Watermelon + Protein: A Powerful Pairing for Hydration & Everyday Fuel

Protein is having a moment! From protein coffee and protein pancakes to high-protein snacks and desserts, it seems we’re finding ways to add more protein to just about everything. And while getting enough protein is important, there’s another side to the nutrition conversation: what you pair it with matters, too!

One of my favorite combinations? WATERMELON + PROTEIN!

As someone who loves to run, lift weights, hike, and stay active, I’m always looking for delicious ways to fuel my body. But I’m also a big believer that healthy eating shouldn’t be complicated or boring. Watermelon makes a surprisingly versatile partner for protein-rich foods, bringing hydration, natural carbohydrates, vitamins and antioxidants to the table year-round (mini watermelons and watermelon cuts from the produce department are typically available 365/7)

Whether you’re building a better breakfast, looking for a satisfying afternoon snack, or planning a post-workout refuel, watermelon and protein make a delicious team. And while, watermelon isn’t a protein source itself. Think of it as the refreshing, nutrient-rich supporting player that makes your protein-rich foods even more enjoyable!

Why Pair Watermelon with Protein?

 Watermelon brings more to the table than its sweet, refreshing flavor! Made up of approximately 92% water, it’s a delicious way to support hydration while providing natural carbohydrates for everyday energy and active lifestyles. Two cups of chopped watermelon have just 80 calories. It’s also a source of vitamin C (25%), vitamin A (8%), potassium (6%) and lycopene (12.7mg), a naturally occurring antioxidant.

Pair watermelon with protein-rich foods like cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, eggs, chicken, lean beef or seafood, and you’ve got a delicious combination of complementary nutrients.

Protein supplies amino acids needed to build, repair and maintain muscle, while watermelon contributes fluids and carbohydrates that help support energy and hydration. Together, watermelon and protein, make a smart pairing for everyday meals, snacks and post-workout fueling.

 From make-ahead smoothie cubes to colorful salads and savory dinners, there are plenty of nutritious, delicious ways to enjoy this refreshing fruit beyond a simple wedge.

Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes: My Favorite Make-Ahead Hack

I’m all about anything that makes life easier, especially when it comes to healthy eating. That’s why I love prepping a batch of these Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes.

Instead of making a smoothie from scratch every time, I blend fresh watermelon with cottage cheese, protein powder and chia seeds, then freeze the mixture in ice cube trays. Once frozen, I transfer the cubes to a labeled freezer bag and keep them ready for whenever a smoothie craving strikes.

Just grab a handful, add a little milk or your favorite liquid, blend until smooth, and you’ve got a refreshing watermelon protein smoothie in minutes! You can also grab a single frozen cube for a quick little nibble when you want something sweet and refreshing.

Why I love these smoothie cubes:

  • Make-ahead convenience: Do the prep once and enjoy them later.
  • Protein boost: Cottage cheese and protein powder add a substantial amount of protein.
  • Hydration + nutrients: Watermelon brings its high water content, vitamin C (25%), natural carbohydrates and lycopene (12.7mg).
  • Easy portioning: Blend a few cubes for a smoothie or enjoy one as a small frozen snack.
  • Versatile: Adjust the amount of liquid to make a drinkable smoothie or a thick smoothie bowl.
Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes Nutrition – 8 cube serving: 138 calories, 16.1g protein, 12.5g carbohydrate, 2.7g fat

Turn Those Smoothie Cubes into a Watermelon Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl

One of my favorite things about meal prep is getting more than one delicious option out of the same ingredients. A little creativity keeps it interesting! I recently took a handful of my frozen Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes, tossed them into the blender and blended until thick and creamy. Instead of adding enough liquid to make a drinkable smoothie, I kept the consistency thick enough to eat with a spoon.

Then came the fun part: toppings! I added extra diced fresh watermelon, chia seeds, chocolate granola and a dollop of whipped cream!  The result is a refreshing, creamy watermelon cottage cheese power bowl that works for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a post-workout refuel sessions. 

More Delicious Ways to Pair Watermelon with Protein

Smoothies and smoothie bowls are just the beginning. Watermelon is surprisingly versatile in both sweet and savory recipes. Here are a few more ideas from my kitchen and TheFitFork.com archives.

Sweet Smoothies… and Soup?!

