Tera Bucasas

Started at LAB5: March 16th, 2012

Favorite workout move: I can't really name one move I like best, it's the progression of the moves--that is my favorite. Knowing that I added more weight, could do more reps or take less rest than last time--that's what I love.

Hobbies: Eating, reading about, shopping for and cooking food. Traveling as much as possible, from road trips to across the world. Camping. Living simply. Soaking in every single ray of sunshine I can possibly get in Seattle, and devouring books.

Pets?: I have never had a pet in my life.

Anything else you'd like to share?: I am amazed how taking care of my body by working out and eating healthy has really positively affected all aspects of my life. The variety of guidance at LAB5 makes it so easy to enjoy coming to the gym everyday. The funny thing is---no one who knows me well would be able to believe I am saying that. 

Many people ask me if they should eat something before their workouts, especially early in the morning.  I often ask if they are hungry when they wake, if they lose energy during their workouts, and if they have time to eat before their workouts. Most of the time, the answers are similar; not hungry, no time to eat, and occasionally lose energy. In the following paragraphs, I will offer some reasoning why this may happen, and why you may, or may not need to fuel pre workout. I will also list some great, and easy snack ideas to keep your energy sustained during your morning workouts.

First of all, if you are not hungry early in the morning, you may still be fueled from the night before. Often times, especially after evening workouts and/or long work days, one tends to eat a solid meal close to bedtime.  If this is the case for you, I recommend not eating before your morning workout.  Though, being adequately hydrated is extremely important!  On a side note, many people wake up dehydrated and don't take in enough water prior to their workout, which often causes...

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You are working out hard at LAB5, scheduling workouts as often as possible, and pushing yourself to excel, often to what feels like your maximum. You leave a little depleted. What can you do to be sure your body responds to your hard work with new strength gains, lean muscle and fat burning? How can you be sure you are strong for your workout the next day?

When it comes to strength gains, quick recovery for your next workout, and getting the best new muscle tissue and fat burning after a hard workout, a post-workout meal is by far the most important of the day. This meal should be soon after the workout is over, and consist of: 

~ 30-50 grams of a lean complete protein (whey, soy, eggs, chicken or fish)
~ 20-40 grams of high glycemic carbohydrates

Lean protein: You have a brief window (45-60 minutes) of opportunity after your workout, where protein synthesis occurs at the highest rate. This is due to the micro-trauma (broken down muscle tissue) that occurred during your workout. Complete recovery will be optimized if you provide your muscles with...

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~ Be fit, Be healthy, Be happy ~