If you are considering using a pre-workout supplement, you are probably balancing the pros and the cons. Are the muscle gains worth the side effects? If there are more pros than cons, you might want to give it a shot. In this article, I will discuss the benefits of using a pre-workout supplement as well as some different kinds of pre-workout supplements. Hopefully after reading this, you will know more about these types of supplements and why people use them. Not everyone has the same goal in mind when they workout, so pre-workout supplements might not be for everyone.
Different Types of Pre-Workout Supplements
First of all, there are many types of supplements out there. Not every one is created equal, so you should know the different kinds and their purposes before purchasing just any supplement. The most popular workout supplement might be Creatine. This is used to give strength and size. So for lifters trying to really boost mass, you may like Creatine the best. Amino Acids, or branched chain amino acids as they are sometimes called, support metabolism and protein synthesis. Both of these are more for the person trying to gain muscle mass. Other supplements, like Vitamin B Complex are used more in promoting energy so you can endure a tough workout. Other pre-workout supplements focus on Nitric Oxide production, which gives you that muscle pump and vascularity.
Benefits of Using A Pre-Workout Supplement
The main reason that many people use pre-workout supplements is for muscle gain. Supplements that boost protein synthesis, such as branched chain amino acids, are used for muscle gain because they provide your muscles with the building blocks for healthy muscle tissue. Other people take these kinds of supplements for fat loss. Caffeine is a common ingredient found in these supplement pills, and it is also helpful in burning fat faster during a workout. It also helps fight fatigue and improve focus. A lot of guys can just work out and get good muscle gains, but the still use pre-workout supplements. Why? Some like it for aesthetic reasons. Nitric Oxide supplements widen blood vessels so you appear more vascular and your muscles pop a bit more. There are some people who just need a little help staying focused. B-Vitamins and caffeine supplements are usually responsible for helping people retain power, energy, and focus.
On The Flip Side
All this being said, there are some negative side effects that you might want to keep in mind if you’re in the market for a pre-workout supplement. As mentioned before, a lot of pre-workout powders and supplements contain caffeine. As you might guess, caffeine can cause sleeplessness if consumed too close to bed. Pre-workout supplements are generally pretty safe, but some individuals have experienced nausea, headaches, and itching. Some of this could be allergic reaction, but things like itching are pretty common with pre-workout supplements that boost blood flow. Both caffeine and creatine supplements can possibly cause dehydration if you’re not careful. As diuretics, they absorb water quickly, so you have to stay on top of your water intake. If you do not feel well when taking a pre-workout supplement, it is highly advised that you terminate use of it.