Watermelon Beet Smoothie for Workout Recovery

Amazing Watermelon Beet Smoothie for Post-Workout Recovery: This is another favorite way to combine watermelon with cottage cheese in a smoothie. It also includes beets and banana for a colorful, naturally sweet drink. A great option for breakfast or after a workout. 17g protein per serving.

Creamy Cinnamon-Vanilla Watermelon Soup: This refreshing cold soup blurs the line between smoothie and dessert! Juicy watermelon is blended with Greek yogurt, vanilla and cinnamon for a naturally sweet, creamy combination that delivers hydration and a heaping helping of goodness. 6.4g protein per serving.

Savory Watermelon + Protein Pairings

Watermelon isn’t just for breakfast and smoothies! Its natural sweetness and refreshing texture make it a fun ingredient in savory meals, too.

Hydrate and invigorate with this juicy fresh salad featuring watermelon, raspberries and quinoa! The zingy ginger mint dressing is amazing. It’s a stunningly colorful side dish or add shrimp or salmon for a main dish.

Watermelon Raspberry Quinoa Salad with Ginger Mint Dressing: This colorful salad combines watermelon, raspberries, quinoa, spinach, feta and sunflower seeds with a fresh ginger-mint dressing. It’s delicious as a side dish, or make it a more substantial meal by adding grilled shrimp or salmon.

Beef Veggie and Watermelon Stir Fry

 Keep Austin Weird Beef, Veggie & Watermelon Stir-Fry: One of my more adventurous watermelon recipes! Lean top sirloin, fresh vegetables and watermelon come together with a sweet-heat sauce over udon noodles. It’s proof that watermelon can be so much more than a fruit salad ingredient.

Thai Style Watermelon Rind Cheviche

Thai-Style Shrimp & Watermelon Rind Ceviche: Don’t toss that watermelon rind! This creative recipe uses shaved watermelon rind as a crunchy base for shrimp ceviche, with watermelon juice, lime and a sweet-chili dressing. A fun way to enjoy more of the whole watermelon.

For even more ideas, browse my complete collection of watermelon recipes at TheFitFork.com or explore the recipe collection and performance nutrition resources at Watermelon.org

This post is sponsored by National Watermelon Board

Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes – Freezer Prep
Prep Time
5 mins
Total Time
3 hrs 5 mins
 
Discover why watermelon and protein make a delicious pairing! Get easy ideas for smoothie cubes, cottage cheese bowls, breakfast, snacks and athlete fueling.
Course: Beverage, smoothie, Snack
Keyword: cottage cheese, freezer prep, meal prep, protein powder, smoothie cubes, smoothies, watermelon
Servings: 9 servings (8 cubes per serving)
Calories: 138 kcal
Ingredients
  • 6 cups chopped watermelon
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 3 scoops approx. 1 cup whey protein powder, vanilla
  • ¼ cup chia seeds
Instructions
  1. Add all ingredients to blender and process for 30-60 seconds until smooth.
  2. Pour mixture into ice cube trays (or even mini-muffin tins).
  3. Freeze for 2-3 hours until solid. Pop from trays/tins and transfer to freezer-bag.
  4. Use as an ingredient in smoothies and/or ‘as-is’ for a small frozen treat.
  5. Will keep in freezer for approximately 6 months.
  6. Yields approx. 72 cubes (about 9 servings of eight cubes each).

Recipe Notes

Yields approx. 72 cubs (about 9 servings of eight cubes each).

 

Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes: An Easy Freezer Prep Hack

Want a simple way to make smoothies easier, tastier and a little more protein-packed? These Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes are a fun make-ahead freezer hack worth keeping on hand!

Fresh watermelon, cottage cheese, protein powder and chia seeds come together in a quick blend, then go into ice cube trays to freeze. Once they’re ready, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag so you have a refreshing, convenient starting point for smoothies, smoothie bowls or even a quick frozen snack.

It’s easy prep that makes your future breakfast or snack routine so much easier. And with watermelon bringing natural sweetness and refreshing hydration to the mix, there’s no need to overcomplicate things.

Why You’ll Love These Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes

  • Easy make-ahead prep: Blend, freeze and stash them away for whenever a smoothie craving hits.
  • A protein boost: Cottage cheese and protein powder add satisfying protein to each serving.
  • Naturally refreshing: Watermelon brings sweetness, fluid and a fresh fruit flavor.
  • Versatile: Use the cubes for smoothies, thick smoothie bowls or a quick frozen nibble.
  • Simple ingredients: Just a handful of everyday ingredients and a blender are all you need.

