Howdy guys and gals! Surely there are some serious fitness fanatics on this forum, I hope ? I'm starting to take my fitness more and more serious and I wanted to boost my gym sessions.. So I'm thinking of using pre-workout powders to give me more energy and get more out of my gym sessions. Do you have any pre-workout powders you'd recommend, and are there any ones I should avoid ? I was also wondering if post-workout shakes are really useful at all? Thx !
I'd avoid all the chemical stuff they try to sell off as being "good" for you. That is, considering you are actually going there not only to tone yourself, but to strengthen your muscles. You won't get anything from the shakes and powders, that you can't normally get by eating healthy and smart. So save yourself some trouble (and money) and keep it simple.
I am sure people will suggest whey protein shakes before a session. I never knew if post-workout shakes were helpful but I am sure someone on EC will offer advice. Creatine powders also help with muscle building if that is what you are after.
I personally don't take pre-workouts myself. I've never liked them. Might just be that I never tried a good one but they always made me feel weird. As for protein shakes, you should try to take them as soon as possible after your workout. (Although it really doesn't matter too much as long as you take it within 24 hours.) Speaking from experience I can say that creatine is an excellent supplement to take, and you will probably feel a difference within a few weeks.
I used to take Jack3d (Creatine) but it made me feel wired and really strange. I took it for energy and it really helps with that when I was not wanting to work out. Its best to just stick to eating clean and portion control though.
Thanks for the replies guys! I've tried healthy foods and even eating carbs before workout to give me energy but I just don't feel any effect and don't have what it takes to push myself to the limit.. And if pre-workout works for thousands of people why shouldn't it for me ? I'm thinking of buying either Assault or C4 Extreme Does any one have any experience with them? They have pretty good reviews.