If you are planning to weight train, then the actual training is just half the battle. The other half is your nutrition, and proper nutrition is vital to successful weight training! Too often, people spend hours in the gym wondering why they’re not getting stronger. Of course, it could be from many factors, but the most common factor is that they’re not eating right!
That said, if you want to make the most out of your weight training session, here's how you should be eating:
The Basics about Eating and Weight Lifting
If you’re starting a weight training program, you might be wondering what kind of nutrition you need to support your new workout routine. Here’s a quick overview of the basics of nutrition for weight training.
First, it’s important to eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. This will help you get the energy you need to power through your workouts and build muscle.
Second, you need to make sure you’re eating enough calories to support your new activity level. Weight training requires more energy than your body is used to, so you’ll need to consume more calories than usual. Generally, you’ll be on a calorie surplus, not a deficit. Not only is it easier to build muscle in a surplus, but it also fuels your weight lifting sessions.
Third, you need to make sure you’re getting enough protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth, so you’ll need to make sure you’re getting enough of it in your diet.
Finally, you need to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will help your body recover from your workouts and stay healthy.
By following these basic guidelines, you’ll be on your way to a healthy and successful weight training program.
What Exactly Should I be Eating?
The foods one eats for weight lifting can differ from one person to the other, but here’s a general guide that you can follow and build on as you get more experienced:
Before Your Workout
It’s important to eat before you lift weights. A light snack or meal will give you the energy you need to work out and help your body build muscle. Some good options to eat before your workout include:
-A piece of fruit
-A handful of nuts
-A protein shake
-A small bowl of oatmeal
During Your Workout
It’s unnecessary to eat during your workout, but you can if you feel like you need some extra energy. If you do eat during your workout, stick to simple, easy-to-digest foods.
Some good options to eat during your workout include:
-A banana
-A sports drink
-A handful of raisins
-A energy gel
After Your Workout
It’s important to eat after your workout to help your muscles recover and replenish your energy stores. A protein-rich meal or snack is a good option.
Some good options to eat after your workout include:
-A chicken breast
-A protein shake
-A bowl of yogurt
-A piece of fruit
Wrapping Up
Simply put, if you’re lifting weights to build muscle, you need to make sure you’re eating enough calories and protein. But that doesn’t mean you should load up on junk food. Eat healthy, nutritious foods that will give your body the energy it needs to lift weights and build muscle! This ensures your body can effectively build its muscle to get stronger so that the next time you train, you can lift heavier!
Tasilifestyle is a platform that’s all about the active lifestyle where you can learn how to live a healthier, happier life! For 10-minute bodyweight workouts and other exercise tips, check out our content.