Simple Ingredients, Big Possibilities

You only need four main ingredients to make these freezer-friendly smoothie cubes. That’s it! No complicated ingredient list or special equipment required beyond a blender and ice cube trays.

Watermelon is the star of the show! It’s naturally sweet, refreshing and approximately 92% water, making it a delicious way to add fluids and natural carbohydrates to your day.

Cottage cheese adds creamy texture and protein. Blending it into the mixture gives the cubes a smooth consistency.

Protein powder adds another protein boost. I used vanilla whey protein powder, but use your favorite variety and flavor.

Chia seeds bring a little extra fiber, texture and plant-based nutrition to the mix.

Easy Ways to Use Your Frozen Smoothie Cubes

This is where the freezer prep really pays off. Once the cubes are frozen, transfer them to a labeled freezer bag and keep them handy. It’s an easy way to have a head start on a nutritious breakfast or snack without pulling out all the ingredients and starting from scratch every time.

Blend a quick smoothie: Add a handful of cubes to a blender with your favorite milk or milk alternative. Blend until smooth, adding more liquid as needed to reach your preferred consistency.

Make a thick smoothie bowl: Use less liquid and blend until thick and spoonable. Add your favorite toppings like fresh watermelon, chia seeds, chopped pistachios or granola.

Enjoy a frozen bite: Grab an individual cube straight from the freezer for a little refreshing snack.

Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes Nutrition

Each 8-cube serving provides approximately 138 calories, 16.1g protein, 12.5g carbohydrates and 2.7g fat. That’s about 17 calories and 2g protein per cube.

Nutrition will vary depending on the protein powder and cottage cheese you choose.

Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast shortcut, a refreshing snack or a simple way to work more watermelon into your routine, these smoothie cubes are a delicious little freezer staple. Make a batch and you’ll be glad you did!

Watermelon Protein Smoothie Cubes – Freezer Prep
Prep Time
5 mins
Total Time
3 hrs 5 mins
 
Discover why watermelon and protein make a delicious pairing! Get easy ideas for smoothie cubes, cottage cheese bowls, breakfast, snacks and athlete fueling.
Course: Beverage, smoothie, Snack
Keyword: cottage cheese, freezer prep, meal prep, protein powder, smoothie cubes, smoothies, watermelon
Servings: 9 servings (8 cubes per serving)
Calories: 138 kcal
Ingredients
  • 6 cups chopped watermelon
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 3 scoops approx. 1 cup whey protein powder, vanilla
  • ¼ cup chia seeds
Instructions
  1. Add all ingredients to blender and process for 30-60 seconds until smooth.
  2. Pour mixture into ice cube trays (or even mini-muffin tins).
  3. Freeze for 2-3 hours until solid. Pop from trays/tins and transfer to freezer-bag.
  4. Use as an ingredient in smoothies and/or ‘as-is’ for a small frozen treat.
  5. Will keep in freezer for approximately 6 months.
  6. Yields approx. 72 cubes (about 9 servings of eight cubes each).

Recipe Notes

Yields approx. 72 cubs (about 9 servings of eight cubes each).

 

Which Watermelon Personality Are You? 14 Ways This Fruit Boosts Your Active Lifestyle

 Note: This post is sponsored by the National Watermelon Promotion Board. You can check out their recipes, tips and nutrition/wellness information at Watermelon.org

Watermelon isn’t just a sweet summer snack—it’s hydrating, nutrient-packed, and surprisingly versatile – and can even be enjoyed year- ‘round. From post-workout refueling to mood-boosting treats, watermelon fits every lifestyle. And let’s be honest… we all have a watermelon personality (or two!) 😉

Check out our reel below to see these 14 types in action, then read on to discover how each one can help fuel your fitness, recovery, or everyday wellness.

 Watermelon Personalities + Benefits

The Fitness Foodie – Gets her flex on with watermelon (exercise equipment you can eat!) and slices it up afterward for a snack.  So smart, because watermelon combines carbs, hydration, vitamins and minerals for workout energy and recovery while keeping snacking fun. Check out this clever Watermelon Core Workout you can do at home with a mini-sized watermelon!

Try these effective core exercises that will strengthen your abs, obliques, back and more. The fun part is using a mini personal watermelon -- and then eating it afterward!

