I’m (48M) on day three of a my journey into IF doing 18/6. I just have a question that others will have gained knowledge as they’ve progressed. I try to work out before I go to work. Which means it’s also before my first meal of the day. Is it normal to feel like I have no gas in the tank when working out? I’m used to eating a couple hours before working out, but with the small window for meals I’m not sure what the best course of action is. Thanks in advance.
Yes, if you haven’t eaten it’s completely normal to have no energy. I struggle at the gym if I have to go in the morning but in the evenings I’m absolutely fine because I’ve had some dinner a few hours before
Speaking from experience it’ll get easier over time. The first week or two I definitely noticed a difference while working out fasted, lack of energy etc, but now my body feels used to it and I’m able to complete workouts as normal. I’d say stick with it if you can as it’ll definitely get better.
Edit: I mainly do weights but also throw in the occasional cardio.
I’m 47 and on day 5, for what it’s worth. I think it depends on what exercise you’re doing. I did a fairly intense cardio workout this morning, but it’s the first day I’ve felt like working out while fasting. I was at around 90% of my normal energy for a workout.
Right now I don’t think I would even try to lift weights while fasting. Maybe later on.
Just sharing my experience in case it helps! I’m new to this as well.
Depending on what exercises your workouts include you may need to change your workout schedule for when you have more fuel in your body.
If you’re just doing cardio in the mornings I have seen studies in the past that say you can lose more weight on an empty stomach, drink plenty of water though obviously.
I’m a runner, and don’t eat between 5p-8a. Occasionally I’ll go out for my run before breakfast. The first few times it was hard, but I got used to it, and it doesn’t make much of a difference anymore. I might be a few seconds per km slower than usual, but I don’t really care about pace, as long as it’s within my normal range. I’ve been running about 18 years, and doing semi-unintentional IF for over a year.