Optimize recovery after a CrossFit session

CrossFit is a specialized training method: relatively short, but super intense. Locals from the region love their motivating experience, in which going beyond their own expectations and building strength are the inevitable result.

The nutritional side of things also plays a role in achieving progress, particularly for those who go several times a week. There is one recurring question: what to eat after a WOD (Workout of the Day) to achieve good recovery?

The key nutrients

Proteins are first and foremost. Why? Because this nutrient plays a key role for repairing muscle fibres that have been heavily impacted by the session.

In terms of quantity, you can usually aim for 15 – 25 g (0.3 g/kg of body weight) immediately after the training session. In addition, it’s a good idea to consume some regularly over the day, about every four hours, so that your muscles are always supplied with amino acids.

Over a full day, aim to spread an intake totalling 80 – 150 g (>1.6 g/kg of body weight).  *see chart below.

To optimize absorption of the proteins, it’s also important to include a source of carbohydrates at the same time (fruits, vegetables, legumes, etc.)

By filling up with this kind of fuel, which was used during the session, you help maximize the anabolic process related to recovery.

And to complete the trio, aim for adequate hydration all day long so that the nutrients can travel within your body and you can eliminate the waste your organism produces.

The type of protein

Studies show that proteins from animal source, particularly “whey”, are the most efficient in terms of speed of absorption. This is why many sports nutrition supplements contain this ingredient.

However, vegetable proteins (soy, peas, hemp, etc.) are also valuable; you do, however, have to slightly increase your daily rations to obtain a similar effect.

Food or supplement?

The sports nutrition supplements industry is fiercely competitive, with promises of miracles that are unfortunately too often misleading. A word to the wise: be vigilant and inform yourself adequately before buying them.

I strongly suggest you emphasize real food, for post-training snacks as well as for meals, because these will provide you with more than just one nutrient!  Note that the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants naturally present in food are equally important for recovery, and are just as beneficial for your health in general.

Enjoy your WOD!

Karl Britten, head coach and owner of CrossFit Mont-Tremblant shares one of his favourite after-training meals: roast beef, crusty bread, hard cheese, boiled egg, raw sweet pepper, fried mushrooms and homemade pickles, mayonnaise-horseradish dip, homemade banana bread, and a big glass of water!

What do you think of his choice?

By the same author: Nutrition and trail running (Cick the image below)