Timing is everything

[tara]

When it comes to making sure that you’re getting the most out of exercise and diet together, timing is everything. You wouldn’t think so, but it MATTERS.

I used to come home from work, eat dinner, and THEN go to the gym, or do whatever workout I had lined up for the day. That always made me hungry afterward and I’d end up eating too much in the day. Also I’d end up eating too close to bedtime and it would affect my sleep.

Here’s how to do it right :

Have a small, healthy snack BEFORE you exercise. A piece of fruit like a half of a banana, an apple or even one of those pouches of fruit/veg purees that they sell for toddlers will do in a pinch (no sugar added ones are best). Plan what you’re going to have for your healthy meal once you’re done your workout and do the prep if you can.

Then, do your workout, full blast.

Now it’s time to finish making your meal and sit down and eat it. This way, you’re not only eating your meal when your metabolism is running high, but you’re also combining your highest hunger point with mealtime. Exercising after a meal only makes you want to eat more. So exercise before (just give yourself a bit of a snack ahead of time so that you have energy to run on!).

[CuJo1992]

Thank you Tara. This is helpful!

[kellykatt]

Great advice!