A Fuel Intentions Guide to Nourishing Your Movement

Movement is only part of the equation; how we nourish ourselves matters just as much. Whether you're heading into a Pilates class, flowing through yoga, or resetting after a long day, the right fuel helps support strength, balance, and recovery.

Many trainers recommend eating a light protein snack about 30 minutes before or after your workout to help maintain energy levels and support muscle recovery. Quick options like protein bars, smoothies, or ready-to-drink shakes make it easy to stay energized when you're heading to the studio or finishing a class.

As part of our Fuel Intentions mindset, we believe what you reach for before or after movement should feel just as good as the practice itself. Below are a few easy protein snack ideas — plus some team favorites — that help power movement throughout the day.

What to Eat Before a Pilates Class

Before Pilates, it’s best to reach for a snack that provides steady energy without feeling too heavy. Many people prefer a small protein snack paired with natural carbohydrates about 30–60 minutes before class to help support endurance and balance.

Options like a protein bar, smoothie, yogurt, or granola are easy choices that provide energy while still feeling light enough for movement.

Protein Bars: Easy Fuel for On-the-Go

Protein bars are one of the easiest ways to get a quick boost before or after class. They’re portable, satisfying, and perfect to keep in your gym bag.

A good protein bar can help keep energy steady without feeling too heavy before movement.

Some brands our team enjoys include:

• Misfits — plant-based protein bars with unique dessert-inspired flavors.

• Barebells — protein-enriched bars with a wide range of flavors and textures, including vegan options.

Both are convenient options when you need a quick snack before or after heading to the studio.

Smoothies with Protein Powder

For those who prefer something lighter, smoothies are another great way to add protein into your routine. Adding protein powder to a smoothie can help support muscle recovery while keeping things refreshing and easy to digest.

NAKED Whey Chocolate Protein Powder

A team favorite that blends smoothly into smoothies and adds a rich chocolate flavor without unnecessary additives. It’s a simple way to boost protein while still enjoying something that feels like a treat.

Further Food Vanilla Protein Powder
Another protein powder we love reaching for is this plant-based blend that satisfies cravings while nourishing the body with ingredients like pea protein, reishi, lion’s mane, and nutrient-rich kelp.

From Our Team: Favorite Smoothie Picks

Breanna’s Go-To: Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Smoothie

Our Director of Sales and Marketing loves this smoothie for a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. It’s perfect before a Pilates session or as a post-class refuel.

Ingredients

• Scoop of ice

• Oat milk or milk of choice

• 1 banana

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds

• 2 scoops NAKED Whey Chocolate Protein Powder

• 1 scoop collagen

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Pro Tip: For an extra creamy smoothie, peel your bananas and store them in the freezer ahead of time. Frozen bananas create a thicker texture and naturally chill the smoothie without needing too much ice.

Galilea’s Go-To: Berry Rich Vanilla Smoothie

Our Marketing Coordinator loves this smoothie for its satisfying blend of protein, healthy fats, and vibrant berry flavor that helps fuel the day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of frozen Berries Mix

• 1 cup of Coconut Milk 

• ⅓ Cup of Greek Yogurt

• 1 Scoop of Further Food Vanilla Protein 

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Smoothies like this are a great option when you're looking for a quick protein snack before or after Pilates, especially when you want something refreshing, filling, and easy to digest.

Ready-to-Drink Protein for Busy Studio Days

Sometimes you need something even faster. Ready-to-drink protein shakes are a convenient option when you're rushing to the studio or heading between appointments.

One option our team likes:

• Koia — a plant-based protein drink with added vitamins and minerals that is easy to grab and go. Many options are shelf-stable, making them perfect for busy days when you don’t know where your schedule will take you. 

Flavors we love:

Director of Marketing and Sales: Chocolate Peanut Butter

Marketing Coordinator: Strawberry

Senior Multimedia Designer: Cacao Bean

Protein Snacks with a Little Crunch

Not every protein snack needs to be a bar or shake. Granola, yogurt, and other nutrient-dense snacks can also help support energy throughout the day.

One brand we enjoy:

• Purely Elizabeth — known for granola, oatmeal, and cereal made with clean ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations.

And sometimes the easiest option is the best one. Our team also loves Chobani Flip Cups, especially the Coco Loco flavor, Key Lime Crumble, and Salted Caramel Crunch. They’re quick, satisfying, and perfect when you want something simple that still tastes great.

Because sometimes the best snack is simply the one that’s easiest to grab on the way to class.

Fuel Intentions and Movement

Inspired by the idea that movement deserves the right fuel, our Fuel Intentions Collection celebrates the connection between nourishment and practice.

Designed for Pilates, barre, yoga, and beyond, each style brings together supportive grip, thoughtful details, and playful reminders that movement and nourishment belong together.

Explore the Fuel Intentions Collection →