Pre-workout is a supplement usually taken before a workout often in the form of a powder or pill in order to boost gym performance. In recent years, pre-workout supplements have become very popular especially among the younger age groups. Those who use pre-workout claim that it can improve your energy levels and overall fitness throughout challenging workouts if taken properly. However, some disagree saying that they are dangerous for your body and overall health. In this blog we will be discussing the good and the bad about pre-workouts from an unbiased viewpoint.

Pre-workout

The Good:

● Important Ingredients
○ Although some pre-workouts lack certain ingredients, the products that contain creatine, caffeine, and nitric oxide precursors have been proven to improve athletic performance.

● Prevent Premature Fatigue
○ As your energy levels decrease during exercise your muscles often get tired. Taking pre-workout provides your body with readily available energy it would usually be lacking at this time.

● Minimize Protein Breakdown
○ In order to gain the muscle you want to obtain from working out and actually maintain this for the long run, protein synthesis must be greater than or equal to the rate of protein breakdown. By taking pre-workout, you can keep your protein levels high and prevent your muscles from being broken down.

The Bad:

● Lack of Research
○ Research has shown that these types of products lack a lot of scientific evidence and in turn may lead to health risks post usage.

● High Risk
○ Although there is a lack of in depth research on most pre-workout supplements, there is proof of those with high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, and diabetes having worse long-term effects.

● The Comparison
○ When comparing individuals who use pre-workout supplements and their performance and results from the gym and physical activity, they do not differ or show improvement than those that do not use the supplements.

● No Consistency
○ It is true that most pre-workouts consist of a powdery substance. However, the problem with this product is that there is no set list of ingredients meaning different formulas lack the vitamins, amino acids, and caffeine needed to see the said results.

In conclusion there are both positive and negative side effects from taking workout supplements. Although I only went over a few good and bad aspects of pre-workout there are so many more. It is important to always do research on supplements you end up choosing. Some may be filled with ingredients your body may not react well to, but some may work really well and show fast results. Make sure to check out Healthline for more information on pre-workout!

Do not get discouraged.

Cora Shircel