Fueling Up: Pre- and Post-Training Nutrition for Martial Artists

Fuel your performance with the right pre- and post-training nutrition. Stay strong, recover faster, and train smarter.

Ruben Crawford
Ruben Crawford
3
 min read
April 14, 2025
Ruben Crawford
Ruben Crawford
3
Minuten Lesezeit
April 14, 2025
Fuel your performance with the right pre- and post-training nutrition. Stay strong, recover faster, and train smarter.

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." – Hippocrates

Want to maximize your training results? Nutrition is the fuel that powers your performance and speeds up recovery. Here’s how to eat smart before and after your session:

1. Pre-Training Energy

Aim for a balanced meal 2–3 hours before training. Research in the International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism shows that complex carbs (like oats, quinoa, or brown rice) paired with quality protein help sustain energy during training (Thomas et al., 2016).

2. Post-Training Recovery

Within 30–60 minutes after your workout, refuel with carbs and protein—think a protein shake or lean meat with whole-grain toast. This helps replenish glycogen and repair muscles.

3. Hydration Matters

Even mild dehydration can affect your performance. Sip water before, during, and after training. On sweaty days, consider an electrolyte drink to stay balanced.

Bonus Tip

Try natural recovery boosters like tart cherry juice or turmeric tea to support your body and manage inflammation as part of a balanced diet.

Reference:

Thomas, D. T., Erdman, K. A., & Burke, L. M. (2016). Nutrition and athletic performance. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 48(3), 543–568.

Ruben Crawford

IMPACT Mitbegründer & MMA Cheftrainer, Ex-Bellator-Kämpfer, #1 in Deutschland, BSc Psychologie, MSc Executive Coaching.

Ruben Crawford

IMPACT Co-founder & MMA Head Coach, Former MMA fighter with Bellator & #1 in Germany BSc Psychology, MSc Executive Coaching.