Weekly Tips for Your Peak Fitness and Wellness

This Week's Tip: Eat Right to Energize Your Workout

What you eat before you exercise can mean the difference between blasting through a tough set of intervals with energy to spare--or crashing mid-session and calling it a day. First, grab water, and lots of it. (See our “Stay Hydrated” tip to learn how much is enough.) Next, eat an adequate number of calories to last you through your workout but not too many that you get a belly ache. Shoot for a snack of 200 to 250 calories about an hour or so before your exercise session. Choose foods that offer a mix of carbohydrate and protein, such as a slice of whole-wheat toast with a little peanut butter, or apple slices and string cheese.

If you work out first thing in the morning, some exercisers do better on an empty stomach, while others need a little something--a banana or small cup of yogurt--to tie them over. Don’t skimp to save calories; you’ll just end up with a less effective workout and therefore less of a calorie burn. Lastly, make sure you eat again (same combo of carbs and protein) within an hour after your workout to replenish your energy and help repair muscle. If it’s time for a full meal, good choices include whole-grain cereal with skim milk and berries, or a turkey sandwich and salad. 

It may take a little trial and error to find what works for you, but once you do, the right foods will keep you powered through your workout and feeling strong.