To Eat or Not to Eat before Training?

While pre-workout nutrition needs varies for each of us, studies suggest that eating or drinking carbohydrates before exercise can improve workout performance and may allow you to work out for a longer time or at a higher intensity. But there are some questions that you should ask yourself before training to help you determine if eating, and what to eat, is the right plan for you.

1. Are you hungry before? And what time are you training? 

If you are working out early in the morning, it depends on your appetite and schedule. Studies suggest you should wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours for certain foods to digest before you hit the gym. But heaven knows we don’t have time to wait three hours! If you’re hungry and in a time crunch, pick a smaller portion. 

2. How was your energy during training without food? Did eating or not eating affect your training differently? 

When it comes to eating and exercise, everyone is different. Pay attention to how you feel during your workout and to your overall performance. Did what you eat help or hinder.

3. What to eat? 

The number one thing you're looking for is carbs, which provide a quick hit of energy to power a great workout. Some quick and easy ideas are: bananas, oats, whole grain bread or rice cake with peanut butter, greek yogurt with a little fruit on top, hard boiled egg, string cheese, or a fruit smoothie.

You can really set yourself up for success by fueling your body properly and hydrating too. Take time to determine what feels the best. It may mean eating a little, a lot, or sometimes maybe not at all before a workout. You know your body best!