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Working out? In order to give the optimal performance, you need to fuel your body properly. Pre and post workout snacks are essential to give you the energy you need to get your best workout and build muscle after it is completed.
Note, this is not the time to scarf down samosas and aloo pav on the way to the gym. If you are serious about developing your best self, choosing the right snacks can give you the best energy to make that happen!
Pre Workout
If you know anything about marathon running, you know that there is a tradition of carbohydrate loading done before a big race. But you don’t have to run marathons to get the benefit that carbs have to offer. Stick with complex carbohydrates so you don’t burn up your energy on the way to the gym. Trying to train while experiencing a sugar crash is not going to help your cause.
Skip sugar laden snacks and try fruits such as apples or bananas. Hummus and pita triangles are a tasty treat if you feel like dipping. If convenient foods are more your thing, you might like popcorn or dried fruit. If you have more time, blend up a fruit smoothie or cook some delicious oatmeal with almond milk. These carb rich foods give you the boost you need to get the most of your workout by maintaining fat burning intensity.
Some people have a hard time working out with a full stomach so listen to your body. If one snack seems too heavy or doesn’t agree with your stomach during exercise, scale back your portions or try something different next time. Working out on an empty stomach is usually not a great idea because you most likely won’t maintain the intensity you want to make it worth your time. Another hint is to hydrate throughout your day so that the electrolytes you lose while sweating through your workout aren’t depleting your body of necessary nutrients.
Post Workout
After your workout, the goal is to recover and refuel your empty tank. If you had a grueling workout, chances are you will be hungry following the intense calorie burn. Protein is your friend when it comes to recovery—dairy products such as cottage cheese or chocolate milk can give you a delicious protein boost. Hard boiled eggs, a scoop of peanut butter on whole wheat toast, or a handful of pistachios can be easy recovery food. Again, the versatility of the smoothie makes it a winner in the post workout category as well. A scoop of protein powder or nut butter of your choice in addition to ice, a banana, and cold milk makes a cold, satisfying treat for rewarding your hard-working body and fuel your recovery.
Making your food work for you is part of living a healthy life. Thinking of food as fuel makes it easier to remember to eat that pre and post workout snacks. Maintaining the machine (your body) ensures that it gives an optimal performance when you need it the most.
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