If you’re trying to lose weight or sculpt your body, you know that quality workouts are essential. However, it can be tough to hit the gym if you don’t fuel up beforehand. You should always eat something nutritious as a way of preparing your body. Here are six pre-workout snacks to boost your energy level:
Pre-Workout Snacks: #1. Greek yogurt
With nearly twice the protein of regular yogurt, the thick and creamy Greek version will leave you feeling satisfied without weighing you down. It will digest slowly and steadily so you can keep your strength up throughout your entire workout. Try indulging in a cup of this smooth, velvety treat before you train and you’ll likely experience a drastic rise in that get-up-and-go feeling.
Pre-Workout Snacks: #2. Raw almonds
If you’re heading to the gym right after work, you may not have access to a fridge. That means you might want a good source of protein that you can eat at room temperature. Raw almonds are the perfect pre-workout snack for those on the run. They’re lower in calories than most varieties of nuts and can easily be packed in a baggie or reusable container. A handful can even be slipped in your pocket as long as you’re not afraid of a little lint. It’s a portable, protein-packed snack to munch to prepare you for your exercises.
Pre-Workout Snacks: #3. Bananas
Forget anything negative you may have heard about bananas. When you’re working out on a consistent basis, you need some good carbohydrates to keep you going. Plus, the high amount of potassium bananas contain will help replenish your muscle function as you go along. That can help combat the soreness and stiff joints that typically accompany a hard workout.
Pre-Workout Snacks: #4. Oatmeal
Whole-grain oats are an excellent way to get your pre-workout fiber fix. Have a small bowl of oatmeal about 30 minutes or so before training to allow time for the complex carbs to work their magic. They’ll break down slowly in your body so you’ll feel energized from your warm-up to your cool-down. You can even stir in a bit of nut butter for an added boost of protein and a tasty burst of flavor.
Pre-Workout Snacks: #5. Smoothie
Smoothies are great pre-workout snacks since you can put in any healthy ingredients that your taste buds desire. Almond milk or yogurt could serve as a delicious base to get you started. Then, blend in some wholesome fruits like strawberries, pineapples, and papayas. If you’re trying to build muscle, you can throw in a scoop of protein powder as well. The fiber from the fruit will digest quickly so you’ll feel an energy jolt moments after gulping everything down. A smoothie is a nice selection if you don’t have time to wait for slow-moving foods to make their way through your system.
Pre-Workout Snacks: #6. Eggland’s Best Eggs
When you think of having a snack, eggs probably don’t immediately come to mind. However, these staples of the breakfast table are a solid choice no matter what time of day you work out. Try slicing a hard-boiled one over some kale or a piece of whole-grain toast. The protein of the egg along with the fiber of the greens or bread will help you power through your exercise routine.
Anyone with a weight-loss goal or a desire for a toned body knows how important it is to work out. In fact, it’s often the key to seeing results on the scale. However, you’ll never be able to tackle all that gym equipment if you don’t put the right fuel in your body. By eating one of these beneficial pre-workout snacks, you’ll get the energy you need to sustain you as you sweat it out. These tasty options will help you work off those pounds and build up those muscles!
Related Articles By Cathe:
The Metabolic Effects of Snacking
5 Snacking Mistakes That Make It Harder to Stay Lean
Nutritional Habits: Are Snacks Taking the Place of Meals?