Sometimes it feels like gathering the energy needed for a workout is more challenging than the workout itself. Experts often say that our diet is just as important as?if not more than? exercise for maintaining a healthy physique, which explains the ongoing popularity of pre- and post-workout smoothies.
The drinks are not too heavy on the stomach and chock-full of the ingredients the body needs to go full throttle while exercising. Generally speaking, the stuff that makes up a smoothie, fruits and veggies, are all beneficial to our insides, but certain combinations are best for more targeted and effective energy.
MORE: 21 Delicious Smoothies for Your Healthiest Skin and Hair
Pre-Workout
According to Lori Orlowski, workout enthusiast and senior director of product development for Sweatwellth, by ingesting the right foods, you can give your body the extra power it needs to make the most of your workout. “Pre-workout smoothies are stocked up on healthy fats with a moderate amount of carbs and protein,” she says. “[They] boost your performance, start your workout hydrated, preserve muscle tissue, eliminate hunger pangs, and help speed the recovery process.”
Optimum ingredients include:

Bananas?loaded with potassium and carbohydrates that help energize the body
Oats?provide longer-lasting energy
Spinach?results in muscles using less oxygen, which improves muscle performance
Almond butter?almonds are rich in magnesium and B vitamins, both of which su...