Coffee Vs Pre-Workout Supplement: What Did Arnold Schwarzenegger Prefer?

Human beings are constantly looking for ways to get better in everything they do, be it work, gym, or life. For many years, coffee was seen as essential when it comes to getting an early morning work or workout done.

But more recently, in addition to black coffee, many are also turning to pre-workout supplements. These are marketed as being able to enhance one’s workout by providing energy, giving nasty pumps, and increasing recovery. But which of the two should one choose, and what did Bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger used to consume before his workout?

Espresso Shots

Espresso is one of the world’s most popular beverages among individuals who work out. The main reason most people drink coffee is not necessarily for its low calories, but its caffeine content. Despite a rapidly growing energy drink industry, coffee continues to account for the majority of caffeine consumption in the world.

Caffeine has a well-established reputation for enhancing performance during endurance contests when consumed in doses of 3-6 mg/kg, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine. Similarly, studies demonstrate that caffeine, at levels of 3 to 9 mg/kg, enhances muscle strength, power, and also recovery.

A tall cup of coffee contains approximately 100 mg of caffeine; drinking 1-2 cups (240-475 mL), 45-60 minutes before a workout will easily provide enough caffeine to support one’s performance.

Pre-Workout supplement

Pre-workout drinks don’t contain anything exceptional. Caffeine is the primary ingredient in all pre-workout supplements on the market. Similar to how 100 mg of caffeine is present in a tall cup of coffee, between 100 and 350 mg can be found in pre-workout supplements. A few pre-workout supplements come with 500mg of caffeine, but only professional bodybuilders consume them.

Apart from caffeine, the pre-workout supplement contains a strength and intensity matrix that includes creatine, amino acids such as beta-alanine, B vitamins, arginine, citrulline and nitric oxide.

Creatine

Creatine aids in the formation of more ATP in muscles during exercise, thereby aiding in strength gains.

Amino acids

Protein is the building block of muscles, and amino acids are the building blocks of protein. In layman’s terms, amino acids prevent muscle breakdown.

Of all the ingredients in a pre-workout supplement, beta-alanine is the one that makes it addictive. When one consumes beta-alanine, he may experience an itching and tingling sensation, similar to having needles poked through their skin. If someone consumes for the first time, there is no need to be concerned because the itching begins to subside as soon as they exercise.

Espresso Vs Pre Workout

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to consume coffee or pre-workout supplements before a workout.

Goal

If one enjoys working out and does it primarily to stay fit, coffee can be his best friend. Pre-workout supplements are only beneficial if a person has a specific goal in mind, such as increasing strength or burning more calories while exercising. Remember that taking the pre-workout supplement alone won’t result in transformation; one’s overall lifestyle will.

Lifestyle

If a person’s job requires 50-60 hours per week, donating time for a workout every day can be exhausting. In that case, he might consider adding a supplement that will keep him motivated at the gym. Additionally, pre-workout supplements are crucial if one is an athlete or influencer whose life revolves majorly around training, and adding pre-workout may assist him to reach the next level of training.

Experience

Another point to consider is years of experience. If someone is still in his initial years of training, the coffee will suffice. However, one might think about switching their caffeine source if they have been drinking coffee for a while and it no longer offers them a rush.

Arnold’s Favourite

Arnold Schwarzenegger was a sole believer in black coffee as a pre-workout beverage, Wine Country Crossfit reported. Moreover, in the era in which Arnold trained and won bodybuilding championships, pre-workout supplements were hardly seen. He used to drink a cup in the morning before his sessions, and his gains are proof of what passion and dedication can accomplish.

Takeaway

Choice, or use of supplements, will always depend on individual goals and motivations. Remember that no amount of coffee or pre-workout supplementation can help one transform; the only magic pill that will promote transformation is consistency.