Getting in a great workout can be a challenge as life gets busier. If you have been away from the gym for a while, using a pre-workout supplement can make it easier to find the energy you need. Depending on the time of day you hit the gym, a caffeinated pre-workout might be ideal.
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What Is Pre-workout?
A pre-workout supplement is a simple way to boost your energy for a great workout. They often contain simple carbs, proteins and supplements to increase your focus and your burn time. A caffeinated pre-workout can also wake you up and raise your metabolism. However, caffeine can be hard on the stomach and make it harder to stay hydrated.
Do Caffeine-Free Pre-workouts Actually Work?
A caffeine free pre workout loaded with proteins can help you burn harder for longer. In addition, there are many supplements that can reduce your risk of soreness the next day. If you have to have caffeine to get moving in the morning and want to replace your coffee routine with a caffeinated pre-workout, go for it.
However, if you’re working out later in the day or if caffeine makes you edgy and irritable, a caffeine-free product can be a much better choice.
How Does Caffeine In Pre-workout Supplements Boost Performance?
Caffeine can turn a quick burst of energy into a much longer burn. It should be noted that caffeine takes 15 minutes to impact your brain and body, so you may want to start your supplementation before you get to the gym.
A caffeinated supplement can do a lot to raise your spirits on gym days when your energy level is low. If your workout schedule has to move and you wind up working out in the evenings, make sure you know
- how caffeine impacts your brain and body
- whether your caffeine reaction has changed
- how much water you’ve had to drink throughout the day
As we age, caffeine hits us harder. It can also lead to dehydration if we don’t balance it with water. Finally, caffeine can be tough on your stomach. If you notice an acidic response, such as heartburn or nausea, after your workout supplement, try to follow it up with unsweetened applesauce to settle things down.
Side Effects
Boosting your caffeine intake has a thermogenic effect. It boosts your metabolism and allows you to burn more calories in your workouts and throughout the day. However, caffeine can lead to dehydration if you don’t also increase your water intake.
If your goal is muscle growth or hypertrophy, you will need to increase your reps and keep boosting the amount of weight you’re pushing and pulling. According to Legion Athletics, a push program will require you to do no more than ten reps, three sets each with a 2 to 3 minutes rest break. During your break, make sure you’re upping your water intake to avoid cramping now and joint pain later.