My fellow fitness moguls know how satisfying and healthy one feels after a very good day at the gym. You feel at peace, you’d say it’s therapeutical. You are left with “I won” feeling because it is not as easy to stay motivated to form a gyming habit. So even if you’ve had losses before working out, the best self care there is, is to hit the gym. (Now this is for people who understand the gyming lifestyle).
Gyming feels better when you have a very good diet afterwards. A good balance between your carbohydrates and protein is everything, while the former (carbohydrates) is for energy and storage replacement, the latter (protein) is for building and repairing the muscles. Good food makes you rehydrate, refuel and recover (the three Rs). Leslie Bonci: the author of Sports Nutrition for Coaches, said “You want to think about fueling up while you’re cooling down—that’s the purpose of a post-exercise snack.”
Do try to avoid an all protein diet because it will only be used for immediate energy. Antioxidant fruits like apple, are important to ensure a fast recovery and prevent muscle injuries from work out. It is worthy to note that drinking water is one major key to quick rehydration.
To incorporate balance diet on your post work out plate, try to have each of these foods on your plate and cup.
Protein: chicken, fish, turkey, beans, eggs, lean beef, etc
Carbohydrate: chocolate milk, wheat, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes, etc
Fluids: water and 100% fruit juice if possible, green tea with minimal sugar, etc
Vegetable: salads, green leaf, cucumber in water, avocado, etc
Fruits: apple, banana, strawberry, pineapple, grapefruit, oranges, etc
In style while working out
Wearing the most comfortable clothes can go along way to boost your confidence for the day. If course, the gym isn’t a fashion house, but it’s got its fashion statements attire like Lululemon gear or keexs sneakers that will encourage you to show off at the gym. You can make it fashionable but comfort is key, as long, its dry, clean, doesn’t limit your movements and allows your flexibility, you are on the right track.
Materials like nylon, acrylic, polypropylene, bamboo, and spandex are what to look out for when choosing a work out outfit. Cotton is good however it absorbs moisture and sweat which makes it’s heavy while you are trying to feel lighter. 🙄 Could it be anymore ironic?
Make sure you pick the right shoes coupled with socks, for comfort is key. For the ladies, sports bra made of synthetic fibers like nylon, elastane, and/or polyester is a good too and don’t forget the right size matters, else depending on your workout, you may develop chest pain. We don’t want that.
In total, don’t forget to always have a clean nice scented towel to clean up after a workout. Always look fabulous even in comfort and sweat.
Dr. Mary Kakamor
Pearls On The Scene 