Nutrition is an incredibly complex and, more often than not, a highly divisive area of fitness. What works well for one person may not work for another person at all, and the science and recommendations of experts seem to be everchanging. Pre-workout supplements are often touted as holy grail products by fitness influencers and personal trainers on social media, but are they safe? For the most part, science says yes, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely without risks. Here’s what you should know before deciding whether to add a pre-workout supplement to your regimen.
The Pros
The exact benefits to be derived from a particular pre-workout supplement will depend on what it contains, but in general, the most popular brands are formulated with some combination of caffeine and creatine. Caffeine can help boost energy levels and increase focus, while creatine has been shown to improve recovery time and increase muscle strength.
The Cons
Caffeine can cause symptoms like heart palpitations, anxiety, and insomnia, which is important to consider when deciding whether a pre-workout supplement is right for you. It can also have a dehydrating effect on the body. If you don’t react well to caffeine, you may want to consider trying a caffeine-free pre-workout supplement.
What Else to Consider
Pre-workout supplements can be a great option when we’re in need of a little extra support, but with prolonged use, their effects may become less noticeable. If you’re no longer feeling benefits from a pre-workout supplement, it may be time to take a break.
