staging

Is Fruit a Sufficient Pre-Workout Snack?

Fruit is good for you, yes. And because fruit is quick to digest and can be eaten on the go, it's a great pre-workout snack.

However, some options are better than others. Rich in vitamins and nutrients, the best pre-workout fruits provide you with energy and blood regulation. And because fruit is quick to digest and can be eaten on the go, it's a great pre-workout snack.

More: Your Perfect Race-Day Meal Plan

Why Have a Pre-Workout Snack?

Pre-workout snacks serve a number of purposes:

  • Prevents hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness and general fatigue—all of which can make even the easiest run unpleasant.
  • Absorbs some acid, which helps settle your stomach while curbing hunger.
  • Allows you to top off your muscle glycogen stores and also contribute direct fuel for your working muscles.

The time frame between snacking and working out is a matter of personal experimentation. A general rule of thumb: the closer to the workout you are, the smaller and simpler your snack should be.

More: Post-Workout Snacks That Lower Inflammation

Why Choose Fruit?

Fruits are considered simple carbohydrates, meaning they provide fuel to muscles faster than slower-digesting complex carbohydrates like whole grain breads and pasta. Carbohydrates are the major fuel source for muscles, making fruit an excellent pre-workout snack.

Still, the fiber in fruit slows digestion enough that you don't experience a sugar spike followed by a crash. Fruit juices and dried fruits are much more concentrated sources of calories and carbohydrates and may lead to blood sugar spikes if not consumed with complex carbohydrates or a protein source.

Many fruits have high water content as well, which means they can help meet your workout hydration needs. Here are some of the best fruits to choose from.

More: Nutrition Recovery for Endurance Athletes

  • 1
  • of
  • 2
NEXT

About the Author

Emily Brown

Emily is a former professional runner and the 2009 U.S. cross country champion. She formerly trained with Team USA Minnesota, and is currently the resident nutritionist for RunnersConnect.net. Find her on Facebook.
Emily is a former professional runner and the 2009 U.S. cross country champion. She formerly trained with Team USA Minnesota, and is currently the resident nutritionist for RunnersConnect.net. Find her on Facebook.

Discuss This Article