Gearing up for an intense workout requires a considerable amount of prep work. From wrangling on a new outfit, prepping your playlist, and picking out the perfect gym bag, we can say that it takes a lot of time and energy to get ready for the fitness routine.
However, one step that sometimes gets forgotten in the process – fueling your body before you go. Properly nourishing your body before working out will ensure that you have more energy and focus so you can stay active and energetic throughout your workout.
As a result, you’ll feel better after and be ready for your next session. So, what are some good drinks to have before hitting the gym? Check out our list below and start packing those bottles!
Greens Powder Juice
Before starting your routine with the most recommended and top rated water rower in the market, a good drink is a must. Greens powders are one of the best organic supplement choices for a healthy drink before hitting the gym. They provide a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. You’ll get a day’s worth of fruit and veggies in one scoop or two of greens powder, which means a big energy boost before working out.
Mix them with water, juice, or your favorite yogurt to get an even bigger nutritional punch. If you’re looking for something light that won’t give you stomach cramps from all those carbs and sugars, this drink is for you!
But of course, greens powders aren’t a replacement for eating vegetables and fruits. They should be used as supplements only. So, don’t just rely solely on greens powders for nutrients. Instead, use it to fill in gaps in your diet.
Banana-Walnut Bliss Smoothie
Bananas are chock-full of potassium, which helps regulate your heart rate and blood pressure. Walnuts offer omega-3 fatty acids that have been shown to improve cognitive function and boost the immune system. Mix them, and you’ll get a powerful protein shake that gives you enough energy for an intense workout.
Try this recipe for yourself: Combine one banana, two tablespoons almond butter, one tablespoon honey, half cup skim milk or soy milk (add more if needed), and half cup ice in a blender blend until smooth. Top with two tablespoons of chopped walnuts.
You’ll surely enjoy this treat before working out because of the yummy flavor. So, try it the next time you hit the gym. It’s healthier than any other pre-workout drink, and it tastes delicious!
Water
Of course, nothing beats the power of water. It’s the best choice for fueling your body before hitting the gym. According to the American Council on Exercise, the recommended ounces of water to drink before your workout is 17 to 20.
That’s about 2.5 cups. Drink water twenty to thirty minutes before your workout to ensure your muscles are adequately hydrated and you don’t get dizzy or faint during exercise.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is another popular pre-workout drink, and for a good reason. Many studies have shown that it significantly improves muscle strength, endurance, and recovery. It also increases your body’s hydration levels and helps maintain electrolyte balance.
Best of all, it doesn’t come with its share of side effects, which is a good thing considering what you’re about to do at the gym. Coconut water can also help you build immunity against illnesses like colds and the flu because it contains vitamin C and other immune-boosting antioxidants.
Unlike caffeine products that give you a burst of energy but disturb your sleep patterns, this natural beverage will leave you feeling energized but refreshed. In addition, drinking coconut water before your workout will ensure that your muscles are replenished with nutrients.
So, if you’re looking for a way to get an energy boost without breaking out in acne or having trouble sleeping later on, then it may be time to switch things up. Give coconut water a try before you head off to the gym!
Sports Drink
Sports drinks such as Gatorade and Powerade are great pre-workout drinks. These drinks have plenty of electrolytes that help the body maintain a healthy balance of water, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus.
All of them help the body absorb salts and fluids lost while exercising. Not only that, the sugar in sports drinks fuels muscles to keep working harder during the workout. So, grab your sports drink before you hit the gym and stay hydrated. It will help power up your muscles and provide the energy you need for those tough workouts!
Takeaway
Staying hydrated is critical to working out successfully. Otherwise, you risk feeling dizzy or having difficulty focusing on your form and routine. The options listed in this post are some of the best drinks to have before hitting the gym. Remember that all drinks will vary depending on your body’s preference, so experiment with different types until you find one that satisfies your needs. Drink up!
