What Should I Eat Before a HIIT Workout?

What Should I Eat Before a HIIT Workout?

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has grown in popularity because it can provide proven results in a short amount of time. With our busy schedules, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

HIIT encompasses a style of workout that includes repeated sessions of quick, intense exercise. These workouts can be specifically tailored to your needs. When HIIT is used in combination with a nutritional program, the result can be amazing.

Whether you are just starting a HIIT program or have been participating in one for a while, it is essential to know what constitutes healthy eating. Here are some suggestions:

General Nutritional Support

When you start your fitness journey, you should always keep in mind that a consistently healthy diet is key to getting reliable, long-term results. A well-rounded nutritional program should always include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. You should also make sure you are eating sufficient calories and carbohydrates to fuel workout sessions. Drinking water regularly is a must to maintain proper hydration.

Eating Before a HIIT Session

As mentioned, High-intensity interval training provides repeated sessions of intense exercise for short periods. Due to the nature of this workout style, you must follow a healthy diet leading up to your workouts. Try to have a meal that includes moderate-to-high amounts of carbs and protein roughly 3 to 4 hours before training. Follow your session up with another high-carb snack an hour later. Here are some suggestions for a pre-workout meal:

  • Banana with almond or peanut butter
  • Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt with a side of fruit
  • Almonds, dried fruits, or a protein/ice blend

Eating After a HIIT Session

It is vital to restore the body’s energy and ensure muscle repair with the proper nutritional snack. Current research suggests that a ratio of 3:1 carbs-to-protein is best to supplement the body post-workout. Additional suggestions for post-training include:

  • Fruit and a whole-grain cereal
  • Pita bread with hummus spread
  • Cheese with fruit and crackers

The ideal foods you eat before and after training sessions will accelerate results and re-energize you. The results you seek in a HIIT program will only be accentuated by maintaining a healthy diet. If you need help determining the best meal plan for your fitness journey, make sure to contact a certified nutritionist.

Our unique approach to training will get you the results you crave. Our team will motivate you to excel past your expectations. For more information about our HIIT classes, contact us today. Our gym is open and practicing all CDC guidelines. The health and wellbeing of our clients and our staff are our number one priority. Remember to ask about our Trial Offer!