3 Tips for Fueling Your Workouts

I don't care if you're a competitive athlete, leisurely walker, or you mow the lawn with gusto. If you're moving your body, you can benefit from paying attention to your nutrition.

I can't tell you how many times I hear the phrase:

"I don't need to pay attention to my fueling, I'm not working out that hard!"

The truth is, moving your body requires energy. In order to supply your body with the energy it needs, you need to be fueling properly.

Thankfully, there are a few, simple shifts you can make to ensure your body is set up for a more effective workout.

1. Don't fear carbs!

No, you don't need to eat a plate of pasta with a side of bread every night to get enough carbs, but carbohydrates are needed for everyone, especially active people.

Even at rest, your body uses carbs. However, when you raise the intensity by walking, running, sprinting, jumping, or lifting weights, the demand for carbohydrates INCREASES. Meaning - if you're looking to get in a high-intensity workout, carbs are your friend.

That doesn't mean low-intensity, long-duration activities DON'T require carbs, but the higher the intensity, the more carbs are necessary.

2. Be sure you're eating ENOUGH.

Many people believe they eat too much, and they need to cut calories. MANY of those people actually aren't eating near enough, or they aren't eating consistently throughout the day.

Restricting your intake throughout the day, only to chow down massively in the evening is a great way to tank your energy levels and make you feel lousy.

Instead, aim to eat at least three to four meals/snacks a day, including protein with each one.

Have you tried our Athlete meals? These are higher in calories (coming from carbohydrates and protein) to make sure you're getting the fuel you need!

3. Eat before your workout.

Fueling before a workout can be tricky, especially for those with sensitive stomachs.

Practicing a fueling routine and finding what's right for you is essential, but incorporating easily-digestible carbohydrates is a great start.

A few examples could be:

• A bowl of cereal

• Pretzels

• Applesauce

• Banana

• A small glass of 100% juice

Incorporating these between 30-90 minutes before a workout can help "top off your energy tanks" and give you a little edge in your workout.

Have you been struggling with incorporating a consistent fueling routine? Quit the guesswork and see if you're a qualified candidate for nutrition coaching.