2. The Prep Queen – Cubes, containers, and labels—she’s got a week’s worth of snack boxes stacked in the fridge. It’s smart and economical way to cut/prep your own watermelon ahead for convenient grab-and-go snacking, training session fuel, busy workdays, or kid-friendly lunches. Check out my tips on how to safely and quickly cutup watermelon (it takes me only about 5 minutes for a large one)

3. The Life of the Party – Brings the biggest platter, loves feeding others, and makes watermelon the star of every gathering. She’s super popular, sweet and a real crowd-pleaser! A platter of watermelon is the perfect thing to serve at any celebration or bring along to a pot luck or weekend social. 

4. The Stockpiler – Buys three whole melons at the store “just in case” and also loves stopping at a farm stand to support farmers.  All this watermelon ensures natural hydration and electrolytes are always on hand, making it easy to stay fueled and refreshed. Per the Watermelon Board, an uncut watermelon has a freshness shelf-life of 3-4 weeks after being removed from the vine (but you have to keep in mind there was some travel time to get in into the store). For food safety reasons, a cut watermelon should be consumed in 3 to 5 days from the fridge. If you have leftovers, just cube it and freeze for later!

When considering how long your watermelon will last, you have to consider how long it may have taken that watermelon to get to your grocery store, as some watermelons may travel farther distances during the season. Once cut from the vine, a watermelon has about 3-4 weeks of shelf life.

5. The Mileage Muncher – Knows watermelon (92% water) is nature’s sports “drink” and enjoys it before, after, and sometimes during runs. Watermelon and watermelon juice provides quick-digesting carbs, potassium (6%), and fluid to prevent cramps and improve endurance. Check out my Watermelon-Aid Endurance Sports Drink made with a few simple ingredients including watermelon juice, coconut water, honey and Himalayan sea salt.

6. The Hostess Extraordinaire – Always ready with a watermelon-inspired spread, a sweet toast, and enough charm to make every guest feel like a VIP.  Any which way you slice it, watermelon is welcoming and shows your generosity in turning wellness into a shared experience.

7. The Juice Alchemist – Blends, strains, and pours it into a mason jar like liquid gold. Watermelon juice hydrates deliciously, delivers antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, and is easy to customize with other juices and mixers. Watermelon juice also pairs perfectly with smoothies or protein shakes.  Check out my Watermelon Juice 101: How to Make, Store and Serve Watermelon Juice

Make Watermelon-AID, a homemade sports drink featuring watermelon juice that Watermelon-AID is a homemade watermelon sports drink that will help keep you hydrated, cramp-free and provide energy for endurance events. Easy, effective and economical.

8. The Competitive Eater – Always makes eating her favorite fruit competitive, whether entering a contest or making sure she gets the biggest slice at a picnic. You can even use watermelon for a fun physical competition like squat challenges or fun games for the family.

9. The Zero-Waste Mama – Rind pickles, seed roasting, frozen slushies… no part of the melon will be wasted. Most people don’t realize the whole watermelon can be consumed. Doing so maximizes nutrients, reduces food waste, and adds creative protein/fiber-rich snacks like my Cinnamon Churro Watermelon Rind Fries (in Air Fryer) or  Frozen Sprouted Watermelon Seed Bites from Watermelon.org.

eat the whole watermelon flesh, juice, seeds and rind

You can eat the whole watermelon – flesh, juice, rind and seeds!

10. The Seasoning Addict – Sprinkles salt, Tajín, chili, lime, chamoy—you name it—on every bite.  Using simple seasonings like these (and others) can add flavor without processed sugar or other unwanted ingredients. Check out these four ways to season watermelon that will blow your mind!

Watermelon seasoned four ways

11. The Salad Stylist – Tosses it with feta, mint, balsamic… basically makes watermelon haute cuisine.   Adding watermelon to a salad that features additional fruits and veggies, a protein source, and even whole grains creates a balanced meal to fuel adventures and promote wellness.  Watermelonboard.org has so many beautiful salads for you to enjoy all year!

12. The Year-Rounder – Knows it’s watermelon season somewhere in the world and hunts them down (and also hits up her freezer stash of cubes). Eating this hydrating, antioxidant-rich fruit year-round helps to support recovery, immunity, and boost mood – even when the sun isn’t shining. This “Snowman” Watermelon Caprese Salad is a super fun dish for the winter months.

