Neighborhood Experts on the Best Foods for Fitness

As we all know, committing to a healthy lifestyle entails a lot more than going to the gym three times a week. A great workout needs to be supported by a good diet. Eating the right foods will fuel your workout and keep your metabolism high, says Mark Steverson of Orangetheory Fitness.

We asked Steverson, Kate Miller of the D.C. Women’s Parkour Meetup, which frequently works out in Gateway Park, and Lauren Price and Vanessa Ligorria of Lava Barre what their top three foods for fitness were.

Says Kate Miller of the D.C. Women’s Parkour Meetup: “There is no one food that is overwhelmingly good for you. Instead of individual foods, consider a balanced diet that works for your body and helps you meet your personal goals. Eat fresh, local foods as often as possible.”

Mark Steverson of Orangetheory Fitness likes avocados, sweet potatoes and bananas. “Avocados are cholesterol-lowering and provide the type of fat our bodies need to help satisfy cravings for unhealthy foods when we don’t have enough fat in our system,” he said. “They are also high in magnesium, an important mineral to keep muscles and joints strong, which everyone engaging in a fitness routine needs. Sweet potatoes are a nutrient powerhouse! High in vitamins B6 and C, as well as iron and potassium, they provide healthy carbs necessary to refuel your body after a grueling workout. Bananas are high in potassium, which can help relieve muscle cramps and soreness, and help replace sweat loss. They are also packed with energizing carbs to help you recover from a great workout.

Lauren Price and Vanessa Ligorria of Lava Barre like avocado, salmon and leafy greens. “Pull them together and try a breakfast salad instead of toast or cereal to stay satisfied longer,” they say. Price and Ligorria also offered these sage words of advice: “Go easy on the butter!”