There are certain best foods to eat before working out that will help our bodies prepare, and which can maximize your efforts in the gym. While we all have different nutritional requirements, these known foods – which are the perfect balance of fats, carbs, and protein – can fuel your body, stave off hunger, fight fatigue, and even aid recovery. So what is a good pre-workout snack?
We all want to get the most out of a workout – to train harder, spin faster, run quicker, jump higher. And, while many of us prepare mentally for a challenging workout, we sometimes forget to fuel the engine or to do it properly. So what to eat before a workout?
Dump out that nasty powder pre-workout! Here are the 7 best foods that will leave you feeling like the Energizer Bunny before a workout.
1. Chug the chocolate.
In one study, fueling with chocolate milk over a sports drink mid-exercise improved endurance.
2. Be Sweeter Than Honey.
Thanks to its combination of fructose and glucose, honey may provide a superior energy source for endurance activities.
3. Get Fruity.
Carbs equal energy, so blend a variety of your favorite fruits with ice 30 minutes before hitting the gym.
4. Monkey Around.
Bananas are packed full of digestible carbohydrates for fuel and are rich in potassium, which helps prevent muscle cramps.
5. Go Coco Loco.
Naturally rich in electrolytes, coconut water may boost hydration as effectively as sports drinks, without added sugars and artificial ingredients.
6. Ramp up the Raisins.
Quick and portable, raisins provide 22 grams of energy-boosting carbohydrates per ounce.
7. It’s Not Just for Grandma!
The fiber in oatmeal helps slow the digestion of carbohydrates for a steady energy stream, while the B vitamins help convert food into energy.
Now go pump some iron!
Finding the right pre-workout combination can be challenging. Once you do, however, you’ll discover that you have more energy and can meet your goals faster.
What to eat after a workout to help you stay on top of your game? And what is the best post-workout drink? Of course, water. Make sure to hydrate before, during, and after a workout.
