While sports drinks work, they're a little too sweet for some tastes. Grab a banana instead before your next long run or ride—research from Appalachian State University says it works just as well at powering you through a tough workout. The fruit is chockablock with easy-to-digest carbs; vitamin B6, which is key in converting fuel into energy during exercise; and potassium to prevent muscle cramps, plus all the sugar is natural. During workouts longer than an hour, consume half a large banana every 15 minutes.
