Optimal Post-Workout Nutrition: What to Eat and Drink
Intro
Post-workout nutrition is an essential aspect of fitness that many people overlook. After a rigorous session of training, the body goes through a process of repair and recovery that requires proper nutritional support. This rebuilding phase is not merely about muscle recovery; it also influences overall performance and well-being. Recognizing what to consume after exercise can provide significant benefits, particularly concerning protein intake, carbohydrates, and hydration.
Understanding the macronutrient profile needed post-exercise is vital for anyone aiming to enhance their fitness goals. This article will seek to explore various food and drink options, the science behind them, and the optimal timing for consumption. By following informed dietary strategies, readers can promote effective recovery strategies that support physical and mental health.
Hydration is Key
Hydration plays a crucial role after working out. Sweating leads to loss of fluids and electrolytes, which can impede recovery if not addressed. It’s not only about water; replenishing lost minerals is also important. Sports drinks, coconut water, or electrolyte-rich products can be beneficial in order to restore balance in your body.
Recommended Beverages
- Water: Always the first choice for hydration.
- Coconut Water: Contains natural sugars and electrolytes.
- Sports Drinks: Helpful for heavy workouts; look for options lower in sugar.
- Herbal Teas: Provide antioxidants and hydration without caffeine.
Always monitor your hydration level; dark urine can be an indicator of dehydration.
Macronutrient Distribution
The macronutrient profile post-exercise should focus on three key components: protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Each has its unique role in recovery.
Protein
Protein aids in muscle repair, restoring amino acids that are crucial after a workout. Choose options like chicken, fish, tofu, or Greek yogurt. Generally, you want to consume roughly 15-25 grams of protein within 30 minutes to two hours after exercise. Protein powders can also be convenient but choose those with minimal additives.
Carbohydrates
Bronking stores of glyocgen are necessary to recover muscle endurance. Low blood sugar may also lead to fatigue and sluggishness in subsequent workouts. Emphasize whole self or complex carbohydrates intrinsic to your diet. This may include quinoa, sweet potatoes, brown rice, or fruits like bananas and berries.
Healthy Fats
Although typically consumed in smaller amounts after workouts, healthy fats also contribute to recovery. These fats, found in foods like avocados, nuts, and seeds, can help reduce inflammation and contribute to overall health.
Nutritional Timing
Now that macronutrients are covered, it’s important to consider when to eat after exercising. Timing varies based on intensity and type of workout.
- Intense routine: 30 minutes post-activity, focus on protein and carbs.
- Moderate activity: A balanced meal within two hours serves well to stabilize recovery.
This interval post-workout is often referred to as the “anabolic window”, as this is when muscle synthesis is elevated.
Effective nutrition post-workout is essential for muscle repair and energy replenishment for future workouts.
Epilogue
In summary, post-workout nutrition is an integral aspect of fitness and performance. Hydration, protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats are necessary components in achieving optimal recovery. Tailoring food choices to fit individual preferences can hide enhance your workout regimen while promoting greater overall health. Implementing these recommendations will not only contribute to physical repair but can also nurture mental well-being by feeling energized and rejuvenated.
Incorporating specific nutrition strategies effectively will differentiate your approach to fitness. Make choices that support your journey in the long term, allowing each session to bring out the best in your performance.
Understanding Post-Workout Nutrition
Post-workout nutrition holds significant importance for anyone engaging in regular physical activity. Understanding the right foods and drinks to consume after exercising can vastly influence recovery times, boost performance, and promote overall well-being. Knowledge in post-workout nutrition not only facilitates muscle regeneration but also aids in replenishing essential nutrients that the body needs. This reflects positively on fitness effort, sustaining motivation and commitment.
The Role of Nutrition in Recovery
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in recovery following exercise. During workouts, muscles undergo stress, leading to micro-tears. Repairing these tissues requires a comprehensive intake of nutrients. Fueling the body adequately after workouts can protect against fatigue and enhance performance in subsequent sessions. Protein emerges as a fundamental nutrient, vital in muscle repair and growth. The right blend of carbohydrates refuels depleted energy stores, creating optimal conditions for recovery.
