Friday, April 23, 2010

Training 101: Pre & Post Workout Meals




Training for any sport is difficult. It is very important that you prepare your body before and after so that you can get the most out of your workouts! Eating the right foods before and after workouts help you:

  • Optimize performance
  • Enhance muscle growth
  • Enhance recovery

Before a Workout

It is important to eat the right foods before working out so that you will have enough energy while you are training.
A meal containing complex carbohydrates is exactly what you need for your workout because they release energy at a steady rate. Try:
  • Bananas
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Wholegrain Cereals
  • Granola Bar

Try these Combos BEFORE your next workout:

Banana and a glass of milk (Chocolate is fine)
Apple with a handful of nuts
Nonfat plain yogurt with berries




Many athletes complain of feeling “full”, to avoid this feeling don’t eat heavy grains such as pasta.


After a Workout

Your post-workout meal should be eaten within an hour of ending your workout to replenish your glycogen and potassium stores and feed your body the protein it needs to repair muscle tissue. You want to choose lean proteins & carbohydrates that your body can break down quickly so that the nutrients are delivered fast to where they need to go. Try:


  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Bananas
  • Potatoes

Try these combos AFTER your next workout:

Grilled chicken breast with sweet potato
Egg whites with tomato and steamed spinach
  • Protein shake with fresh fruit



Dont forget to rehydrate! An important part of your pre- and post-workout meals is WATER. Drink Up!!


*Weekly Challenge: I challenge you to eat something from the recommended list (above) before & after each of your workouts. Do you notice a difference?




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