How to Get Quick Energy Before a Workout

It's important to properly hydrate and fuel your body with the right foods and beverages before engaging in physical activity. The things you eat before a workout can increase your stamina and help you to achieve visible results much quicker. Don't hit the gym on an empty stomach. Use these healthy lifestyle tips to get your energy levels soaring before an intense workout session. These steps will prevent you from feeling lethargic during and after your workout.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. 

   Hydrate your body. Experts recommend that you drink enough water each day to keep your urine a light yellow color. Urine that is a dark color indicates dehydration and dehydration is the number one cause of exercise fatigue. Remember to drink plenty of water before you begin your exercise routine.

2. 

   Drink a large cup of coffee before your workout. Researchers report that caffeine helps to reduce fatigue caused by exercise and can also work to improve your stamina. Try a cup at least one hour before your next workout and watch your energy begin to soar.

3. 

   Try a sports drink. Sports drinks like Gatorade are excellent for endurance sports. They provide the body with glucose -a natural energy source- to help you hammer out your workout session. So, if your workout is going to be longer than 60 minutes, sip on an energy drink to kick up your energy levels.

4. 

   Fuel your body with protein and carbohydrates at least one hour before your workout. A pasta that is served with lean chicken breast and light sauce is a great pre-workout meal. The pasta will give you the fuel your body needs to carry you through your workout. The protein will satiety you and make you feel full without weighing you down. You can also fuel up on foods like bananas, peanut butter and whole grain toast to energize and get you ready for an intense workout.

Resources

• The Discovery Health Journal