The fitness industry now considers pre-workout supplements as essential products that will convert an unproductive training session into a high-energy workout. The formulas exist as powder products which you must combine with water for drinking 20 to 30 minutes before starting your workout. The supplement industry contains numerous products which make it difficult for customers to determine the actual components which exist in their supplement container.
The Role of Caffeine
Caffeine counts as the primary component found in pre-workout products. The product functions by blocking brain signals which create “fatigue” thus increasing your alertness to extend your performance capabilities. The product contains a single scoop which delivers caffeine equal to three to four cups of coffee thus it poses a risk to people who lack caffeine tolerance.
Beta-Alanine and the “Tingles”
Beta-Alanine causes users to experience a “pins and needles” sensation which affects their skin after they consume a pre-workout product. The amino acid functions to help your muscles maintain optimal performance by reducing acid buildup during exercises. The beginner users experience surprise from the tingling effect which does not cause any physical harm.
Creatine Inclusion
Some pre-workouts include Creatine which helps with short bursts of power and muscle growth. The ingredient demonstrates excellent potential but requires time for its effects to materialize. Creatine needs to be taken consistently over time to saturate your muscles so its presence in a pre-workout is more about long-term convenience.
The “Crash” Factor
Pre-workouts which depend on stimulants often result in users experiencing an energy “crash” several hours after consumption. The caffeine effect fades away, causing you to become more exhausted than your condition before taking the supplement.
Hydration is Key
The pre-workouts which contain high caffeine levels produce a dehydrating effect on users. You must consume sufficient water with your supplement intake to maintain muscle hydration while avoiding headache symptoms.
Impact on Sleep
Your sleep quality suffers when you take pre-workouts containing stimulants before working out at night. Caffeine remains effective in your body for 6 to 8 hours thus if you exercise late you should choose a “stimulant-free” product.
Not a Magic Solution
A supplement cannot replace a bad diet or lack of sleep. Your body needs extra calories and sleep when you experience constant fatigue which stops you from exercising.
Potential for Dependency
The use of pre-workout for every workout session will result in tolerance development for your body. You will become dependent on the product to sustain your exercise routine. Athletes take one week of training break to restore their body sensitivity levels back to normal state.
Check for Third-Party Testing
The FDA does not regulate supplements with the same strict standards as it does for medicines thus users should search for “NSF Certified for Sport” or “Informed Choice” labels. The label badge ensures that the product contains all of its listed ingredients.
Assessment of Tolerance
The new brand requires you to start your first trial by using a half-scoop. The method allows you to observe how your heart rate and stomach respond before you decide to use the complete dosage.
