There are good gyms days and bad gym days. However, if you sense lethargy all the time and feel like the workout isn’t paying off, you need to do something about it. Fitness enthusiasts usually focus on how to replenish energy after the workout, but what about the strength required to exert oneself during training? Incomplete or poor nutrition are to blame for your lack of enthusiasm and low energy levels. You need to fuel up your body in order to perform your best.
If you are wiped out at the beginning of a training or workout session, you can never achieve your goals. You might even hurt yourself or become terminally ill if you continue to ignore your body needs. Therefore, grab one of these morale-boosting snacks before you hit the gym:
Wholegrain bread with Almond Butter
Almond butter is a nice alternative for peanut butter, as it brims with protein, calcium and the good kind of fats. You can spread it on a slice of wholegrain bread with jam/jelly and power up for a strenuous gym session. Whole grain bread is superior to regular white bread because it is light, yet more filling. When you have a slice of white bread, you are compelled to have another (as if you just had an appetizer). Wholegrain foods are so much more wholesome, tasteful, and satisfying.
Greek Yogurt with Berries
Greek yogurt is rich in calcium, probiotics, and Vitamin D that help strengthen bones and enhance muscle power. It contains twice as much protein as normal yogurt, which makes it so filling. It also has fewer carbohydrates and sugars, so it is easier on the stomach. Blue berries add some natural sweetness and they are known for improving brain function; their complex carbohydrates release sustainable energy over prolonged periods. They may regulate blood sugar and keep you proactive.
Banana Smoothie
Packed with potassium and containing 90% carbs, bananas are nature’s ultimate power bar. Slice them, dice them, make a smoothie, or eat them like a chimp. Bananas gives you a boost of energy that is void of any fats and cholesterol. Not to mention, they are sweet, delectable, and economical.
Baked Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are delicious, low in calories and rich in fiber. The simple sugars within are effective to quickly elevate your blood glucose levels and get you moving. They are also an ideal source of beta-carotene, that supports our immune system and gut health. Baked sweet potato is an excellent substitute for the greasy and unhealthy French Fries.
Oatmeal
This fiber rich food is ideal for staving off hunger and maintaining consistent energy levels. As the carbs digest slowly, energy is released in a controlled fashion over a long time. A small serving of oatmeal gives an amazingly full feeling, thereby reducing untimely cravings that stop you from heading to the gym.
Mocha Latte
Chocolate milk is a tasty and energizing snack, whereas Espresso is great for a caffeine fix. Combine the two in a mocha latte and ace your workout class. Who knew this scrumptious duo could make the impossible happen?
Dried Fruit and Nuts
Unprocessed dried fruit and nuts are a very healthy and nutritious snack. They are full of vitamins and minerals that improve mental and physical performance. If you are trying to lose weight, avoid readymade trail mix at all costs because most of them have high sodium and saturated fat content. I personally recommend a combination of organic raisins, cashews, almonds, pistachios, and walnuts.
Boiled Eggs
Eggs are certainly nature’s miracle food. The protein and good cholesterol will keep your stomach full and your body invigorated all day. You can always be creative with eggs; make a sandwich, prepare a salad, or just garnish them with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also stick to egg white if you are extra health conscious.
Corn on the Cob
Boil corn on the cob with some sugar and lemon juice to prepare a delightful snack that will keep your spirits up at the gym. This protein and fiber rich snack will prevent rapid drain of energy, even when you challenge yourself with intense cardio exercises.
Grilled Chicken or Salmon
If you prefer a meaty snack, stick to lean animal protein, as it helps maintain shape and keep cholesterol levels low. Salmon and chicken are two excellent options to supply you the oomph for some heavy weightlifting. You also get the satisfaction of having a wholesome meal rather than a surplus treat.
Author Bio:
John Adams is a paralegal and environmentalist, who loves to travel, read, and write. His blogs are mainly focused on personal injury and sustainable living. He believes that all of us can improve the quality of our life by incorporating positive thoughts and actions.