Dr. Mark

Training

Pre- and post-workout nutrition

How to think about peri-workout nutrition: what to eat before and after training, hydration during sessions, and a modern view on the “anabolic window”.

What peri-workout nutrition is

Peri-workout nutrition is what you eat before, during, and after training. For most people, total daily intake matters more than perfect timing—but timing can affect comfort and performance.

Before training

A practical default is a meal 1–3 hours before training with protein, carbs, and a bit of fat, adjusted to your tolerance.

During training: hydration

Most strength sessions do not require carbs during the workout, but drinking water is a sensible habit. Use thirst, heat, sweat rate, and session duration as guides.

After training

After training, focus on getting enough protein (often ~20–40 g is a useful range for many). Carbs can help if you train often or with high volume.

The “anabolic window”

Timing matters less than total protein and calories across the day. Missing a shake in the first 15–30 minutes does not ruin results.

BALANS in practice

Avoid training when very hungry, stay hydrated, get sufficient protein after training, and prioritize overall diet quality over minutes on the clock.