The way you feel at the gym can vary, especially if you have low energy or are having trouble completing your reps, and you shouldn’t feel like you are alone in experiencing this. Everyone has those days; it doesn’t matter how dedicated they are, we all have our bad days with motivation or energy. Having said that, pre-workout supplements could be the answer to your energy/alertness/performance needs. Pre-workouts support energy/focus/performance, and have become one of the most popular items added to workout programs for a good reason!
Here are the benefits of adding a pre-workout supplement to your workout program:
1) Increase Energy Levels without Crash
The most obvious benefit of pre-workout supplements is the sudden surge of energy you’ll notice after taking a supplement before lifting weights. Pre workout supplements contain a formulation specifically designed to provide energy. They help you feel awake and energised to train on those difficult days when fatigue takes over, allowing you to give your best effort in your training program. Unlike just drinking a cup of coffee before your workout, a pre-workout is formulated to provide sustained energy throughout your workout; you’ll maintain the same level of energy from start to finish.
2) Improved Blood Flow and Muscle Pump
The production of nitric oxide (NO) increases with the addition of L arginine and L citrulline, resulting in an increased ability for blood vessels to relax and open wider, resulting in a greater blood supply to the muscles at work.
Improved circulation means more Oxygen & Nutrients; therefore, better performance and a stronger “pump” following workouts.
3) Better Endurance and Workout Performance
Ever felt like your muscles give up before your mind does? Pre workout supplements can help delay that feeling. L-citrulline, in particular, is known for supporting endurance by reducing muscle fatigue and improving oxygen utilisation. When combined with L-arginine, it helps you push harder and train longer without feeling completely drained.
4) Enhances Focus and Mental Clarity
A workout is about achieving a healthy body and isn’t just about lifting heavy weights; workouts also help sharpen your mind, allowing you to be focused throughout your training sessions. A good pre-workout supplement can help you stay more focused during your training session(s), allowing you to concentrate on your form, reps, and breathing. Connecting your mind with your muscles makes your workouts more efficient and enjoyable.
The mental focus gained from pre workout supplements can reduce the chance of performing exercises too quickly or giving up on your workout before finishing.
5) Helps Speed Recovery
Even though pre-workout supplements are typically taken before a workout, the benefits of pre-workout supplements extend beyond the immediate workout. The increased blood flow provided by L arginine and L citrulline may enhance post-exercise recovery. Increased blood flow will help remove metabolic waste products from muscle tissue and facilitate nutrient transfer, which in turn will reduce soreness/stiffness.
With enhanced recovery from your training program, you will recover faster and remain consistent.
Final Thoughts
To improve your fitness, boost energy, stamina, or concentration, and recover from intense workouts, adding pre-workout vitamins might be right for you. The key ingredients in pre-workout supplements include L-arginine (an amino acid) and L-citrulline (another amino acid), which help improve blood circulation and muscle function, allowing you to maximise your efforts.
It’s important to note that while pre-workouts offer an additional boost to your training routine, they are most effective when combined with healthy nutrition, proper hydration and regular exercise. When used correctly within a comprehensive fitness programme, supplements can give you a little extra incentive to go to the gym! You can feel more mentally and physically prepared each time you walk into a gym.
