Working out on an empty stomach is a recipe for disaster. Just like a car, your body will start to lose speed, power, and endurance when it’s low on fuel. If you want to get the most out of your workout, you should absolutely eat beforehand. Let’s take a closer look at your workout routine and how pre-workout snacks can energize you.
Should You Eat Before a Workout?
To put it simply, yes. You should eat before working out. Eating before working out can help improve your endurance, energize your brain, and replenish your glycogen. Carbohydrates, protein, and plenty of fluids are essential for a great performance.
What Time Are You Working Out?
The type of pre-workout snack you eat depends on the time of day you decide to work out. You should always eat one to two hours before working out which ensures that your body has fully metabolized everything it needs.
Morning Workout
Are you an early bird? An early-morning workout is a great way to get energized for the day. A few easy pre-workout snacks you can incorporate into your morning routine include fresh fruit, graham crackers, or our whey protein bars. Rise Bar uses five ingredients or less to help kickstart your morning in a healthy way.
Afternoon Workout
If you need to squeeze in a workout during your lunch break, you don’t have to show up to the gym with an empty stomach. Afternoon workouts can benefit from balanced mid-morning snacks like trail mix, yogurt, and protein bars.
Evening Workout
This one is for the night owls. If you prefer to work out in the evenings and nights, then working out around your dinner or supper can take a little bit of extra planning. Eating soup, a small sandwich, or a Rise Bar before or after your traditional mealtime can help fuel a balanced nighttime workout.
What to Eat Before a Workout?
If you want to feel good before, during, and after your workout, you should always strive to eat healthily. Consuming carbohydrates helps improve workout performance, so focusing on carbs for energy is vital. Just mind your portion sizes and save the large meals at least three to four hours before exercising.
Other delicious pre-workout snacks include:
- Bananas
- Granola Bars
- Smoothies
- Peanut Butter
- Yogurt
- Bagel or Crackers
Side Effects of Not Eating Properly Before a Workout
Not eating properly before a workout can—and will—have repercussions. If you haven’t consumed a healthy pre-workout snack or meal, you will most likely experience one or more of the following side effects:
- Nausea
- Poor Performance
- Risk of Injury
- Lightheadedness
Remember to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
Pre-Game Your Workout With Rise Bar
What you put into your body is crucial if you want to have a successful, healthy workout—so let Rise Bar rise to the occasion. Our Whey, Pea, and Vegan Protein Bars are packed with five energizing ingredients or less to take the stress out of your workout routine. Enjoy protein the simple way and shop Rise Bar.
