The Best Preworkout Meals From Your Vending Machine

Having a meal before your workout is one of the best ways to ensure you power through each set and complete that grueling cardio you've been dreading all day. And, if you're busy like I am, you won't have a ton of time to prep a small, protein-packed meal to eat before your lift. For those who are short on time, a vending machine can be a lifesaver.

To help you decide on the best pre-workout meal from your local machine, I've curated a list of the best options available. Keep in mind, the calories will vary wildly from snack to snack so if you're trying to maintain a caloric deficit you may need to tread lightly.

The Best Preworkout Vending Machine Snacks

• Granola Bars - Nature's Valley and other brands offer these high fiber but low protein bars. Just be aware that single bar can contain as many calories as a hamburger from McDonalds but with a fraction of the protein and taste. These are great if you can get your hands on some Greek yogurt.

  
  

• Packaged tuna - Many vending machines, including those found in Fueling Food stock pre-packaged bags of tuna from Sunkist. Were it not for the large amounts of sodium, these would be the perfect snack for any time of the day, including right before your workout. Calories for a single pack range from 100 -140 depending on the flavor and will net you about 14 - 18 grams of protein. Of the options on this list, this is the best-tasting one, in my opinion.

  
  

• Half a protein bar - The reason I suggest eating half a protein bar is that a full one with around 30+ grams of protein will set you back at least 300 calories. To most who are trying to lose weight this caloric set back isn't worth it. But it beats going to the gym hungry and possibly triggering a headache that'll ruin the remainder of your day. Pair that half a bar with one of the other snacks on this list for a complete low calorie preworkout meal.

  
  

• Nacho Cheese Doritos - These are best if you can get ahold of a cup of plain Greek yogurt, aka the world's best alternative to sour cream. But if you don't, crush the Doritos up into a fine mess, then add your choice of either tuna, beef jerky, or whatever meat you have available. A Nacho Cheese crust goes with literally everything, so you'll be sure to have a delicious snack on your hands.

  
  

• Sun Chips Garden Salsa - These are a little healthier than chips as they contain less salt than most and contain a good amount of fiber.

  
  

• Sourpatch Kids - Having Sourpatch kids before a workout can give you a boost of energy that can last the duration of your workout. Timing is key with this, and I've learned that It's best to grab a handful or two about 15 - 30 minutes before your workout for the best results.

  
  

• Diet Coke + Vanilla Protein Shake - For people who are less caffeine tolerant, Diet Coke is a great option. It provides about 40 mg of caffeine per can and when you mix it with your choice of vanilla protein shake, like Muscle Milk you'll have a delicious float-like meal fit for a king/queen.

  
  

Don't go to the gym hungry, hit a vending machine to maximize your results

Training on an empty stomach has always resulted in a pounding headache for me. It's important to hydrate and give your body the food it needs to fuel your training. If you're a business owner and are interested in getting a vending machine full of tasty snacks for your customers or employees, please reach out to us here at Fueling Food for a free vending machine.