Pre Workout Alternatives: Food VS Supplements
Posted by Leonard Shemtob on Jan 10, 2024
Are you searching for something different from your regular pre-workout routine? Maybe you're curious about natural options or want to shake things up without those intense stimulants. Well, you've landed in the perfect spot!
Let's jump into the exciting world of pre-workout options that are both powerful and full of natural goodness. Whether you're working out at the gym or at home, we're going to check out some great ways to energize your workouts naturally!
Short Summary:
- Alternatives to Regular Pre-Workouts: A look at different choices like natural foods and special supplements.
- Whole Foods For Preworkout: Exploring foods that can help naturally boost your performance in the gym.
- Best Alternative Supplements for Pre Workout: Info on nitric oxide boosters, natural anabolics, amino acids, creatine, and multi-vitamins.
- Buy the Best Pre Workout Alternative for Building Muscle, Strength & Recovery, Pumps & Performance, and General Health & Wellbeing
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Natural Pre-Workout Alternatives
Ever thought of ditching the pre-workout powder for something more... natural?
Let's discuss some useful options that you can find right in your kitchen!
Whole foods can be a fantastic alternative to traditional pre-workout supplements.
Nutritious Whole Foods
- Carbohydrates, Protein, and Fats: Think whole grains, nuts, and fruits. Pre workout snacks are your buddies for sustained energy and improving exercise performance.
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy delight that's not just tasty but also a powerhouse of protein. It helps in sustaining energy and reducing fatigue during those intense training sessions.
- Honey & Salt: A simple yet effective combo. Honey provides quick, natural sugar for energy, while salt helps maintain your body's electrolyte balance during a workout.
Coffee and Energy Drinks
- Boost Your Energy: A cup of coffee or a can of your favorite energy drink can be a solid alternative. They provide that caffeine kick to help you power through your workouts.
Pros and Cons of Whole Foods for Pre-Workout
Pros:
- Full of Good Stuff: Whole foods are like treasure chests of nutrients – they've got vitamins, minerals, and stuff that keeps you healthy which you won't always find in supplements.
- Energy That Lasts: Ever eat something and then feel all zapped of energy soon after? That's less likely with whole foods. They give you sustainable energy that sticks around, not just a quick burst.
- Digestive Health: These foods are packed with fiber and other things that help your digestive system run smoothly. That means a happier and healthier you.
- All Natural: Whole foods generally don't have any artificial colors and sweeteners in them.
- No Negative Side Effects: Unlike some supplements, whole foods don't usually have weird or unwanted side effects, so you can fuel up worry-free.
Cons:
- Takes Time: Getting whole foods ready to eat isn’t as quick as mixing up a supplement before hitting the gym. It can take a bit more effort, preparation, and time.
- Not So Handy: It's easier to carry a shaker bottle than a bowl of yogurt or a sandwich, especially when you're on the go.
- Slow to Digest: Some whole foods can sit in your stomach for a while. This might make working out right after eating a bit uncomfortable for some people.
- Mild Energy Boost: Whole foods give you steady energy, but if you're looking for that super quick energy hit you get from some supplements, they might not always match up.
Best Alternatives to Pre-Workout Supplements
Looking for something a bit more specialized than food?
Here are some top-notch alternatives that could rev up your gym sessions in lieu of a pre workout!
Nitric Oxide Boosters
Super Swole by CEL
Super Swole by CEL is a dynamic nitric oxide booster designed to maximize blood flow and muscle pumps. This supplement not only enhances your athletic performance but also helps in achieving that eye-catching muscle fullness during workouts. With its unique blend of ingredients, Super Swole ensures you feel stronger and more powerful in every training session.
Key Benefits:
- Increases blood flow for more impressive muscle pumps.
- Boosts oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise.
- Enhances overall athletic performance.
- Aids in quicker recovery post-workout.
Key Ingredients:
- Agmatine Sulfate: Amplifies muscle pumps and supports recovery.
- Nitrosigine: Increases blood flow and enhances workout performance.
- VitaSport Cherry: Aids in reducing muscle soreness and recovery time.
- Vaso6: Enhances blood circulation and muscle pumps during exercise.
- KannaEase: Helps in reducing stress and improving mood and focus.
- Amentoflavone: Boosts strength and muscle contraction efficiency.
