How Many Scoops of Pre Workout Should You Take?
Posted by Leonard Shemtob on Sep 07, 2023
Your pre-workout supplement sits on the counter.
One question races through your mind: "how many scoops of pre workout should I take?"
Before you dive into that tub, let’s explore the ins and outs of scooping the right amount.
Short Summary:
- A comprehensive guide to determining the right dose of pre-workout for maximum efficiency and safety.
- Emphasis on vital precautions like starting with a low dose, monitoring caffeine intake, staying hydrated, and consulting healthcare professionals.
- Spotlight on top-ranking pre-workout supplements, including Wild Thing, Seismic Surge, Oracle, Bucked Up, and Godzilla, with enhanced product descriptions for better insights.
- Buy the Highest Rated Pre-Workout Now!
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Why You Need to Be Careful with Pre-Workout
Pre-workout supplements can skyrocket your energy levels.
But there’s a catch: too much and your heart rate could spike, and your blood pressure could shoot up.
- Heart Rate & Blood Pressure
Going beyond the suggested dose can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Always pay attention to how your body reacts.
- Energy Levels
While you want a boost, too much might leave you jittery and/or light headed. Remember, it's all about balance.
- Side Effects
Pre-workouts, especially in higher doses, can cause side effects like insomnia, digestive issues, or even headaches.
Determining the Right Dose
Recommended dosages aren’t always the same for every individual.
As a general rule: always start with a half scoop to assess tolerance, then work your way up.
- Ingredients Found in Pre-Workout:
Look out for beta alanine, an ingredient that can cause a tingling sensation. While generally safe, some users may find this effect to be uncomfortable and it’s always good to be aware.
- Amount of Caffeine:
Many pre-workouts contain the caffeine equivalent of anywhere from 1-3 cups of coffee per scoop. Be mindful if you’re also a coffee or energy drink enjoyer.
- Drink Plenty of Water:
With every scoop, ensure you drink plenty of water. Hydration is key, especially when taking supplements.
Pre-Workout Precautions
Precautions are critical when figuring out the right dose of your pre-workout.
Here's a detailed checklist you can quickly run through to make sure everything is in order:
- Start Low:
Always begin with the lowest recommended dose (or even half) to gauge your body's response.
- Read the Label:
Ensure you're fully aware of the ingredients, their quantities, and their sweet spot doses. Some pre-workouts have higher caffeine content than others.
- Monitor Your Caffeine Intake:
If you consume other sources of caffeine (like coffee or energy drinks) during the day, factor this into your total daily intake.
- Allergens & Intolerances:
Check for ingredients you might be allergic or intolerant to.
- Avoid Double-Dosing:
If you don't feel the effects immediately, resist the urge to take an additional scoop too soon. Some ingredients take time to kick in.
- Consider Your Weight:
Often, larger individuals might need a slightly higher dose, while smaller individuals might be more sensitive.
- Factor in Your Tolerance:
If you consume caffeine regularly, you may have built a tolerance, but this doesn't necessarily mean you should take a larger dose of pre-workout.
- Watch for Side Effects:
Side effects like palpitations, excessive sweating, dizziness, or severe jitters mean you've likely taken too much.
- Hydration is Crucial:
Pre-workouts can be dehydrating. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional:
If you have any underlying health conditions or are on medication, it's wise to discuss using pre-workout supplements with a doctor or nutritionist.
- Avoid Late-Day Servings:
Taking pre-workouts later in the day can disrupt sleep because of their caffeine content.
- Cycling:
It's often recommended to cycle off pre-workouts for a period to prevent building too much of a tolerance, giving your body a break, and giving your adrenal glands a chance to reset.
- Check for Banned Substances:
If you're a tested athlete, ensure that your pre-workout doesn't contain any substances banned by your sport's governing body.
Most Popular Pre-Workout Supplements
Wild Thing by Assault Labs
Ignite every fiber of your muscles with a blend that’s pure workout dynamite.
Key Benefits:
- Provides sustainable energy without jitters.
- Enhances muscle pumps.
- Contains a range of amino acids for recovery.
Customer Testimonial
From: Polishpower13 (Verified Buyer)
I picked up 2 bottles of Wild Thing by Assault Labs. This is by far my favorite pre-workout to date. I've used it all week at half dose then 3/4 then a full and even the half dose gave insane pumps on arm day and I was sweating my *** off. I usually prefer lower caffeine products cause I lift at 7pm but I can't pass up a good deal. I've taken jackd, no xplode, c4, jekyll you name it and this is my preference. Just thought I'd give some insight on a new product!
Seismic Surge by Hard Rock Supplements
Dive into the epicenter of raw power, and let every workout feel like an earth-shattering performance.
Key Benefits:
- Quick and effective energy boost.
- Packed with nitric oxide boosters for intense pumps.
- Comprehensive blend for muscle growth.
Customer Testimonial
From: TDS (Verified Buyer)
Easily the best pre-workout there is. Nothing I’ve tried—and I’ve tried a ton—even comes close! The energy is unbelievable and the jack is long-lasting (90-120 min). I’m not gonna lie and say it tastes all that great, but that’s a non-issue for me. This stuff is the real deal and after trying em all, I’ll never go back to anything else. It’s really that good!
Oracle by Olympus Labs
A divine concoction that doesn't just elevate workouts—it transcends them.
Key Benefits:
- Sustained release for longer workouts.
- Enhanced endurance.
- Aids in fat loss.
Customer Testimonial
From: Owen' (Verified Buyer)
First workout with Oracle and I couldn’t be happier. Typically, I don’t expect much out of formulas that are this light. By light, I’m considering the overall weight per serving. At two scoops, yielding 6g total, other brands would give you the basic jitter and parasthesia; but not this build. The initial caffeine hit came first, then the euphoric push followed. This has me looking forward to 4 a.m. workouts all over again. Vasodilation peaked only a few sets into the workout and pumped up quickly. I’ve used S7 before, but Ligustrazine is new to me and seems to have tremendous effect. Overall, this is an awesome pre-workout that delivers everything we desire in that category.
Bucked Up Pre Workout by Bucked Up
Not just a charge, but a stampede of energy, charging your workouts into overdrive.
Key Benefits:
- Contains Deer Antler Velvet for recovery.
- Amplifies strength and endurance.
- Beta alanine for performance enhancement.
Godzilla Pre-Workout by Ryse
Harness the might of a titan, toppling even the toughest workouts with monstrous power.
Key Benefits:
- Explosive energy boost.
- Ingredients for improved focus.
- Excellent for muscle building.
To Wrap Things Up
Determining the right dose is vital.
Remember, it's not just about getting the most energy – it's about optimizing your workout while staying safe.
Before taking any new supplements, its always best to consult a healthcare professional.
Always pay attention to labels, listen to your body, and hydrate.
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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- Campbell, B., Wilborn, C., La Bounty, P., Taylor, L., Nelson, M. T., Greenwood, M., ... & Schmitz, S. (2013). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: energy drinks. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 1.