The Risks and Benefits of Fasted Exercise 

If you are following an intermittent fasting plan but like to work out in the mornings, you’ll likely end up doing fasted exercise. But even if you’re not fasting, fasted workouts might already be part of your routine. 

Examples of fasted exercise include: 

  • Not eating breakfast before morning barre or Pilates 
  • Waiting a few hours after you eat to go running to avoid occasional GI upset. 
  • Skipping your afternoon snack so you can feel more comfortable in hot yoga 
  • Avoiding eating before your high-intensity treadmill or weights class 

Risks of fasted exercise are that is can potentially hinder your performance and ability to build or maintain muscle mass. 

The benefits are that fasted exercise saves you time, allows you to exercise during your fasting window and prevents the risk of occasional digestive upset during intense workouts. 

To help support hydration, reduce hunger and promote muscle health, consider supplementing with electrolytes, amino acids and fiber before your fasted workout.*

Learn more about intermittent fasting.