The Best Pre-Gym Snacks to Eat Before a Workout
Did you know that food can have a big impact on your ability to workout? Pre-gym snacks should be thought of as a fuel for the body to help keep your endurance up and get the most out of your workout. However some foods are better than others to have before exercising. That’s why TREK has outlined some of the best pre-gym snacks for you to try!
The importance of pre-workout snacks
If you want to maximise your workout performance and get the most out of your training, then you need to make sure that you are fueling your body properly. This is especially important if you are exercising in the morning before eating a meal. If you don’t eat anything before exercising, then your body will burn a higher percentage of fat for energy. However, if you do eat something beforehand, then your body will utilise the food for fuel instead of fat reserves.
If you’re not eating breakfast before heading to the gym or going for a run, then it’s best to eat something small about 30 minutes before getting started on your workout routine. This can be as simple as a piece of fruit or some toast with peanut butter. If you’re looking for more complex carbohydrates (which will provide longer-lasting energy), then try whole wheat bread with a fruit spread.
Best pre-workout snacks:
Your pre-workout snack should provide you with healthy nutrients that are digested quickly so they get to your muscles when they need them most. It should also be something that will sit well in your stomach and won’t cause digestive upset during exercise. Here are just a few ideas…
1.TREK Bars
All of our TREK protein bars provide natural, balanced and sustainable energy to keep you powered for longer. This makes them a great snack to eat pre-workout in order to provide you with energy needed for an intense session. You can have a different TREK product depending on your exercise routine. For example, TREK Flapjacks are a great option if you exercise early in the morning! You can grab a protein flapjack to eat on your way to the gym to ensure you are fueled for your workout ahead. On the other hand, TREK Protein Power Bars are high in protein to keep you feeling energised for longer – perfect for a long workout like running!
2. Apple slices with peanut butter
Apples have a lower glycemic index than most fruits, so they won’t spike your blood sugar or cause a big insulin response. The apple-peanut butter combination also provides carbs, fibre and healthy fats to power you through your workout without weighing you down.
3. Banana with almond butter
Bananas are high in complex carbs and potassium, which helps prevent muscle cramps during exercise. The almond butter adds fibre and protein to keep hunger pangs away during your workout, plus it has healthy fats that will help keep you fuller longer after exercising.
4. Trail mix
Trail mix is the perfect pre-workout snack for those who do not like to eat a lot before a workout. It offers carbs and protein in a small but filling package, and it’s easy to make! All you need are nuts, dried fruit, and your favourite cereal. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some vegan chocolate chips or even popcorn to the mix.
Top tip : Make sure to consume the trail mix at least an hour before your workout so you do not feel weighed down while exercising, and if you are purchasing a ready made trail mix be sure to avoid the sugary versions that can spike your blood sugar levels.
4. Whole-grain crackers with hummus
Hummus is made from chickpeas and contains protein, which helps keep your energy levels up during exercise. There are lots of yummy healthy snacks you can dip in hummus like carrots or celery, but we recommend whole-grain crackers because whole-grain foods are more easily digestible. This makes for a lighter snack so you do not have a heavy stomach before exercising.
5. Fruit smoothies
An easy way to get vitamins and fibre from fruit is by blending it into a smoothie. You can also add dairy-free yoghurt or milk to ensure there’s enough protein in the mix to keep your muscles strong while working out.
For more information on good muscle foods read our TREK guide to Muscle Recovery Foods here.
There are so many snacks out there when it comes to pre-workout foods. These are just a few examples of foods that can boost energy, increase endurance, and provide you with ample nutrients for staying healthy. They’re not complicated to make, so will not add too much time to your daily routine to prep – our TREK bars can simply be grabbed and eaten on the go! So what are you waiting for? It’s time to start considering food as part of your workout plan as you need both nutrition and exercise to live a holistic, healthy life!
For more information on the relationship between food and exercise read our TREK blogs on The Best Post-Workout Food and High Protein Snacks.