Brighten up your holiday table with this Snowman Watermelon Pomegranate Caprese Salad! Featuring festive ingredients like mozzarella, watermelon balls, grape tomatoes, and pomegranate arils, this colorful and healthy winter salad is as delicious as it is fun to make. Complete with a mozzarella snowman centerpiece, it’s perfect for Christmas parties, family dinners, or any festive occasion. Drizzle with balsamic syrup or pomegranate vinaigrette for the ultimate holiday flavor!

13. The Zen Snacker – Watermelon is her mantra, and she balances chakras with mindful bites.
Encouraging slow, mindful eating can promote better digestion, hydration, and a mental recharge during the eating experience. And, with only 80 calories per 2 cups, watermelon is a mindful way to satiate your taste for something sweet.

14. The Instant Smiler – Proves watermelon cures bad moods faster than therapy. Bright, sweet, and hydrating—perfect for mood-boosting before, during, or after workouts or providing comfort on busy days.  Watermelon is a definite smile!

Watermelon is a happy fruit, there is just no doubt about it. I a recent poll, 100% of consumers said watermelon made them happy. It’s refreshing, hydrating, sweet, a source of beneficial energy for my runs and workouts – and at the root of a bumper crop of my life’s happy moments.

Whether you’re a Prep Queen, a Juice Alchemist, or an Instant Smiler, watermelon has a personality—and a benefit—for everyone. Hydrating, nutrient-rich, and endlessly versatile, it’s the ultimate snack for fitness, recovery, and fun.

Which watermelon personality are you? 🍉 Share your type in the comments, and check out more recipes and tips here at TheFitFork.com and also watermelon.org.

Review: Equip Food Prime Protein Beef Protein Powder

You all know I love a good steak — but when I’m on the go and need something quick, easy, and gut-friendly, Equip Food’s Prime Protein steps up to the plate (err…shaker cup). 🥩🍫💪 You could call it lazy carnivore protein or paleo protein powder.

Each scoop is like eating 4 oz of grass-fed beef, but without firing up the grill. With 21g of complete protein, this minimally processed beef protein powder delivers powerful nutrition using just three real-food ingredients (for the chocolate flavor, less for the others):
✔️ Grass-fed beef protein
✔️ Cocoa powder
✔️ Stevia

That’s it! No fillers, no junk — just simple, clean fuel your body can actually use. I really, really appreciate that — often I ready the back label and get so confused (which is saying a lot, because I’m not a newbie to sport nutrition).

While I’m partial to the rich, dessert-like Chocolate flavor, you’ve also got options below, plus more like Salted Caramel, Strawberry, Peanut Butter and others)
🍃 Chocolate Mint – refreshing and indulgent
🍦 Vanilla – a smooth, versatile classic
🥄 Unflavored – great for savory recipes or sneaking into anything (put into soup or toss with Parm cheese for a crumb coating on air-fryed veggies, fish, etc).

  • Low carb, gut-friendly, and bloat-free – free from dairy, whey, gluten, and common irritants. I have not had any stomach issues using this beef protein powder at all.
  • Naturally occurring collagen and gelatin from the beef give it a thick, creamy texture. One day, I only drank half of my simple shake make with this protein. In the morning, it had congealed/lumped a bit — and I was concerned. But, finally realized it was the collagen — just blended back up for some ultra creamy goodness!
  • Clean, thoughtful ingredients you can trust — nothing artificial, ever
  • Supports skin, joint, bone health — as a woman over 50, those are issue areas that I like to address. Anecdotal, but, my fingernail growth has been crazy after using this powder for just a short time.
  • Keto and Paleo friendly.

Ideas to Use Prime Protein in Recipes:

And because versatility is everything in my kitchen, I’ve used Equip Prime Protein in some of my go-to better-for-you chocolate treats:
🍌 Chocolate Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread

Chocolate Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread levels up the nutrition and flavor of everyone’s favorite quick bread! Not “just like grandma’s” but instead packed with 21g of protein per slice, naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, and free of added sugar, it’s the perfect option for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or even a healthier dessert.


🥇 Olympic Chocolate Muffin Makeover

Olympic Village Chocolate Muffin, but made better! 💪 These chocolate muffins went so viral, but – in reality they were more like a sugar-bomb cake. This version is made over to be gluten-free, have more protein (20g), less fat, less sugar—made for champions. 🏅 Sized for one – you don’t even have to share!


