Best Pre-Workout Snacks for Energy
Depending on the time of day you work out, you might need a little fuel to get going, especially if you’re hitting the gym after a long day at work. Pre-workout snacks for energy prior to working out aren’t a must, though. In reality, most of us will do just fine without them. But, if it’s been two to three hours since your last meal or you’re just feeling sluggish, then you might benefit from a snack before your exercise routine – as long as you make a smart choice.
About 30 minutes before your workout is the best time for a pre-workout snack. Aim for a combination of protein and carbohydrates – especially carbohydrates. Keep it small, you don’t want to eat so much that your body is diverting energy to digestion while you’re trying to make it through that spin class. Here are a few suggestions for smart pre-workout snacks that will give you a little boost without weighing you down.
- Greek yogurt. Jackpot! Greek yogurt contains protein and carbohydrates, so you kill two birds with one stone. Note: Read labels. A lot of fruit-flavored Greek yogurts are loaded with sugar, as are the varieties that incorporate chocolate chunks, candied nut clusters, and the like. Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt is the way to go.
- Apple with nut butter. If you haven’t tried this combination, give it a shot – you’ll love it!
- Rice cake with nut butter. Also delicious.
- Thrive Plus FORM in Berry or Orange Mango. Sequential Gel Technology from Le-Vel, along with proprietary Hydrolyzed Collagen Protein, supports post-exercise recovery and repair, strong bones and joints, lean muscle mass and weight management, plus firm and healthy skin.
- Granola bar. Not just any granola bar. Not all varieties are created equal, as you know. Read labels and choose one with as few ingredients as possible. Thrive Pro Bars are a great choice. Each bar is packed with 20 grams of sequentially delivered protein and only 2 to 3 grams of sugar.
- Packet of plain, unsweetened oatmeal. Cooked with low-fat milk.
- Peanut butter protein balls. Check out this simple and delicious recipe.
- Pumpkin pie energy balls. Everything’s pumpkin spice this time of year, right? Read recipe.
- A banana or orange.
- Avocado toast with or without chopped egg on top.
- 1 or 2 hard boiled eggs with a serving of fruit.
- Cheese stick with whole-grain crackers.
- Carrot sticks and hummus.
Now you’re set with the best pre-workout snacks for energy. As always, be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after your workout.
