Are you struggling to find the right breakfast to fuel your workouts? You're not alone. Many people overlook the importance of pre-workout nutrition and end up feeling fatigued or sluggish during their exercise routine. In this article, we'll provide a guide to help you optimise your performance by choosing the best pre-workout breakfast.

Quick Summary

  • Pre-workout nutrition is essential for maximising performance during exercise.
  • A good pre-workout breakfast should contain a mix of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
  • It's important to hydrate before and during your workout.
  • Eating too close to your workout can cause digestive discomfort, while eating too far in advance can leave you feeling hungry during your workout.
  • Everyone's nutritional needs are different, so it's important to pay attention to how your body responds to different foods and adjust accordingly.
  • Post-workout nutrition is also important for recovery and preventing muscle damage.

Why is Pre-Workout Nutrition Important?

Pre-workout nutrition is essential for maximising performance during exercise. When you eat before a workout, your body has the fuel it needs to power through your routine. Proper nutrition also helps prevent muscle damage, reduces fatigue, and improves recovery time.

What are the Benefits of a Good Pre-Workout Breakfast?

A good pre-workout breakfast can help you achieve your fitness goals faster. Here are some of the benefits you can expect:

  • Improved performance
  • Increased energy and stamina
  • Reduced muscle soreness
  • Faster recovery time
  • Enhanced mental focus

What Makes a Good Pre-Workout Breakfast?

A good pre-workout breakfast should contain a mix of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Carbohydrates provide your body with energy, protein helps repair and build muscle, and healthy fats provide sustained energy throughout your workout. It's also essential to hydrate adequately before and during your workout.

What Foods Should You Include in Your Pre-Workout Breakfast?

Here are some foods to consider including in your pre-workout breakfast:

Complex Carbohydrates

  • Oatmeal
  • Whole-grain bread
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa

Protein Sources

  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Whey protein powder
  • Turkey or chicken breast

Healthy Fats

  • Avocado
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Nut butter (e.g., almond butter)
  • Olive oil

When Should You Eat Your Pre-Workout Breakfast?

It's best to eat your pre-workout breakfast at least 30 minutes to an hour before your workout. This gives your body time to digest the food and use it for energy during your workout.

How Much Should You Eat?

The amount you should eat depends on your individual needs and workout intensity. As a general guideline, aim for a meal that contains 300-500 calories with a mix of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.

Pre-Workout Breakfast Ideas

Here are some pre-workout breakfast ideas to help you get started:

Option 1: Oatmeal with Peanut Butter and Berries

  • 1/2 cup of rolled oats
  • 1 tablespoon of natural peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup of mixed berries
  • 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk

Option 2: Greek Yogurt with Fruit and Almonds

  • 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup of mixed fruit (e.g., berries, banana)
  • 1/4 cup of almonds

Option 3: Scrambled Eggs with Whole-Grain Toast and Avocado

  • 2 scrambled eggs
  • 1 slice of whole-grain toast
  • 1/4 avocado

Other Helpful Tips To Consider For Your Pre Workout

here are some additional tips and information to help you further optimise your pre-workout breakfast:

Hydration

Don't forget to hydrate before and during your workout. Dehydration can cause fatigue, muscle cramps, and decreased performance. Aim to drink at least 8-16 ounces of water or an electrolyte drink 30 minutes before your workout.

Timing

It's important to eat your pre-workout meal at the right time to optimise performance. Eating too close to your workout can cause digestive discomfort, while eating too far in advance can leave you feeling hungry during your workout. Experiment with timing to find what works best for you.

Portion Size

As mentioned earlier, the amount you should eat depends on your individual needs and workout intensity. However, be mindful of portion sizes. Eating too much can cause digestive discomfort, while eating too little can leave you feeling fatigued during your workout.

Individual Needs

Remember that everyone's nutritional needs are different. What works for one person may not work for another. Pay attention to how your body responds to different foods and adjust accordingly.

Post-Workout Nutrition

Finally, don't forget about post-workout nutrition. Eating a meal that contains carbohydrates and protein within 30 minutes of your workout can help speed up recovery and prevent muscle damage.

Recommended Pre Workout To Take Before Your Morning Gym Session

In addition to food, there are also pre-workout supplements that can help improve performance. Here are a select few we recommend!

1. Naughty Boy Menace Pre Workout 420g £34.99

Naughty Boy Menace Pre Workout is a popular item in the UK and there's good reason why! It's a fully transparent all-round pre-workout that has a wide variety of ingredients all at solid dosages. Designed to cover all areas of a workout, including increased energy and mental focus, as well as enhanced pumps and performance.

2. Applied Nutrition ABE Pre Workout 315g £25.00

Applied Nutrition ABE Pre Workout delivers a unique blend of the most vital and researched active ingredients known to help increase physical performance, reduce tiredness & fatigue and provide continual focus throughout your training, maximising your body's potential.

3. InnovaPharm MVPre 2.0 Pre Workout 356g £37.00

You'll feel like a beast with InnovaPharm MVPre 2.0. MVPre 2.0 has unique ingredients chosen specifically for their energy, focus, and pump qualities. With massive doses of powerful nootropics and nitric oxide enhancing ergogenic aids, every serving delivers an intense mind-to-muscle connection you just won't find anywhere else.

 

InnovaPharm MVPre 2.0 Pre Workout 356g

4. NXT Nutrition TNT Nuclear Shots (60ml) x 12 £14.99

TNT Nuclear Shot is designed to give you an explosive uplift in energy & strength immediately prior to your workouts. Formulated with a blend of ingredients that are scientifically proven to buffer lactic acid, increase endurance, and enhance overall strength.

NXT Nutrition TNT Nuclear Shots 12

Don't underestimate the power of pre-workout nutrition. By fuelling your body with the right nutrients, you can optimise your performance and achieve your fitness goals faster. A good pre-workout breakfast should include a mix of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Experiment with different foods to find what works best for you and your workout routine.

At Nutrition Now, we are official stockists for only the highest quality sports nutrition brands in the UK and Ireland. For a complete shopping experience, check out our pre workout supplements range!

Pre Workout FAQs

Is it better to eat before or after a workout?

Eating before a workout is better for performance, but eating after a workout is crucial for recovery.

How long before a workout should I eat?

It's best to eat your pre-workout meal at least 30 minutes to an hour before your workout.

Can I eat a heavy meal before a workout?

It's best to avoid heavy meals before a workout as they can cause digestive discomfort and make it harder to exercise.

What if I don't have time for a full breakfast before a workout?

If you're short on time, try a small snack that contains a mix of carbohydrates and protein. For example, a banana with nut butter or a protein bar.

Can I drink coffee before a workout?

Yes, caffeine has been shown to improve athletic performance. However, be mindful of your caffeine tolerance and avoid drinking too much.