Natural Pre-Workout Boost: Top Foods and Drinks for Optimal Performance

Shayna Godhin

1. Hydration: The Foundation of Any Workout

It is therefore important to always take water to be well quenched during the exercises. Water intake before exercising tends to make the muscles contract effectively and also keeps a person charged up. Drinking enough water before going for a workout will protect you from becoming tired thus you can exercise harder. Fortunately, it only takes a pinch of Himalayan salt to be dissolved in your water to help replenish your electrolytes, particularly useful if you’re working out pretty hard.

2. Bananas: The Perfect Pre-Workout Snack

Bananas contain potassium which is very important in the development of muscles and to prevent muscle contraction during exercises. This fruit is also a great source of carbohydrates, which gives an instant energy source that is easy on the digestive system. On average, if one takes a banana for about half an hour to the time of exercising, he or she is assured of good endurance.

 3. Oats: Slow-Release Energy

Oats are well suitable to be taken before workouts because of fibers and slow digesting carbs. Most people experience a rich source of energy when they take oats before a workout session, this makes one to be strong for long workouts. B vitamins are also present in oats and these foods help in the metabolism of carbohydrates into energy. Oatmeal with a spoon of honey and a cup of fruit is well recommended when going for a workout in the morning.

4. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Berries

Protein is very important in muscle build up hence Greek yogurt which is fully packed with protein. When used in great proportion with honey and berries, it makes a balanced pre-workout nutrition. The natural sugars in honey give an instant source of energy while the berries contain antioxidants to counteract oxidative stress during workouts. This way, there is a guarantee that there is sustainable energy, and more so, the muscles will be fully supported.

5.  Beetroot Juice: A Natural Performance Enhancer

Beetroot juice contains nitrate which, once ingested, boosts the nitrate levels in the blood thus improving circulation, or words to that effect, hence making one endure. It must be remembered that consuming beetroot juice, preferably about 1-2 hours before engaging in an exercise will raise the nitric oxide levels in the blood enhancing muscles to utilize oxygen. This can result in better performance, especially during aerobic exercises such as marathons, cycling, and others.

6. Almonds and dried fruits mix.

Almonds accompanied with dried fruits such as raisins or apricots are a good snack that can be taken some time before exercising. Almonds are a source of good fat and protein which makes the body have sustained energy and muscles are also repaired. Both fruits and nuts provide natural sugars which can quickly replenish energy yet dried fruits are perfect for those who are planning to exercise since they will require a quick burst of energy.

7. Coffee: The Natural Pre-Workout Drink

Caffeine is familiar as being stimulating thus it helps to increase focus, energy, and stamina. Intake of a cup of black coffee 30-60 minutes before exercising can assist one to strain during several exercises by raising adrenaline rates. A cup of coffee also leads to the stimulation of the nervous system, thus enabling the body to shed fats that will be useful when performing the exercises.

8. Apples Sliced with Peanut Butter

Apple and peanut butter are ideal because it will present both simple carbohydrates and proteins, and healthy fats. Apples supply natural sugar that gives energy to the body during the exercise while peanut butter also supplies protein and fats which help to maintain energy in the exercise. Since the snack is ready when the alert is given they can be taken quickly before going out to exercise.

9. Chia Seeds in Coconut Water

Chia seeds are a very good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein thus making them very good for taking before a workout session. These fruits when immersed in coconut water make a nourishing and replenishing drink that enhances hardness and vigor. Coconut water charges your body with electrolytes, chia seeds on the other hand give you sustained energy during workouts, especially those that take longer.

10. Sweet Potatoes: A Complex Carb Powerhouse

Potatoes contain complex carbohydrates and fiber that give out energy slowly and steadily. They also contain vitamin A and vitamin C that assists in the reduction of inflammation in the body. Consuming a small portion of sweet potatoes before a workout can effectively maintain energy well through exercises, especially of strength type.

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