Regardless of the amount of cardio you do, nutrition plays a key role not only in how you work, but also in how you feel. Exercising without enough food is like "burning a candle" at both ends — it's ineffective.

Instead of spinning wheels and going nowhere, take a few minutes to plan your eating and drinking plan before and after your workout so you can get the most out of your workouts. Here's what you need to know about meal times and cardio workouts.

Exercise is an integral part of any fitness program, so it's good to know that the food you eat can affect the success of your workout. In fact, the right foods can help you during your workout and recover after it's over. And, of course, eating the wrong food or too much of anything can negate all the calories you've burned. So here's a guide on when and what to eat before and after a workout.

As a rule, exercising on a full stomach is not the best idea. Bloating, cramps and the desire to take a nap and digest food can disrupt the workout. But if your stomach is rumbling and you feel weak because you haven't eaten for several hours, you may lose the effectiveness of your workout, as you will not be able to work at full strength. Learn about the importance of a good snack and some of the best foods to eat before a workout.