Pre-workout supplements ... we all know people who take them and probably wondered if we should too. I am all about taking your training sessions to the next level, but I believe that it should be done naturally through the food you eat. The topic is very controversial -- people will disagree with me. People take supplements for better focus, more energy and for that extra "pump", but there are more natural things that all those things for your body. Let me feed you some facts.
"Brain Food"
Caffeine - Yep that's right! Coffee is a natural stimulant for the brain. I'm not talking about your venti - non-fat - no foam - 6 shot - machiatto. I'm talking about that 1 cup straight black coffee with no sugar and no cream. Caffeine acts on the central nervous system and also increases metabolism. It's a great pre-workout drink for endurance activities or short power intensive workouts. Drink a cup of coffee an hour before your workout. Note: Caffeine can also dehydrate your body, make sure you drink an extra glass of water on a day you have a cup of joe.
Green Tea - Another great stimulant that contains antioxidants that help with weight loss. I know of some athletes and trainers that will drink a cup of half black coffee and half green tea to fuel their brain before a session.
"Body Food"
Bananas - They are loaded with digestible carbohydrates and potassium which help maintain nerve and muscle function. Eat a medium banana 30 minutes before a workout.
Fruit Smoothies & Juices (homemade) - High in fast burning carbohydrates and high quality proteins with the right recipe. In a blender, blend a 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup fruit and 1 cup of fruit juice, water, or coconut water. The protein in the yogurt prevents muscle damage and aids in recovery. You can also add in beet juice which contains a great amount of nitric oxide which keeps the blood flowing to the muscles during your workout.
Greek Yogurt with Fruit and Honey - 1 cup Greek yogurt, 2 sliced strawberries, 1/2 sliced banana and 2 tablespoons of honey. If you want, you can top it off with some granola. This is a great complex snack/meal before a workout, eat this an hour before your session. This balanced bowl of goodness holds protein and both fast and slow burning carbohydrates to fuel through your workout and more.
Acai Bowl - This tiny berry has been gaining popularity recently. Known as a super food, this acai berry aids in weight loss and is a good source of dietary fiber and contains 19 different amino acids which are the building blocks for protein. Use 1 packet of acai with a splash of apple juice/soy milk/coconut water and some frozen fruit. Blend all together, pour into a bowl and top with more fruit and granola. Just look at my picture above! Acai bowls are a great way to start the day.
Let me leave you with a little something to think about.
You wake up early and eat your oatmeal and egg whites for breakfast, snack on some fruit, grub on a chicken quinoa salad for lunch, have Greek yogurt for your mid day snack and finish the day with grilled chicken and roasted vegetables. Does it make sense for you to put some unnatural, lab processed powder in your body after eating healthy all day?
Get Fit, Eat Smart, Stay Healthy
Good Article. I still like the taste of Branched Chain Amino Acids mixed with iced water tho LOL
ReplyDeleteNice Read!!! I do agree with your point that Natural things play an important role to get energized, but supplement gives you a faster result. People take pre workout supplements for a better result. A right choice supplement increases your stamina, so that you can work out more. My father has used USP Labs-jack3d advanced formula pre workout supplement. It is a very beneficial product, but takes its dose after consulting with the physician. Consultation is necessary so that you will not face any problem in the future.
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