Nutrition: mistakes to avoid before training

You finally signed up at the gym and you’re determined to achieve your goals. You have a training plan, new shoes and a playlist worthy of the greatest DJs in the world. Small problem, once you step in the training room, you are unable to push your limits like you intended to do earlier in the day.

If this scenario seems familiar, chances are the problem is in your diet, an often overlooked element that has a huge impact on your performance!

Common mistakes before training

Eating high fat foods

The body takes longer to digest fat. Eating a handful of walnuts or avocado before a workout, despite their caloric content, will not provide energy quickly enough for your body to perform.

Eating high fiber foods

Fibers also need a longer period of time to be digested and eating a large quantity before training could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or bloating. Furthermore, many high-fiber foods, like vegetables, are low in calories and will not give you the energy required for a good workout.

Misusing stimulants

Stimulants such as coffee and pre-workout supplements can be effective for some individuals. Each body is different, therefore it is important to start with a small dose and look for the appropriate dose to give energy without feeling discomfort. These stimulants should also be consumed shortly before your arrival at the gym to avoid a drop in energy during your workout.

Arriving dehydrated

Fatigue and headaches are symptoms of dehydration and may greatly impact your workout. Make sure to hydrate 24 hours before your training. The color of your urine is the best indicator of your level of hydration. Pale yellow urine is a sign of good hydration, and dark/gold urine is an indicator of dehydration.

Drinking to much before arriving

Although hydration is important, avoid drinking lots of water right before training. Your body cannot absorb a lot of water at once and you may experience discomfort in addition to spending more time in the bathroom than in the training room.

Arriving on an empty stomach

Contrary to a popular myth, training on an empty stomach will not make fat melt faster. It is important to give energy to your body before training to maximize your workouts. For more information, read: What to eat before physical activity and A few breakfast ideas for your morning workout

If you have difficulty with your pre-workout diet, I recommend you make an appointment with one of our nutritionists.

Nutrition: mistakes to avoid before training is a post from Nautilus Plus. The Nautilus Plus blog aims to help people in their journey to fitness through articles on training, nutrition, motivation, exercise and healthy recipes.
Copyright © Nautilus Plus 2018