Remaining fit and healthy is a goal for many. Whilst several engage in training and working out, there are relatively few who take nutrition into account. A balanced diet is equally important in staying healthy as training at the gym is.

Workout and diet plan function simultaneously to achieve your fitness goals. Your diet plan does not have to be weight loss shakes, ready-to-eat meals, and protein bars. You can have a customized diet plan that suits your needs and goals. Here are four healthy strategies to help you formulate your own fitness diet plan.

1. Plan Number of Meals

Frequent meals in short quantity is no more applicable and is termed as a myth. The number of meals you decided to take should be based on your preferences. The important thing is what you eat and how often you eat it. If you choose to have one meal or five meals, if your daily calorie count is meeting and your meal(s) suffices the required nutrients, then you are good to go.

One thing more you need to bear in mind is the nature of your workout. If you plan to workout hard, plan your meal accordingly too. Nutrition can make or break your training plan. You can get advice of your trainer or fitness center’s nutrition to know what is the best suited option for time and number of meals for you.

2. Fuel Your Body

The requirement of your body varies with the time and nature of your workout. Proteins and carbohydrates are extensive sources of energy. They escalate your energy levels and help you build your strength.

If you consume proteins and slow-digesting carbohydrates prior to your workout, your body will be able to endure more intense workout and you can prolong your exercise duration. Having protein and carbohydrate supplement right after exercise can help you repair the tissues that get damaged during the exercise, and will also assist in muscle formation.

3. Balance Your Plate Proportions

It is important that you keep check on the proportions of your meals. You need to have equal amount of nutrients and all of them. With protein, you need to have vegetables and fruits too for vitamins and fiber. You need to maintain a balance between the macronutrients. Excessive quantity can easily direct your fitness plan to vain if you failed to keep a check on the proportions you consume.

4. Hydrate Yourself

When you decide to plan a fitness diet, water becomes a constant fellow. Be it before exercise, during exercise, or afterwards – you need to keep yourself sufficiently hydrated. It is important to retain your energy and assist in effective workout.

It is often perceived that electrolyte loaded drinks are beneficial for exercise, but they can be source of extensive calories that are not necessary for your body unless you are planning a long workout that exceeds an hour. Fitness diet requires you to have beverages that have zero calories. Your focus needs to be on healthy additives, and water should be your preferred drink.