11 Of The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Workout Supplements

11 Q&A on Pre-Training Supplements

1. Should I take my pre-training on non-training days?

While you can if you want to boost your energy a little bit, there is no point in doing this. They are designed to be taken away immediately before your training, so you can waste your money.

2. Should I eat something along with my supplement?

Most of these supplements recommend taking it on an empty stomach, for full effect. So you can, but it may lessen the effect you feel compared to an empty stomach.

3. How long before I take it, should I eat?

I recommend at least 1 to 1.5 hours for your food to be digested, before taking your pre-workout.

4. How long before training do I need to take?

Although each supplement may vary slightly, most sit between 30-45 minutes. Please read your specific additional label labels to confirm this.

5. If I try to lose weight, do I still use pre-workout?

Yes, yes. This supplement does not harm your weight loss goals. And it can actually help you reach them with increased focus and motivation. Caffeine also has a thermogenic effect, to help boost your metabolism (burn more fat) as well.

6. If I take protein shake after training, can I still use pre-workout?

Yes, yes. Post workout supplements, especially protein, should always follow your training. Pre-training supplements will not affect your post workout routine at all.

7. What are the most useful ingredients to look for in pre-training?

Creatine, Caffeine, Beta Alanine, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Nitric Oxide Boosters (such as Arginine or L-Citrulline), Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA's). If the pre-workout you see has at least 3 of these, or more, you should be in good shape.

8. I notice pre-workouts have creatine, but not much ... can I add more?

Yes, yes. They typically contain about 1000mg of creatine per serving, while creatine supplements typically contain around 3000-5000mg of creatine per serving. Adjust your volume accordingly, while making sure to read the specific product labels carefully to avoid doing so.

9. If my training is in the afternoon, do I still need to use it?

You certainly can, but be aware of the amount of caffeine you add specifically to each meal. For example, if you work in the evening, around 5-6 pm, you should consume less than 200 mg of caffeine. But if you take more than that, you may have trouble sleeping that night. Please be aware of your own sensitivity to stimulation. Also, read your specific product instructions carefully, it should state how long they recommend taking them before bed. There is also a free choice of stimulants / caffeine available.

10. I took mine, but I didn't feel any difference ... why?

There are several reasons. a) How often are you exposed to stimulants such as caffeine? Do you drink a lot of coffee, tea or soda? If you do, your tolerance is very high and you will need to postpone (stop taking all stimulants) for 2-3 weeks to allow your tolerance to fall again. b) When did you last eat? Recently? The strongest effect on an empty stomach. c) Do you take the recommended serving size?

11. Are they worth the money?

The answer to this question depends entirely on you, and your priorities. If you like these effects, then you will definitely find them worth the money. And if you don't, then you can't. It's hard to know, unless you give them a shot.

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