ENABLING YOUR PASSION FOR HEALTHY LIVING

Top 5 Pre-Workout Early Morning Snacks

This morning I tried to give the Tone It Up Booty Call a boost.  The “Booty Call” says to wake up and go for a 30 minute walk or jog right away with out eating anything, you may have a glass or two of water.  I used to do it this winter with just walking and upped the intensity today to a jog to incorporate my Urbanathlon training.  I have long resisted this information because I’ve read so many conflicting studies about eating before you exercise in the AM.  

So how did it go?  AWFUL!  I had zero energy.  I could not get my heart rate above 171 for the life of me.  It was terrible.  I stopped after 28 minutes.  Katrina told me that this was because it was my first time trying the booty call with added intensity on an empty stomach.  The booty call is for accelerated fat loss and my slug-like performance was because my body is not yet efficient in breaking down triglycerides for energy.  She said it would get easier.  Hopefully in 2 weeks, I’ll be able to do it with a higher intensity.

But since I’m training for the Urbanathlon, I do need some extra energy.  Since I’m pretty close to my goal body fat percentage, and I’m training to run 12 miles with obstacles, I need enough energy to get me through my intense workouts.  The booty call is ideal for anyone looking to burn off ab fat and jump start their weight loss.  It’s not comfortable but changing your body isn’t suppose to be!

Conclusion: I need to eat something before I workout in the morning.  If I had eaten something I would have been able to exercise longer, at a higher intensity (which I need for my Urbanathlon training) and consequently, burned more calories, including calories from fat.  For someone like myself who is training, bring a snack like banana chips or G Series Fit Replenish for added energy during the workout.  Another idea is to exercise for 30 minutes, then have your snack.  Instead of pre-workout energy is become mid-workout energy.  If you are not training for a race, do try the booty call for accelerated fat loss, especially if you have a lot of weight to lose.

However, everyone’s body is different.  Find what works best for you.  Katrina swears by the booty call!

If you have tried the booty call and still cannot get your body to perform the way you want it, a good strategy is to have something small before you go.  I’ve decided to give you a list of my favorite snacks pre-workout, pre-breakfast.

1. Laughing Cow Mini Babybel Light or Sharp Original

The 6 grams of protein are perfect for a pre-workout snack.  The protein will force your body to use stored carbs and fat, preventing your body from burning muscle during your workout. With just 50-calories in the Light and 60 in the Sharp Original, you don’t have to worry about negating the calorie burning benefits of your workout, and you can still enjoy a yummy breakfast when you get back.

 

 

2. G Series Prime Bar

This is one of my newest best friends.  Yes, I’m writing the blog Crushing The Course on behalf of Gatorade but I truly have found a friend in the prime bars.  I have been having one before my workouts and have found that it gives me the energy boost that I need.  Best of all, it comes in a pack of 4.  If you are planning some serious lifting or cardio, have 2 or all 4 for the energy that you need.  The bar combined protein and carbs to maximize your energy levels.  I swear there is caffeine in there but the label says no.

3. Half a banana

Yes, I said just half of a banana.  That way you can come home and eat the other half with your protein pancake!  The 50 calories of straight carbs will energize your early morning exercise.  I have found that one half provides enough energy and does not ruin the fun in getting to enjoy a good breakfast after your workout!

4. 1 Scoop of Protein Powder

This has a few more calories in it than the rest listed above but will keep you muscles from using themselves for energy.  Not sure which brand to choose?  Check out my guide to choosing the right protein powder and find out my favorites.  Add it to water for a lower calorie option.

5. Slice of Ezekial Bread with Strawberry Preserves

This is also one of my favorite hang over breakfast cures so if you’ve had too many cocktails the night before, this may be a good bed (as would the banana).  The bread provides long lasting, slow releasing energy and the jam will deliver a quick shot of energy as it’s digested faster.

*These suggestions are for people looking to lose a few pounds.  If you are hoping to maintain your weight or train for a serious competition or race, a larger meal may be necessary.  I am also a contributor for Laughing Cow and Crushing The Course. I believe in their products and use them regularly, pinky swear!

Question:  What do you eat before an early morning workout session? Leave a comment down below!

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