What do you eat before training?
Stress 'MAN-gi'. 'Allenarti' = al-le-NAR-ti — informal reflexive.
Use this to start a conversation about nutrition and pre-workout habits. It's a very common topic between Italian gym-goers.
'Cosa mangi' = what do you eat (informal tu). 'Prima di' = before + infinitive. This pattern is very useful: 'cosa fai prima di dormire?' (what do you do before sleeping?), 'cosa bevi prima di correre?' (what do you drink before running?).
Mangi qualcosa prima di allenarti?
Do you eat something before training?
Yes/no version.
Ti integri con le proteine?
Do you take protein supplements?
About supplements.
Quante ore prima mangi?
How many hours before do you eat?
About timing.
Italian gym culture is divided on supplements ('integratori'). Many traditional Italian fitness enthusiasts prefer 'cibo vero' (real food) over protein shakes, influenced by the Italian food culture. However, younger generations are increasingly adopting whey protein and pre-workout supplements.