Pig-out before you Workout…
When it comes to fitness and diet, I consider myself far from a noob. However, yesterday I pulled a very amateur move by not eating before doing an intense cardio/weightlifting circuit workout. In my quest to fine tone my figure for the summer, I forgot to eat something to provide my body fuel for my workout. By the time I was on my second circuit of four, I was seeing stars and thought that it was very possible I would end up dying on the Gold’s Gym floor. That would have sucked…
Preparing to eat my pre-workout meal...
As my life flashed before my eyes I thought it would be a good idea to write a post on why you should fuel your body before doing weightlifting workouts, to prevent others from making the foolish mistake I had made.
Why?
Its important to eat before you lift because weightlifting is an anaerobic activity. This means your body is burning glycogen to create ATP, for energy to your muscles. Without the proper nutrition before a workout, your body will burn muscle to make glucose, via glucogenisis. Basically you’ll end up burning muscle and looking like a puny individual.
What?
It is important to have a pre and post workout meal. Your preworkout meal should be low in fat and fiber so it’s easily digestible. It is also important to remeber not to each foods with too much sugar so you dont have a energy crash before you reach the gym. Try to pick foods that are easily digestible. A good idea for a pre-workout meal is oatmeal and a solid protein. Chicken, fish or even a protein shake would be an adequte source for protein. This combination will give you the energy you need to perform to the max while not weighing you down too much.
When?
It is ideal to eat about 30 minutes before you workout for maximum results.
Here are a few other pre-workout foods to consider.
- A protein shake
- Raisins
- Nuts
- Fruits like apples and plums
- Hard boiled eggs with no yolk/Egg Whites
- Turkey breast on whole wheat bread
- Tuna