Putting aside coffee, illegal substances, and sugary crap, ..what to eat to get a small boost for an hour of high intensity at the gym? I arrive feeling a little tired and de-motivated, .. start to lose focus after 15 min or so. Best so far is to start drinking some Cytomax about half hour before getting there, but I'd rather avoid those calories.

Ideas?

Caffeine and sugars are what I use so don't know what to tell you otherwise. I'm pretty sure protein or fats won't help. To exercise hard and recover optimally, consume your calories an hour or two before working out and immediately after.

Slug a can of Moutain Dew and be done with it.

Just account for those calories later.

I normally juice some veggies and fruit about an hour before a ride or the gym. Typically, kale, spinach, cucumber, celery, an apple, handful of walnuts and ginger root. Works for me. Of course, all the carbs in the world won't provide inspiration.

You juice walnuts???

they go through a grinder then added to the juice.

Its not food or drink but this is what works for me: Noise cancelling headphones hooked to an MP3 player loaded with vintage Ike and Tina Turner songs.

Don in Austin

If you're putting all that aside, I'd recommend a BCAA drink about 15-30 minutes pre-workout. You can get drink mixes or just the plain unflavored powder to mix with water.

Thanks, that's exactly what I was looking for.

Afterward yes, but BCAA prior to working out? That's different than everything I've heard or read on the subject.

GNC Pro-scult and Physio burn. Take a packet of Physio burn daily like a multi vitamin.

Pro-sculpt on way to gym or before riding. Give a nice non-jittery buzz going on.