What you eat before a workout is just as important as what you do. Eating the right food will give you the energy and stamina to work harder, longer, and be more focused. A healthy meal should include complex carbohydrates (like oatmeal), protein (such as eggs or Greek yogurt), some fiber-rich foods like fruit or vegetables, and it should be low in fat. Confused about choosing a pre-workout meal? Good nutrition helps the body perform better and helps recover faster after every workout. Optimal intake of nutrients before exercise helps maximize your performance and minimizes muscle damage. Taking proper nutrients prior to exercise will give you the energy to perform better and will act as fuel for your body.
Working out at the gym has become a serious affair in numerous cases. Heading to the gym on an empty stomach due to the notion that one shouldn’t eat before a workout or because they don’t know what to eat, is going to stop.
What to eat before a workout?
Given below is a list to help you out with the pre-workout meal
Oatmeal– Oatmeal is great before your morning workouts. Oatmeal settles well and acts as a great source of energy. Adding a dash of fruits to your oatmeal would make it even better.
Brown Rice with Chicken– who hits the gym in the evenings or at night due to time constraints? Brown rice with chicken might be a good option. An ideal form of lean meat and protein makes this combination an ideal pre-workout meal. 1 medium-size bowl of brown rice (30 gm uncooked brown rice) with two pieces of chicken should work just fine.
Protein Shakes– very popular among gym-goers, deservedly so as a protein shake is good if you do not receive the adequate amount from natural sources. Though, one must always consult a doctor to know the recommended daily dose of protein intake, as protein shakes can have side effects such as kidney damage.
Bananas– contain sugar and starch that provide energy to the body. Eating a medium-sized banana about 45 minutes to an hour before your workout should help you out.
Peanut butter sandwich– the trick is to opt for whole wheat or multigrain bread for the sandwich. Working out in the morning? Then having brown bread with a peanut butter sandwich works great.
Energy bars– Energy bars usually have carbs, which is what gives energy to the body, just make sure it isn’t loaded with fats and fibers.
Yogurt– contains calcium and proteins with a bit of natural sugar present in small quantities. Add some whole-grain cereal, fruits, or honey for a quick energy boost.
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