As with most things fitness, there is no one size fits all for this question. Eating before training is entirely down to you as an individual and can massively fluctuate from person to person.
Some people might really need to eat before they workout, others can’t and will be left feeling nauseous if they eat before exercise.
The only way to tell is trial and error.
If you are currently unsure of where to start or what might work for your body, start by having a slow energy releasing carbohydrate before training. Something like a banana is perfect for this.
Generally speaking, if you come away from a workout feeling really sick after having the banana, then it is probably best to save it for when your stomach has settled. Equally, if by the end of your session you have come out feeling really hungry, then mix your banana with another slow release carb such as a bowl of oats. This should give you the extra energy you need to get through your workout and satisfy the hunger you are feeling.
EAT WITHIN 3 HOURS
One often overlooked tip is how your following meal after a workout can impact your body. It is important to eat a full meal within 3 hours of training in order to help your body recover. This meal should include a lean protein (oily fish, organic chicken/turkey etc.) a beneficial carb like quinoa or sweet potato and a small amount of healthy fats. Nuts, avocados and oils are all great for this.
This meal will help your muscles recover from the pressure they were placed under and help with the formation of new muscle.
In short, eating before exercise is entirely down to your body and how you feel in yourself. This is just a guideline and only through trial and error will you learn what suits you the most.
