One of the easiest ways to kick-start your weight loss regime into over drive is to join a bootcamp class. Not only do these intense fitness courses help build muscle and break up fat, but they also can lower your medical bills since a healthier lifestyle means less frequent trips to the doctor. But in order to get the most out of your bootcamp workout and avoid getting too fatigued or ill during (or after), you need to eat the “right” easily digestible foods to give you fuel— especially if you plan on joining an early bird session and just underwent 7 hours of foodless sleep. That said, below are a few ideal foods high carbohydrate, moderate protein, and low in fat to help give you the proper energy you need to withstand an hour long (or longer) bootcamp session.
Plain, Non Fat Greek Yogurt
Yogurt is known for being a great source of probiotics and vitamin c which helps regulate the digestive system and boosts immunity respectively, but it’s also an excellent source of protein—one small 6 oz cup has about 12 to 15 grams; that’s one fourth of the daily recommended amount of protein. Plain, non-fat Greek yogurt is the best choice because it’s low in sugar. If it’s too tart for your taste however don’t hesitate to add some fresh fruit like blueberries, strawberries or even bananas to add some sweetness. Whatever you do, do not purchase yogurt with fruit in it already. These varieties contain the highest amount of sugar which means you’ll end up burning off that sugar during your bootcamp rather than fat.
Eggs
Eggs are most likely the cheapest, yet most effective sources of pre-boot camp foods you can find. They’re not only loaded with the best type of protein since due to its high biological value it goes directly towards muscle growth and repairment, but they’re also low in calories. An excessive amount of eggs can contribute to unwanted high cholesterol, but a few occasionally are good for your health. Make sure to eat the yolk, since this portion is filled with B12—the vitamin your body needs to help aid in muscle contraction. To lower the use of oil or butter which can increase the amount of calories per serving, hard boil the eggs instead.
Apples
Medical experts recommend an apple a day because they are loaded with tons of vitamins and antioxidants which can help keep your health at an all-time high. But apples are also a good source of pectin fiber. This type of fiber not only helps regulate our digestive systems but it helps slow the rate of which sugar enters your blood stream. This means you’ll have the proper energy to reach the fat-burning threshold.
Oatmeal
One cup of oatmeal (which is about 145 calories) can really help give you the energy you need to maximize your time at bootcamp. This is because it’s full of fiber and thus naturally on the lower side of the glycemic index. This means that similar to apples, whole grain oatmeal helps slow down the rate at which carbs are released into the bloodstream, keeping your energy levels at a constant pace. Oatmeal is also a great source of vitamin B which is great at converting carbs into energy.
Of course the above choices aren’t the only optimal pre-bootcamp foods, but eating something that is low in fat and a good source of protein an hour before your workout will help you work out harder and see better results.
About the author:
Amelia Wood contributed this guest post. She pursues freelance writing projects in the medical billing and coding schools niche. She especially loves hearing back from her readers. Questions or comments can be sent to wood. amelia1612 @ gmail.com.
