Gym-goers need fuel to keep get the most from their workouts. Whether you need a little pick me up before or after a workout, it is a good idea to keep a few healthy snacks in your gym bag. Having a snack before and after a workout can help boost your metabolism, allow you to function at max capacity, and help you recover.
At Plunkett, we know just how important it is to stay fueled up for workouts, so here are a few of our favorite snacks to keep in your gym bag.
1. Raw Nuts
Nuts are a great source of protein, and they are so easy to throw in your gym bag. All you need to do is fill a small bag with the portion you want to bring and toss it in your gym bag. Almonds are a favorite for many exercise buffs, but cashews, peanuts, and many other varieties can make the perfect snack for those who are sweating in the gym.
2. Trail Mix
Lugging fruit around isn’t always convenient. For this reason, trail mix is the perfect way to get fruit, seeds, and nuts in at the same time for a one-two punch of carbohydrates and protein. Avoid the mixes with a lot of added sugar or candy.
3. Energy Bars
Surely nobody is surprised by this entry. Energy bars contain carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, all of which are essential. Protein bars are great because they are nutritious, but they are also filling and both salty and sweet. You can get bars that are either chewy or crunchy, depending on what you like best. Here are a few of our favorite energy bars:
- Perfect Bars
- Lärabars
- KIND Bars
- PowerBar
4. Jerky
High-quality meat jerky is a great protein-filled snack option for gym-goers. It can be challenging to find jerky that isn’t incredibly sweet and full of excess sugar and sodium. Jerky is also an easy way to get protein without needing refrigeration. Epic Jerky is the perfect solution, and you can even get some unique protein options like salmon.
5. Shakes
Shakes can be the perfect on-the-go drink that helps energize you during and after a workout. You can make your own shakes with protein powders, so you know exactly what is in your drink, or you can leave the shaker bottle at home and snag a premade shake on your way out the door. There are so many options for protein shakes that you are bound to find something that you both enjoy and find useful.
6. Whole Fruit
It can be difficult to get fruit in on-the-go, but a few great options are whole fruits. Think bananas, apples, and pears for an easy pre- or post-workout snack with very little cleanup. While oranges are another great option, you might not want to deal with the hassle and mess that they can create, so choose something that you are comfortable eating while you are preparing for or cooling down after a workout.
While there is a huge list of healthy snacks to enjoy before and after a workout, these are the easiest to bring along. You won’t need silverware, plates, or refrigerators to enjoy these snacks at the gym.
Personal training in Overland Park, Kansas, doesn’t have to be complicated. Join Plunkett Fitness to get both nutrition and fitness help from expert personal trainers. At Plunkett Fitness, our health strategy focuses on both diet and exercise to help our clients achieve the results that they want, whether that be to lose weight or build muscle (or both!).
Check out our other article about the best post-workout snacks.
To learn more about our personal training services or to schedule a consultation, give us a call today at 913-390-3360.
