Everything that lives or runs needs some source of energy to function properly and effectively. A car cannot run without gas. A TV cannot turn on without electricity. A plant cannot grow without sunlight. Likewise, you cannot have an effective workout without adequate pre-workout snacks.
Before every workout, you should have a meaningful snack to help fuel your body and prepare for an effective workout. You don’t eat anything heavy, but rather something light with protein that will feed your muscles and carbs that will give you energy to sustain you through your workout. Wait at least 1 hour to 30 minutes before you start working out to give your body enough time to digest the food and to make sure the blood flow doesn’t interrupt your workout.
What exactly should you eat before you workout? Here are a few pre-workout snacks that you can incorporate into your menu.
Protein shake and banana – Protein drinks are a quick way to get the protein that your muscles need for your work out. Orgain Nutritional Shake are amazing. They’re filled with tons of nutritions, protein and taste great. Add a piece of fruit like a banana or apple to give you some energy.
Nut butter and apples – Nut (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter) is another great source of protein. Buy an all natural nut butter made with nuts and add some sliced apples to give you some energy.
Greek yogurt and fruit – Greek yogurt is a great source of protein. Since I recently reduced the sugar in my diet, I’ve been using plain Greek yogurt but you can use whatever you prefer. You also can add granola and/or a 100% juice fruit cup for additional carbs.
Tuna and brown rice – Tuna is another great source of protein. StarKist Tuna Creations has a great selection of seasoned tuna. Add a single packet with a cup of Minute brown rice.
Protein bar – Protein bars are really convenient for on-the-go traveling if you don’t have time to stop at home before you go to the gym. There are a number of protein bar brands that are really great. Nature Valley, ThinkThin and Special K are among my favorites.
Pre-workout Energy Supplement – Pre-workout supplements have become increasingly popular
as a means to improve your workout performance and provide an energy boost to get you through
a difficult workout. TRU Energy is a natural pre-workout supplement that allows you to have a great workout every time. Read more in TRU Supplements Review.
All of these snacks are about 300 calories or less, which is a good amount for a pre-workout snack. You can always decrease the amount of food or increase depending on your weight goals. Just be sure to eat something that will give you the energy and fuel you need for your workout.
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