Should I Eat Before I Workout?
YES – end of message – see you next time!
Seriously, you do need to have something to eat before you train. 60-90 minutes before training is optimal, but for you early birds 30-60 minutes is just fine.
Why?
You need energy to train, simple as that. When you don’t have enough calories (energy) to sustain your workout, you will not be able to train as hard, will fatigue more quickly, and may even feel dizzy. Resistance training in the morning without eating is very counterproductive, as your body will burn the most available energy source, muscle, rather than fat. Not the best strategy!
You don’t want to load up on a huge meal however, as you don’t want to see it again in the middle of your workout, if you know what I mean.
There are a few options for pre-workout nutrition. A piece of fruit, such as a banana or apple is light and digests readily. The challenge with this option is there is little to no protein, and we need protein in the mix if we are going to maximize our training.
My favorite strategy is to use a whey based protein shake. A shake is quick and easy to make, digests readily, and you can sip it on the way to the gym. There are hundreds of ways to make a shake, so you are sure to find one that you like.
A protein shake is an effective way to break your overnight fast (breakfast) and give your body the nutrients and energy you need to attack your workout hard. It is the absolute best way I know to prime your body to burn bodyfat and preserve lean tissue. If you train in the afternoon and evenings, the same applies – don’t go into the gym without eating!
I don’t recommend living on protein shakes, as your body work best on whole foods as close to their natural state as possible (No Virginia – Fruity O’s are NOT natural) But at specific times they are an invaluable tool in your training arsenal.
Our buddy Danno shared his recipe for his favorite protein shake – Give it a try and let us know what you think. We love to hear your feedback – so chime in below!
***
Danno’s “I’m Bananas for Banana’s” Protein Shake
1 Banana
1 Tsp Ground Flax Seed
1 Tbsp Almonds or Pecans
1 Scoop Vanilla Ultimate Muscle Protein
10-12 Ounces of Water (Sorry Danno, milk rots)
Ice
Put it all in a blender, mix and enjoy!