Minerals play a vital role in maintaining good health and fitness. As with vitamins, the minerals we need on a daily basis can all be obtained from a well balanced diet, without the need for supplements. Recommended daily amounts (RDA) are based on the needs of an average adult. Athletes and strength trainers will have a higher requirement, but a well balanced, higher caloric intake should compensate for this.
The concept of the Glycemic Index (GI) was first developed from research into the control of diabetes carried out at the University of Toronto in the early 1980s. Using the initial research as a springboard, work on this subject has been developed since then to refine the GI system, which has application in the quest for good health for everyone.
Whether you are aiming to compete in fitness model or bodybuilding competitions or simply want to get into great competition shape, you need a plan of action for your diet. Nutritional science has evolved dramatically over the last fifteen to twenty years and practices which were once common have been replaced by a more informed approach over this period.
The needs of weightlifters and powerlifters differ in some ways from those of bodybuilders. However, many of the tips and techniques outlined in the article, “Get Into Great Competition Shape” apply equally to this group.
