Learn all about Pre-Workout

Pre-workout supplements function through multiple pathways based on their ingredient profile. Caffeine blocks receptors that promote tiredness, reducing perceived fatigue while increasing alertness and nerve-muscle communication. Beta-alanine helps reduce muscle burn by increasing carnosine levels (a molecule in muscle), delaying muscle fatigue during high-intensity efforts. Citrulline and arginine boost nitric oxide production, enhancing blood flow and nutrient delivery to working muscles. Creatine increases stores of phosphocreatine (an energy source in muscles), helping remake ATP (energy currency) for better power. Additional ingredients like betaine, taurine, and tyrosine provide complementary effects on hydration, focus, and making brain chemicals.

Pre-workout supplements are formulated products combining multiple ingredients that naturally occur in various foods and plants. Caffeine is found in coffee beans, tea leaves, and guarana berries. Creatine exists in red meat and fish. Beta-alanine occurs in meat, poultry, and fish. Citrulline appears naturally in watermelon. Betaine is present in beetroot and spinach. While these nutrients can be obtained from whole foods, pre-workout supplements provide concentrated, standardized doses specifically timed for exercise performance that would be impractical to obtain through diet alone at the precise timing needed for workout enhancement.