Pre-Workout Benefits
Pre-workout benefits are numerous – from making you feel like a beast by crushing your workout to improved focus during your reps for a better mind muscle connection. Apart from these, the dietary supplements are designed to enhance athletic performance, boost energy levels, and improve focus during exercise. Pre-workout supplements are becoming increasingly popular among fitness enthusiasts due to these reasons. In this article, we will explore the science-backed benefits of pre-workout supplements.
Increased Energy Levels
One of the primary benefits of pre-workout supplements is their ability to boost energy levels. Pre-workout supplements typically contain caffeine, which is a central nervous system stimulant. Caffeine works by blocking the neurotransmitter adenosine, which makes you feel tired. By blocking adenosine, caffeine can help you feel more alert and focused during your workout. Studies have found that caffeine can improve endurance, power, and overall performance during exercise.
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Improved Focus and Concentration
In addition to boosting energy levels, pre-workout supplements can also improve focus and concentration. Many pre-workout supplements contain ingredients like L-theanine, which is an amino acid found primarily in tea leaves, especially green tea. L-Theanine has been shown to enhance mental focus and concentration, making it a popular nootropic supplement. One study found that L-Theanine improved cognitive performance in patients with mild cognitive impairment. The compound works by increasing alpha brain waves, which are associated with a relaxed yet alert state of mind.
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Increased Muscle Endurance
Another benefit of pre-workout supplements is their ability to improve muscle endurance. Many pre-workout supplements contain beta-alanine, which is an amino acid that helps increase muscle carnosine levels. Carnosine acts as a buffer in the muscles, helping to reduce fatigue and improve muscle endurance. Studies have found that beta-alanine supplementation can improve exercise performance and delay the onset of fatigue.
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Reduced Muscle Damage
Pre-workout supplements can also help reduce muscle damage and soreness. Many pre-workout supplements contain antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, which help protect against oxidative stress and free radical damage. This can help reduce muscle damage and soreness after exercise, allowing for faster recovery and improved performance.
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Better Blood Flow to Muscles (and Pumps)
Pre-workout supplements often contain citrulline malate. One of the main benefits of citrulline malate is its ability to improve athletic performance. It does this by increasing the production of nitric oxide, which helps to dilate the blood vessels and improve blood flow. This, in turn, can enhance endurance, reduce fatigue, and improve overall performance during high-intensity exercise.
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Improved Muscular Recovery
Citrulline malate may also aid in muscle recovery after exercise. This is because it can help to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation, which are common after high-intensity workouts.
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A 2018 study found that citrulline malate supplementation reduced muscle soreness and improved muscle recovery in participants who performed high-intensity interval training.
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