Your body needs metal. No, I’m not talking about eating iron filings but eating foods rich in minerals like red meat and spinach. Having enough iron in your diet is important as it helps to oxygenate your blood which improves oxygen levels in your muscles and increases fitness.
Zinc is also an essential component for energy and you can find it in shellfish, nuts and seeds.
Magnesium is also a great idea and can be found in wholegrains, nuts, seeds and soya.
Exercising against resistance is ideal for increasing bone density so make sure you’re also taking on board enough calcium. This can be found in cheese and other dairy products, just don’t overdo the double cream!
Taking regular doses of creatine have been scientifically proven to help get you leaner and work out for harder and longer in the gym and also help your muscles to look and feel fuller. If you’re trying to build muscle it’s worth considering – most fitness experts can recommend a good brand – or drop me an email.
Caffeine has long been proven to give you an energy boost pre workout and is also a fantastic fat metaboliser, so have a double espresso before you hit the gym.
Fitness and strength are fantastically good for you but all that exercise can also release free radicals into your body. This means that it makes sense to eat your five a day to deal with the stress you’re putting on your body and system if you take vigorous exercise. It’s important to eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables for their high levels of anti oxidants which will help to repair your body after exercise.