7 Important Strategies for Exercising While Fasting

Many experts tout having the secrets to the best strategies for exercising while fasting. But, when it comes to working out while fasting, those opinions differ. More still, tons of studies often produce conflicting results. Still, there's a consensus that unless you have certain medical conditions, you're likely to do much harm; it may even help you burn more fat.

The truth is that your body will try to adapt to any demands that you place on it. If you're a fan of intermittent fasting, learn more about exercising on an empty stomach.

Deciding Whether to Exercise While Fasting

Burn more fat. The principal argument for working out while fasting is that you'll burn more fat, and there are some studies to support this. When you're eating regularly, your body draws energy from stored sugar or glycogen first and then from fat. When glycogen is low, you're likely to start burning fat faster.

Preserve your muscle. Remember, your body can also break down protein and muscles for energy. When you skip meals before going to the gym, you'll likely lose muscle mass and fat.

Maintain your metabolism. Prolonged fasting may also lower your metabolism as your body tries to use calories more efficiently to protect you from starvation. That's especially true if you engage in intense activities. The result? You may eventually find it more challenging to lose or keep weight off.

Avoid indigestion. On the bright side, you can forget about heavy meals interfering with your afternoon CrossFit class. Even when you're not fasting, it helps to eat light within a few hours of your workout to avoid feeling lethargic.

Watch your blood sugar. Some evidence suggests that fasting can affect insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels. If you have conditions such as type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, talk with your doctor before fasting. Ask them about exercising and any precautions you need to take.

Strategies for Working Out While Fasting

Plan your activities. Fasting affects some workouts more than others. In general, you may be comfortable doing light-to-moderate cardio. On the other hand, you could run out of steam attempting more intense cardio, strength, or endurance routines.

Focus on restoration. Gentle yoga and other restorative practices could be ideal if you're concerned that taking days off would undermine your exercise habit. Browse the class offerings at local yoga studios or do your own slow static stretching.

Drink water. Staying hydrated is even more important than usual when you're fasting. Carry a water bottle and sip water throughout the day. As a bonus, you may feel less hungry.

Consider your fueling window. Fasting takes many forms. You may go entire days without eating or just 16 hours or so at a time. Note: the general rule is to focus on complex carbohydrates before a workout and protein afterward.

Boost your electrolytes. Plain water is usually sufficient, but you may need to rebalance your electrolytes if you become dehydrated. Coconut water or sports drinks can help. Check the label if you're concerned about sugar.

Listen to your body. Take a break if you find yourself dizzy and lightheaded midway through your morning run. Honoring your body's limits will help you to avoid injuries.

Lighten up. Professional athletes may need to toil away at finding the precise formula for peak performance. If you're just trying to stay fit and manage your weight, eating healthy and staying active will make you a winner.

Working out while fasting has advantages and disadvantages. You may burn more fat, but you could also lose muscle and feel less energetic. Find a diet and exercise routine that's sustainable for you, and let your doctor know about any concerns you have.

**DISCLAIMER:

Source: Healthline -You should avoid intermittent fasting if you are one of the following people:

• people who are pregnant or breastfeeding/chestfeeding

• young children and teens

• older adults who experience weakness

• people with immunodeficiencies

• people with current or past eating disorders

• people with dementia

• those with a history of traumatic brain injury or post-concussive syndrome