Importance of Nutrient Timing
Timing one's nutrition after exercise can define the quality of recovery. Consuming food or drinks within a defined window, typically 30 minutes to two hours post-workout, amplifies the benefits of nutrient intake. This time frame leverages the heightened sensitivity of muscle cells to absorb nutrients efficiently. Delaying consumption may result in missed opportunities for recovery and prolonged muscle soreness, ultimately affecting workout performance.
Macronutrients Explained
To optimize recovery, it’s necessary to understand the three primary macronutrients: proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Each macronutrient serves distinct yet intertwining roles. Proteins furnish the amino acids needed for muscle repair. Carbohydrates supply quick energy sources and refill glycogen, the body's main fuel reserve. Healthy fats are essential for hormonal balance and support cellular repair. Balancing these macronutrients in a post-workout meal can create a robust recovery strategy.
Hydration Considerations
Hydration plays a critical role in post-workout recovery. After an intense workout, the body loses fluids through sweat, and it is essential to replenish these lost fluids to maintain optimal metabolic functions. Adequate hydration ensures that muscles can recover efficiently, nutrients can transport through the body, and prevents dehydration which can impact performance and recovery.
Replenishing Fluids
In post-exercise recovery, replenishing fluids is one of the first steps. Water is often recognized as the most basic but most crucial fluid. Drinking water helps replace the volume of liquid lost through sweat. The amount necessary will depend on the type and duration of the exercise done and individual factors like body weight.
Research shows that even mild dehydration may impair physical performance, which highlights the significance of returning to proper hydration levels after workouts.
Electrolyte Balance
While replenishing fluids, maintaining an appropriate balance of electrolytes is equally essential. Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, help regulate several physiological processes including muscle contractions and brain function. These are lost in sweat as well, which can lead to an imbalance if not replaced properly. Factors like the intensity of the workout and personal sweat rates determine which and how many electrolytes need replacing.
Hydration Sources
Consider diverse options for hydration beyond water. Here are three notable hydration sources:
Water
Water is crucial for recovery. Its simplicity and accessibility make it the best choice for rehydrating after exercising. It has no calories and no additives; simply pure hydration. While it is a beneficial choice, it may not replenish electrolytes lost during intense activities.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks, like Gatorade or Powerade, are designed to replace fluids and provide electrolytes. They often contain carbohydrates as well, making them effective for activities that last longer than an hour. While these drinks offer a swift supply of energy and rehydration, they can also contain added sugars which may be a concern for those tracking calorie or sugar intake.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is a natural hydrator known for its electrolyte richness. It is low in calories while higher in potassium than many traditional sports drinks, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer something less sweetness or chemical-heavy. However, its lower sodium content compared to sports drinks means users might still need additional sodium intake to fully support hydration after intense workouts.
Keeping hydrated after workouts is key to effective recovery. Depending on individual goals, various sources may suit different needs. Balancing water and electrolyte intake is necessary for optimal recovery and performance.
Essential Proteins for Recovery
Post-workout nutrition plays a crucial role in how your body recovers. Among the several nutrients required, protein stands out due to its significant function in muscle repair. This section focuses on protein, explaining its importance, types, and sources available for optimal recovery.
Importance of Protein Post-Workout
After intense exercising, the body's muscles suffer mild injuries, necessitating a recovery phase for muscles to heal and grow. Consuming sufficient protein following a workout promotes muscle repair while also enhancing overall recovery. A favorable protein intake decreases muscle soreness and aids in rebuilding muscle fibers for better effectiveness during future workouts. For most individuals, including around 20 to 30 grams of protein post-exercise can serve as an ideal target.
Moreover, this process improves muscle protein synthesis, an essential function for anyone engaged in regular physical activity. Hence, prioritizing protein consumption after a workout sets up an adequate environment for recovery and muscle growth.
Types of Protein Sources
Understanding the various protein sources can aid you in making informed choices about your post-workout nutrition. Here are three main categories of protein sources:
Animal-Based Proteins
Animal-based proteins are highly regarded for their complete amino acid profile. Foods such as chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and dairy products fall into this category. Due to these proteins being essentially full of essential amino acids, they are often the preferred choice for muslce recovery. The key characteristic of animal-based protein is its high biological value, meaning the body can utilize most of the protein effectively.
