The right pre-workout will get you psyched up to go to the gym.
Pre-workout give you a huge boost in energy, and give you that mental focus that you need to aggressively attack the weights.
Some pre-workouts will even help you build muscle faster.
Ultimately, pre workout can be a useful tool when weight training but it is not the defining factor for the typical gym goer who is interested in building muscle or losing fat for aesthetic and health purposes.
The fact is there are factors of bigger importance. (total calorie intake and macronutrient ratios) Much easier to stick to and have a greater overall effect on body composition in the long-term.
The pre-workout meal is important for providing you with the fuel you need to perform your workout and aids in;
- Preventing muscle glycogen depletion during your workout
- Reducing muscle protein breakdown when working out
To get these benefits you want your pre-workout meal to be a mix of carbohydrate and protein. Whether you eat or drink this mix is up to you and will depend on how close to your workout you have you eat and what your preference is.
If you’re eating within an hour of your workout it’s advisable to drink your pre-workout meal. (sip it, don’t knock it back) so you don’t feel too full or uncomfortable when you hit the gym.
If you have more time then you can opt for a solid meal.