Fueling your workout!
Have you ever had a day exercising where you just have zero energy? No matter how bad you want to workout you just don’t have it in you. You will try and try but you just seem to be coming up short on reps or weight.  There are many factors that can keep you from performing to your maximum potential. Not getting enough sleep, rest in between workout sessions, hydration and nutrition are some of the key factors that can impact your workouts. I’m going to focus on fueling your exercise with the right foods before your workout. It’s much more involved than just eating something before you train. The outcome depends on what and when you eat.

You may be thinking, “If I need energy for my workout, I’ll just drink a soda, energy drink or eat a protein bar!” While that quick burst of sugar will sure enough give you an energy boost, but it won’t last very long. They are all filled with simple sugar and will spike your insulin levels which will give you that initial boost of energy but after that spike you will crash, your body’s fuel tank will be on empty. The best thing to eat before a workout is complex carbohydrates. What are complex carbohydrates you ask? Complex carbohydrates are foods in the whole grain form. Oatmeal, fruits, bran, legumes and even whole grain pasta are complex carbohydrates. You should try to eat a serving about an hour or so before you train. This will fuel your body through the workout and allow you to exercise longer without fatigue. Complex carbohydrates should ALWAYS be an important part of diet.
Below is a few links that will also give further information as well as give you lists of good complex carbohydrates to fuel your exercise with.
Eat healthy and train hard!
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