by ERIN CONCANNON
Feis America Magazine contributor

Sometimes nerves can get the best of us, but when you’re dancing your heart out and trying your hardest to be No. 1, you can’t afford to have your nutrition let you down.

One of the biggest tips I’ve learned from dance is to always eat healthy. Trust me, it will help you in the long run. So while you’re packing up your dancing bag and prepping for the next feis, consider grabbing up these goodies.

Fruits. Cantaloupe, mango, bananas, pineapples…they’re easy to eat and enjoy on the go. A personal feis must for me has been fruit cups, which can be eaten quickly and doesn’t run the risk of getting on dance items which, face it, would be disastrous if sticky.

Hard-boiled eggs. They’re simple to make, easy to pack and loaded with lots of protein, giving you the energy needed for those high jumps.

Protein shakes. Opt for slurping one of these down while on the road to your next competition in lieu of soda or other carbonated drinks. The delicious treat won’t leave you feeling stuffed or bloated—a terrible feeling to have while dancing on stage.

Don’t forget to pack your bag with other travel-sized snacks like granola bars and pretzels to munch on between rounds and results. Remember, you can never have enough healthy goods to keep you energized throughout the day…and potential long trip home.

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