Like many of you, I’m dedicating myself to a handful of workout goals in 2016, and since food is usually top-of-mind for me (ha) it begs the question: what should I be eating before exercise? When it comes to pre-workout snacks, I have a few requirements: a good mix of protein and carbs for energy, easy enough to whip up in 5 minutes or less, and not too heavy (gotta squeeze into those Lululemons, you know.) We rounded up our 10 favorite delicious ideas that will pump you up and help you perform your very best. And since I’m always on the hunt for snacking inspiration, I’d love to hear in the comments: What do you love to eat pre-workout?
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit has some major benefits over fresh fruit. By nature, dried fruits have more calories per serving, making them ideal for a pre-workout snack. In addition, dried fruits generally contain more fiber than fresh fruits and some dried fruits (berries especially) are packed with antioxidants. Be sure to snack on dried fruits in moderation and always opt for fruits without additives or excess sugar. Perfect snack for on-the-go.
Make your own dried fruit with this easy how-to.
Goat Cheese & Avocado Toast
Get motivated for your workout with this colorful and equally delicious avocado toast. Goat cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes make this the chicest pre-workout snack around.
Get the recipe here.
Strawberry Banana Pineapple Smoothie
Strawberry banana smoothies are a long-time workout staple. Made with gluten-free ingredients, it’s the perfect way to charge up for your workout and it’s an ideal snack for a busy lifestyle. Add some flaxseed and your favorite protein powder to amp up the classic smoothie’s nutritional value.
Apple Slices and Yogurt Peanut Butter Dip
This snack is only 150 calories per serving and comes packed with 8.4 grams of protein, making it the perfect power snack before your workout. In addition, peanut butter, apples and Greek yogurt are always workout-friendly snacks that are full of protein with just the right amount of energy-boosting calories.
No-Bake Peanut Butter-Chocolate Chunk Granola Bars
These vegan and gluten-free bars are the perfect snack to grab on your way to the gym. Peanut butter, dates and nuts give these bars a sweet taste with all the nutrients you’ll need to sweat it out.
Get the recipe here.
Banana Sushi
Unlike traditional sushi, this fun and healthy twist is so decadent, you’ll forget you’re going to work out! Sprinkled nuts like pistachios add extra protein to this nutrient-rich snack.
Get the recipe here.
Raspberry & Chia Seed Superfood Parfait
Delight in this healthy parfait before a workout and prepare to feel amazing the whole way through. Chia seeds, toasted coconut and almond granola and fresh fruit pack all your pre-workout snack essentials into one delicious treat.
Get the recipe here.
Toasted Coconut and Goji Berry Trail Mix
This hearty trail mix is ideal for the fitness conscious woman on the move. The coconut and goji berries provide a nutritious stockpile of proteins, carbs and sugars. Make a big batch before the workweek to always have go-to gym snack.
Oatmeal Quinoa Power Bowl
Protein-rich ingredients like quinoa, walnuts and bananas give you all the energy you’ll need for any workout that comes your way.
Get the recipe here.
Cottage Cheese and Berries
This is a supercharged protein snack. Along with berries boasting tons of nutrients and vitamins, cottage cheese is a protein stockpile. Half a cup of cottage cheese contains about 83 calories and 14 grams of protein, making it an ideal snack for weight training, cardio or any workout in between. Add a few walnuts for even more protein.
