The Pros and Cons of Taking Pre-Workout as a Supplement

There are many benefits of taking pre-workout as a supplement replacement. Typically for the ‘power up’ energy it provides during your workout. Like anything we put into our bodies, we need to have a good idea of how it affects us and sometimes that means talking about the not-so-glamorous side effects of supplements such as pre-workout. Whether you already take pre-workout and are noticing some changes to your body or are weighing up the pros and cons of taking it for the first time, we reveal all below. 

Pros 

There is a reason why so many people enjoy consuming their pre-workout on the way to the gym. Known for its motivation-boosting properties, pre-workout is great for the highest of high-intensity training routines that boost your energy, reduce your recovery time and encourage muscle growth.

Other key benefits of pre-workout supplements include: 

Giving you an advantage: If you’ve ever been half way through a set and wanted to give up, pre-workout can help bring you back to a level where you feel comfortable and ready.

Faster recovery: No one enjoys having fatigued muscles but, by taking pre-workout as part of your workout routine, you’ll recover from your session quicker, helping to prepare you for round two.

Higher endurance: Pre-workout also spurs on our endurance which is perfect for those who run, swim, dance or bike for prolonged periods of time.

Cons 

Like most things, there are some cons associated with taking pre-workout and, depending on your environment, you may notice some of these drawbacks more than others. For example, even though pre-workout is used to help stimulate the body, some consider it over-stimulating and struggle to maintain their energy and fatigue afterwards. 

Other cons of pre-workout include: 

Increased blood pressure: Maintaining a good workout routine strengthens the heart, helping to lower blood pressure. But too much pre-workout may increase your blood pressure which, if left untreated, may increase your risk of serious health problems such as heart failure. This is why it’s always recommended to consult your doctor prior to taking pre-workout and other forms of workout supplements.

Dehydration: Some pre-workout can trigger dehydration as a result of the ingredients they contain. Though these ingredients are present for a reason, it’s important to rehydrate your body, particularly post workout, to restore your body’s natural fluid levels.

Fatigue: If you do not regularly consume pre-workout, you may find it triggers an energy crash leaving your body and mind feeling tired and irritable. That’s why the timing of your pre-workout consumption is so important. 

When To Take Pre-Workout 

If your pre-work contains caffeine or a similar stimulant, you’ll already be aware of the power it has over your body and mind. To avoid the dreaded ‘energy crash’, it’s important to time your consumption perfectly between leaving enough time to feel the effects of your pre-workout at the start of your routine and when your session ends. It’s recommended to take pre-workout at least 30 minutes prior to exercising, and up to 60 minutes if possible. By doing so, you know that it’ll provide the boost you need.

Pre-workout is an excellent element of any workout routine and, if you’re not already invested in the hype, now could be the perfect time to give it a go. Let us know how you get on!

Feature Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash