COVID-19 may have temporarily put a halt on your gym plans, but you can continue to stay fit from home. With gym activities being one of Australia’s top sports and physical activities, you likely want to get back to your routine now that the holidays are over. If so, it’s time to pack up on pre-workout supplements to power you through your workouts.
So, what exactly is pre workout in Australia? How does it work? Should you take it? These are just some of the common questions you might ask if you’ve never tried pre-workout supplements to add to your fitness regimen. Get to know more about these game-changers in the guide below, so you can be extra motivated to reach your fitness goals this year.
What is Pre-Workout?
Pre-workout essentially refers to a supplement designed to give you the energy to maximise your workouts and gym time. This can be made in powder—which you mix with water to create a sports drink—or pills that you can easily consume. These are some of the most common ingredients you will find in pre-workout supplements:
- Caffeine. Caffeine is perhaps the most familiar ingredient in the list and the main source of the energy boost. It also helps stimulate better performance and keep you focused during your workouts.
- Creatine monohydrate is a compound that supports muscle growth by speeding up muscle cell production during high-intensity workouts. This is a key ingredient for your pre-workout if you’re a weightlifter or trying to bulk up.
- Amino Acids. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) help alleviate fatigue from exercise and build muscle. They are essential amino acids, so your body cannot produce them, but you can get them from dietary sources like meat and poultry. That being said, BCAAs are often included in pre-workouts to help you hit your target amount and achieve your fitness goals.
Generally, the formulation, ingredients, and amount of ingredients can vary by brand. Still, the gist is that the blend is designed to give you extra energy and endurance for your workouts.
Tips for Taking Pre-Workout Supplements
If you are interested in taking a pre workout in Australia, it’s essential to research your options before consuming anything. Here are tips to help you incorporate these supplements into your routine:
- Consult with your doctor
If possible, consult with your doctor to ask which pre-workout supplements are safe for you. For example, if you have underlying health conditions, you might need to limit your caffeine intake, so it would be best to get professional advice.
- Take your pre-workout 30 minutes before exercising
The caffeine from your pre-workout should kick in anywhere between 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Thus, the best time to take this would be around 30 minutes before your workout, so you get maximum energy levels once you start exercising.
- Start slow
Even if your body is accustomed to consuming huge amounts of caffeine, it’s essential to start slow with your pre-workout. If this is your first time trying it, start with a smaller dose to avoid getting shocked. Taking too much right away might lead to unwanted side effects like headaches and jitters, so work your way up gradually.
Pre-workout can be a helpful addition to your fitness routine, especially if you need the extra energy kick to get through your intense workout sessions. However, make sure you take your time evaluating your fitness goals and assessing the available products. Read up on reviews and try samples before committing to any product.
