Pre-workout nutrition is critical. If you go to the gym with a low-calorie intake for the day, chances are the workout will be detrimental to your body. That’s the last thing anyone who cares about their body’s health and fitness wants. Depending on your body’s digestion system, carbs with a dash of protein ingested appropriately prior to the activity can go a long way toward pumping those muscles. A good pump is also one of the most effective motivators for going to the gym on a daily basis.
Importance of Pre Workout meals
A pre-workout meal can help you perform better and recover faster, both of which can have a significant impact on your outcomes. Consuming nutritious foods will provide you with energy and keep you focused during and after your activity. Eating the appropriate meals can also aid in muscle building and maintenance, as well as recuperation.
If you plan to exercise more than two hours after eating, a little snack to increase your energy may be necessary, as you may grow weary faster and find it difficult to concentrate during your workout.
Best Time for the meal-
Consume your pre-exercise meal at least 60 minutes before your workout. In this instance, a meal strong in protein and carbohydrates is recommended. If you feel unpleasant or uncomfortable after having your pre-workout food in the morning, attempt to delay the start of your workout by 10 minutes.
Here are some of the best pre-workout meals one should have before a workout for a great pump-
Peanut butter and Jelly Sandwich
The all-American favourite snack has caught on with gymgoers all around the world. The PBJ sandwich is a beautiful pre-workout meal since it is a quick, convenient, and portable source of protein and carbs. You could also use bananas instead of jelly. However, avoid flavouring your peanut butter.
Oatmeal and blueberries
This pre-workout meal is easy to digest, substantial in fibre and protein and has the added nutritional value of blueberries. It is ideal for those who have a slow digestive system. You can add honey for sweetness, but sugar should be avoided.
Apples, almond butter, and raisins
If you don’t want to go heavy on your pre-workouts and are trying to lose weight to have a leaner physique, this one is for you. Raisins are a natural source of sugar, and the little amounts of fibre and apples in them help round out the first section of this light pre-workout meal. Almond butter, on the other hand, has saturated fats that will keep you full for an extended period.
Greek yogurt with berries
Another light pre-workout meal on this list, the combination of Greek yoghurt and berries is somewhat higher than the light ones but still lower than the heavy ones. Plain yogurt and berries are the standard ingredients, but you can vary it by adding granola, a little sugar (if desired), and chopped almonds.
Whole-fruit smoothie
Blend a fruit of your choice (avoid water-based fruits such as oranges and watermelons) with the nut butter of your choice, flax seeds, dates, and oats. This full bundle is designed for folks who want to bulk up. The whole-fruit smoothie will help you get through the reps with ease.
We hope this guide has been helpful to those who may need a little extra motivation to create a sound Pre-workout meal plan. Remember the most important factors are to make sure that you are getting enough calories and enough carbs. Be creative and use recipes you know you will enjoy. The most important point is to stick to your plan and make sure that you get quality calories and carbs within an hour of your workout.