This post is part of the Soy Simple campaign. Read my disclosure here.

When I first started working out seriously as an adult, it was to lose weight. While I wasn’t otherwise counting calories, the idea of either eating something right before or after a tough workout seemed counterintuitive to me. (Although studies have shown that a morning workout before you eat can actually help with weight loss.)

I also was likely to not eat before a morning workout so that I could sleep, rather than wake up earlier and wait for something to digest before working out.

Then I started running and realized what a strong tie what you ate had to your athletic performance. And that it gave you a reason to call your food “fuel” and sound all intense and serious.

I usually have have a bar (and a banana) before a long run because of the combination of (soy) protein and carbs. Why is protein so important for workouts?

It…

…helps you build muscle.

…promotes muscle recovery through amino acids and antioxidants. Antioxidants help reduce stress caused by free radicals produced during exercise that contribute to muscle fatigue.

…provides energy for muscles while working out

Consuming protein after a workout is incredibly important to repair the tiny muscle tears you’re creating while exercising. I often go for a smoothie with protein powder after a workout so I can get some protein in, even if I’m not craving solid food. (Which, for as much as I love food, happens more often than I ever thought would.)

Tofu cream cheese is a new favorite way to get my protein and carbs in after a workout.

What do you use to fuel your workout? Leave a comment below by November 20, and you could win a $50 gift card to Sports Authority!