Life got you on the go?  How frequently do you find yourself at a fast-food restaurant? This may be a quick fix solution, but what is the likelihood you're consuming food that lends real benefit to your training and health?   As a rule, fast-foods are high in calories, fat and sodium.

A McDonald's lunch comprised of a cheeseburger, fries, shake and apple pie contains roughly 1,400 calories, 12 teaspoons of fat and 1,950 milligrams of sodium. If you take your training seriously, you know intrinsically this is not the kind of nutrition to fuel a workout or promote muscle growth.  It is lacking in a host of key nutrients:  Just to name a few, it is deficient in vitamins A and C, which fight off infections and heal cuts, calcium, which is necessary for strong bones, and fiber which promotes digestive motility.

The solution is probably not to completely restrict them from your diet, but instead to create a balanced approach.  Moderation is recommended.  The average American consumes fast food more than twice a week.  That being said, it should be stated that the frequency with which the endurance athlete segment uses the drive-through is likely lower than the general population. but still may be cause for some concern.

Look at your schedule with a critical eye.  Between work, family, and trying to maintain a competitive fitness level, you may find the time crunch nudging you towards the golden arches more than you care to admit.  One solution is to carry an ample supply of energy bars and fruit in your gym bag.  Meal replacement mixes provide incredible amounts of nutrition, are convenient, and taste good.  Gorp, good old fashioned raisins and peanuts provides a healthy snack when eaten in moderation.  Prevailing wisdom tells us to graze throughout the day rather than hit the smorgasbord.  These kinds of easily stored snacks are perfect for your desk drawer and car.

I like a burger and fries as much as the next guy and indulging occasionally won't doom you.  Remain cognizant of what you consume for the remainder of the day.  Keep a mental ledger to balance additional intake of calories, fat grams, and sodium.

Maintain variety. The body needs about 40 different nutrients. Eat a variety of foods, whether eating at home or dining out. If fast-food restaurants are your choice, then alternate eating tacos, burgers, chicken and pizza.

Even at fast-food restaurants consider nutrition. Meals will be healthier if you think small, rather than "super-sized."   Select broiled or grilled items over fried.  Minimize high-fat toppings such as cheese, mayonnaise and special sauces.  Pick low-fat milk instead of a soda or milkshake.  Add fiber and vitamins with green pepper, mushrooms and onions on your pizza, and lettuce, tomato and onion on your burger.   Order a salad rather than French fries.  Try whole-grain tortillas, buns and pizza crust.  Ask for unsalted French fries.

If all of this sounds like so much common sense, you're right.  Endurance athletes generally have a keen sense about what they eat and an understanding of what fuels are necessary to make it through intense training.  I'd wager that someone, sometime has said to you, "I bet you can eat whatever you want."  While it may be true, the difference is, I'll bet you don't.