Eating before gym?

stv1520

Hey all-- Just a quick question- I had a late lunch at work yesterday (turkey and swiss on Eziekiel bread, 1/2cup of Tabouleh salad, greek yogurt) and by the time I got to the gym, it was about 2 hours since lunch. Didn't feel too different, maybe lower on energy than usual. Wondering what the optimum time for a meal before the gym would be. Thanks

Chef_Barbell

It's up to you. Whatever you prefer.

rybo

There is no optimum time.

ocrXfitter

It's a completely personal choice. I work out fasted because otherwise I will throw up.

firef1y72

I personally have to eat at least an hour before I workout, otherwise I feel slow, sluggish and more than a little pukey. I then like to eat within 30minutes of finishing even if it's just a banana

TimothyFish

For some people it doesn't really matter. Some people find that if they eat in the window between about 90 minutes before and about 10 minutes before they feel sluggish during their workout. So, I suppose the optimal time would be either 2 hours or 5 minutes before.

Sharon_C

I get to the gym at 5:30am. The last time I ate was 6:30pm. On the weekends I try to eat something small before going to the gym (because I go later in the morning) and I always feel sick and gross, so working out on an empty stomach suits me better.

stv1520

Thanks for all the replies. I guess I'm trying to figure out how long I have for the meal to digest, and provide some fuel/energy for my workout.

TimothyFish

stv1520 wrote: »

Thanks for all the replies. I guess I'm trying to figure out how long I have for the meal to digest, and provide some fuel/energy for my workout.

That depends on what the "meal" is. Simple carbs break down very quickly and are probably available for fuel within thirty minutes, but no more than between 30 to 60 grams of carbs. Complex carbs, proteins, and fats require more time. The full process can take as long as 72 hours.

cwolfman13

There is no universal optimal time...