Post Workout Nutrition Tips — we’ve talked a little bit about what to eat…now let’s talk about when to eat it!
0-2 HOURS AFTER
This meal enhances your recovery for the next day and the earlier you can refuel, the better! The Open Workouts can be more challenging than your average day at the gym and your body won’t be recovering as quickly as usual. The sooner you’re refueled and kicking into ‘recovery mode,’ the more prepared you’ll be for the next workout. If your stomach isn’t up for a meal of real food, this is the ideal time for a post-workout shake to get those essential proteins and carbs, even if your appetite is low.
2+ HOURS AFTER
This meal is especially important during Open season because of the challenging nature of the workouts. It allows you to continue recovering from your earlier workout, and if it is one of your last meals of the day, it also prepares you for a good night’s sleep. This is important because certain recovery is specific to sleep! Recovery also ensures proper preparation for tomorrow’s workout. Now is the best time to fit in those essential macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins and minerals that you didn’t eat around workout times, such as fats and more fibrous vegetables.
19.4 should be fun and fast! Get a game plan for your post workout foods and we look forward to seeing you at the gym!
