Pre-Workout vs. Post-Workout: What’s the difference?

Do you ever have trouble finding the motivation to work out because you just don’t have enough energy? Do you feel exhausted after a workout? In both of these cases it may be due to nutrition your body is lacking. That’s why many people swear by pre-workout and post-workout supplements. What’s the difference between the two? Let’s dig into that question.

 

Pre-workout and post-workout supplements have a few things in common. They’re both made of powder mixed with water, they’re both designed to maximize the benefits of your workout, and they come in a wide range of varieties. The most obvious difference between the two, of course, is that one is taken before a workout and the other is taken after. But the differences go deeper than that.

 

Pre-workout is meant to improve your performance.

Pre-workout supplements target the mental and physical aspects of exercise, in order to improve your motivation and focus while also enhancing muscular pump, boosting endurance and stamina and increasing strength and power.

Caffeine helps stimulate energy, enhance productivity and sharpen your focus. Some pre-workout supplements also contain other stimulants to boost your brain and muscle energy.

Creatine, found in many pre-workout supplements, raises the level of ATP in your muscles. ATP is an organic complex known as adenosine triphosphate, and it provides energy during an intense workout.

Amino acids in pre-workout supplements are crucial for muscle growth and can help the blood flow smoothly to your muscles, in order to transport nutrients and increase the oxygen level.

Bel-alanine is a molecule that assists your body in removing acids, and it’s found in most pre-workout supplements. Acid buildup can be detrimental after a workout, so removing it allows you to work harder and for longer.

 

Post-workout helps you recover.

Post-workout supplements are designed to help with muscle protein synthesis, which helps muscles to heal and grow. These supplements also reduce protein breakdown to help you replenish your energy and reduce soreness.

Glutamine, found in post-workout supplements, helps prevent the breakdown of lean mass as you’re losing weight.

Post-workout supplements contain creatine, which aids protein synthesis to help prevent protein breakdown and promote lean muscle mass.

Electrolytes post-workout supply the body with minerals that help the muscles contract to aid in the gain of lean muscle mass.

Taurine in post-workout supplements helps muscle fibers recover, as well as potentially helping to prevent dehydration and lower stress levels.

 

No matter which pre-workout and post-workout supplements you choose, spend the time between them working out at an excellent fitness club. At the Wellbridge Family of Athletic Clubs, we offer world-class training that keeps up-to-date with the latest in health and wellness. At our clubs, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team before you’re challenged and motivated by top-notch instructors in our fitness classes. You’ll make new friends because you belong here. Join today or contact us to learn more.