Motivating yourself to head to the gym can be a challenge no matter how long you have been working out. Once in a while, you may need an energy boost to get started. Here are a few tips to get your energy up before exercise.
1. Caffeine
One of the most popular ways to boost your energy is by taking some caffeine before exercise. Caffeine sources include coffee, tea, and coke. They act fast and with their help, you will have higher energy levels in no time.
Caffeine may also improve your mental alertness. It helps your body burn fast and improves your physical performance. Most fat-burning supplements use coffee to promote fat burning. It boosts your metabolism and is rich in antioxidants that may help fight diseases.
However, it is only a temporary energy boost. When it wears off, you are likely to feel a crash. Consuming too much caffeine has its effects. It may cause anxiety, digestive problems, insomnia, and high blood pressure. Over time, it may cause addiction.
2. Hydrate
Drink enough water before you start your exercise. Dehydration will make you feel tired and sluggish during your exercise. It may trigger symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and weakness. As you exercise, you will be losing a lot of water in the form of sweat. Depending on the intensity of your workout session, you may lose up to eight cups.
Chug a few cups of water before your workout to replenish what you will lose. When possible, continue hydrating all through your workout session.
3. Energy Supplements
Consider taking supplements before you start working out. They are created to give you the energy boost you need before working out. Protein powders, for example, may be valuable sources of protein. They promote the growth and repair of muscles. Energy supplements work fast and you can take them right before exercise.
Unlike with caffeine, you won’t experience a crash after taking these supplements. They also promote mental clarity and alertness. They may help you see positive results fast which is enough motivation to keep working out.
4. Nutrition
Eat the right foods before you start working out. They give your body the fuel it needs to keep running. The food you eat right before your workout session is very important. Choose options that promote muscle recovery and growth. Bananas, for example, are great sources of carbohydrates. They give you the energy to stay active for a long period. Consume them whole or in a smoothie.
Oatmeal will help you maintain stable blood sugar. Consider eating a bowl an hour before exercise for the best results.
Egg whites are rich in protein which makes them stand out from other foods. They help you curb cravings and keep your body from using its muscles as a source of energy.
Other great foods before exercise include: chia seeds, Greek yogurt, dried fruits, and chicken.
5. Motivate Yourself
The easiest way to get extra energy before hitting the gym is motivation. There are many ways to motivate yourself. They include: listening to uplifting music, reminding yourself of your goals, or listening to a podcast. The right source of motivation will have you pumping iron sooner than you expect.
Think about why working out is important to you. Whether you are trying to look great for an upcoming event, attain a healthy weight, or adopt a healthier lifestyle, keeping your goals in mind will be great motivation. If you have trouble motivating yourself, consider seeking the help of others on the same journey.
6. Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep before you work out will give you the energy you need. If you are sleep-deprived, you are likely to feel tired and unmotivated. However, you should be careful not to oversleep as it may also lower your energy levels. The following tips may help you ensure that you are getting enough sleep before working out:
- Take a short nap before exercise
- Create a restful environment to promote quality sleep
- Find a way to address your concerns and worries before
If you like to exercise in the morning, come up with a sleep schedule and stick to it. Going to bed at the same time every day will ensure that you always get enough sleep.
There are many ways to get an energy boost when you need to start working out. Simple tips include getting enough sleep before your workouts, focusing on your goals, eating the right foods, using appropriate energy supplements, and drinking enough water.
