New Balance sponsored athlete and Pan Am bronze medallist, Rachel Hannah leads a jam-packed life. We asked Rachel to share her top training and nutrition tips to maximize your fitness goals.

➊ What is your go-to meal or snack before a gruelling workout?
When heading out for a training session after a long workday, I need something to cure my hunger pains. I eat a Clif Bar plus some type of fruit (usually a banana, grapes, or cantaloupe). This pre-workout snack leaves me feeling satisfied and energized thanks to the combination of protein and carbohydrates.

➋ What is the one health food trend you’d like to see go away?
The low- or no-carb trend needs to go, since carbohydrates are the main fuel source for our body. When you make quality carbohydrate choices — like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, unsweetened yogurt, milk, and legumes — you are also getting quality vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients essential for good health.

➌ Top 3 guilty pleasure foods?
I. Maple syrup — I keep it close to my Canadian heart.
II. Menchie’s frozen yogurt — if it’s good enough for the Hollywood A-listers...
III. Chocolate powdered peanut butter — what can be better than chocolate and peanut butter combined?

➍ Best advice for someone training for their first marathon?
It is extremely important to have proper footwear when you start to increase your mileage. Visit the professionals at a New Balance store for a proper assessment to ensure you get the right pair of shoes that are comfortable, stylish, and will keep you healthy during your runs.