Pre-workout supplements are popular amongst those active in and outside of gyms. For those looking for an extra pump or added energy to get through a workout, there are a variety of different pre-workout supplements available.
Why Pre-Workout Supplements Matter
Which Pre-workout Supplement is Best to Use?
While everyone has their own opinion and personal review of the many different brands on the market, the most important part of deciding which one is for you is to take notice of how the supplement affects you. I get asked regularly which pre-workout is the best to use, and my answer is always whichever one works best for the individual.
I’ve heard a number of different experiences from people who all take the same kind of pre-workout from:
- “It didn’t do anything for me.” – I’ve had some that didn’t make any noticeable changes to my routine.
- “I couldn’t sleep after I took it.” – I’ve had some that seemed to keep up alert all day, and others that gave me a really ‘relaxed’ crash about 2.5 hours after I took it.
- “I had the best workout of my life.”
Another Common Question I get Asked Is, “Do Pre-Workouts Actually Work?”
My belief is that yes, they do. I do, however, believe that a piece of the supplement actually working is a psychological aspect – the placebo effect – if you believe it’s going to help, it probably will.
What’s in a Pre-Workout Supplement?
Most pre-workouts contain caffeine, which is a known stimulant and energy booster. Beta-alanine, another common ingredient, is usually the ingredient that makes you flush and perhaps feel “itchy.”
Creatine, which many pre-workouts contain, has also been demonstrated in some studies to provide extra energy creation in the body to push through an intense workout session. That said, creatine requires regular use to allow the body to create more energy, so if a pre-workout supplement is used infrequently, there’s a probability that the creatine in the supplement isn’t doing anything extraordinary during a bout of exercise.
When Should I Take Pre-Workout?
While pre-workouts can be useful, particularly if you’re lacking energy on a particular day, cautionary actions should be taken when using them.
First, make sure you’re healthy enough to be taking the supplement. Consult with your doctor if you’ve had liver or heart problems or if you have a family history of liver or heart problems.
Secondly, adhere to the recommended dosage/serving when using pre-workouts. I’ve had individuals approach me and tell me that they exceeded the dosage because they thought it would give them an even better workout, and then ended up in the hospital with heart palpitations.
More is not better in this scenario. Also, follow the directions with respect to not exceeding the allotted time of use. Generally, most recommend not using the supplement for more than 4 weeks without a 2-week break from it. The body can and will build a tolerance to pre-workout for most people.
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How To Start Taking Pre-Workout Supplements
If you’ve never used a pre-workout, are healthy enough to do so, and want to try using them, my advice is to get some single-serving samples of a few different pre-workouts and test them out. Make a mental (or physical) note of how your energy, focus, and overall well-being was during your workout with each respective use of pre-workouts. This will allow you to make the best decision about which one works best for you.
Know the 5 reasons why you should be taking Nitric Oxide. Watch the video below:
Taking a pre-workout supplement is a beneficial way to amp up your workout regime by giving you energy and focus to get the best workout possible each and every time. Be smart and listen to your body, and take as advised above.
How do you like your pre-workout supplement? Have you noticed any significant change in your workout? Let us know in the comments below.