Written By: Registered Dietitian Mairead
Do you currently take a pre-workout supplement? Have you wondered whether you should? With so many supplement options out there, it’s hard to know what makes sense for you! Let’s dig into the purpose of pre-workout supplements and who they might work best for.
Most pre-workouts are designed to give you a boost before and during your workout so you can work your hardest and get the results you want. This usually means they mainly contain caffeine, although there may be other substances included, like vitamins and minerals, electrolytes or branched chain amino acids (BCAAs).
The main benefit of a pre-workout supplement is usually from caffeine.
Taking in caffeine before a workout really can give you that mental boost, making you more mentally alert, and reducing mental fatigue, potentially leading to a more effective workout. This caffeine doesn’t have to be from a pre-workout supplement though – a well-timed coffee or tea can work just as well. Everyone responds to caffeine differently at different times, so it’s worth seeing what works for you before making a big investment in a large amount of supplement.
Like any sports supplement, it’s usually a good idea to try a sample before you commit to a full container. Make sure you like the flavour and that the pre-workout agrees with your digestive system.
If caffeine later in the day impacts your sleep, a pre-workout may not be the best choice for evening workouts. The benefits of good sleep outweigh the potential slight improvement in your workout! If you’re someone who needs to watch their total caffeine intake for any reason (blood pressure, anxiety, etc), remember to count your pre-workout in your daily total!
In terms of other substances you might find in pre-workout supplements, that will depend on your individual needs. Most people working out for an hour don’t need much extra electrolytes, but this may be a benefit for those working out in very hot or humid conditions, or who are doing much longer training sessions. Any vitamin and mineral needs also vary by person.
With a well-balanced diet, you usually don’t need to take in extra from other supplements. More isn’t always better!
If you want to dig further into what sports supplements or vitamin and mineral supplements are right for you, this is your time to ask! Book your Nutrition Consultation today to look at your diet as a whole, your training, and what potential benefits there might be!