One disadvantage, however, could be their potential higher fat content, particularly in red meats or certain dairy products which might not align with specific dietary preferences.
Plant-Based Proteins
Plant-based proteins, including lentils, beans, quinoa, and chia seeds, are becoming increasingly popular. They often present an excellent alternative for those who prefer not to consume animal products. A key characteristic of plant-based proteins is their rich fiber content, which supports digestive health. While plant proteins are beneficial, they may lack one or more essential amino acids, classifying them as incomplete proteins.
Nonetheless, combining various plant sources can achieve a complete amino acid profile. For example, pairing rice with beans can result in a more balanced intake of protein post-exercise.
Protein Supplements
Many choose to use protein supplements like whey or casein for added convenience. These are practical options for busy individuals who may not be able to prepare a complete meal right after working out. A key characteristic of protein supplements is their quick absorption rates, making them ideal for immediate consumption post-exercise.
However, minuses may include higher manufacturing costs and the possibility of added sugars or artificial flavoring in some brands. It's important to evaluate product labels carefully to ensure quality is not compromised.
In sum, selecting optimal protein sources depends not only on personal preference but also on dietary needs and lifestyle. Therefore, knowing the distinctions can greatly benefit individuals in their post-workout recovery approaches.
Carbohydrates After Exercise
Carbohydrates play an instrumental role after exercise. They act as a primary energy source that is replenished after a workout. This process not only aids in recovery but also enhances future performance. In the body, muscle glycogen levels are depleted during physical activity, making it vital to consume carbohydrates post-exercise to replenish these reserves. This ensures that the body is prepared for upcoming workouts and available energy for daily functions.
Why Carbs Matter
Carbohydrates are essential because they directly influence recovery rates and overall performance. After exertion, the body needs to restore glycogen to avoid fatigue and maintain endurance in future activities. When carbohydrates are ingested post-exercise, they are converted into glucose, which is then stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen. Studies suggest that a focus on carbohydrates post-exercise can reduce recovery time and improve endurance. Thus, consuming adequate carbs immediately after training can lead to more effective workouts going forward.
Sources of Carbohydrates
Whole Grains
Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats provide complex carbohydrates. These options contribute not only to replenishing glycogen but also to extended energy release. They are a popular choice for individuals looking to fuel their body sustainably. Whole grain foods come packed with fiber, reinforcing digestive health. A unique characteristic is their low glycemic index compared to processed grains, reducing the likelihood of rapid spikes in blood sugar. However, portion control is essential. Too much can lead to discomfort while rebounding glycogen stores is the priority.
Fruits
Fruits are another good source of carbohydrates. They offer simple carbohydrates that provide an immediate energy boost post-exercise. Bananas, apples, and berries are notable examples, being portable and versatile snack options. The high water content in fruits assists with hydration, making them doubly beneficial. Fruits are filled with vitamins and minerals that support overall health. However, some individuals may overconsume sugar if eating too much fruit in one sitting, which could hinder regulated energy levels. It's best to moderate quantities while benefiting from their other nutrients.
Starchy Vegetables
Starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes, corn, and peas also serve as significant carbohydrate sources. These foods are not only rich in carbs but also in vitamins A and C, further boosting recovery processes. Their fiber content supports digestion and helps in satiating hunger, making them advantageous for post-exercise meals. Additionally, the energy release from starchy vegetables can be balanced, preventing sugar spikes associated with simple carbs. However, being mindful of preparation methods is necessary. For example, frying can add unhealthy fats that detract from the benefits of the vegetables themselves.
It's important to remember that each source of carbohydrates contributes not just to energy levels but also adds to your overall nutrition strategy post workout. Balancing these sources will aid in achieving fitness goals and enhance well-being.
Healthy Fats for Recovery
Healthy fats play an essential role in post-workout recovery. They contribute to muscle repair, help in the absorption of vital nutrients, and provide sustained energy. For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, consuming fats strategically can enhance overall performance, support hormone production, and assist in reducing inflammation following intense exercise. The ideal balance of fats along with proteins and carbohydrates can lead to better recovery times, sustaining the body's needs as it rebuilds and refuels.
