Last Updated on November 15, 2022 by Patrick
Looking for something to give your workout a boost?
Pre workout can give you that power and energy you need to push your workout to the next level, no doubt, but when should you take it? It’s important to time your pre workout supplement so that you get that surge of energy when it will do you the most good.
What Are Pre Workout Supplements?
Pre workout supplements are designed to give you an energy boost before your workouts so that you can train harder and get more out of your sessions. But not all pre-workouts are the same, for example some will work better than others because they contain higher concentrations of active ingredients like beta alanine or caffeine.
The benefits of taking a good quality pre-workout supplement are that you’ll get increased energy and focus, improved endurance and strength levels, increased muscle pumps and better overall performance.
Pre workout supplements have been around for a while now, and they’re more popular than ever. There are a lot of different products out there that claim to be the “best” pre workout supplement on the market, but not all of them live up to their claims. In this article, we’ll talk about how long does pre workout last? How long does it take for pre workout to kick in? And what are the benefits of taking a pre-workout supplement?
Who Should Take Pre Workout?
If you’re looking for a way to boost your energy before or during your workout, or increase your ability to recover afterwards, pre workout may be a good option for you.
Some people might want to do a quick workout in the morning before they head to work, but, not everyone is ready to go from zero to one hundred in terms of their workout intensity with such a short timeframe.
Pre-workout will give you the boost you need to power through your morning workout and feel good about yourself while you’re at it.
If you prefer to work out at night, pre workout may still be a good option, just be aware of the effects of caffeine consumption taken later in the day.
When Is The Best Time To Take Pre Workout?
If you’re asking yourself “When should I take my pre workout” you really need to know two things:
How Long Does it Take for Pre Workout to Kick in?
Wondering when to take your pre workout supplements?
It’s important not to take it too early, or you’ll be feeling the height of its effects before you ever hit the weights.
Similarly, if you take it too late, you’ll be halfway through your workout before you get that boost of energy!
So how long does it take for pre workout supplements to kick in?
A good rule of thumb is to make sure you down your pre workout at least half an hour to forty five minutes before you hit the weights. You can take it a little early if you want, but you’ll probably start feeling the effects before the beginning of your workout.
How Long Does Pre Workout Last?
Its important to have an idea of how long your pre workout is going to last so you can time it to your workout.
The effects of pre workouts will usually outlast all but the longest gym sessions. This can be a double edged sword because while you’re bound to get some positive effects even if you take it awhile before your workout, if you take it too late in the day you may end up disrupting your ability to sleep!
There are thousands of different pre workouts on the market with more coming to store shelves every day and each one has its own formula and effects.
So, how long does pre workout last?
Generally speaking, you can expect your pre workout drink to last 3-6 hours if you’ve taken the appropriate dose for your height and weight. This is very similar to a cup of coffee and just like coffee, you should try to avoid taking pre workout too late in the day to avoid messing with your sleep schedule.
Does Pre Workout Really Give You Energy?
Taking pre workout can have many different effects, from increasing muscle pump, to reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) but the most popular effect and the one that most people are after, is the energy boost.
Many pre workout supplements contain caffeine or other stimulants, and will give you an energy boost similar to coffee. Many people just use coffee as their pre workout!
The energy boost along with the other effects of pre workout make it a very effective tool in your arsenal and can help you get the workout you need to grow muscle mass or lose weight.
That’s Not All
Some pre workout products are formulated to help you achieve your goals long after your workout is over!
Pre workouts with BCAAs for example have been shown to reduce post workout fatigue and muscles soreness and even help increase muscle mass! They even reduce muscle wasting during your down time and when you’re cutting calories!
There are benefits to taking BCAAs not only before but also after and even during your workout!
Just be careful if you are taking your BCAAs in a pre workout supplement that also contains caffeine, you may want to limit your post workout consumption.
Final Thoughts
Pre workout is a great tool that can definitely help you achieve your goals. Just make sure to take into consideration the timing and your personal circumstances.
Further Reading
Wondering if you should take pre workout before cardio?
Looking for a substitute for your pre workout?
Curious about the cons of pre workout?
Now that you’ve taken your pre workout, check out these all in one home gyms
Once it’s kicked in, how about some squats?
Rather do some cardio? Check out these benefits of aerobic exercise!
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Hey I’m Patrick!
I built my first home gym in 2012, when I decided I was tired of waiting in line for the squat rack and I started GGC in 2020 to help people find the info they need to improve their fitness and their lives.
I’m passionate about fitness, especially when it comes to working out at home. I’ve learned a lot over the years about what to do and what not to do, and my mission is to share that knowledge with the world!
