Topic: Grub b/f the gym

[coastal96]

What sort of things should I eat before I head to the gym for a workout?  Should I down some carbs or a bit of protein?  I know about carb loading b/f a race (eg 5K/10K) and I also know bananas and orange juice can be very beneficial during a workout.  But I'm not too sure what to eat before a weight training workout. I typically eat a few handfuls of peanuts or have a light/small sandwich depending on how hungry I am.

[Gearsighted]

It would be best to consume a small snack that combines low glycemic-index carbohydrates with a good protein source and perhaps a bit of healthy fat. I would do this anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour before working out. This could be something like a protein shake and an apple with natural peanut butter, 1/3c of oatmeal, one egg and some almonds, or half of a carrot dipped in hummus with olive oil and a can of tuna.

[coastal96]

I knew it would only be a matter of time b/f you responded So it would be something like the following?

Protein shake and an apple with natural peanut butter

OR

1/3c of oatmeal, one egg and some almonds

OR

half of a carrot dipped in hummus with olive oil and a can of tuna.

I could def. do a protein shake and an apple.  I used to drink protein shakes (Myoplex Carb Sense) an hour or so b/f I would end up at the gym.  But the Myoplex RTD shakes became kind of hard to find in the flavor and type that I wanted.  I'll probably start mixing my own though . . . it's cheaper and easier to find.

[Gearsighted]

Yeah, either/or. It's good to make sure you have a good source of protein, healthy fat and low GI carb, whatever your choice, as this helps keep hormonal levels consistent. I would say choose a lean protein source such as chicken breast or tuna before a protein shake, as they are more refined, but I still drink them when I am short on time. Check out http://www.affordablesupplements.com for some good deals on different proteins. I am fond of the Pro Complex Optimum Nutrition in the Rocky Road flavor. It has a good mix of proteins to give you a wide spectrum of all the BCAA's, which is important for cellular regeneration and intra-workout recovery.