Why Nutrition is a Key Factor in Exercise

"Why is nutrition important?" These are the same words used by many people who are trying to get fit quick. A lot of people think they know exactly what to do and what not to do when they take a trip to the gym. Not to say that there aren't some people out there that know what they are doing, but this is only a very small percentage.


A lot of people seem to think that all they need to do is go to the gym and lift some weights and they will build muscle, they are missing the point - nutrition is key.  Other people think that by cutting out foods (which they don't know are essential) they are helping themselves. They are wrong, it is exactly the opposite!!   


By cutting out certain foods, they are cutting out the nutrients that come with them. Carbohydrates and Fats. These are our energy suppliers and are essential in exercise. For those who aim to lose weight, fat is necessary. It gives us the energy for longer periods of exercising which those who aim to lose weight must do e.g. walking, jogging and cycling. 


For those who take part in extreme and intense exercise, you must have carbohydrates. Carbohydrates supply you with energy which you need for those quick bursts of energy. Without carbohydrates, our body would begin to use up some of our muscle for energy. That means you would lose muscle mass. And we wouldn't want that, would we? Bread, Rice and Pasta are all good foods high in carbohydrates.


Another key nutrient is Protein. Protein is the nutrient needed for Growth and Repair. After your muscles are worked, you will need protein to repair your body for you to carry on exercising. Without enough protein, you will be out of action for too long and your body will not improve quickly enough. Protein can be found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs and beans.


However, with all this in mind, we must not overeat. We must eat these foods in what is called a balanced diet. To have good health and get fit quick, we must eat a balanced diet. A balanced diet, basically is a balance of the basic food groups - Carbohydrates, Vitamins, Minerals, Protein and Fats.
So you must remember that nutrition is key!!!