Optimize your Workout

 

Eating right and making the most of your workouts are important. Here are some tips that will ensure you get the optimum benefits from your workouts, before and after!

1. Breakfast: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Always try to have a little something when you wake up to get your metabolism working! Some good options for breakfast include fresh fruit, juice, whole-grain cereal, and low-fat milk. 

2. Meal Sizes: Avoid large meals right before your workout. If you eat a large meal, wait a couple hours until working out. It's a good idea to have a small snack about an hour before exercising. 

3. Smart Snacks: Your snack choice can really make a difference in the benefits of your workout. Try eating fresh fruit, yogurt, whole-grains, or a granola bar before working out.

4. Post- Workout: A meal or snack within 2 hours after a workout allows your muscles to recover and your glycogen stores to be replaced. Always focus on consuming protein and carbohydrates after your workouts. If your planning on eating dinner after working out, try having a meat option for protein with some vegetables.

5. Water, Water, Water!!: The most important thing during workouts is to stay hydrated! Make sure you have enough water before, during, and after your workouts to prevent dehydration. 

Remember: Always warm up and cool down adequately. Nobody wants a torn muscle!!

Every Tuesday: Sports Nutrition

Adapted from: www.mayoclinic.com