Did you know that the amount of caffeine in a pre-workout supplement can vary by up to 500%? It's important to read labels carefully before deciding what type of pre-workout supplement is right for you. With so many different brands and types of supplements on the market, it may seem like an impossible task to find one that suits your needs. Here are five things to consider when picking out a pre-workout supplement.
1. The Price
The price of a pre-workout supplement can vary by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Make sure that the quality is worth the investment, especially if it's your first time trying out this type of product. If you're a beginner, it's probably best to start small with supplements that are cost-friendly.
2. Caffeine Levels
If you're not a coffee drinker, then this is something to consider. A pre-workout supplement can contain very high levels of caffeine that may lead to unwanted outcomes such as jitters or energy crashes later on in the day. There is a need to assess how much caffeine are you getting per serving? The caffeine content in supplements can range from less than 100mg to over 400 or 500 mg. Ensure that your supplements fall within your tolerance and comfort zone before consuming them. If you are sensitive or do not consume caffeine regularly, consider purchasing a pre-workout without caffeine.
3. Ingredients
There are many types of pre-workout supplements available on the market. Each pre-workout supplement has different main ingredients. Examples of common elements include creatine and caffeine, while others contain beta-alanine or betaine anhydrous. All pre-workout supplements are not created equal, so make sure to read the labels on your product before buying carefully. It would be prudent if you took a look at what kinds of ingredients each supplement contains. Compare them to others until you find one compatible with your dietary needs or restrictions. Note that some products may contain common allergens or banned substances.
4. Natural Ingredients
Some supplements contain many different natural ingredients, including amino acids and plant extracts, that work synergistically to boost your workout performance. These natural ingredients may be the best option for you if your goal is to increase muscle mass, shorten recovery time or improve endurance without stimulants.
5. Flavors and Taste
The taste of some pre-workout supplements is very tolerable, while others are not so great. Pre-workout supplements can contain potent ingredients that may not be the most delicious thing to taste. Before investing in it, make sure you pick a supplement with a tolerable flavor profile and texture for your tastes. Otherwise, you're not going to use it as much, and it will end up going to waste.
6. Dosages
According to Legion Athletics, the dosage per serving is crucial in achieving your fitness goals. Personal trainers and fitness experts recommend starting small for beginners and increasing the amount or frequency as you progress. For persons sensitive to caffeine, a pre-workout without caffeine is ideal. After reading this article, hopefully, you have a better understanding of what to look for in your pre-workout supplement. The most important thing is that you are educated about precisely what goes into this product, so make sure to do your research before buying one!