Pre-workout Meals – Whether you work out first thing in the morning, mid-day, or late at night, your body requires energy to do a workout. So before your next workout, think about what you are eating and when you are eating, and whether you’re optimizing what you’re consuming to work towards your fitness goals.
Whether you work out first thing in the morning, mid-day, or late at night, your body requires energy to do a workout. So before your next workout, think about what you are eating and when you are eating, and whether you’re optimizing what you’re consuming to work towards your fitness goals.
Morning Workouts
If you are a person who works out first thing in the morning, it may be tempting to do a fasted workout. Although fasted workouts can be beneficial especially if you are trying to lose fat, if you are trying to gain muscle and strength, it is best to have a small snack at least 30 minutes prior to working out so that you have some energy.
Mid-Day Workouts
If you want to workout after a big meal, make sure to allow your body at least 2 to 3 hours of time to rest and digest before hitting the gym. If you are working out in between meals, it is also beneficial to eat a snack 30 minutes to an hour before, so that your body gets a bit of an energy boost.
Pre-workout Meals: What to Eat
If you are eating a snack within the 30 to 60 minute time frame prior to a workout, it is best to eat a high carbohydrate, low fat, and moderate protein snack so that your body has enough time to digest it and utilize that energy for your workout.
If you are eating 2 to 3 hours before a workout, it is best to consume a high protein, high carbohydrate, and low fat meal.
Some simple, easily digestible snacks to consume for pre-workout Meals:
- Banana with 1tbsp Almond or Peanut Butter
- Greek Yogurt with Fruits
- Whole Grain Toast and Eggs
- Granola or Oats
- Fruit Smoothie
