The Complete Pre-Workout Guide
How to read a label, choose a formula, and avoid overdoing the caffeine.
Reading a label
Look for how ingredients are dosed, not just whether they are listed -- a "proprietary blend" that hides individual amounts makes it hard to know if you are getting an effective dose of anything.
Caffeine content varies a lot
Pre-workout caffeine doses commonly range from roughly 150mg to 300mg+ per serving -- compare that to a typical cup of coffee (roughly 80-100mg) before assuming "one scoop" is a small amount.
Stacking with other caffeine sources
If you also drink coffee or energy drinks on training days, add up your total caffeine intake rather than treating pre-workout as separate -- this is the most common way people end up overdoing it.
Who should be cautious
People sensitive to stimulants, pregnant, or managing a heart condition should talk to a doctor before using a caffeinated pre-workout, or consider a stim-free formula instead.
