Pre-workout: choosing the right booster
A pre-workout is taken 20 to 30 minutes before training. There are two main families: stimulant formulas, based on caffeine, and "pump" formulas, built around citrulline, arginine or beta-alanine, often caffeine-free. If you train in the evening or caffeine does not agree with you, choose a caffeine-free pre-workout.
Our range brings together the best-known products: Cellucor's C4 range (powder and shots), Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout, ESN Crank and Crank Pump Pro, Olimp Redweiler and Pump Xplode, BioTech USA Black Blood, Cobra Labs The Curse, Nanosupps Hype Beast and Peak Epic Pump. The 60 ml shots are easy to take to the gym.
Most contain a lot of caffeine: follow the stated dose, do not combine with coffee or energy drinks, and do not exceed 400 mg of caffeine per day from all sources (EFSA guideline). These products are not recommended for children or pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Frequently asked questions
How much caffeine is in a pre-workout?
It varies a lot, often between 150 and 300 mg per serving. The exact amount is shown on each product page: start with half a serving to test your tolerance.
Are there caffeine-free pre-workouts?
Yes: stimulant-free "pump" formulas, grouped in our caffeine-free category, suit evening sessions and people sensitive to caffeine.
When should I take it?
20 to 30 minutes before training, with water. Avoid caffeinated formulas late in the day so as not to disturb your sleep.