Good nutrition and regular exercise are cornerstones for living a healthy active lifestyle. While you might have your food portions under control, it can sometimes be difficult to prioritise exercise into your already busy schedule.
Many South Africans have different preferences when it comes to choosing the most convenient time to schedule a workout. Whether you’re more of a morning person or prefer hitting the gym at night, Herbalife Nutrition shares how good nutrition can always be at the forefront of your exercise plan.
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Morning workouts
It’s true what they say – the early bird catches the worm. If you prefer working out in the early hours of the morning, either due to preference or work obligations, skipping breakfast is an absolute no-go. While some can’t stomach having a hearty breakfast before the sun rises, fuelling your body with nutritious food is a must. Grabbing a protein shake or small bowl of low-sugar cereal on your way out the door can fuel your body ensuring you get the most from your workout.
Speedy food options for an early breakfast
- Half a banana with a teaspoon of peanut butter
- A hard-boiled egg and half a slice of toast
- 1/4 cup dried fruit
- Protein shake for on the go
- Protein bar
ALSO SEE: 10 Healthy Breakfast Ideas That Will Kick Start Your Day
Post-workout breakfast ideas
- Oatmeal with low-fat milk
- A smoothie made with a scoop of protein powder, milk, frozen fruit and spinach
- Protein shake with added fruits, nuts or vegetables
- High protein muffin
ALSO TRY: Honey And Strawberry Smoothie Recipe
By kick-starting your metabolism with healthier food choices, you’ll find that you have renewed energy to tackle your workout and the day ahead. Plus, starting your day off on a good-food note will help you make better nutritional decisions throughout the day.
After a sweaty morning in the gym, you are likely to feel accomplished and won’t want to waste all that effort on unhealthy foods. Salads and high-protein foods will start to look more appealing and will help you manage your cravings more effectively.
ALSO SEE: 10 Healthy Snacks You Should Always Have In Your Kitchen
Afternoon/evening workouts
If you are a night owl and enjoy sleeping in in the mornings, afternoon or evening workouts are your best bet. Unlike early risers, your body would have already received ample food throughout the day. However, consuming the right nutrients after you’ve exercised is just as important as what you eat before.
Pre-workout snacks
- A banana with nut butter
- An apple with peanut butter or a small handful of nuts
- 1/2 cup oatmeal with raisins or berries
- Protein bar
- High protein shake
ALSO TRY: Banana And Pecan Oat Muffins Recipe
Post-workout dinner
- Grilled chicken with roasted vegetables
- Egg omelette with avocado spread on toast
- Tuna salad sandwich on whole grain bread
Apart from having a relaxed morning, working out after a busy day has additional benefits. It allows you to let off a little steam and because you don’t have to rush off to work like you typically do in the mornings, you’ll be able to exercise for longer.
A well-balanced, protein-rich shake or bar is the perfect source of energy before or after any workout, regardless of whether you choose to exercise in the morning or evening.
For targeted nutrition, snacks and more, be sure to visit the Herbalife Nutrition website.
