The hype says that pre-workouts are necessary for extra oompf during a workout.
Potential Benefits
Fat Loss is a big draw for any workout, and can be dependent on caffeine to help burning fat at a greater rate while performing a workout. Most of us know that caffeine tends to keep us awake and alert, so there is the argument that it also helps us to build strength and keep us pumping.
A friend of mine described a workout after taking a pre-workout supplement as “awesome,’ due to the fact he could keep going for an extra half hour on leg day. A blend with caffeine and creatine could very well be responsible for adding that extra workout time, and the ability to concentrate.
What To Watch Out For
Side Effects
Caffeine can cause dehydration on occasion. Ensure you check the recommended dosages and stick to them, and ensure you are sufficiently hydrated.
Sleeplessness is a problem when pre-workout supplements are taken at the wrong time, or if taken too close to bedtime. As a rule, caffeine based pre-workouts should be avoided up to 8 hours before going to bed, to help aid a restful sleep. Not all of us will be affected to the same extent, and it’s best to be guided by your own judgement, but be sure to ask your doctor or consult the medical profession should any adverse affects from any supplement occur.
Potential allergy is something that any of us can suffer at any time. We can happily consume something for years on end, until one day, our bodies decide it doesn’t like that particular food or supplement any more and begins to throw out symptoms. The symptoms can be feeling nauseus, vomiting, having headaches, or even suffering from hives (itching). Some ingredients in any supplements can cause problems. If you suffer any of these, stop taking the supplement and take advice from a medical professional.
Overdose of any supplement should be avoided at all times. Be aware of the recommended dosages of your supplements, and adhere to them strictly. They are for your own good. Too much of a good thing can very well affect your heart.
Which Supplements?
How long is a piece of string? Nobody really knows the best thing for you. We can find out what works for ourselves, and make recommendations, but ultimately, the supplements we choose are a very individual and personal decision. Some of us will be influenced by friends and family, or science and textbooks, and it’s not easy to know what the best thing to choose is, but it does pay to be sensible. Do some research and find what works best for you.
Check ingredients of your chosen supplements, to ensure there are no potential allergens that might affect you, and move brands if there are.
