by LINDSEY FISHER

I am a morning person. Beginning my workout between 5:00 – 6:00 a.m., five days a week. If it is the weekend, it is still a morning workout but a bit later. It is usually at my gym, or a run or yoga. I find that my body functions best at this time of the morning. There is something about that fresh air on your face before the sun rises. It is peaceful and invigorating. Ask me eight years ago if I would get up at 5:00 a.m. to workout ONE day a week, and I would have said you are crazy! 

But now, I love it. I look forward to it even, and I am addicted. Addicted to a good workout. Addicted to waking up to the potential of each day and thanking God for the ability to do so. Addicted to getting my blood moving. Addicted to doing something good for my body before the sun comes up. Addicted to starting my day on a positive note with an open and fresh mind. Addicted to the process and my routine. Addicted to my coffee “treat” each morning as I spend time in reflection before the day begins for everyone else in my house. Addicted to my post-workout coffee snack. 

A question I get a lot and was reminded of when someone asked me recently – do you eat before you workout? The answer is that I used to. However, things change and now I find that I don’t need to eat until after I workout. The only thing I have before my workout is a LARGE cup of lemon water. Every single morning. Addicted. Or call it routine. This is what works for me. You have to find what works for you and you may need a little pre-workout bite of a good carb/protein combo. 

There are days that I have to adjust; schedules change, life happens but for the most part, this is my routine – addicted to my little morning ritual of an energizing workout followed by hot coffee and a snack to start my day. 99% of the time this is something I make on Sunday for the following week – either my almond bars, protein bites or paleo banana bread. This week it is banana bread, because I had some very ripe bananas; and if you know me at all, you know I am passionate about not wasting food! 

If you are also working out early in the morning and need a small snack pre-workout or post-workout, OR anytime during the day for a little boost, try these deliciously perfect energy bites. Enjoy!  

No Bake Energy Bites 

1 cup oats (I use gluten free) 

2/3 cup organic coconut flakes (unsweetened) 

3/4 cup natural nut butter (organic almond, peanut, sunflower or cashew) 

1/2 cup ground flaxseed 

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional) 

1/3 cup local raw honey 

1 tsp vanilla extract 

Stir all ingredients together until mixed thoroughly. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Roll into balls and store in the fridge for your daily “treat” through the week. 

For healthier alternatives, recipes and more, visit  

www.LindseyFisherNC.com