VasoForce XT by SNS
VasoForce XT by SNS stands out as an elite nitric oxide booster, designed to not only improve blood flow but also heighten focus and energy levels. The perfect supplement for those looking to intensify their training sessions and achieve peak performance. The carefully selected ingredients work synergistically to provide a comprehensive boost to your workout regimen.
Key Benefits:
- Amplifies muscle pumps for a more effective workout.
- Increases endurance and reduces fatigue.
- Enhances focus and mental clarity during exercise.
- Provides a sustained energy boost without crashing.
Key Ingredients:
- Agmatine Sulfate: Maximizes muscle pumps and aids in recovery.
- Vaso6: Enhances blood flow and muscle pumps.
- S7: Boosts the body's nitric oxide production.
- Actigin: Increases endurance and speeds up recovery.
Natural Anabolics
Anafuse by Vital Alchemy
Anafuse by Vital Alchemy stands out as a top-tier natural anabolic. Perfect for those looking to enhance their muscle growth and overall strength without harsh chemicals. This supplement features a blend of all natural muscle and strength boosting ingredients. Making it a safe and effective choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Key Benefits:
- Promotes significant muscle growth and strength.
- Aids in enhancing strength and power during workouts.
- Supports faster muscle recovery and repair.
- Provides a natural alternative to synthetic anabolic supplements.
Key Ingredients:
- Epicatechin: Aids in muscle growth and strength enhancement.
- Eriobotrya Japonica: Contributes to muscle endurance and recovery.
- HICA (Alpha-Hydroxy-Isocaproic Acid): Supports lean muscle mass and reduces muscle soreness.
- Turkesterone: Known for its anabolic properties, promoting muscle growth and recovery.
Pepti-Plex by SNS
Pepti-Plex by SNS is an innovative natural anabolic supplement, crafted for those who prioritize natural muscle development. This formula synergistically combines peptides and natural enhancers to facilitate muscle growth and recovery. A perfect choice for individuals seeking a comprehensive, natural approach to bodybuilding.
Key Benefits:
- Promotes lean muscle development and growth.
- Enhances muscle recovery and reduces soreness.
- Supports improved blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles.
- Balances natural hormone levels for optimal muscle growth.
Key Ingredients:
- Pepti-Strong: A blend of peptides for muscle growth and recovery.
- VasoFlo+: Enhances blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles.
- Apigenin: Natural compound that supports muscle development and recovery.
- Senactiv: Promotes energy production and muscle recovery.
Amino Acids
Amino-Gro by iSatori
Amino-Gro by iSatori is a cutting-edge amino acid supplement designed to fuel your workouts and speed up recovery. Its unique formula combines essential amino acids with growth and recovery agents. Making it an ideal choice for athletes looking to enhance their training sessions and muscle recovery.
Key Benefits:
- Accelerates muscle recovery and reduces soreness.
- Enhances muscle growth and repair with essential amino acids.
- Boosts overall workout performance and endurance.
- Hydrates and nourishes the body during intense workouts.
Key Ingredients:
- Bio-active peptides: Provides proline rich peptides and growth factors for rapid muscle building and recovery.
- BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids): Crucial for muscle growth and repair.
- Glutamine: Aids in muscle recovery and immune system support.
- Coconut Water Powder: Hydrates and replenishes essential minerals.
Resurgence BCAA by Blackstone Labs
Resurgence BCAA by Blackstone Labs is more than just a standard BCAA supplement. A comprehensive blend that supports not only muscle recovery but also mental focus and clarity during workouts. This product is perfect for those who want to push their limits both physically and mentally in the gym.
Key Benefits:
- Promotes rapid muscle recovery and reduces fatigue.
- Supports muscle growth and maintenance.
- Enhances mental focus and clarity during workouts.
- Provides essential electrolytes for hydration.
Key Ingredients:
- BCAAs: Fundamental for muscle repair and growth.
- HICA: Supports lean muscle mass and recovery.
- Theobromine & CDP Choline: Boosts mental focus and energy levels.
- Vitamin Blend: A comprehensive mix of vitamins for overall health and optimal muscle function.
Creatine
JetMass by GAT
JetMass by GAT is crafted to speed up muscle growth, boost strength, and reduce recovery time. A truly versatile supplement for pre, intra, or post-workout use. Jetmass is loaded with creatine, amino acids, vitamins, and electrolytes. Perfect for anyone aiming to increase muscle size and strength, and improve recovery.
