Pre Workout Supplements: What Are They and Do You Need Them?

Following a regular exercise, the schedule is much easier said than done. While it can be tempting to squeeze in as many workouts as you can in a week, your body can only do so much. Allocating rest days is important to prevent wearing yourself out, but even then, there are times when you may struggle to stay active. No matter what may have triggered the reaction, this is a mutual feeling among many people trying to get fit.

To help remedy this problem, the premise of pre-workout supplements has recently exploded in popularity. You may have heard of it online or on social media, termed as a “pre workout”, which people take to give them a boost of energy for their workout. However, when it comes to any form of supplement or consumables, you always want to be cautious about potential health concerns. 

If the thought of a pre workout supplement intrigues you, but you are unsure of whether you should take it, here is some more information about it to get rid of your confusion.

What is a Pre Workout Supplement?

A pre workout supplement is essentially as its name implies–a supplement taken before a workout to give you energy and boost performance. The ingredients can vary based on your needs, with some focusing on power and others focusing on endurance. The supplements can come in different forms–tablets, capsules, powders, drinks–but there is no single formula for them as every company has its own.

Most pre workout supplements contain caffeine, amino acids, and creatine. Caffeine is commonly found in coffee and is said to help increase alertness. Essential branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), on the other hand, cannot be produced by the body but can help with energy levels and building endurance. Finally, creatine is dubbed as the top supplement for improving gym performance because of studies showing its ability to increase muscle mass. Another popular supplement is cardarine, used to boost endurance, but if you choose to try this, ensure you choose safe cardarine from a reputable source.  

Why Do People Take It?

People who regularly engage in high-intensity exercises usually turn to pre workouts as an energy source. Carbohydrates and caffeine are some of the most ingredients consumed as they help provide the body with additional energy and fuel. However, you should know that not all supplements are regulated, so as a potential buyer, you need to research beforehand to make informed decisions.

Each person’s tolerance or reaction to specific pre workout ingredients can be different. For instance, caffeine can cause some to be jittery even when consumed in small amounts, whereas others are much more tolerant to it. Likewise, the concentration of the ingredients placed in supplements is also important to ensure safety.

If you are interested in trying a pre-workout supplement, start by checking with your doctor to know if you need to avoid specific ingredients and the recommended daily dosage for the nutrients. You will likely have more specific needs if you have a health condition or are taking some medication, so it is important to get a professional opinion before trying anything out.

With so much hype surrounding the idea of a pre-workout supplement, it is not surprising that several fitness enthusiasts have jumped on the bandwagon to try it out. That said, your health and safety should always be your top priority, so before consuming anything, get advice and recommendations from a professional, and when you shop, read the labels carefully.