Choosing the Best Pre Workout for Weight Loss
When trying to lose weight, exercise is a crucial component. But to get the most out of your workouts, having the right pre workout can make a big difference. The best pre workout supplements provide energy, boost metabolism, and help you power through even the toughest fat-burning workout.
Benefits of a Pre Workout for Weight Loss
Taking a pre workout before exercising can offer several weight loss benefits including:
- Increased energy and endurance
- Heightened focus and concentration
- More intense, productive workouts
- Greater calorie and fat burn during and after exercise
- Faster post-workout recovery
Many pre workouts also contain metabolism-boosting ingredients to help your body continue burning calories long after you've finished your workout.
What to Look for in a Weight Loss Pre Workout
The most effective pre workout supplements for weight loss contain ingredients shown to:
- Boost energy: Caffeine, green tea extract, yerba mate
- Enhance fat burning: Capsaicin, cayenne pepper extract
- Support metabolism: Green tea extract, black pepper extract
- Improve endurance: Beta-alanine, beetroot extract
- Increase focus: L-theanine, rhodiola rosea, acetyl-L-carnitine
Stimulant-free pre workouts can also aid weight loss through ingredients like beetroot extract and L-citrulline to improve exercise performance and results without caffeine.
Top 5 Pre Workout Supplements for Weight Loss
Based on expert reviews and effectiveness for weight loss, here are 5 of the best pre workout supplements on the market:
1. Burn Lab Pro
Burn Lab Pro is a stimulant-free pre workout focused entirely on amplifying the fat-burning process. With research-backed doses of HMB, forskolin, cayenne pepper extract and more, Burn Lab Pro works to support metabolism, energy production and muscle growth.
2. PowHer Pre Workout
Designed specifically for women, PowHer uses natural caffeine sources alongside other research-backed performance enhancers like rednite beetroot extract, vitamin C and iron. These ingredients work together to energize workouts and visible weight loss results.
3. Cellucor C4 Ripped
Cellucor C4 Ripped provides an explosive energy formula that can power you through challenging workouts. With a potent thermogenic blend featuring weight loss aids like garcinia cabogia, green coffee bean extract and cayenne fruit extract, its built to fire up fat burning.
4. Transparent Labs Lean
Lean Pre-Workout from Transparent Labs incorporates clinically effective doses of 5 amino acids, along with caffeine from green tea, to enhance energy and strength while accelerating metabolism. With zero artificial sweeteners, fillers or unhealthy additives, it lives up to its name.
5. GAT Nitraflex
This pre workout by GAT sports is specifically made for testosterone support and improved thermogenesis. With zinc, magnesium and DIM, Nitraflex aims to optimize hormone levels. Added caffeine, willow bark and pepper fruit offer fat-burning fuel.
When to Take a Weight Loss Pre Workout
Timing is an important consideration when taking any supplement, especially a pre workout. Most experts recommend taking your pre workout 20-30 minutes before your workout. This gives enough time for the ingredients to take effect so you can push harder during the workout.
Youll often get the best energy boost and focus when taking it 30 minutes out. However, some very strenuous workouts like HIIT may benefit from taking it only 20 minutes before. Test different timings to see what feels best for your body and workout style.
Should You Take a Pre Workout Before Cardio?
Using a pre workout before cardio exercise can certainly be beneficial. The right supplement can provide extended endurance, extra energy, and increased drive during tough metabolic conditioning workouts.
Caffeine is particularly useful when doing cardio for fat loss. Beyond the alertness and performance boost, its been found to increase free fatty acids and enhance fat burning capabilities during aerobic exercise.
Just be mindful of taking high stimulant formulas too late in the day, as they may disrupt sleep. Save those for morning training sessions.
Choosing the Best Pre Workout Ingredients
With countless pre workout supplements available, it can be tricky choosing the best formula for your fat loss needs. From proprietary blends to lengthy ingredients labels, determining value isn't always easy.
Focus on clinically effective doses of science-backed ingredients. Quality matters more than quantity when selecting a pre workout powder or pill.
Heres a breakdown of the most important ingredients to look for based on weight loss and workout performance research:
Caffeine Anhydrous
This quick-absorbing form of caffeine provides a fast energy boost. Beyond physical performance perks, its been shown to aid fat burning and metabolism when consumed before cardio exercise.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea offer caffeine plus antioxidant and metabolic support from compounds called EGCG. These can work synergistically with caffeine, enhancing the fat loss benefits.
Capsaicin
Found in hot peppers, capsaicin is linked to appetite reduction and increased thermogenesis and calorie burn after consumption. This makes it an ideal addition to pre workout weight loss stacks.
