Since you've had better bars, which would you suggest? Keep in mind taste isn't a deal breaker. As long as it's tolerable, it's ok with me.I usually use them pre workout right after classes and headed into the gym. They do a decent job, taste "Okay", I've had better and far worse. They look gross, and can get melty though. I have the choc chip ones. The peanut butter I tasted once was decent. As for the other flavors, they scare me too much.
I have to do a little more research on almonds but I remember reading/hearing that too much could actually hurt you instead of benefit you. I am looking into it more...But you should still try to stay away from processed foods. Almonds and cashews have everything you need for a pre-workout bump.
I'm looking for something that will satisfy the small (very small) appetite I have before the training session and will keep my energy level up during the duration of the session (2 hours). It also has to be convenient since I go straight from work to the school/gym. So a sandwich or anything is out of the question because I have no where to store it. Yeah even at work because people like to steal people's foodDepends on what your goals are...
For a typical person, if they're looking for sustained energy, Clif Bars are probably one of the best bars that you can eat. They have lots of versions with rolled oats or other grains. The macronutrient break down is very carb heavy.
Contrast that with someone who is more focused on building mass and you're going to want to go with a bar that has a higher protein content.
I always stayed away from Power Bars because I feel they're sugary BS. They've changed their formula over the years to be more protein focused and less focused on a ton of sugars for "endurance athletes".
I wouldn't eat a meal that essentially only carbs - so I won't eat bars that are the same thing. I don't even think they're adequate meal replacement bar (Clif or Powerbar) but thats really the only purpose to have the bar.
Now if you're looking for pre & post workout protein, because you're looking to maintain or promote lean mass, then I'd go to a protein powder rather than a bar. This is because most protein bars are also garbage.
Eat half a turkey sandwich on whole grain bread and an apple.
...or they're freaks like myself that use a paleo diet, so the answer to what my pre/post workout meals look like are entirely different from what they were when I was on a traditional diet of high protein/complex carbs/healthy fats.