Muscle Gain Forum

When do you load up on carbs? Debate the best timing for energy and recovery
—does it even matter?

For me, pre-workout carbs are essential. A banana + oats an hour before = way more energy in my lifts.

I’m opposite. I eat lighter before training, then big carb meal after for recovery. Rice + chicken post-lift is my jam.

As a powerlifter, I definitely load carbs pre. If I don’t, my squats feel empty. Intra-workout carbs sometimes too.

I love carb loading pre, but the science says glycogen replenishment post-workout is crucial. Muscles soak carbs up better then.

I do both — small carb snack before, bigger portion after. Balance is key.

Bro science or not, I slam carbs before. I need that pump. Rice cakes + honey and I’m good to go.

Carb timing is less important if total daily intake is on point. But if training fasted, pre carbs make a huge difference.

Agree with Soph. Unless you’re training multiple times a day, “window” isn’t as strict as people think.

Tony, are you saying the post-workout anabolic window is a myth?