Arts Martial

You are what you eat. Keep that in mind, always. Whether your goal is weight loss, strength, or endurance, nutrition plays a key factor. You can think of it like being a car. Ideally, your car needs an oil change every 3, 000 miles to keep a healthy, functional engine. No oil changes equals a slow, malfunctioning engine. The same idea pertains to the food you eat, and how your body reacts to it. For the healthy, functional and responsive body that you’ll need for kickboxing, you want to eat nutritious, healthy foods. Sorry, but that does mean fewer cupcakes and french fries. Whether your goal is weight loss, endurance or strength, here’s exactly what to eat to achieve any kickboxing goal.

1. Weight loss
Here we’ll quickly remind you on what NOT to eat. Temptation is a hard battle when it comes to the comfort foods you love, but when it comes to your goals, you have to make a decision and stay committed. More than 75% of weight loss has to do with dieting and nutrition alone, not exercise. And that means it’s important to stick to your plan. Do NOT indulge in unnecessary sugars and calories by consuming things like heavy pasta sauces, brownies, or cookies. Instead, alternate your meals around lean proteins, lots of leafy greens, and plenty of water. For protein, eat skinless chicken or turkey, beans & lentils, nuts (almonds & cashews) and fish (wild salmon or tuna). Watch your portion size. You should be eating between 4 to 6 oz of lean protein at each meal. Loading up with healthy greens like kale, collard greens, swiss chards, and spinach will heavily assist with weight loss. They are low in calories and carbs, but high in fiber and incredibly nutritious. You’ll be providing your body with high sources of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. And don’t forget to drink lots of water throughout the day to remain hydrated.