Fuel for exercise

Before the workout begins, ensure that you have had enough fluids to drink. During each workout, ensure that you maintain an adequate fluid intake. You should try to drink at least 150 to 250ml of water every 15 minutes during a session; that's half a small bottle of water or a plastic cup full.

You’re likely to find it uncomfortable if you exercise before breakfast, or immediately after a large meal. The best time to exercise is 30 minutes after a light snack or a meal replacement drink. Do not eat during a workout, but do try to eat a meal high in carbohydrate (foods like pasta and potatoes) and protein as soon as possible after each session, in order to promote muscle tissue growth. Seek advice from a registered dietitian at your treatment centre on developing a suitable diet plan.

This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.