When it comes to working out, sometimes it can be challenging to get the motivation to start. That’s where pre-workout supplements come in. They’re designed to give you the energy and focus you need to power through your workouts and see the best results. In the UK, there are many pre-workout supplements available to purchase, but which ones are the best? In this article, we’ll go over some of the best pre-workouts available in the UK.
Designed to boost your energy and enhance physical performance, pre-workout supplements are typically powdered substances that you mix into water, shake and then drink around 30 minutes before exercising. Pre-workout supplements typically contain a blend of ingredients such as caffeine, amino acids, creatine, beta-alanine, BCAAs and nitric oxide agents, which can help improve energy levels, increase endurance and stamina, and safeguard lean muscle during exercise.
Not entirely convinced? Well, a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (JISSN) in 2010 suggests that combining pre-workout with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) yielded impressive results. The study discovered significant improvements in VO2 max, which describes the most efficient use of oxygen by the muscles, lungs, and heart during exercise. Additionally, it led to increased training volume, lean body mass, and accelerated fat loss among moderately-trained recreational athletes.
However, the scientific research on pre-workout supplements is inconclusive, and the effectiveness of these supplements may vary depending on the ingredients and the individual using them. Caffeine, for instance, has been shown to improve athletic performance and endurance, while beta-alanine can enhance muscle endurance and delay fatigue.
To ensure the efficacy of pre-workout supplements, it is recommended to examine their ingredient labels carefully and select reputable brands that adhere to strict quality control standards.
Here is a list with 7 pre-workouts we believe are the best:
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout
Optimum Nutrition is one of the most reputable supplement companies in the world, and their pre-workout formula is one of the best on the market. It contains 175mg of caffeine, which will give you a great boost of energy without feeling jittery. It also includes creatine, beta-alanine, and citrulline for enhanced endurance and improved performance.
https://www.optimumnutrition.com/en-gb/search?text=pre+workout – prices starting at £27.99
MyProtein THE Pre-Workout+
MyProtein is another reputable supplement company, and their pre-workout formula is a top seller in the UK. It contains 200mg of caffeine, which is a bit more than the Optimum Nutrition formula, so it’s not recommended for those sensitive to caffeine. However, it also includes beta-alanine, creatine, and citrulline, as well as nitrosigine and AstraGin, for increased blood flow and absorption.
https://www.myprotein.com/sports-nutrition/the-pre-workout/12663794.html – £32.49
BSN N.O.-Xplode
BSN is known for its famous N.O.-Xplode pre-workout formula, and it’s still a favourite among many UK gym-goers. It contains a hefty 275mg of caffeine, so it’s definitely not recommended for those sensitive to caffeine. However, it also includes beta-alanine, creatine, and citrulline, as well as taurine and tyrosine, for enhanced focus and energy.
https://www.dolphinfitness.co.uk/en/bsn-nox-650g/280092 – £29.99
Grenade 50 Calibre
Grenade is a UK-based supplement company, and their pre-workout formula is one of the most popular in the country. It contains 275mg of caffeine, which is the same as the BSN formula, so it’s also not recommended for those sensitive to caffeine. However, it also includes beta-alanine, creatine, and citrulline, as well as L-Theanine and Rhodiola Rosea for enhanced focus and mood.
https://www.grenade.com/collections/pre-workout – prices starting at £24.00
Cellucor C4 Original
Cellucor is another popular supplement company, and their C4 Original pre-workout formula is a top seller in the UK. It contains 150mg of caffeine, which is a bit less than some of the other formulas on this list, so it’s a good option for those who want a bit less caffeine. It also includes beta-alanine, creatine, and citrulline, as well as N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine and Velvet Bean Seed extract for enhanced focus and mood.
https://www.dolphinfitness.co.uk/en/cellucor-c4-original-60-servings/158666 – £28.95
Ghost Lifestyle
Ghost Lifestyle offers a range of pre-workout supplements that are designed to enhance energy, focus, and athletic performance. Their supplements are formulated with a combination of scientifically-backed ingredients, such as caffeine, beta-alanine, and nitric oxide boosters, to help users power through their workouts and achieve their fitness goals. Ghost Lifestyle pre-workout supplements come in various flavours and are made with high-quality, premium ingredients, ensuring that users can fuel their workouts with confidence.
https://uk.ghostlifestyle.com/collections/supplements – £34.99
Redcon1 Total War
Redcon1’s Total War pre-workout supplement is designed to provide users with explosive energy, intense focus, and enhanced endurance during their workouts. This supplement contains a blend of scientifically backed ingredients, such as caffeine, beta-alanine, citrulline malate, and taurine, which work together to increase blood flow, reduce fatigue, and improve muscular performance. Total War pre-workout comes in various flavours and is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that users can achieve optimal results in their workouts.
https://www.dolphinfitness.co.uk/en/redcon1-total-war-30-servings/172648 – £24.95
Overall, there are many great pre-workout supplements available in the UK, and the ones listed above are some of the best. However, it’s important to remember that pre-workout supplements are not magic potions and should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. Also, it’s recommended to start with a smaller dose and work your way up to the full serving size to assess your tolerance and avoid adverse side effects.