Beta Alanine
Beta alanine can increase muscle carnosine levels which helps buffer acidity. The end result is improved athletic output, strength and lower fatigue. This means you can push harder and longer during training.
Beetroot Extract
Beetroot extract is a source of dietary nitrates which can boost blood flow, oxygen circulation and efficiency. For pre workouts, this can translate into better endurance, power and weight room performance.
Potential Side Effects of Pre Workout Supplements
When used according to serving guidelines by healthy adults, quality pre workout supplements are generally well tolerated. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:
- Insomnia - from taking late in the day
- Energy crashes - when stimulants wear off
- Jitters or anxiety
- Increase in heart rate and blood pressure
- Headaches
- Tingling skin
- Upset stomach
Start with half a serving to assess tolerance when trying a new pre workout. And be cautious combining supplements with caffeine from coffee or energy drinks, which can increase risk of adverse effects.
Safety Considerations
Those more vulnerable to side effects may need to exhibit additional caution with pre workouts:
- Anyone with a heart condition
- People sensitive to stimulants
- Individuals taking medication for depression or anxiety
- Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Children or teenagers
Preparing Your Body for an Effective Pre Workout
To set the stage for a great workout once your pre workout supplement kicks in, be sure to:
1. Hydrate Well
Drink plenty of water in the hours leading up your workout to ensure proper hydration. Start sipping some water about 15-30 minutes after you take your pre workout as well.
2. Eat a Nutritious Meal Beforehand
Fuel up 2-3 hours prior with a balanced, protein-rich meal or snack. Good pre workout food choices include oatmeal, eggs, chicken, Greek yogurt and protein smoothies.
3. Get Plenty of Sleep
Aim for at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Being well rested helps maximize energy levels and workout productivity.
How Pre Workouts Can Fit Into Weight Loss Plans
Adding a pre workout supplement to your lifestyle can accelerate fat burning through multiple mechanisms:
- Boost metabolism and thermogenesis
- Increase calorie burn during and after workouts
- Allow for more intense, challenging exercise sessions
- Improve energy efficiency long term
- Support fat loss results from diet
When combined with a solid nutrition plan and consistent training, a quality pre workout can help catalyze results on the scale and in the mirror.
FAQs
What are the benefits of taking a pre workout for weight loss?
Benefits of a pre workout for weight loss include increased energy and endurance, heightened focus, more intense and productive workouts, greater calorie and fat burn, and faster post-workout recovery. Many also contain metabolism-boosting ingredients.
When should you take a pre workout supplement?
Most experts recommend taking your pre workout 20-30 minutes before your workout. This gives the ingredients enough time to take effect so you can push harder during the exercise session.
What ingredients should you look for in a weight loss pre workout?
Top ingredients to look for include caffeine, green tea extract, cayenne pepper extract, beta-alanine, and beetroot extract. These have been shown in research to boost energy, burn fat, support endurance and metabolism.
Can pre workouts be unsafe?
Quality pre workouts are generally safe when used as directed. But potential side effects can include insomnia, energy crash, jitters, headaches, and upset stomach. Those sensitive to stimulants need to exhibit additional caution.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Related Coverage
Create functional and stylish gym outfits with moisture-wicking, stretchy, breathable fabrics that keep you cool, dry and unrestricted during any workout....
From substantial strength and endurance gains to fat loss to mental health improvements, I break down all the ways consistent exercise training has transformed my body and mind....
Learn how age, gender, body composition impact daily calorie needs. Formulas to find your BMR and TDEE based on height, weight, activity levels for weight loss or muscle gain goals....
Explore the intricate anatomy of the female torso, including the skeletal structure, muscles, and vital organs. Gain a deeper understanding of the human body's remarkable capabilities....
Want to sculpt impressive front delts? Discover the best anterior deltoid exercises, workout plans, and tips to maximize size and definition in your shoulders....
In cycling, 'bonking' or 'hitting the wall' refers to sudden fatigue when glycogen is depleted. Learn fueling strategies to avoid this scenario....
Learn how Dr. Sebi's natural approach of using alkaline foods, herbs, and supplements may help lower high blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health....
This beginner's guide covers how to get into boxing including finding gyms, proper technique, essential gear, training drills, competing, and important safety tips....
Discover the potential benefits of running backwards, as experts weigh in on the claims that it can burn more calories, improve heart health, and build muscle....
Leg muscle models use well-developed quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves to highlight leg anatomy. Learn how they prepare for shoots and maintain photogenic legs....