HEALTH Q&A: Exercise and eating

Q I have heard that if you are overweight, you should exercise after you eat, and that if you are at the weight you want, you should exercise before you eat. Does it really matter?

A Theories abound on this topic. Many believe that if you train on an empty stomach, you'll see a six-pack sooner. This is a popular exercise myth. Without enough fuel, you won't get the intensity of training you need to get improvements.

Really though, regardless of if we are at our goal weight or not, all should follow the same common-sense guidelines. In general, eat at least a small snack an hour or two before exercising and keep large meals to 3 hours before working out. The best time to replenish your glycogen is 30 to 90 minutes after you finish exercising.

Many people prefer not to eat anything at all before early morning workouts. Generally, this is fine for short workouts of an hour or less. For longer or more difficult workouts you won't get the intensity of training you need to get improvements without enough fuel. The most important thing is to get your exercise done in a positive, enjoyable and efficient way. I encourage people to try both ways, and see how they feel.