What should I eat before a workout? What To Eat Before A Workout For Fabulous Results?
Lots of people I know who hit the gym on a reasonably regular basis tell me cheekily that they go to the gym so much so that they can eat whatever they want without feeling guilty. I know they’re joking, but they’re only half-joking.
The thing is that what you eat before and after a workout is super important, especially if you want to achieve the best results. If you’re not careful about your pre-workout meal, you’re simply not going to be getting the best out of going to the gym.
Some people don’t eat anything before a workout, especially if they hit the gym in the morning before work. But this is just as bad as eating the wrong things, and it can lead to fatigue and light-headedness. This can quickly kill your workout too early.
I go to the gym five days a week, and if I don’t eat the right foods beforehand, my workout is not the same. I – and you – need to fuel correctly to achieve the best results. Let’s take a look at precisely what you should be eating before a workout.
Bananas
If you’ve ever watched a tennis match on television, you’ll have seen tennis stars chomping away on bananas in-between games and sets. This is because the banana is essentially nature’s very own power bar that enhances performance.
Bananas are stuffed with potassium, and they’re also rich in easily digestible carbs. This means that you don’t feel heavy after eating one, and it also means that your muscles are going to functioning at an optimal level.
The body doesn’t hold onto potassium for too long, so it’s a good idea to skip the small bananas and eat the medium-sized ones.
Caffeine
Caffeine has its pros and cons, and for every dietician telling you to cut down on it, there will be another telling you to drink more coffee.
If you’re trying to achieve some fab workout results, I recommend that you drink a cup of Joe before heading to the gym. If, however, you don’t like the taste of coffee, you could always try a caffeine supplement instead.
Caffeine gives your body a boost by improving your energy levels so that you’re ready to hit the gym. It slows down fatigue and can also enhance the rate of fat burn.
I add a few espresso shots to my morning shake as it’s a super-easy way of getting me pumped.
Blueberries And Pistachios
Pistachios and blueberries can be eaten on your way to the gym. Convenient and tasty, this pairing is stuffed with protein and carbs, as well as plenty of anti-inflammatory agents.
Oats
I eat a bowl of oats most mornings of the week. Why? Because oats release carbs slowly into your bloodstream, your energy levels don’t peak and crash too soon. Instead, they stay at a consistent level throughout your work, which is exactly what you want.
Oats have a terrible rep for containing fiber, but they don’t contain too much so that they’ll cause lots of gas. They’re also rich in B vitamins, which further helps your body to turn carbs into fuel.
Wholegrain Bread
You need to stock up on carbs before a workout; otherwise, you’re just not going to be able to power your way through a session. The best type of bread to munch on beforehand is wholegrain, a few slices of which will be enough to load you with up to 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Don’t eat the bread alone, though, but pair it up with a few sources of protein. You could make yourself an egg sandwich before a workout, or you could try a few slices of turkey. You could even spread some honey or jam on top.
Fruit Smoothies
Don’t you fancy adding caffeine to your pre-workout diet? You could try fruit smoothies instead.
While fruit is another good option, fruit smoothies are even better because they digest quicker and release their sugars into your bloodstream faster. This means you’re going to bursting with energy and ready to do this.
Fruit smoothies are also ideal for anyone who dislikes eating whole fruit. You can buy a fruit smoothie from the general store or supermarket, or you can make your own at home. It’s energy on tap.
Egg Whites
Ever eaten eggs and felt weirdly sluggish afterward? I know I have. This is usually because of the egg yolks. Rich in fat, these guys are metabolized slowly can therefore make you feel heavy. This is especially not cool if you’re about to exercise.
Instead, remove the yolk and double down on the whites. Two egg whites provide you with up to 8 grams of protein. And zero fat.
Greek Yogurt
Greek Yogurt is one of my favorite things to eat before a workout. It contains twice as much protein as regular yogurt but far less sugar. Try to eat it on a fairly empty stomach so that you get as much energy as possible.
Only eat this if you are not lactose-intolerant. Otherwise, avoid.
Veggie Omelette With Avocado
Avocado is very much the “in” food right now, with dieticians and health experts everywhere recommending that you add it to your diet. Including it as part of a veggie omelet is a great way to use it to your advantage when you’re preparing for a workout.
Eggs are, of course, a fantastic source of protein, and they will help your muscles to recover after a workout. Instead of making scrambled eggs, switch things up by making an omelet stuffed with vegetables and all essential avocado. Your body will love you for it.
Apple Slices And Peanut Butter
Apple slices and peanut butter are so easy to put together, so delicious – and so potent. It depends on the kind of workout you’re going to be doing, but if you aren’t planning anything too strenuous, apple slices and peanut butter works a charm. All you need is a single apple, chopped into pieces and then dipped in the butter, and you’ve got a good amount of carbs and protein to keep you going.
Stay happy!