So it sounds like you’ve just started taking pre-workout. One of the first questions many people have is: How long does it take for pre workout to kick in? The answer depends on a few factors, like do you have a full stomach, how quickly does your body absorb the ingredients, and what are the effective ingredients in your pre workout.
So, How Long Does Pre Workout Take To Kick In?
If the main ingredient in your pre-workout is caffeine, studies have shown that the effects of caffeine can be felt in 10-15 minutes. However, the peak level of caffeine in the bloodstream won’t occur until 45 minutes after ingestion. If you’re trying to get the maximum impact from your pre-workout, you may want to take it 15-30 minutes before working out and then perform a 10-15 minute warm up before hitting your primary lifts for the day.
Popular Pre-Workout Recommendations
These are the directions found on the packaging for a couple popular pre-workout drinks. These recommendations are in line with the 15 minutes or so it takes for caffeine to make its way into your bloodstream.
Take 1 serving 15-30 minutes before your workout for increased energy, pump, focus, endurance, and even hydration.
– BuckedUp WOKE AF
It is recommended that the user mix one serving in 8 fl oz. of cold water and consumer 15 to 30 minutes prior to exercise.
– Mr. Hyde Pre-Workout
Can You Feel Pre Workout Kick In?
Definitely, yes. This is especially true if you have just started taking pre-workout. If you’re like me, you probably remember driving to the gym after taking pre-workout when you first started and bumping some tunes and literally dancing your ass off. You can FEEL it. Unfortunately you build a tolerance to the caffeine and other ingredients in pre-workout so you may not feel it as vividly as when you first started.
You may feel a number of different sensations as the pre workout makes its way into your bloodstream. For example, if you’re taking a pre-workout with beta-alanine, you may feel your face and body start to tingle. If you’re taking a high-stimulant pre-workout, the diuretic effects of the caffeine may make you feel like you need to pee.
Do You Have To Wait 30 Minutes After Taking Pre-Workout?
Obviously not. You don’t have to do anything. If you want to have peak caffeine effects from your pre-workout, though, it’s a good idea. If you have a big lift or PR attempt scheduled for the day, you may want to wait the full 30 minutes so your pre-workout has the maximum impact.
The effects of pre-workout can linger in your system for hours, so waiting a little longer before working out isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
