Do you ever feel so drained after a long day, you don’t have a shred of energy left to drag yourself to the gym? You’re not alone. Even I sometimes feel like heading straight for the couch, but when you have goals to reach, skipping the gym is not an option! These healthy lifestyle tips can help you recharge your energy stores so you’re ready to go:
1. Eat the right carbs. Eating a clean, healthy and well-balanced diet is vital to an energetic lifestyle. Pay close attention to the glycemic index of the foods you’re consuming (the glycemic index measures the effects of carbs on your blood glucose levels). Foods with a higher glycemic index provide a burst of energy, but ultimately lead to a “crash” that can leave you feeling wiped. Instead, go for foods with a lower glycemic index, such as sweet potatoes.
2. Switch up your schedule. Still can’t seem to drag yourself to the gym? In addition to eating healthy, you may want to try exercising in the morning rather than after work. This option works well for some people and might give you a natural energy boost that lasts throughout the day.
3. Try a pre-workout supplement. Sometimes, you just need a little extra support. My secret weapon is BSN NO Xplode 2.0 (watermelon flavor). With a combination of creatine and nitric oxide, NO Xplode helps me power through my workouts with unrelenting force. As with any supplement (especially pre-workout formulas), be sure to read the label carefully before consuming.
Get fitness and sports nutrition tips from personal trainer Deniz Duygulu, an International Federation of BodyBuilders Men’s Physique pro athlete. Like Deniz on Facebook to watch videos demonstrating correct form and for advice on fueling effectively.