Should I Eat Before Training in the Morning?
Early morning workouts can be a great way to start your day - they kickstart your day, improve your mood, and create consistency in your routine. But we often get asked: “Should I eat before I train in the morning?”.
The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you should train fasted or fuelled depends on your body, your goals, and how you feel during and after your workouts.
Fasted Workouts: What You Should Know
Training on an empty stomach, also known as fasted training, might be okay for light sessions like walking, yoga, or gentle mobility work. Some people even report feeling more alert or lighter without food in their system.
But for intense strength training, HIIT, or endurance workouts, fasted training can lead to:
- Lower energy levels
- Reduced performance
- Slower recovery
Your body may start breaking down muscle for fuel, especially if glycogen stores are low. That’s not ideal when your goal is to build strength, lean mass, or perform at your best.
The Case for Eating Before You Train
Even a small snack that includes carbohydrates and protein can give your body the fuel it needs to power through tough sessions. Carbs provide quick energy, while protein helps with muscle support and post-workout recovery.
Some great pre-workout snacks include:
- A banana with peanut butter
- Greek yogurt with berries
- A slice of toast with boiled egg
- Oatmeal with a dash of protein powder
Trial and Error: Your Best Strategy
The most important thing? Pay attention to how you feel.
- Do you feel dizzy or weak when training fasted?
- Do you notice better performance after eating a light snack?
- Are you more likely to skip your workout if you have to prep food first thing?
Try both approaches and note your energy, focus, strength, and recovery afterward. Then adjust based on what works best for your body and your schedule.
There’s No Perfect Answer
At the end of the day, whether you eat before training or not should support your long-term goals and lifestyle. The key is to stay consistent, energised, and injury-free.
If your morning workouts feel sluggish, start by adding a small, easy-to-digest snack and observe the difference. Small tweaks can lead to big improvements in performance and results.
Want to build a workout and nutrition plan that fits your body and lifestyle? Book your free intro call and let’s create a strategy that keeps you fuelled, focused, and progressing—morning or night.
