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Meal Prepping for Busy Athletes: The Complete Guide

Endurance Athlete Roadmap
August 14, 2025
8 min read
Meal Prepping for Busy Athletes: The Complete Guide

Meal Prepping for Busy Athletes: The Complete Guide

As a busy athlete, I know what it is like. Your training schedule is full, and you need fuel to perform well. Add a job and family on top of your demands, your time becomes limited. That is why, as an endurance coach, I recommend meal prepping.

I am sure you have heard the saying, "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail." This couldn't be more true when it comes to nutrition for endurance athletes.

Why Meal Prep Matters for Athletes

Time Savings

  • Spend 2-3 hours once vs. cooking daily
  • Grab-and-go meals for busy mornings
  • No decision fatigue when you're exhausted post-workout
  • Better Nutrition

  • Control your macros precisely
  • Avoid fast food temptations
  • Ensure adequate protein for recovery
  • Cost Effective

  • Buy in bulk
  • Less food waste
  • No expensive last-minute takeout
  • My Simple Meal Prep Framework

    The "Big 3" Approach

    Every week, prep these three categories:

    1. Proteins

  • Grilled chicken breast (3-4 lbs)
  • Hard-boiled eggs (12)
  • Ground turkey for quick meals
  • 2. Carbohydrates

  • Rice (make a big batch)
  • Sweet potatoes (roasted)
  • Oatmeal portions for breakfast
  • 3. Vegetables

  • Roasted veggie mix (broccoli, peppers, zucchini)
  • Pre-washed salad greens
  • Cut vegetables for snacking
  • Sample Prep Schedule

    Sunday (2-3 hours)

  • 10:00 AM: Start rice and potatoes
  • 10:30 AM: Season and prep proteins
  • 11:00 AM: Proteins in oven/grill
  • 11:30 AM: Prep and roast vegetables
  • 12:00 PM: Hard boil eggs
  • 12:30 PM: Portion everything into containers
  • 1:00 PM: Done for the week!
  • Pre and Post-Workout Nutrition

    Pre-Workout (2-3 hours before)

  • Complex carbs + moderate protein
  • Example: Oatmeal with banana and almond butter
  • Post-Workout (within 30 minutes)

  • Protein + simple carbs
  • Example: Protein shake + rice cakes
  • Meal Prep Tools You Need

  • Glass containers (various sizes)
  • Instant Pot or slow cooker
  • Sheet pans for batch roasting
  • A good set of sharp knives
  • Food scale for portion control
  • Quick Meal Assembly Ideas

    Breakfast: Overnight oats + protein powder + berries

    Lunch: Chicken + rice + roasted veggies

    Dinner: Ground turkey + sweet potato + salad

    Snacks: Hard boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, veggie sticks

    Want personalized nutrition guidance? Join our Athlete Roadmap Community for meal plans tailored to endurance athletes, plus weekly coaching calls to answer your nutrition questions.

    Ready to Take Your Training to the Next Level?

    Stop guessing and start progressing. Join our community of endurance athletes who are achieving their goals with expert coaching and support.