Taking a pre workout?

SarahStarr86

Hopefully this isn't a dumb question but I normally take c4 as a pre workout before I do my Insanity Max 30...not everytime but often. I just though about something though, is taking a pre workout while trying to lose weight not the best thing? Should my body be using it's own fat stores or does it not work that way? I saw some people saying they workout fasted so the body can burn stored fat so I didn't know if taking my preworkout is hindering any of that? Thanks!

xvolution

I took a look at the nutritional information listed in the food database for C4 Pre-Workout Blue Raspberry. According to that, one scoop only has 5 calories, so I doubt that would affect weight at all.

Most pre-workout powders consist of creatine, L-carnosine, caffeine, B12 and vitamin C. I usually buy a pack of energy flavor packs [10 for $2] and take a creatine supplement blend [30 servings for $9] on lift days. On other exercise days [yoga, cardio] I just take the flavor packs.

leajas1

^^^ What he/she said. There aren't enough calories in pre-workouts to take you out of a fasted state.

trigden1991

Caffeine is a thermogenic so is good to take pre-workout. Most of the other ingredients in pre-workout, like C4, are aimed at increasing the "pump" when lifting weights so will be wasted doing cardio/circuits. It would be cheaper to just buy caffeine capsules for a fraction of the cost.

Raptor2763

A pre-fuel, especially for something as intense as Insanity or P90X is a smart move. People have different preferences, but as a general rule, prefueling is a smart move. Don't forget to refuel after your workout - try to do that within the "golden hour"

Vegplotter

I'd be really suspicious of these type of tablets. As long as you've had a nutritious breakfast/lunch before you exercise you shouldn't need anything more than a glass of water (in case you lose water through sweating).
Afterwards you should eat another balanced meal.
If you have money to burn I doubt if any of these products will hurt you, but water (the best pre and post exercise product) is free!
If you feel the need of a boost get a good expresso from a cafe before you start. Caffeine does boost the metabolism a bit and is a useful diuretic. (So you should do as the Italians do and always drink a glass of water with your coffee)
Enjoy

maidengirl_

Pre-workout is fine and has no affect on weight loss but I wouldn't get used to taking it all the time. Powder form is better than pills. Take a break from using it from time to time. I used Amino Energy. C4 was much too strong for me. I have a low caffeine tolerance.

SarahStarr86

Thank you everyone!