SoWell Work Out Support Thread

[Paula]

Gotothebeachmom and I think it could be useful to have a SoWell thread that focuses on working out to share ideas, support, etc. So, here's the first question.

I work out with a trainer (weights) because I feel I have to to be healthy, but I can't say I really enjoy it (though I do enjoy the benefits and I definitely plan to keep doing it twice a week, ideally for years). So, I figure that if I ate/drank certain things before the workout (not margaritas, though), I'd be more in the mood/ready for the workout. I read that drinking two cups of coffee about an hour before the workout gives energy (I may try that but I'm not really a coffee drinker - I prefer tea). Any other ideas for what to eat/drink that would help keep me energized throughout a 50-60 minute workout (and that would keep me from thinking whiny thoughts)?

 

[KISH7374]

You could try any of the energy drinks or you could go to GNC and ask them what they suggest. The people there are usually pretty knowledgable about what you should take according to your workout. Just don't let them sell you the most expensive thing. They usually have 2 or 3 different cost levels of the same prodect. Much like drugs, they carry generic brands.
Good Luck.

 

[dbuck]

Paula, I drink coffee before I go to the gym. I can't say I drink it for the energy, but I read somewhere that it will boost the metabolism while working out. Once we get to a certain age we need all the boosting we can get, or at least I do.

 

[RiverOtter]

Cafine is great for a work out. I drink coffee before my rides (if they are in the morning). I also buy gel packs by Cliff (sp?). They have carbs, 200 cal and 50 mg of cafine, come in different flavors (espresso is my fav). Maybe try downing one of these before a workout. A couple of times I didn't have time to enjoy a couple cups of coffee because the ride was too early and I got up too late so I stopped at the quicky mart and got a Starbucks double shot. That did the trick

 

[scooterbug44]

Instead of caffeine or a sports drink, I suggest a fresh fruit snack or juice - better for you and won't give you a sugar crash when it wears off. A lot of the sports drinks/supplements have a lot of calories in them and I get easily distracted w/ caffeine in me.

Another trick is to plan the workout for a time in the day when you have the most energy and are least likely to blow it off. I like to work out after work/evening because that's when I'm awake/energetic. For me, a morning workout would require a cattle prod.

I'd ask your trainer to help motivate/amuse you as well.

 

[DD]

These SoWell threads need their own forum!!

 

[Ocean Lover]

The only problem with drinking 2 cups of coffee before your work out is that you may need to interupt your working out w/frequent potty breaks.

I will be all over this thread after June 16. We joined a club and I haven't been able to start working out yet. Life has been too crazy. But after this date I should be ready to go!

Great thread..please keep it up!!!! I will meet you back here then!!!

 

[RiverOtter]

oh ya... Don't forget an Ipod with metallica

 

[iqueequeg]

If coffee works for you keep it up, don't let anyone talk you out of it. I work out at 5 AM and down at least 2 cups before.

Most "energy" and "motivation" drinks you'll see at GNC or online have caffeine as the main active ingredient. If you like coffee, stick with that.

Don't forget to drink some whey protein after (and maybe before) your workout. Your body is trying to rebuild muscle and needs protein to do it. Try different brands to find your favorite. Many people like muscle milk. As a woman, don't worry about bulking up-it won't happen. You want muscle mass, it's metabolically active (burns calories while you're not active) and it looks good.

 

[Sheila]

I drink coffee as well. I don't usually have any problems with it during my workout. I also make sure that I am totally hydrated before I start. I hate getting a muscle cramp while I am exercising. Water works wonders for me.