Do you want to get the absolute most out of your workouts? If you ever feel sluggish before you exercise, or feel like you crash afterward, it could be down to what you eat.
Pre and post workout nutrition can completely transform not just the quality of your training, but the quality of your results. Giving your body the right nutrients to keep it running efficiently doesn't have to be complicated.
If you want to know what to eat and when to eat it, read on to find out all about pre and post workout meals.
Pre-Workout Nutrition
For many people, finding the motivation to exercise can be one of the biggest hurdles to getting in shape. But maybe without even knowing it, your diet may play a part in the lack of drive to work out. Thankfully, the right food choices rather than the wrong ones can give you the energy you need.
You may look at Olympic athletes like Michael Phelps and assume that they eat nothing but salad and protein but take a look at what Phelps eats before a race and you'll see that a well-timed meal can be incredibly beneficial.
Carbohydrates are an excellent source of energy and should be eaten 1.5-2 hours before a workout. Good sources of carbohydrates for before a workout include;
Banana - packed with carbohydrates and potassium (which prevents cramps)
Oats - for the slow release of energy to help endurance
Fruit/Dried Fruit - a great source of fast-acting carbs for an instant boost
These could, in fact, all be combined with some high-protein yogurt for a perfect pre-workout meal.
Post-Workout Nutrition
As soon as a workout is over, recovery becomes your body's priority. Exercise causes fatigue, and weight training actually damages your muscles - this is how they get bigger!
Protein is well-known as the most important macronutrient for aiding exercise as not only does it provide some energy, it also helps the body to repair the muscles.
Meat is the most obvious source of protein, but there are countless others. Here are a few meals that are packed full of the right nutrients for after your workout;
Eggs on toast - eggs are a fantastic source of protein, and the toast will replenish the carbs your body used during the workout
Chicken wrap - again, the wrap will give you some carbs, and the chicken will make sure you get plenty of protein. Add salad or vegetables to get important micronutrients and fiber.
Salmon and sweet potato - Sweet potato is a source of vitamin A which is great for your immune system, and salmon is full of protein and healthy fats.
If you feel your diet may be lacking important nutrients, these workout supplements can make sure you're getting what you need.
The Best Pre and Post Workout Meals
If you're looking for the best pre and post workout meals, the information in this guide will set you well on your way to making sure you maximize your workouts and recovery.
There is no magic formula to get you in shape— be consistent and make wise choices and you'll start to see results. If you're looking for good pre and post workout meals, check out the food section of the website.
