Proper nutrition enables your body to function more effectively, helps to ward off diseases and ailments as well as keeps your energy levels high throughout the day. So if you really want to get the best out of your martial arts classes, here’s why you need to start paying attention to what lands up on your plate:

-The right nutrition goes a long way in keeping you healthy. Poor health= frequently missed martial arts training sessions.

-The right diet enables your body to train hard and to recover faster.

-You may be burning calories in your Taekwondo or BJJ classes but a balanced diet can help you manage your weight effectively.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to take offa few kilos, sprucing up your diet can give you the kind of body you want.

– Give your body the right fuel and it won’t ever let you down!

Here are a few tips on how to eat right and give your body the nutrition it really needs:

a) Instead of consuming a loaded plate of food 3 times a day, have something small every three to four hours. Your insulin levels won’t fluctuate abnormally and you’ll stay energetic too.

b) Enjoy a mix of complex carbohydrates such as pasta, whole grain cereals, brown rice, potatoes and other vegetables at every meal. Contrary to beliefs, carbs do give your body plenty of vitamins and nutrients too.

c) Go ahead and enjoy a steak now and then but go easy on the calorie laden sauces and trimmings. There are plenty of great sources of protein although lean, fat-free cuts are advised. Vegetarians can stock up on cottage cheese, tofu, pulses, legumes and nuts as well.

d) Consume foods that have ample fiber content as it helps to keep your digestive system working well by flushing out harmful toxins from the body. Whole grains, vegetables and fruits contain ample amounts of fiber.

e) Including just one multi-vitamin tablet a day is enough for most martial arts students unless your doctor has prescribed otherwise. Going easy on table sugar, synthetic juices, desserts and syrups is also important.

Don’t forget to have a small snack at least one hour before your martial arts fitness session. Say no to junk food like pizzas or burgers and stick to a fruit, an energy bar or a light sandwich instead. It will satiate your appetite without making you feel too full or lethargic during the class. Make sure you stay hydrated during the session as well by sipping on low sugar energy drinks or water with a spritz of lemon in it. By just tweaking your daily diet a bit, you’ll feel like a whole new person and even look forward to more kicks, throws and punches at your next martial arts training session.