What to Eat (and Not) Before and After Pole Dancing

Pole dancing is a full-body workout that requires a lot of energy and focus, just like any other form of exercise. To make the art of pole dancing feel productive, it is crucial to eat the right meals. In fact, The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has daily calorie recommendations for women and men based on their movement goals. The food combinations you consume can make a big difference in giving you the proper nutrition and energy boost you need. There are a few tips to consider when planning your meals before and after pole dancing.

Focus on Whole Foods

Fruits and cereals are great meals with carbohydrates that digest quickly to boost your muscles before you work out. Bananas, berries, citrus fruits, and apples contain simple sugars and tons of vitamins. The best cereals to go with your fruit should contain wholesome plants like oats and millet. Drink at least one quart of water to ensure you are hydrated before exercising. Water regulates your body temperature while you work out and helps transport energy throughout your body. Healthy fats like coconut, nuts, avocado, and flaxseed are easy to burn as well.  Ordering food through a convenient meal delivery service can save you prep time. Make sure you finish your meal between at least 3-6 hours before pole dancing—especially a spin pole class.

Skip The Processed Items

Avoid eating anything too heavy before working out, such as white bread, meat, processed cheeses, and other dairy products. For some people they can cause indigestion, heartburn, and flatulence because they are harder to digest. It can make you feel uncomfortable and unfocused during your pole dancing workout. High-fiber vegetables can also be challenging to digest. Avoid eating veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and brussel sprouts before pole dancing. Not to mention, high-fat foods can also make you feel slow and tired before you even get started.

Invest in Proper Digestion

After pole dancing, you might feel the post-workout high. To keep that energy going, eat a light, healthy meal afterwards made with ingredients that are easy to digest. It will give your body the nutrients it needs to rebuild and repair your muscles while you sleep. Good foods to eat after pole dancing include salads, sandwiches, and soups, which will give you energy without weighing your body down. Meals with veggies, greens, grains, and nuts are also nice and light enough to keep you from feeling tired. If you want to eat dairy and meat after your workout, make sure they are high-quality products or locally sourced for the best nutrients. Eat baked or steamed protein, like chicken or fish with carbs like boiled rice or grilled vegetables.

Eat Light

Eating heavy meals after pole dancing can make you feel lethargic and leaves you feeling starved the morning after. You may crave processed or fried foods, refined carbohydrates like pasta or white bread, and salty snacks after a productive pole dancing session, but avoid these. They can all slow the digestion process and diminish your post-workout high.

Overall, try different meal plans using these ingredients. to sustain your energy and leave you feeling energized before and after pole dancing. And remember! Not every food tip works for every body. Make sure to consult with your doctor and/or a nutritionist to make sure you are getting the right foods for your body.

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Lucy Hardy

Lucy Hardy is a freelance writer and editor. After spending over a decade working to improve the mental health of people suffering PTSD she took a step back to spend more time with her family and dogs.

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