What to Look for In a Pre-Workout Energy Drink

Pushing yourself through those tough sets can be challenging. But sometimes having a pre-workout drink can be just the thing you need to boost your energy and stay on track during a long and intense workout. 

Energy drinks are a convenient option for refuelling before workouts, especially if you don’t have time for a full meal or a snack. They’re compact, portable, and provide a quick and easily absorbed source of energy to get you ready for intense physical activity. You can fuel your body for performance without the need for time-consuming prep. 

Most energy drinks provide a source of caffeine, taurine, B vitamins, beta-alanine, and sometimes carbohydrates. These components work together to boost alertness, improve focus, and enhance physical performance. So, when choosing an energy drink for the needed boost before a workout, look for options that contain a good mix of these ingredients.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant and one of the most common ingredients in per-workout drinks. It should give you the extra jolt before your training session and help you work out longer. Caffeine can also help you wake up properly, especially if you’re going to work out in the morning. 

However, for athletes whose bodies can’t metabolize it quickly, it’s not advisable to drink a stimulant-containing pre-workout in the afternoon or evening because they may have trouble falling asleep. If this is the case with you, it’s advisable to plan your workouts for the early hours of the day.

It’s also advisable not to exceed the suggested daily limits of 400 mg for healthy and 200 mg for sensitive individuals. If your heart starts beating faster because of an espresso or two, you’re going to experience the same thing with energy drinks. Serious side effects of excessive coffee include headaches, dizziness, irritability, a fast heartbeat, dehydration, and, as if the energy boost wasn’t enough, an even stronger sense of exhaustion. 

Taurine

Caffeine is often combined with taurine, a naturally occurring amino acid found throughout your body. It helps regulate hydration, electrolyte balance, and muscle contractions. When incorporated into your pre-workout regime, taurine can enhance physical performance, and mental focus and reduce stress, helping you stay sharp during training sessions.

While taurine offers many benefits, it’s essential to be mindful of the recommended daily dosage. Taking taurine in moderation helps avoid potential side effects such as nausea, headaches, or dizziness.  Most healthy individuals can safely consume up to 3,000 mg of taurine each day. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re taking taurine energy drinks into your pre-workout routine often.

Beta-Alanine

Another amino acid that can be produced by the body. When used in pre-workout energy drinks it can reduce muscle fatigue, allowing athletes to train harder and longer. It is particularly effective for high-intensity, short-duration exercises like weightlifting and long-distance running.  

B-Vitamins

B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine HCL), and B12 (cobalamin) are the three vitamins that help convert food into energy. When used in pre-workout drinks they can help improve the body’s metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. However, same as caffeine and taurine, it’s important to consume them in moderation to avoid potential side effects like insomnia or an upset stomach. 

Creatine

This is another ingredient often found in energy drinks. It can provide the instant energy you need during short, high-intensity activities. Also, when taken over time along with regular exercise, it can support strength, power, performance, recovery, and muscle building. However, because creatine draws water into the muscles, it’s important to stay well hydrated while taking energy drinks with this ingredient.

L-Carnitine

Also, a naturally occurring amino acid that plays a crucial role in fat metabolism. It transports the fatty acids into cells’ mitochondria, where they are burned for energy. When combined with exercise, energy drinks containing L-carnitine help with weight loss.

Fuel Your Workout, Not Your Sugar Cravings 

Another thing to look for in an energy drink is low-added sugars. That’s because excessive added sugars can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. However, this quick boost is short-lived and it’s often followed by crashes.

Moreover, taking energy drinks packed with added sugars can lead to a host of health problems, from heart diseases to dental issues. Instead, you want to maintain consistent energy levels with sugar-free drinks. These options don’t cause sudden blood sugar spikes and crashes, preventing fatigue or sluggishness during exercise. 

Energise with a Burst of Flavour

When shopping for energy drinks, taste is just as important as the ingredients. With a range of flavours such as green apple, tropical punch, and lemonade you’ll be spoiled for choice. Pick something you enjoy to make your pre-workout experience both effective and enjoyable. Not sure which one to get? Grab a variety pack and find your favourite boost.