4 Pre-Workout Habits That You Should Avoid

Sometimes the little things can put a huge damper on your visits to the gym.

Working out can be enjoyable and fun, plus it’s a surefire way to stay healthy and fit. However, your personal pre-workout habits can often mean the difference between getting the most out of your exercise routine, and ruining it altogether.

Before you hit the gym, take a look at the four pre-workout habits that you should avoid:

Don’t Overdo the Stimulants

Consuming caffeine before a workout can enhance your energy levels and give your performance a boost. On the other hand, consuming too much caffeine can cause a spike in anxiety and nausea levels, all of which can hamper your performance.

Don’t Oversleep

Taking a short nap before you head to the gym isn’t a bad thing. However, be careful not to nap for more than 30 minutes, as it can lead to a sharp decrease in concentration and energy levels.

Don’t Stretch

We’ve always been told stretching is a great warm-up exercise. But scientific research has found that stretching beforehand can lead to joint injuries and muscle strains, as well as decrease your strength in exercises involving the muscles.

Don’t Eat Too Much Fibre

Eating high amounts fibre before you work out takes longer for your system to digest, which can cause bloating, indigestion and gas. Opt to eat fibre-rich food at least three to four hours before you exercise.