Pre-Workout FAQs: A Guide to Pre-Workouts

Thousands of gym-goers swear by the use of pre-workout protein shakes, exclaiming that it gives them the added boost they need to smash their workout and reap the rewards and benefits they desire. Some, though, are a little more sceptical and worry about the effects of drinking a pre-workout shake, as well as those who simply don’t believe it makes a difference to their performance and actually wonder what does pre-workout do?

The truth is that pre-workouts aren’t for everybody, but it is also important to consider that not all pre-workouts are the same. Simply because you didn’t get on with one doesn’t necessarily mean that you wouldn’t get on with another.

Here, UK Gym Equipment aims to dispel some of the myths surrounding pre-workouts, as well as clarifying the benefits of using a pre-workout before your session, what’s in pre-workout and how long do the benefits last for.

What is Pre-Workout?

Pre-workout drinks and powders are supplements designed to increase your energy and focus, helping you to smash your workout. Some pre-workouts are available as pre-mixed drinks, but the overwhelming majority are sold as powders designed to be mixed with water – hence the use of shaker bottles that you have likely seen utilised by weightlifters at the gym. 

What’s in Pre-Workout?

The exact ingredients and measurements differ from brand to brand, so it is important to take note of the nutritional values of any pre-workout before you take it. Ingredients such as creatine, amino acids, beta alanine and caffeine are some of the basic ingredients used in most pre-workouts, designed to give you that energy boost you are looking for before your workout.

What Does Pre-Workout Do?

Pre-workouts provide a boost in energy that is designed to push you through a workout. For example, if you wake up early in the morning ready to hit the gym, a pre-workout can provide you with the energy and drive to get yourself to the gym – essential if you wouldn’t normally class yourself as a morning person!

How Quickly do the Effects of Pre-Workouts Kick-In?

How quickly the effects of a pre-workout supplement kicks in differs from person to person and brand to brand, but you should expect to feel the effects kicking in between 30 and 60 minutes after consumption.

How Long Does Pre-Workout Last For?

There is no definitive timeframe for how long the effects of pre-workout will last as it is wholly dependent on the amount of caffeine and the individual taking it. Most pre-workouts recommend that you take them at least four hours before you plan on going to bed as the amount of caffeine in the supplement could affect your ability to sleep.

Is Pre-Workout Safe?

Pre-workout supplements are safe to use, although if you have any special dietary or medical requirements you should speak to your GP if you have any concerns. You should also not exceed the recommended serving due to the focused amount of caffeine that makes up the pre-workout solution. Pre-workout is bad for you if you regularly exceed the recommended serving and should only be used as a supplement before a workout rather than taken daily – even when you are not planning on exercising.

Can Pre-Workout Cause Depression?

Pre-workout supplements from trusted brands will not cause depression or have any adverse effects on your mood. However, some less-trusted brands which include blends with false brand names are only legally obliged to list what ingredients are in the pre-workout rather than the actual amounts. This is why UK Gym Equipment would recommend only purchasing your pre-workout from trusted sellers, ensuring that you know exactly what is in your supplement.

How Much Caffeine in Pre-Workout Supplements?

Most pre-workout supplements will have anywhere between 150mg to 300mg of caffeine per serving. You should make sure to check the ingredients and nutritional value of your pre-workout.

Can I Become Immune to Pre-Workout?

Yes. If you take a pre-workout supplement every day, even when you are not planning a workout, your body will become used to the ingredients in the supplement. Rather than feeling the boost which comes from taking a pre-workout, the body will almost become reliant on the fix and it will feel as though it is the norm. This can make you feel sluggish when you do not take a pre-workout supplement and, thus, it should only be used for when you need it.

Can I Become Overly Stimulated from Pre-Workout?

Yes, in just the same way as you can become overly stimulated by drinking too many cups of coffee or cans of energy drink. This is because the amount of caffeine that is in the supplement could potentially cause tingles and jitters, although not everyone will suffer from these side-effects. 

Should I Take a Pre-Workout Supplement?

There is no definitive answer as the decision to take a pre-workout supplement is a personal one. If you feel as though a boost in energy is something that would help to push you to that next level, by all means go ahead – but you should do your research and don’t be afraid to try different types to find the best one for you. As already mentioned, if you have any specific dietary or medical requirements, consult your GP before taking the supplement.

Contact UK Gym Equipment for Your Fitness Equipment Needs

Whether or not you choose to take a pre-workout supplement, you will find a wide array of commercial-standard gym equipment right here on our website that will help you to reach and exceed your fitness goals. You will also find our favourite workouts inside our blog section to help inspire your sessions. 

We invite you to browse our selection and, if you are unable to find exactly what you are looking for or would like some more information, please get in contact with a member of our team today.