Benefits of Healthy Fats
Healthy fats offer various benefits essential to recovery and overall well-being. They aid cellular repair and play a crucial role in hormone regulation, which is particularly important after strenuous workouts. Fats are energy-dense, providing more energy per gram than carbohydrates or protein, which can be beneficial in restoring glycogen levels when paired properly. Overall, integrating healthy fats helps to support immune function, reduce inflammation, and create a satisfying meal that can help in feeling full longer after a workout.
Sources of Healthy Fats
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are an excellent source of healthy fats, often rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are important for healing at a cellular level and promoting brain health. The high fiber content found in nuts and seeds also assists in digestion, helping to maintain an effective metabolism. They are an easy post-workout snack option that can easily be added to smoothies or yogurt.
Avocados
Avocados are a unique source of monounsaturated fats, which are linked to heart health. This fruit is also filled with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Their creamy texture makes avocados versatile in post-workout meals. Adding avocados can boost the nutrient profile of a meal significantly and help in feeling fuller. However, because of their high-caloric content, portion control is essential to avoid extra caloric intake.
Oils
Certain oils like olive oil and coconut oil are rich in healthy fats and provide an easy way to add more nutrition to meals. These oils can be drizzled on salads or added to cooking, increasing the flavor level. They contain essential fatty acids that facilitate nutrient absorption and can enhance nutrient delivery to tissues post-exercise. Care should be exercised, however, since (like avocados) oils are also calorie-dense. Overconsumption can negate the benefits aimed for during recovery.
Healthy fats are not just a source of energy; they are fundamental for optimal recovery and bodily functions.
Integrating these fat sources in moderation can make a significant difference in post-workout recovery, ensuring that your body returns stronger and is ready for the next challenge.
Real Food Options
Real food options play a vital role in post-workout nutrition. While supplements are popular, whole foods provide a range of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that enhance recovery and promote overall health. Focusing on real foods often leads to greater satiety, better digestion, and improved energy levels
Post-workout meals should ideally offer a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This balance supports muscle repair, replenishes glycogen stores, and provides energy for the next workout session. Choosing whole foods also minimizes the risk of excessive additives and artificial ingredients that are commonly found in processed foods.
Emerging research shows that whole foods contribute positively to recovery. Including a mixture of protein, fibre, and healthy fats helps optimize post-workout recovery. Hence, engaging with real foods empowers individuals to not just enhance physical performance but to support long-term wellness that stretches beyond just exercising hours.
Protein-Rich Meals
Protein-rich meals following a workout session are crucial. Protein aids in repairing damaged muscle tissues. Different sources of protein serve individuals varying needs. Including chicken breast, eggs, or fish can be effective choices for many—as they supply complete proteins that offer all essential amino acids.
Vegetarian options should not be overlooked either. Legumes, lentils, and tofu provide excellent plant-based proteins. Combining these with grains such as quinoa or brown rice offers a complementary amino acid profile, maximizing uptake.
Examples of protein-rich meals include:
- Grilled chicken with quinoa and steamed broccoli
- A hearty chili made from lentils and plenty of vegetables
- Baked salmon served with a side of sweet potatoes
Balanced Snacks
In the quest for better recovery, balanced snacks bridge the gap between main meals. Consumption of snacks that include both carbohydrates and proteins ensures that muscle glycogen stores are refueled while promoting repair.
Healthy snacks can be a mixture of:
- Greek yogurt with berries
- Hummus and carrot sticks
- A small handful of nuts alongside seed crackers
Snacks like these not only provide energy but also stabilize blood sugar levels post-exercise. Attention to portion size is important. Optimal snacks should maintain digestive health but should not create discomfort post-exercise.
Smoothies as a Post-Workout Choice
Smoothies offer a convenient, digestible option post-workout. They enable efficient ingredient integration, allowing a nourished body swiftly. The beauty of smoothies lies in the versatility of ingredients. Blending fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats creates a delicious kick-start to recovery.
An ideal smoothie could contain:
- A scoop of protein powder
- Spinach or kale for nutrient density
- Banana or berries rich in antioxidants
- A decisions crafting from nuts or yogurt for healthy fats
As a general guideline, aim for a blend that incorporates a sweet element with greens and proteins. With creativity and taste, smoothies cater to personal preferences, thus maximizing formula diversity every time.
