling sluggish or are concerned about burning less fat. But the truth is that if you consume the appropriate foods and drinks at the right time, as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle, you will store enough energy to achieve even greater fitness results.

Bananas: Fruit possesses the simple sugar, fructose, which supplies the body with glycogen, a major source of energy. Bananas are particularly beneficial because they contain both simple and complex carbohydrates; the former gives you a quick burst of energy to help kick-start your workout and the latter provides a slow release of energy, enabling you to keep going for longer. Go bananas!

Whole grain bread; People often steer clear of bread before a workout because they worry it will leave them feeling heavy and full. In fact, complex carbohydrates like whole grain bread, pasta and brown rice are the best source of long-term energy because they provide the muscles and fat tissue with glycogen. However, eat these carbohydrates in small portions an hour before your workout, particularly if you’re not used to eating a lot of fibre, because it can cause stomach upset. If you eat a large meal, I recommend waiting for three hours before starting a workout.

Water: Drinking water is the best way to maximise your workout. It might seem obvious but people often underestimate how much water they should drink before, during and after a workout.

Source: womenshealthmag.co.uk