Macro partitioning
Isoenergetic pre-exercise meals with varying carbohydrate content (high vs. low) do not improve resistance training volume performance compared to a low-calorie placebo in resistance-trained individuals.
If you are eating a pre-workout meal, the specific amount of carbohydrates matters less than the total calories and protein, provided you are already eating a moderate amount of carbs throughout the day. You do not need to force-feed high-carb meals before lifting to maximize volume; a lower-carb, isoenergetic meal works just as well.
There were no significant differences between conditions for repetitions completed per session (p = 0.318) or exercise (p = 0.973). The macronutrient or energy composition of a pre-exercise meal does not enhance upper-body-dominant RT volume.
Why this rating
Double-blind, randomized, crossover design with resistance-trained participants, though sample size is modest (n=16).
Source
Isoenergetic Pre‐Exercise Meals Varying in Carbohydrate Similarly Affect Resistance Training Volume Performance Compared to Placebo: A Crossover Trial
Andrew King et al. · European Journal of Sport Science · 2025
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