The Hangover......Workout

It's no secret that alcohol can be a significant contributor to weight gain, which is why most diet plans out there will tell you to cut it out completely.  But what happens when you do go out, and you do end up drinking.....A LOT?  The damage is already done, so you can really only do one of two things:  Either sit on your ass and watch it get bigger, or get off your ass to help repair and minimize the damage.  Does the thought of working out while hungover make you cringe?  Well, unless you're throwing up into a toilet, which is also an effective form of weight loss although not condoned by Body Jakeover, working up a good sweat will actually make you feel better both physically and mentally, and thus, help you to get over your hangover, while also helping you to get over the shame of the mistakes you made while you were drunk.

So, for those of you who have what it takes to drag yourself to the gym despite last night's booze binge, here are some workout tips that you'll want to keep in mind while hungover:

1.  Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate - This is the most important thing that you want to make sure that you are doing while hungover, whether you are working out or not.  One of the main reasons our bodies feel like crap after drinking is because alcohol leaves our bodies dehydrated.  Hydrating is the best way to help cure a hangover, and is especially important when working out, since you are going to sweat and dehydrate yourself even more.  Sports drinks such as Gatorade are a good option because of the electrolytes, but to avoid processed sugars, I prefer going all natural and drinking coconut water for maximum hydration.  And of course, plenty of water, ALL THE TIME.

2.  Take it easy - Yes, you are working out, but you are still hungover, so no need to push yourself too hard.  Light to moderate weights or an easy run should do the trick.  Something steady is best, without the intense intervals.  I typically do some moderate weight lifting and core training, or run about 3-5 miles or so after a night of partying, depending on how bad my hangover is.

3.  Replenish - People swear by the next day greasy hangover meal, thinking that a family serving of pad thai or a double bacon cheeseburger with fries is the key to overcoming a hangover.  In actuality, while it may taste good and temporarily relieve your stomach, it isn't doing much to help you recover, and is only going to make you feel worse in the end, not to mention add on to your overall weight gain.  Your body needs to replenish itself with nutrients after a long night out, so fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean proteins are what you should be eating to make you feel better and restore your energy levels to fuel your workout.  For those of you who feel that you must have something a little greasy, try having an omelette with some chopped veggies inside.  Eggs take on a bit of a greasy feel when cooked, but are also rich in protein and essential nutrients.

4.  Realize - Realize that while working out after a night of drinking may be the last thing on your mind, ultimately, you will feel better.  Sweating will release the alcohol toxins from your body, and the endorphines from exercise will help lift your mood, as your endorphine flow is typically pretty low while hungover.  

Sure, there may be those times when you drank so much that you literally can't move, but if you are able to move, then move your ass to the gym and make up for some of the damage you did the night before.  It's not easy, but as long as you stay hydrated and eat right, it's a small price to pay to look and feel good, and a great way to make a good decision after a night of bad ones.

~ Body Jakeover - Have you Jaked off today?

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