Does anyone recommend using nitric oxide before a 6am crossfit workout? It has caffeine and creatine in it. Would this be something "the zone" would not approve? I was just thinking of a way to increase me energy before such an early workout. Please give me your thoughts.

Well, I wouldn't take it.
Possible risks aside, for me it's cheating, plain and simple. Food is your drug, regardless I can't think of a natural way to increase the size of your blood vessels to be able to have more energy/resistance. The day you stop taking the Nitric Oxide you won't be able to work at the level you did while taking it. Better to get to the level of fitness you want more naturally - through pushing yourself mentally and eating appropriately - rather than using short cuts.
I also do CF and I find that I have more than enough energy by eating inside the zone, upping my fat intake and block number, and all this despite not being a good sleeper - I never get more than 4 continuous hours of sleep, I always wake up some time during the night.
You're working out really early, I see a lot doing the same, and they seem to be doing fine without the Oxide.

Just my 0,2 Cents

Diego

Diego, a little off topic, but about you sleep pattern, try experimenting with the foods you eat for the bedtime snack. It might just help. Never hurts to try.

Hi Sue,
It's not a food thing, it all started when I began working nights about 12 years ago. When I stopped and began working normal hours my night sleep was just buggered. Add everyday life into the equation and you got yourself a magic potion for not being able to sleep all night in one go. I've tried many things, except sleeping pills because they scare me to death, and nothing's worked. For the midnight snack I tend to have a few almonds and a low fat yogurt, about 30 minutes before heading to sleep. I read to slow down my hyperactive brain, and sometimes I put on music. Then at 2 or 3 am I suddenly wake up for no reason. Get back to sleep and at 5 or 6 I'm looking at the clock to see why I'm awake.

It's my lot in life and I've learned how to live with it, but I always wonder if I wouldn't be capable of more if I didn't have this extra luggage.


Diego

Yes, I hear you on the wondering.

Almonds are a good choice; they're a good source of calcium and magnesium which are both calming.

Diego, this is not a zone recommendation, but I just heard something on the radio last night about how bananas can help with sleep. Maybe you could try a zoned snack with banana in it? (I know, they are unfavorable, but ??? maybe something else in banana that you need ???)

Thx, Cranberrycat, I'll give it a spin. Can't hurt... I hope.


Diego

LOL, just so you are forwarned that bananas are unfavorable carb and this isn't a zone recommendation!

Hey Brian,

I do 6:30 CrossFit most days and I have been eating a 1 block snack before and after (usually 1/2 apple and an egg). I find that gives me plenty of energy for the WOD. But, the thing that I have found most helpful for an early morning workout is ... giving up coffee. I used to drink about 10 cups a day and I couldn't do anything without my morning caffeine hit. Now that I'm off the caffeine, getting up in the morning is so much easier than it used to be.

later,
Andy

Congrats on being caffeine free Andrew! You're doing great!