SM Nutrition Blog

person mixing a bowl of peanut butter

From Pre Game to Post Workout: Bagels for Athletes

April 11, 2025•2 min read

Bagels are a powerhouse for athletes. They are an excellent choice for high school athletes looking to fuel up before practice, or game and recover afterward. If you are an athlete looking for quick, easy, and delicious meal ideas, incorporating bagels into your fueling plan can help support your training.

Bagels are a strong carbohydrate foundation for protein rich toppings, nutrient dense spreads, and fresh fruits or veggies to maximize performance and muscle recovery. Here are eight of my favorite ways athletes can fuel their game with bagels!

peanut butter bagels for athletes

Classic Peanut Butter & Banana Bagel

Best for: Pre workout fuel 1-2 hours before practice

Ingredients:

  • Whole wheat bagel
  • Peanut butter
  • Banana, sliced
  • Honey
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon

salmon bagels for athletes

Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Bagel

Best for: Post workout muscle recovery breakfast

Ingredients:

  • Everything bagel
  • Cream cheese
  • Smoked salmon
  • Sliced red onion and lettuce

sliced avocado bagels for athletes

Egg & Avocado Breakfast Bagel

Best for: High protein breakfast

Ingredients:

  • Whole wheat or sesame bagel
  • Avocado, mashed
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Cheddar cheese

blueberries and strawberries in white ceramic bowl bagels for athletes

Cottage Cheese & Berry Bagel

Best for: Post workout snack

Ingredients:

  • Blueberry bagel
  • Whole milk cottage cheese
  • Blueberries or sliced strawberries
  • Drizzle of honey or maple syrup
  • Sprinkle of chia seeds and cinnamon

close up shot of hummus bread bagels for athletes

Turkey & Hummus Bagel

Best for: Powerful lunch on game day

Ingredients:

  • Plain bagel
  • Sliced turkey
  • Hummus
  • Lettuce and tomato

close up photo of red and yellow apple fruits on green leaves bagels for athletes

Almond Butter & Apple Bagel

Best for: Pre workout fuel 1-2 hours before practice

Ingredients:

  • Cinnamon Raisin Bagel
  • Almond butter
  • Apple, thinly sliced
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon

assorted cheese on the table bagels for athletes

Roast Beef & Cheddar Bagel

Best for: Recovery meal after practice

Ingredients:

  • Whole wheat bagel
  • Roast beef
  • Cheddar
  • Mayonnaise
  • Lettuce and tomato

sliced pepperoni pizza on white ceramic plate bagels for athletes

Pizza Bagel

Best for: Weekend lunch

Ingredients:

  • Plain bagel
  • Marinara sauce
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni
  • Sprinkle of Italian seasoning

Bagels can be customized to fit any meal or snack time. Whether you need a quick pre workout energy boost or a filling recovery meal, these bagel recipes are a great way to fuel your performance!

Stephanie Militano, MS, RD, CSSD
Stephanie Militano, MS, RD, CSSD|Registered Sports Dietitian
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