Need a pre-workout boost? Eat a banana!

The good carbohydrates found in bananas, and all fruits for that matter, can give your body just what it needs for an energetic workout. This is because your muscles rely mainly on glucose, found in carbohydrates, for fuel.

Experiment to see how much time your body needs to digest a pre-workout snack; everyone has different needs. For a more substantial snack a few hours before a workout, combine a banana with peanut butter or yogurt for longer-lasting energy.

For more information and tips on eating and exercise, contact your GPNS Health Coach at myGPNS.com.

How to Taper for a 5K

How to Taper for a 5K

Tapering isn't just for marathoners. In fact, one recent study showed a huge performance benefit when subjects tapered for a 5K. Tapering means reducing your training schedule to allow the body to recover in preparation for a race or event. Plan to cut your normal mileage in half, while maintaining some intensity.

Here's the plan: Early in the week, run 4 quarter-mile distances at your 5K goal pace with a shorter jog (about 1/8 mile) between each set. Later in the week, jog two miles, then run 6 or 8 1-minute sprints at 90 percent of maximum speed. Run easy the other days, with a 50% decrease in distance.

Good luck Belvidere!

For more tips on fitness and nutrition, contact your Health Coach at myGPNS.com today!