Real food enhances recovery by offering balanced nutrients, turning workouts into a sustainable wellness journey.
Supplements: Are They Necessary?
Post-workout nutrition goes beyond simple food consumption. It encompasses an evaluation of dietary supplements to aid in recovery and performance. Understanding the necessity of supplements is essential for individuals pursuing fitness goals.
When evaluating the use of supplements, consider factors such as age, gender, activity levels, and dietary restrictions. Not all individuals require supplements, but they can offer benefits when well-designed nutrition regimens fall short. Supplements may help fill nutrient gaps, enhance muscle recovery, and improve performance.
Evaluating Your Needs
Before incorporating supplements into your routine, it is wise to assess your individual needs. Start by reviewing your dietary habits. What nutrients do you typically consume? Evaluate your protein intake, carbohydrate sources, and fat levels. It might be beneficial to keep a food diary for a few weeks. From there, consult a nutritionist or physician for personalized advice based on your activity level. A well-rounded approach to nutrition often minimizes supplement reliance, but it must be matched to one’s requirements.
Common Post-Workout Supplements
Supplements can support recovery effectively if informed choices are made. Among the most widely used options are protein powders, BCAAs, and creatine. Below is a closer look at each.
Protein Powders
Protein powders serve as a convenient source of proteins. They aid in muscle repair post workout and can facilitate quicker recovery. Whey protein, for example, digests rapidly and ensures an immediate amino acid supply. Plant-based options, like pea or rice protein, are great for individuals with dairy intolerance or those following a vegan diet. However, it’s crucial to not rely solely on powdered forms; real food investment in protein-rich sources is ultimately more beneficial.
BCAAs
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) are chains of three essential amino acids. These amino acids can support muscle recovery and lessen fatigue. BCAAs may prevent muscle loss during workouts and provide an energy source for exercising muscles. However, the need for BCAAs may be less essential for individuals consuming adequate protein through diet. If protein intake is sufficient, redundant usage of BCAAs could present an additional, unnecessary cost.
Creatine
Creatine is popular among those looking boost strength and endurance. It helps generate energy during high-intensity exercises. Its uses can lead to improved recovery and possible muscle gain. However, individuals responding well to creatine may need to consider optimal loading phases, and the potential for water retention. It does represent a solid choice if you aim for substantial gains; just remember, it is merely one piece of a larger framework in your nutritional plan.
Substantial attention to individual dietary needs can ascertain whether supplements bring value to your post-workout recovery. Even popular choices can accompany risks or unnecessary expenses when not correctly assessed.
Ultimately, supplements can be a useful tool when integrated thoughtfully into a balanced nutrition regimen. They should never replace whole foods or the pivotal role that a good diet plays in long-term health.
Myths and Misconceptions
Post-workout nutrition invites numerous assumptions and agendas that can mislead non-experts. It is essential to unpack these myths as misinformation may affect recovery and fitness outcomes. To lay groundwork for solid decisions post-exercise, understanding common myths aids in forming a clearer view of what to eat, optimizing overall results.
Debunking Common Myths
One prominent myth suggests that only protein intake is critical right after a workout. While protein plays a vital role in recovery, the restoration of carbohydrates is equally important. Your body depletes glycogen stores during exercise. Focusing solely on protein without sufficient carbohydrates can slow down recovery unnecessarily.
Another assumption claims that consuming large amounts of supplements will result in faster results. Relying exclusively on protein powders or other supplements oversimplifies nutrition. Whole foods offer nutrients beyond what found in supplements. This includes vitamins, minerals, and other phytochemicals that support recovery and overall health.
Furthermore, a widespread belief is that calories do not count after working out. While after-exercise, metabolism may peak slightly, this later period does not negate the importance of being mindful with calories. Ignoring calorie intake can lead some to underestimate total consumption. A lack of awareness might counter fitness goals.
Understanding Individual Needs
Engagement with nutrition is not a ‘one size fits all’ matter. Individual objectives, health conditions, and fitness levels shape dietary choices. Some people suffer sensitivities to lactose, which informs whether dairy sources of protein are suitable for recovery. Some might exercise under medical supervision, requiring precise dietary guidance, especially in cases such as diabetes. Understanding one's own needs fosters a personalized nutrition plan that acknowledges preferences and challenges.
