Building Strong Bodies Through Diet And Exercise

Sports are a wonderful way of toning the body and getting fit. The exercise helps to increase muscle mass, which in turn helps to burn off excess fat, resulting in a leaner healthier body. The aerobic benefits of exercise also help to strengthen our lung and heart function. We have more than enough sports to cover all preferences and abilities for young and old. If we all played some form of sport regularly, obesity would not be as much of a problem as it currently is and health systems would not be overloaded either. However, while we are enjoying these benefits, we must not overlook the importance of diet and hydration.

Whether you choose to play indoor sports or outdoors, it makes no difference as to diet, although outdoor teams may need a higher level of hydration. Because they do not have the benefit of a climate controlled environment they will naturally perspire more in the heat and need to drink more water. Ensuring an intake of electrolytes as well will help to prevent muscle cramping. As for diet, it is a well-known fact that if we eat the right foods, our bodies are better prepared for needed endurance through the game. We know that natural unprocessed foods build healthier bodies, but if we want to add strength to the list of benefits, what should we eat?

Sports like indoor cricket, netball and volleyball are non contact games which rely more on skill than brute force as in rugby and other football games where tackling and blocking is used. Although these games need strength and skill, all sports players would benefit from maintaining the same diet. As well as a diet of fresh fruit, vegetables, and healthy salads, our meals should contain adequate protein. Protein is a building block for muscle mass, and muscle burns off fat. Also a daily intake of omega 3 is important. This is a natural anti-inflammatory and acts as a lubricant for the joints. Protein sources include red lean meats which are also rich in B vitamins for a healthy nervous system, chicken, fish and eggs and also in some vegetables such as beans.

Your diet should also include whole grains that are high in fibre. If you include rice then you should choose brown rice. Healthy fats obtained from fish, nuts, eggs, and olive oil should form part of your daily diet. This diet will ensure you have all the necessary vitamins and minerals, proteins and healthy fats as well as needed electrolytes to keep you fit and healthy, and increase your strength and endurance.

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