🧇 Double Chocolate Protein Waffles

Power into the day fueled by chocolatey waffles made with protein powder. Only takes minutes to make, is gluten-free, has no added sugar, and moderate in carbs. A single-serve recipe, but simple to scale up for meal prep. Enjoy 28 grams of protein per serving!

Want to dig into the science behind beef protein? Here’s a great breakdown from the brand on how it is made and why beef protein works.

Whether you’re fueling a workout, balancing macros, or just need a clean, on-the-go option, Equip Prime Protein is a shake-worthy choice you’ll want to keep on hand.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for purchases made through link. Proceeds help offset operating expenses for The Fit Fork.

Watermelon: The Simple, Sweet, and Smart Fuel for Your Workouts

Try these effective core exercises that will strengthen your abs, obliques, back and more. The fun part is using a mini personal watermelon -- and then eating it afterward!

This post is sponsored by National Watermelon Promotion Board / Watermelon.org

When it comes to fueling for workouts, the options can seem overwhelming. Rows of sports drinks, energy gels, and recovery powders line store shelves, each with a long list of ingredients you can barely pronounce. But what if fueling your body didn’t have to be so complicated? What if you could keep it simple and sweet with a single ingredient? Say hello to watermelon!

1. No Weird Ingredients—Just One Simple Superfood

Many sports nutrition products contain a blend of sugars, electrolytes, and amino acids designed to help athletes perform their best. But why reach for something processed when nature has already provided a perfect alternative? Watermelon is a clean, unprocessed fuel source packed with naturally occurring carbohydrates for energy, electrolytes for hydration, and even potassium (6%) for muscle support. No artificial flavors, no preservatives—just one delicious, wholesome ingredient – WATERMELON!

2. Hydration You Can Eat (or Drink!)

Hydration is key for any workout, and while sports drinks claim to keep you going, many come loaded with artificial additives. Watermelon, on the other hand, is over 92% water, making it a naturally hydrating choice that also provides essential nutrients. For watermelon hydration, you can munch on fresh slices (plain or sprinkled with these amazing, simple seasonings), blend it into a refreshing juice, or freeze it into hydrating ice pops for post-workout cool-downs. No matter how you enjoy it, watermelon keeps you hydrated while satisfying your taste buds.

About to share watermelon with my Cross friends - Jennifer Fisher, thefitfork.com
About to enjoy the fruits of our efforts! Sharing watermelon with my Cross friends

3. Nutrient-Packed for Performance, Recovery & Wellness

Beyond hydration, watermelon is a nutritional powerhouse for active lifestyles. It provides:

  • Vitamin C – Supports immune function and tissue repair
  • Potassium – Helps with muscle function and electrolyte balance
  • L-citrulline – A natural amino acid that may reduce muscle soreness and enhance endurance
  • Antioxidants – Such as lycopene, which combats oxidative stress from intense exercise

4. Affordable & Accessible for Any Training Diet

One of the best things about watermelon? It won’t break the bank. Compared to pricey sports nutrition products, watermelon is affordable and accessible to most everyone. In fact, it’s the most affordable fruits in the produce aisle, ounce for ounce. I love this budget-friendly way to fuel my body with clean, whole-food nutrition. Plus, it’s widely available most of the year-round (plus, you can freeze watermelon juice and/or watermelon chunks in off season), so you can always count on it for pre- or post-workout fuel.

Try these effective core exercises that will strengthen your abs, obliques, back and more. The fun part is using a mini personal watermelon -- and then eating it afterward!

5. Eat It, Drink It—Even Lift It!

Not only can you eat and drink watermelon, but you can also use it as a fun equipment for your workout! A whole watermelon makes a great stand-in for weights—try watermelon fitness doing exercises like squats, Russian twists, or overhead presses for a playful and effective workout (check out this Core Watermelon Workout with a watermelon). Whether you’re fueling up before exercise, recovering after a tough session, or getting creative with your training, watermelon has got you covered.

The Bottom Line: Keep It Simple & Sweet (K-I-S-S)

When choosing workout fuel, there’s no need to overcomplicate things. Watermelon provides natural energy, hydration, and key nutrients—all in one tasty, refreshing package. So, skip the artificial stuff and fuel your fitness journey the simple, sweet way. Hurray, watermelon fuel for workouts!