Let’s dive into how you can make this work without face-planting on the gym floor.
1. Timing is Everything
When you’re fasting, the timing of your workout can make or break your day. Doing a HIIT workout right in the middle of a fast? Bold move, my friend, bold move. But maybe don’t.
Pro Tip: Schedule your workouts either right before or after you break your fast. That way, you’re fueled enough to push through a workout without running on fumes. If you're breaking your fast post-workout, make sure you have a balanced meal ready to go. Think: protein, healthy fats, and some carbs to replenish your energy (aka no raiding the pantry for cookies).
2. Know Your Body’s Limits (and Ignore Instagram)
You might have seen those influencers saying they fast for 24 hours and lift like they’re prepping for the Olympics. But let’s be real—everyone’s body is different. For most of us, working out during a fast means listening to our body when it’s whispering “maybe not today,” rather than powering through until it’s screaming “I told you so.”
Pro Tip: Start with lighter workouts like walking, yoga, or strength training with low weights. Ease into it and don’t guilt yourself if you’re not smashing personal records while running on empty.
3. Hydration is Your Secret Weapon
Whether you're fasting or not, staying hydrated is non-negotiable. But when fasting, it’s even more important because you’re not getting water from your food.
Pro Tip: Sip on FAST:RX our new wellness water with electrolytes and green tea. You’d be amazed how much energy you can still muster when you’re properly hydrated. Bonus: hydrating also helps keep those hunger pangs at bay. If you're feeling fancy, throw a slice of lemon or cucumber in your water and pretend you’re at a spa while trying not to think about cheeseburgers.
4. Adjust the Intensity of Your Workouts
When you’re fasting, your body’s primary focus is keeping you alive, not necessarily getting you shredded. So, if you usually go hard in the gym, you might need to dial it back a bit.
Pro Tip: Opt for low-intensity, steady-state cardio like walking or cycling instead of sprints or CrossFit. Think of this time as maintaining rather than pushing your limits. You’re still moving, but you’re also giving your body the grace it needs while fasting.
5. Break the Fast with Purpose
Post-workout, your body is screaming for nutrients. The key is to break your fast in a way that supports recovery and replenishes your energy stores—without undoing all your hard work.
Pro Tip: After your workout, have a meal with a balance of protein, carbs, and fats. You want something that’s going to help your muscles recover without sending you into a food coma. Grilled chicken, quinoa, and some avocado? Yes, please. A mountain of nachos? Maybe not today, though they’ll always be waiting for you.
6. Get Enough Sleep
Fasting and working out are already hard enough on your body. Not getting enough sleep will only make things worse.
Pro Tip: Sleep is your recovery time. Fasting and exercising are stressors on your body, and sleep is how you bounce back. Aim for 7-8 hours to keep those energy levels up and avoid snapping at people for no reason (we’ve all been there).
7. Be Flexible
Some days, fasting and fitness will feel like a breeze. Other days, not so much. And that’s okay! You don’t have to be a superhero every day. And, there is always Keto Drink FAST:RX to help you!
Pro Tip: Give yourself permission to adjust. If you’re feeling great, push yourself. If you’re not, take it easy. Fasting isn’t about torturing yourself, and fitness isn’t a punishment—it’s about making both work for your life.