What to eat before you go to the gym is a question commonly asked by fitness enthusiasts and beginners alike. The food you consume before hitting the gym can significantly impact your performance. Read this article for a full breakdown of what to eat before gym and how it can help you achieve your fitness goals.
Take Personal Health Into Account
Before you continue with this article, it is important to note that every person’s body is different, and there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to nutrition. What works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is crucial to listen to your body and adjust based on what makes you feel best during a workout.
What To Eat Before Gym In The Morning
Early bird gym-goers may have a tough time figuring out what to eat before their morning workout. The key is to focus on easily digestible foods that provide energy without causing discomfort or bloating.
A healthy snack like a protein bar never disappoints, and fruits like bananas and apples are perfect for a pre-workout boost. They provide quick energy due to their high carbohydrate content and can be easily digested. Pair them with a source of protein such as nut butter or Greek yoghurt for sustained energy throughout your workout.
Another option is a bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or seeds. Oats are rich in complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy, and the addition of nuts or seeds adds a dose of healthy fats and protein to keep you fueled.
What To Eat Before Gym In The Evening
For those who prefer hitting the gym after work or later in the day, it’s important to fuel your body with a combination of carbohydrates and protein. This will give you energy and aid in muscle recovery post-workout.
Protein shakes or smoothies are a popular choice for a pre-workout snack. They are quick, easy to digest, and can be customised with your choice of fruits and collagen protein powder.
If a smoothie isn’t your thing, a simple meal containing complex carbohydrates and lean protein is a great option. Some ideas include grilled chicken with sweet potato. At Slender Wonder, you can also pre-order healthy, ready-made meals that are perfect for a pre-gym meal.
What Not To Eat Before Gym
While it’s important to fuel your body before a workout, there are certain foods you should avoid. Here are some examples:
- High-fat meals
- Foods high in fibre
- Spicy foods
- Processed or sugary snacks
Water Is A MUST
Apart from what you should eat before going to the gym, it’s important to mention the importance of hydration. Drinking water helps regulate body temperature, lubricate joints and deliver nutrients to your muscles.
Make sure to drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day, and bring a bottle of water with you to the gym. You can always store it in your gym bag if you don’t want to carry it around.
Bottom Line
This breakdown on what to eat before going to the gym should give you a good idea of how to fuel your body for optimal performance. Keep it small and simple in the mornings, and incorporate protein for evening workouts.
If you’re unsure about what to eat before a workout, consult a nutritionist who can create a tailored plan based on your fitness goals and needs.
And always listen to your body – if something doesn’t feel right, try switching up your pre-gym meal until you find what works best for you.