Stock up on bundles of energy prior to your workout by including a nutritious snack. Eating before exercise, as opposed to exercising in the fasting state, has been shown to improve performance and is a great way to boost stamina and endurance. The purpose of a pre-workout snack is to:
Help prevent a low blood sugar which can wreck havoc on your energy level resulting in light-headedness and loss of concentration.
Top up your muscle and liver carbohydrate stores to provide lasting energy for the duration of your workout, and
Prevent hunger during your workout
Pre-Workout Snack Ideas:
Here are some snacks that pack a punch to keep you energized throughout your workout:
A small bowl of cereal with a banana
¾ cup of yogurt with ½ cup berries
1 bagel with non-hydrogenate peanut butter
½ cup trail mix
An English muffin with nut butter and honey
A smoothie made with milk or juice, fresh or frozen fruit, and wheat germ or flaxmeal
3-4 fig cookies or a low fat granola bar
Remember the golden rule of eating familiar foods before a race or competition. This would not be the time to try something new! Trial and error during training will help you find the fuel that will work best for you.