Fueling Your Morning Workouts

Most of my training sessions are done very early in the morning. Some people eat before they come and some people don’t. Personally, I have a hard time working out before 8am. By then I have had 2 small means and feel fueled and ready for the challenge. I have found that people who do not eat are more likely to feel light headed, run out of energy early, and perform below their normal strength levels. I am not citing research here, just my experience in working with all of you. So what should you eat?

Food consumed prior to working out can be available for workout fuel. The science suggests eating a carbohydrate and protein mixture before working out will lead to optimal performance. However, eating very early in the morning before a tough workout sometimes does not go over well with our stomachs. If you have a hard time eating in the morning but find that you are low on energy if you don’t, consider this. Something that is mostly carbohydrates, such as a piece of fruit, will be available faster than a protein because protein & fat take longer to digest. If you can’t handle much food, go for a glass of OJ or a piece of fruit. If you can handle a little more, try some almond putter (right off the spoon) or on a piece of toast. There is no rule that you can’t have a 2nd breakfast after your workout to balance out the morning meal.

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Today's Workout: I managed a short walk today. That is about as close to exercise as I can come right now.
Today's Confession: Solid food today… still not healthy but solid.