For several weeks, Warrior Code and XXL Nutrition have been discussing the various ways food and other nutritional supplement can make an impact on your training regime. But when it comes to getting ready for a fight, there's a twist in the story. Pre-fight jitters can make your usual eating habits a little wonky. So, here, we're going to dive into the world of what fighters should consider munching on before a big showdown.
The Ultimate Pre-Fight Fuel
Red Beets, Pomegranate Juice, and Pumpkin Seeds: These are packed with nitrates that can boost blood flow, helping your muscles get the oxygen they need.
Leafy Greens and Algae: They're rich in chlorophyll, which helps your body get more oxygen. It's like a natural energy boost!
Fruits: Grab some fruit for a light snack. They're quick to digest and provide a bit of energy before the battle.
Complex Carbs and Protein: Think oatmeal and eggs. They give you a solid foundation of energy and help your muscles recover.
But, remember, those pre-fight nerves can slow down your digestion, so give your body some extra time to process that food.
To Eat or Not to Eat: The Fighter's Dilemma
Do kickboxers eat before a fight? Most of them do, right after they've weighed in. They load up on carbs for energy and hydrate to recover from the weight cut. But here's the twist: some fighters skip the food altogether. They choose to step into the ring hungry because it sharpens their focus. It's like their inner warrior is awakened, ready to conquer anything.
So, while good food can fuel your body, the decision to eat or not before a fight is a personal one. Some fighters prefer an empty stomach, while others like a little something to keep their energy up.
Need a quick energy boost? Unleash the Energy Beast
Quick Energy: Bananas, apples, and strawberries are like nature's power-up snacks.
Sustained Energy: Foods like sweet potatoes, brown rice, wholegrain pasta, quinoa, and oats give you long-lasting fuel.
Energy Superheroes: Coffee, guaraná, cacao, tea, cordyceps mushrooms, red beets and pomegranates are packed with energy-boosting goodness.
Timing Is Everything:
Because those pre-fight jitters slow down your digestion, timing matters:
4 Hours Before: Have a full meal, like oats with pumpkin seeds.
90 Minutes Before: Sip on a smoothie with leafy greens, red beet, and pomegranate juice.
30-60 Minutes Before: Grab a piece of fruit to keep things light.
Remember, what you eat throughout the day affects your metabolism. Caffeine, ginger, and pepper speed things up, while fat, fiber, and alcohol (even if you had some the day before) slow it down.
Why Oatmeal Is a Fighter's Best Friend:
Oatmeal is a champ when it comes to fight prep. It's loaded with complex carbs and fiber for lasting energy. Plus, it's high in protein, which helps your muscles stay strong during a tough match. The best part? You can enjoy it however you like – hot or cold, sweet or savory. And it's easy to take with you to the fight venue. No one wants a grumbling tummy during a fight! A personal favourite of ours is XXL Nutrition's Perfect Oats.
Snack Attack for Sports: If you're in a hurry and can't prepare a full meal, these snacks are always safe to have in your back pocket
1. Raw energy bars or energy bites
2. Banana with a dollop of peanut butter
3. Almonds and apple slices
4. A smoothie with fruits and veggies
5. A protein shake
6. Nuts and dried fruit
7. Dry roasted beans
8. Wholegrain sourdough bread with avocado and nut butter
Now, if you're looking for some top-notch nutrition drinks and supplements to supercharge your kickboxing game, XXL Nutrition has got you covered. Check out their nutrition drinks and supplements for some fantastic options that can give you that extra edge in the ring.
So, there you have it, fighters! Whether you're loading up on fuel or going into battle with an empty stomach, it's all about what makes you feel strongest in that ring. Eat smart, fight hard!