Signing the gym membership paperwork is often the first step toward staying and getting in shape and getting fit, yet the steps that follow are usually difficult. Although there are some things you need to do before hitting the gym, you should also consider your diet after joining the gym. The nutritional requirements will be different once you are exercising regularly and eating the right foods can give you the stamina and energy you need in achieving your goals in the gym. |
Eating Breakfast
Do not write off your breakfast when you are trying to get fit. Regardless of when you are planning to visit the gym, eating a healthful and balanced breakfast sets the stage for a beneficial workout. The blood sugar is low in the morning, and can lower your energy level. Breakfast also give you some energy boost, according to experts and skipping this meal will actually put you at risk for obesity. You need to eat protein that can keep you full for many hours and will help you build strong tissue. You can try eating some scrambled eggs, a sandwich made with a slice of cheese and lean ham or a smoothie made with protein powder and yogurt.
Before The Gym
You should not eat right before exercising because this can make you feel weighed-down and nauseous, yet it is smart to eat some snacks an hour before you work out to keep the blood sugar up. Eating carbohydrates can give you energy, yet they are quick to digest. A small bowl of light pasta, whole wheat toast and fruits will work. If you plan hitting the gym within an hour or three of breakfast , skip the protein and just eat a small meal high in carbohydrates instead.
Eating After The Gym
The food that you are eating after working out is just as important as what you are eating before. Try to eat something within two hours after leaving the gym to assist your tissue recover and replace the fluids and nutrients you sweated out. Carbohydrates are useful, because they help replenish the glycogen, which is the sugar that your body stores until it needs energy. Potato dishes and rice are examples of your post-workout carbohydrate dishes, and you can reach out for a whole wheat toast or fruits.
Water
If you did not keep a bottle of water with you before, then you will need to start once you join the gym. Sweating and exercise can bring on hydration, yet drinking during the workout is not enough. Drinking a cup of water every hour during the two to three hours before hitting the gym and drink some water in your bottle every few minutes when working out. Sports drinks can also be helpful because they can keep your electrolyte levels stable, but make sure that you read the label and choose those low in sugar. Taking supplements like deer antler velvet can also help you gain the energy you lost after working out.
Photo Credit: sharecare.com