Eat like an athlete - Kieron Achara
Basketball star, Kieron Achara shares his top tips for training and the benefits of 'cheat days'...
What is your typical daily diet when training for a big event?
Breakfast:
8:45am - Grapefruit juice, porridge, natural yogurt with a little honey, piece of fruit
Lunch:
2pm - One breast of chicken, broccoli, brown rice and a piece of fruit
Dinner:
8pm - Chicken salad or prawn salad, piece of fruit or yoghurt
I usually snack on nuts, fruit or a have turkey sandwich (when really hungry) between meals
How do you keep your diet varied and do yu ever get bored with eating for your sport?
I am very methodical when it comes to eating throughout the season but I mix it up by going out to eat whenever possible. I like to call these 'cheat days' and I eat whatever I want to eat. This helps me from getting bored with my diet.
What super food/juice/meal helps you get out of bed and motivated on those particularly dreary mornings?
On dreary mornings I get an extra motivational boost with an extra spoonful of honey in my porridge, I love honey.
What's your trusted snack for an energy boost?
For a quick pick-me-up I tend to have a chocolate bar - it gives me an extra boost of energy when most needed.
How do you stay hydrated when training?
I take regular water breaks while training and if I am working extra hard I tend to have a electrolyte-packed sports drink.
When competition season is over what are your favourite food indulgences?
I love Nando's chicken, the sauces are unbelievable. I also indulge in a lot of chocolate.
What would be your top diet and exercise tip for the amateur athlete?
I would say eat a lot of vegetables and fruit and try to eat foods that are low on the glycaemic food index - except after training.
Aside from your speciality, what is your favourite sport/exercise?
I love to play football, and in summer I like to do spin classes and swim to stay in shape.
Uncover more diet secrets from top athletes in our eat like an athlete series.
