eating and exercise

[mopinko]

ok, a little background here. hubby and i signed up for a group cycle class. it started last week. now, tuesday, the day of the class, is my day to cook. it's a long story, but i usually cook something with dried beans. something low fat, little meat, stick to your ribs.
the class is at 7. the earliest we can eat is 5. last week dinner sort of sat in our stomachs a little, but we both felt that we would not have survive the workout without some fuel in our stomachs.
so, how do you all time workouts and meals? what should i make for dinner?

[MissMillie]

1. I would love to help you, but I really can't

I work out first thing in the a.m., before eating. I'm always hoping that my body will burn what it has stored for my workouts.

[flvegan]

2. Is the class once a week?

If it's just a Tuesday deal, rather than redesigning your whole life around it, I'd simply watch my pre and post workout meals on that day. I wouldn't go with a big meal before class. I know that the whole eating late thing is a big no-no, but if I were to have a big final meal of the day, it would be after my cycling class. Especially since you'll find yourself likely eating less at that big meal.

[mopinko]

4. it's not just me, is the problem

it is a once a week class. hubby can push it and get home by 5. but his usual time is 5:30-6. i also have 2 teenagers who are going to be working out in the fitness center while we are in class. they wont eat anything.
we tried a protein shake last night, and it worked pretty good. kids thought it was pretty cool. one kid left wanting to go to subway for a healthy meal, and the other wanted mcdonalds. you just can't win 'em all.

[MemphisTiger]

3. I have a few suggestions

prior to workout try to eat something with complex carbs like oatmeal or brown rice for a fuel source and a fast acting protein like chicken or turkey breast. A little fat won't kill you, in fact it's good for you. Make sure your exercise at least one hour after you eat for cardio, any less than that I've had stomack cramps and pain while doing medium to high intesity cardio. Hope that helps.

[IronLionZion]

5. my $0.02

I also run into those issues when working out at night. Since it's just once a week, it won't kill you go differently that day.

Try a protein shake or some fruit or vegetables before the workout. Don't have dairy before excercising. If you want your heavy meal, try making it before your class, but only eat it after the class. I'm always hungry immediately after a workout and it helps if you have something healthy waiting at home so you are not tempted to clog your arteries with fast food.

And then, make sure you don't go to sleep right away. It may help to go for an after-dinner walk.