By Melissa Vogel
Fitness Columnist, Canyon Lake Insider
Fitness is not just about hard work and commitment; it also involves finding joy in the process. As the community of Canyon Lake grows, with new businesses and vibrant spots to explore, one such place has caught the attention of many: The Sipz Bar. Known for its delightful ice creams, smoothies, slushies, and innovative baked goods made from sourdough, it exemplifies the essence of enjoying local treats while pursuing a fit lifestyle. The key question, however, remains: How can you relish these indulgences without jeopardizing your fitness goals?
The good news is you don’t have to eliminate all sugary treats from your life. Instead, it’s about making smart choices regarding timing and moderation.
One effective strategy is to enjoy your favorite sugary snack right before a workout. Consume it about an hour prior, and then dive into your training session. When you consume carbohydrates, your body converts them into glucose, which serves as energy fuel during your workout. This means that instead of accumulating as fat, the sugar will be utilized to power your training, leading to enhanced performance and strength.
My top recommendation, however, is to treat yourself after an intense workout—particularly following a strenuous leg day or a challenging workout for your glutes. After these sessions, your muscles are often low on glycogen, the energy stored in your muscles from carbohydrates. Consuming carbs post-exercise helps restore those energy reserves. Savoring that sweet treat after your workout, especially when combined with a protein source, can support your recovery and muscle growth. It’s like fueling your body’s “engine” for better performance and recovery.
So, can enjoying a sweet treat after leg day aid in your fitness journey? Absolutely! It’s all about strategic fueling rather than low-energy denial.
This approach lets you savor the best of Canyon Lake while staying true to your fitness aspirations. You’re not “cheating” on your diet; you’re smartly nourishing your body to keep making progress. Remember, balancing pleasure and discipline is key to achieving real results.
In summary, you can find harmony between enjoying life’s pleasures and maintaining your fitness journey. Support local businesses, indulge occasionally, lift weights, stay active, and remain consistent in your routine. This is how you can thrive—Canyon Lake style!
Melissa Vogel is an accomplished fitness expert with over 20 years in the health and wellness sector. She is a fitness trainer, host of the Bomb Life Podcast, keynote speaker, actress, and a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo, in addition to being a proud mother of three daughters. For more information, visit https://www.itsmelissavogelfitness.com.
