What to Eat (and Avoid) Before Your Workout | CrossFit Full Armor Raleigh

Written By Eric Johnson

If you’ve ever asked, “What should I eat before my workout?”—you’re not alone. At CrossFit Full Armor, we help athletes in Raleigh, NC fuel their bodies the right way to get the most out of every session. Whether you’re training for fat loss, performance, or general fitness, pre-workout nutrition plays a vital role.

Why Pre-Workout Nutrition Matters

The right food choices before exercise can:

  • Increase energy levels

  • Improve endurance and strength

  • Prevent fatigue and lightheadedness

  • Speed up recovery post-workout

But eating the wrong things—or nothing at all—can leave you sluggish, bloated, or low on energy.

What to Eat Before a Workout

Here are some smart pre-workout food options we recommend to our CrossFit Raleigh community. Keep in mind the amount and type of food will vary in digestion times.

1. Complex Carbohydrates

  • Oatmeal

  • Sweet potatoes

  • Whole grain toast These provide slow-releasing energy to fuel longer workouts.

2. Lean Protein

  • Eggs

  • Chicken breast

  • Greek yogurt Protein helps preserve muscle and aids in recovery.

3. Fruits

  • Bananas

  • Apples with almond butter These give a quick boost of energy and are easy on the stomach.

4. Hydration

Drink water or an electrolyte-rich drink 30–60 minutes before training. Add Himalayan salt to water as a natural electrolyte as well.

Timing Tip: Eat a balanced snack 60–90 minutes before your workout. If you're short on time, go for a small, fast-digesting option like a banana or protein shake 30 minutes prior.

What NOT to Eat Before a Workout

Avoid these foods before training at CrossFit Full Armor Raleigh:

1. Heavy, Fatty Meals

  • Meats

  • Fish

  • Cream-based sauces These are hard to digest and can slow you down.

2. High Sugar Snacks

  • Candy

  • Pastries

  • Energy drinks These may cause a spike in energy followed by a crash.

3. Carbonated Beverages

  • Soda

  • Sparkling water Can cause bloating and discomfort during training.

4. Too Much Fiber

  • Beans

  • Cruciferous veggies (like broccoli) While healthy, they can cause gas and stomach upset mid-WOD.

Find the Right Fuel for You

Every body is different. Some athletes thrive on a light meal 90 minutes before training. Others prefer fasted training in the early morning. The key is to listen to your body and test what works best.

At CrossFit Full Armor in Raleigh, we provide guidance beyond just workouts—we help with nutrition, recovery, mindset, and lifestyle. Our goal is to help you feel strong, energized, and confident every time you step into the gym.

Ready to train with purpose and fuel your body the right way? Join our supportive community at CrossFit Full Armor, where we help you optimize your fitness from the inside out.

👉 Visit crossfitfullarmor.com to learn more or sign up for your free class today!

Eric Johnson https://www.crossfitfullarmor.com
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