Should You Eat Before or After a Pilates Workout?

Should You Eat Before or After a Pilates Workout?

Brooke Siler, author of <em>The Women's Health Big Book of Pilates</em>, answers your biggest Pilates questions

Q. Should You Eat Before or After a Pilates Workout?

Since Pilates involves moves that are concentrated around your center and also sends your legs overhead, big meals are not recommended beforehand—but don't run on empty either. Power up with a combination of fruits and nut butter before an intense workout (my faves: bananas and walnuts or a slice of brown-rice bread with almond butter). Refuel with a combination of carbs and protein within 30 minutes of exercising—that's when your body needs to replenish glycogen (a type of carb stored in the muscles) lost during the workout. This protein-packed shake will do the trick.

Shake It Up
Life's all about balance…and so is this nutrient-dense shake. A mix of carbs, fat, and protein, it will keep you fueled the right way post-Pilates. Mix the following ingredients in a blender or food processor. Makes 1 serving.

1 scoop or handful of ice
1/2 cup almond milk
1/2  medium banana
1 cup berries 
1/2 scoop organic vanilla protein powder (16 g)
1 scoop Vibrant Health Rainbow Vibrance superfood powder (optional)
2 tsp flaxseed oil

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