Pre-Workout Explained: What to Look For

A good pre-workout can help you get in the right frame of mind for a session. Here's what the labels actually mean and how to pick one that matches your goals.

Stimulant vs non-stimulant

Stimulant pre-workouts are built around caffeine. At 75 mg or more per serving, caffeine helps increase alertness and improve concentration. Non-stimulant formulas (often called “pump” or “stim-free”) leave the caffeine out, which many people prefer for evening sessions or if they'd rather avoid stimulants.

Common ingredients you'll see

• Caffeine — the most common stimulant; at 75 mg or more per serving it helps increase alertness and improve concentration. Start low if you're new to it.
• Citrulline malate — an amino-acid compound that's commonly included in non-stimulant (“pump”) formulas.
• Beta-alanine — the ingredient behind the harmless, temporary tingling (known as paraesthesia) that some people notice after taking a pre-workout.
• Electrolytes — minerals such as sodium, potassium and magnesium that are lost through sweat, increasingly added to pre-workout blends.

How much caffeine?

Pre-workouts range from gentle (around 150mg) to very strong (300mg+). If you're unsure, begin with a half scoop to see how you respond, and avoid taking it too close to bedtime.

When to take it

Most people take pre-workout around 20–30 minutes before training with water. Stick to the serving size on the label rather than piling on scoops.

Explore our full pre-workout range, from big-name stimulant formulas to stim-free options. Order before 3pm on a weekday for same-day dispatch and fast, tracked UK delivery.

A quick note

This article is general information, not medical or nutritional advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, and should not be used to prevent or treat any illness. Always read the product label, do your own research, and speak to a qualified doctor, pharmacist or registered nutritionist before starting a new supplement — especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, under 18, taking medication or managing a health condition.