In terms of practical application, those engaged in different training types will require distinct levels of macronutrients. Someone focusing on endurance may prioritize carbs different than a bodybuilder focused on strength increases. This personal approach balances nutrient intake with training demands.
Your nutrition strategy can adapt as your fitness level and goals progress. Review periodically and gauge what fuels your energy. Consultation with nutritionists can enhance clarity and proper choices. Understanding this dynamic process plays an integral role to cultivate optimal performance.
Listening to Your Body
Listening to your body is essential after a workout to enhance recovery and support fitness goals. Understanding what your body signals can lead to more informed dietary choices that align with individual needs. Often, people tend to overlook these signals or misinterpret them, which may hinder recovery and performance.
Recognizing Hunger and Fullness Cues
Being attuned to hunger and fullness cues plays a vital role in post-workout nutrition. Distinguishing between physical hunger and psychological cravings can guide food choices effectively. After exercise, your body may crave nutrition to refuel. It is important to distinguish true hunger, which indicates a need for sustenance, from non-hunger cravings that can lead to overeating or choosing less beneficial options.
When you feel hungry, take a moment to reflect on whether your body genuinely requires energy. Trusting these cues can help optimize macronutrient intake, enhancing recovery.
Some ways to improve awareness include:
- Keep a food journal to document feelings of hunger and fullness after workouts.
- Prioritize meals based on if physical hunger is present.
- Have balanced meals at convenient times during the day to avoid excessive hunger post-exercise.
Adapting to these signals establishes a healthier relationship with food, contributing to lasting changes over time.
Adjusting Intake Based on Activity Levels
Adjusting food intake according to varying activity levels is crucial for maintaining energy levels and ensuring proper recovery. On days with intensive workouts, your body needs more nutrients. Thus, one must consider not only the quality of nutritional choices but also their quantity.
It is important to tune into your energy levels and adjust food consumption accordingly:
- On High-Intensity Days: Increase caloric intake, focusing on carbohydrates for energy and protein for recovery.
- On Rest Days: Lower food intake slightly and favor lighter meals. Still include nutrients for ongoing muscle recovery.
- Monitor hydration closely: Fluids may also have to adjust based on activity.
Ultimately, your diet should reflect your training, leading to adequate recoveries and better performance.
Being aware of your body's cues enhances your overall fitness journey significantly. Balanced nutrition aligns directly with how you feel, exercise habits, and long-term abilities.
The End
Post-workout nutrition is not just a matter of refueling; it is crucial for recovering muscles, reducing fatigue, and promoting consistent performance. Understanding this topic is vital for anyone serious about their fitness journey. It provides clarity on not only what to eat but how to time your meals effectively. This being informed helps optimize body recovery, ensuring long-term fitness benefits.
Summarizing Key Points
To sum up:
- Hydration is essential for sustaining performance. Replenishing fluids and maintaining electrolyte balance is critical after intense exercising.
- Proteins play a key role in repair and growth of muscle tissue. Aiming for complete proteins can enhance recovery.
- Carbohydrates help restore glycogen stores depleted during workouts. Including healthy options keeps energy levels intact.
- Healthy fats contribute to a well-rounded recovery meal, assisting with overall health as well.
- Consider incorporating real food options when possible, such as balanced meals and nutritious snacks.
- Supplement choices can be personalized based on individual dietary needs and fitness goals, but whole foods should always come first.
- Always listen to your body. Recognize cues for hunger and adjust your food intake according to your energy expenditure levels.
Encouragement to Implement Knowledge
Knowledge is only useful when applied. Take aim to utilize what you've learned here. Making gradual changes in your post-workout nutrition habits can significantly impact your results over time. Plan meals in advance, and keep healthy snacks accessible. Find what gels best with your unique body and preferences.
Recovery is foundational. Do not underestimate it. Prioritize informed choices after working out to feel your best and enhance performance. Empower your journey towards a fitter self by investing in proper nutrition.
“Nutrition is not just what you eat; it's how you recover and build from your workouts.”