Eating and exercise...

[Frankie99]

Hi
Wondering if anyone can advise me on when is the best time to eat relating to exercise?
For example I have now started a zumba class which begins at 7.45pm and finishes at 8.45pm. Am I better to eat early (around 5.45) before I go or wait until I come home when my metabolism will presumably have been kick started by the exercise?
Thanks
Frankie

 

[Jennyonaplate]

Your body will burn the same amount of energy regardless of whether it was fed before or after a workout.

 

[chazle]

I would eat before as you are giving your body more time to digest the food properly

 

[Lucky7]

The day I have a later class, ideally I try to have a bigger lunch that day, and just something light to tea. If I get home early enough to leave a gap of at least 1.5 hours between eating & exercising I eat it before I go, and if not I have it as a supper when I get back.

It's never good to sleep on a full tummy.

 

[alwyn]

I'd eat before as it will fuel your workout. If you want something after, then have some lean protein (chicken/turkey slices or similar) and a banana. It will refuel your body and your muscles will have something to work on as they get stronger!

 

[Qua Sae]

I'd do the same as alwyn

 

[10st10lbs]

If I eat before exercise, it gives me an excuse not to push myself, even though I don't really believe it makes any difference when you eat. I tend to prefer eating afterwards though, as I eat a lot slower and therefore stop before I over-indulge xxx

 

[who_la_hoop]

If I were you, I'd eat a light, early meal before (to give you energy for your workout) and save my pud for after the class. I know that if I go to the gym or for a class when I haven't eaten much that day the quality of my workout suffers because I don't have any energy.

 

[Frankie99]

Thanks guys that's brilliant, i'll try having something light before I go!