Key Benefits:
- Quickly increases muscle size and strength.
- Stimulates muscle cell growth for more muscle mass.
- Speeds up recovery after intense workouts.
- Filled with electrolytes and nutrients for muscle support.
Key Ingredients:
- Creapure® Creatine Monohydrate: Enhances muscle power and delays fatigue.
- L-Glutamine and BCAAs: Vital for muscle repair and rebuilding.
- Vitamins: Support overall health and muscle function.
- Natural Support Blend: Provides additional health benefits and muscle growth support.
Creatine Monohydrate by Alpha Lion
Creatine Monohydrate by Alpha Lion is a potent supplement for increasing muscle growth, strength, and performance. Made from high-quality, micronized creatine monohydrate, it ensures maximum effectiveness. Great for athletes and fitness fans who want to enhance muscle size, strength, and recovery.
Key Benefits:
- Speeds up muscle growth, strength, recovery, and daily progress.
- Boosts muscle repair and growth at the cellular level.
- Increases water retention in cells for better nutrient delivery and hydration.
- Enhances strength and power for top gym performance.
- Powers up performance in high-intensity workouts.
Key Ingredients:
- Creatine Monohydrate: A key energy source for intense workouts, aiding in muscle growth and recovery.
Multi-Vitamins
Animal Pak by Universal Nutrition
Animal Pak by Universal Nutrition is a comprehensive multivitamin pack designed for athletes and bodybuilders. It's loaded with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and more, making it more than just your average multivitamin.
Key Benefits:
- Offers a complete range of essential nutrients for overall health.
- Supports muscle growth, recovery, and energy levels.
- Boosts immune function with antioxidants and herbs.
- Aids in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Key Ingredients:
- Vitamins/Minerals: A full spectrum for health and performance.
- Amino Acids: Including BCAAs for muscle support.
- Performance Enhancers: For energy and gym endurance.
- Antioxidants and Herbs: For immune and liver health.
Musclevite by Hi-Tech
Musclevite from Hi-Tech is a specially formulated multivitamin for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It combines essential vitamins with performance-boosting ingredients.
Key Benefits:
- Packed with vital nutrients for overall health.
- Enhances muscle recovery and boosts energy.
- Contains ingredients for endurance and stamina.
- Supports fat burning and efficient energy use.
Key Ingredients:
- Vitamins A, B, C, D, E: Essential vitamins for energy and health.
- Carnitine Tartrate: Transforms fat into energy, improving performance.
- Beta-Alanine: Helps in muscle endurance and reduces fatigue.
- Minerals: For maintaining optimal health and fitness levels.
Protein Supplements
Protein supplements are also a solid pick in place of the usual pre-workout supps.
Bio-Active Whey by Isatori and Isomorph 28 by APS are two of our personal favorites.
Here's why they're good:
- Muscle Support: They give your muscles the building blocks they need, especially if you're lifting weights or doing strength exercises.
- Enhanced Recovery: Having protein before you exercise means your muscles can start repairing right after you finish working out.
- Sustainable Energy: Protein won't give you the quick energy burst like pre-workouts, but it can aid in keeping your energy steady while you exercise.
To Wrap Things Up
We've seen a wide range of great pre-workout alternatives. From natural foods like Greek yogurt to specialized supplements such as nitric oxide boosters and amino acids, these options cater to various fitness needs.
They boost energy, enhance performance, and support muscle growth and recovery. Remember, the right choice for you depends on your fitness goals and preferences. Here's to finding the perfect fit for your workout routine!
Written and Sponsored by Leonard Shemtob
Leonard Shemtob is President of Strong Supplements and a published author. Leonard has been in the supplement space for over 20 years, specializing in fitness supplements and nutrition. Leonard appears on many podcasts, written over 100 articles about supplements and has studied nutrition, supplementation and bodybuilding.
Leonard's articles have been published in many top publications around the web. Leonard enjoys weight training, playing basketball and yoga, and also enjoys hiking. In his free time he studies and works on improving himself. For more detailed information, visit his official blog.
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Read More About Pre-Workout
- Outlaw, J. J., Wilborn, C. D., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Hayward, S. E., Urbina, S. L., Taylor, L. W., & Foster, C. A. (2014). Effects of a pre-and post-workout protein-carbohydrate supplement in trained crossfit individuals. SpringerPlus, 3(1), 369.