What should I eat before I go to the gym? What should I eat after the gym? These 2 questions are some of the most common ones that you will hear as a coach or trainer. They are important questions to ask because they support performance and recovery! This week we will take a look at what to eat before going to the gym
.First, let’s focus on certain factors that we know are important to support gym performance: Hydration, Nutrition and Energy! If you train at 5 or 6 in the morning, you will probably be arriving at the gym with limited water and food in your body. A solid training session can be difficult to accomplish if you are rolling out of bed and heading right to the gym. Maybe that works for you.
So how do we combat this? We can start off by being prepared. Make a smoothie or shake full of protein the night before. You can include fruit or oats for additional energy support. Now you have something nutritional that is ready to go, offers quality energy for the gym and takes less than 5 minutes to make! If you wake up with time to spare, make breakfast. Eat something that doesn’t upset your stomach with quality protein, carbs and fats.. Your body will appreciate the extra fuel.
Let’s say you train later in the day during the evening sessions. You are at an advantage because ideally you’ve had breakfast and lunch and you’ve had all day to drink water. Making healthy meal choices during the day and staying hydrated will support your gym session. You might be tired from the day, don’t miss out on these major ways to support your energy levels!
Supplements do offer options for energy but most are a little too intense for the average user. It’s important to understand that caffeine is a great performance enhancer but your body still needs real food energy to support activity. You can have your coffee or your BCAA energy pre-workout, if it gives you the boost you need then take it!
Remember, your schedule is different from everybody else. Find something that fits your busy life and supports your training! Don’t overthink it, caffeinate and move some weight.
Next week, we’ll look at post workout nutrition!!
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