Better Workouts 7: Pre-Workout Nutrition
- More efficient training
- How to get better results
Gym workouts can be boring and that’s when it becomes completely counterproductive. On the other hand, knowing what to do and how to tinker with your routine will get you great results.
In this edition: Nutrition
Having the perfect pre-workout snack makes the difference between a good session and the opposite.
There are many theories as to the ideal snack but ultimately it’s what your body responds to.
If you follow nutrition closely, you will understand the importance of the GI index. This is basically a chart of foods which are higher and lower in sugar so you can prepare your meals based on energy requirements.
For instance if you have a long training session ahead, it would be pointless consuming foods high in sugar as this will burn off quickly.
Similarly, if you are heading to the gym after a long day at work it will benefit to plan for foods which have a mixture of high and moderate speed energy release.
It is about balance.
In my opinion, the ideal food prior to training is wholemeal based or foods with a moderate protein level like yoghurt. If you train frequently you will know the difference that foods can have on the intensity and the effectiveness of your training. If you consume too much protein or too much sugar, it will negatively impact training.
Obviously if your body doesn’t agree with wheat (gluten) then this could be an issue so planning becomes essential. I’ll often pack my food and snacks for the day ahead that way I’m organised and less likely to deviate from the plan.
A selection of nuts, protein before or even a small helping of fruit can be enough to bring your energy levels do you sufficient level that it will improve your training session.
If you can manage to plan your nutrition then you will have more successful workouts. I understand that to lose weight you need a calorie deficit but training when hungry is futile. Ultimately, it is about making an informed decision and finding what works best FOR YOU.
If you’re working a long day for example then hitting the gym, it’s vital to refuel. Even on a basic biological Level, depleted glycogen will inhibit performance.
Part of excelling in fitness is understanding the process: exactly what RYPT is about.
Find out how you can improve your health and wellness with a nutritional review from RYPT.
Ross Yeoman
RYPT Owner
