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What to Eat Before and After a Workout

Getting a good workout is more than just hitting the gym. Studies have shown that what you eat before and after exercise can improve your performance and recovery time.

Read on for tips and ideas for healthy pre- and post-workout snacks.

Low-Intensity, Short Workouts (~200 calories or less)

Low-intensity, short cardio workouts could include a short walk, easy elliptical session or slow jog. Low-intensity, short strength workouts could include activities such as yoga, low-impact aerobics sessions and barre classes. I typically prefer to consume snacks that are under 200 calories before and after these workouts, such as:

  • 1 hard-boiled egg and a small apple
  • 1/2 piece of toast and jam
  • Handful of carrots and 1 tablespoon of hummus

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High-Intensity, Long Workouts (300+ calories)

High-intensity, long workouts could include distance running, sprinting, spin classes, swimming, high-intensity boot-camp classes, heavy weightlifting, kickboxing or long bike rides.

For high-intensity workouts, I typically eat the same foods I’d consume before a low-intensity workout, but in larger quantities. Pre- and post-workout snacks for high-intensity exercise include:

  • 2 hard-boiled eggs and toast
  • Handful of crackers and tuna
  • 1/2 cup of yogurt and 1/3 cup of oatmeal

More Pre- and Post-Workout Snack Ideas

  • High-carb: Bread, oatmeal, crackers, rice, potatoes
  • Low-fat: Fruit, vegetables, energy drinks, low-fat yogurt
  • High-protein: Eggs, hummus, deli meat, tuna, Greek yogurt
  • High-fat: Eggs, cheese, whole milk, full-fat yogurt, nut butter

Remember, everyone’s bodies are different, which means there’s no set diet that works for everyone. Try a few different snacks before and after your workout and see what works best for you.

Consult your doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program.

Mary Lambkin

Mary Lambkin is a Nashville native, blogger, and healthy living enthusiast. She lives in East Nashville with her husband and loves running through downtown Music City and around Shelby Park. Mary has run nine marathons and is always looking for new recipes to fuel her exercise adventures. Learn more about her at www.minutespermile.com.

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Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.

Filed under: Food & Recipes

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Mary Lambkin is a Nashville native, blogger, and healthy living enthusiast. She lives in East Nashville with her husband and loves running through downtown Music City and around Shelby Park. Mary has run nine marathons and is always looking for new recipes to fuel her exercise adventures. Learn more about her at www.minutespermile.com.

WellTuned provides inspiration and practical advice for healthy living.
WellTuned does not offer medical advice. Any personal health questions should be addressed to your doctor.

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