When exercising, it’s important to fuel your body with the proper nutrients. Whether you’re an athlete or just trying to stay healthy, what you eat can make all the difference in your performance and recovery. In honor of National Nutrition Month this March, we’re discussing the best foods to eat before a workout and why nutrition is so important. And in the meantime, when you’re searching for gyms in Tewksbury, NDB Fitness is here to help guide you through your fitness journey!
Why is Nutrition Important for Exercise?
Nutrition is vital for exercise because it gives your body the energy it needs to perform at its best. Without the right nutrients, your body may not have enough energy to complete a workout or recover properly afterward. In addition, certain nutrients, like protein and carbohydrates, play specific roles in the body that are crucial for exercise performance and recovery.
What to Eat Before a Workout
Before a workout, ideally, you should eat a meal or snack that contains a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Healthy fats can provide a slow-release source of energy, while carbs are the primary fuel source for exercise. Protein aids in building and repairing muscle tissue.
Keep in mind these are just a few ideas to get you started, and you’re not restricted to these foods! Feel free to use your imagination and cater things to your preferences and diet.
Whole Grain Toast with Nut Butter
This is a great pre-workout snack because it provides a balance of carbohydrates and protein. This can help fuel your workout and keep you feeling full.
Greek Yogurt with Berries
Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and can help keep you feeling full; berries are a great carb source for energy. If you’re looking for an extra crunch, add some granola (complex carbs) and flax seeds (healthy fats)!
Bananas with Nut Butter
Bananas are a great source of carbohydrates and can provide a quick burst of energy. Adding nut butter can provide protein and healthy fats to help keep you feeling full. If you want something other than peanut butter, try cashew or almond butter!
Smoothie with Protein Powder
Smoothies are a great way to get in some quick nutrients before a workout. It’s also easy to take on the way to the gym. Add protein powder for muscle repair and recovery, and use your preference for milk, coconut water, or orange juice!
Gyms in Tewksbury | NDB Fitness
We hope this article gave you some ideas on how to get the right nutrients in before your workout. However, we always recommend and encourage you to talk things over with your trainer or a professional to see what will work best with your body and goals! If you’re interested in taking one or more of our classes like cardio kickboxing, pilates, Spartan courses, and more, you can check out all of our options online! We look forward to seeing you!