Many of us can not imagine a good workout without a good pre-workout. The pre-workout supplement helps us concentrate, use the last of our strength, and turn up the speed. But what makes pre-workout so effective and training without them a bit worse?
Effective pre-workout supplements - overview
The thing to start with is that the pre-workout composition can be very different. They are not based on one particular ingredient, so they can not be compared to creatine, BCAA or beta-alanine. Pre-workout supplements are made up of many different supplements with specific action. They are selected in such a way as to achieve a certain effect. What is that?
- Stimulation
That is what we feel after taking many pre-workouts. We have the impression that we are able to lift every weight and break the bar. The stimulation effect is very large especially during the first time. Over time our body gets used to the supplement and its action may be slightly weaker.
- Concentration
Helps those who have a lot on their heads. Pre-training supplements increase our cognitive abilities, so it is easier to focus on exercise. This is especially important in heavy multi-tasking exercises (such as dead-ends or sit-ups) that require a lot of focus, and the last repetitions can be a murderous struggle with yourself.
- Pump
Feeling "pumped" is very pleasant. The muscles become more tangible, they respond better to the nerve impulse and the training becomes more satisfying. The reason for this is the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes the blood vessels and thereby improves the blood supply. The supply of oxygen and nutrients along with blood is very important, so "pump" is something that definitely helps us.
- Strength improvement
Some pre-workouts also contain supplements to increase strength. It can work on the principle of ATP resynthesis, the most important fuel for muscle (creatine) or by increasing strength (beta-alanine). Larger weights and more repetitions are the basis for progression training.
And what ingredients will we find in pre-workouts most often? Here are the most popular:
Caffeine
Improves the clarity of the mind and mobilizes the nervous system. It also boosts blood pressure, which improves exercise capacity and provides excitement. In pre-workout we will find large doses of caffeine, often the equivalent of several cups of coffee. Do not exceed 400 - 600 mg daily.
Beta-alanine
The most noticeable pre-workout ingredient. Why? It evokes the characteristic tingling of the whole body (and especially the face), which is not dangerous and we don’t need to be afraid of it. Beta-alanine increases the level of carnosine responsible for regulating the pH level associated with the production of lactic acid. Increases muscle strength, prevents leech formation and allows for heavier training.
Taurine
is a chemical compound produced in small amounts in the liver, brain and intestines. Demonstrates stimulating and enhancing effects. Taurine is a component of popular energy drinks. Improving cognitive abilities allows us to focus more on training.
Citrulline, arginine
Citrulline malate or arginine are the ingredients responsible for the so-called muscle pump. These ingredients are precursors of nitric oxide, which we have already mentioned above. They stimulate oxygen production in the muscles during training.
Creatine
The most popular and best tested supplement. It’s a component of muscle tissue and can be obtained in small amounts from meat. Provides strength gains during dynamic exercises. Its effectiveness is confirmed by many independent studies. The recommended daily dose of creatine is about 5 g.
BCAA (branched-chain amino acids)
These are three protein amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine. They relieve tiredness after training and minimize the risk of soreness. They also play anti-catabolic effects on muscle cells and support them in the regeneration process.
L-tyrosine
It’s the precursor of three important neurotransporters training: adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine. L-tyrosine helps fight feelings of fatigue and tiredness. Improving the well-being and preventing hunger can be particularly useful during long-term reduction diets.
Effective pre-workout ingredients - summary
And what pre-workout should you choose for yourself? We need to see for ourselves. Everyone works differently and there’s not one perfect pre-workout supplement. Try and look for it until you find the perfect one that will make your training even more effective.
