If you're looking for a cost-effective energy boost before a workout without stimulants, then you've come to the right place. Pre-workout drinks are an excellent way to get an energy boost and give you the motivation to hit the gym but for those looking to avoid stimulants, the options can feel limited. Further to this, not everyone wants to splash out on the fancy pre-workout powders.
First and foremost, it's important to understand why stimulants aren't always the best option for everyone's pre-workout mix. Stimulants typically increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous when engaging in high intensity activities. Furthermore, the effects of stimulants can have varied influences on the body depending on the individual, and post-workout crashes are common for those who have a low tolerance. As a consequence, many athletes and fitness enthusiasts opt for stimulant-free pre-workout drinks.
Stimulant free powdered formulations are always a good option but it's important for our customers to be aware that these aren't the only option. There are some great stimulant-free pre-workout drinks that can be made using common store cupboard ingredients that will help you get the most out of your workout without the side effects of stimulants. In this article, we will look at the best stimulant-free pre-workout drinks that can easily be made from home without breaking the bank.
1. Tart Cherry Juice
One of the best stimulant-free pre-workout drinks is Tart Cherry Juice. Tart cherry juice is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains a compound called quercetin, which has been found to reduce muscle soreness after exercise. Plus, it is a great source of natural energy that can help you power through your workout.
2. Green Tea
Another great (semi) stimulant-free pre-workout drink is Green Tea. Green tea contains caffeine, but not enough to give you a jittery feeling. It also contains an antioxidant called catechins, which have been found to help boost your metabolism and burn fat. Green tea also has a calming effect that can help you focus during your workout. You'll find that green tea is a common ingredient in pre-workout formulations as well, typically those with thermogenic fat-burning claims on the label like Applied Nutrition's Shred-X powder.
3. Beet Juice
Beet juice (beetroot juice) is another great stimulant-free pre-workout drink. Beet juice contains nitrates, which can help improve your performance by allowing you to work out longer and harder. It is also a great source of natural energy and can help reduce fatigue.
4. Coconut Water
Coconut water is another great stimulant-free pre-workout drink. Coconut water is packed with electrolytes and is a great source of hydration. It also contains natural sugars that can give you a steady energy boost throughout your workout. We explored the electrolyte content of coconut in greater depth in our 'BEST post-workout drinks with LOTS of Electrolytes' article.
5. Sea-Salted Water
The final stimulant free pre-workout drink to be mentioned in this article is a simple combination of water and sea salt. The salt helps to maintain electrolyte balance and prevent dehydration, while the water helps replace lost fluids. For a further energy boost, you can also add a teaspoon of honey or agave nectar. This combination provides your body with the fuel it needs to get through a workout without the use of stimulants.
6. Pre-Workout Foods *BONUS*
Food wise, you can also get an energy boost from a banana. Bananas are rich in carbohydrates, which can give you a natural energy boost. They are also rich in potassium, which can help reduce muscle cramps during your workout. Another common pre-workout snack that we've only heard good things about is the Kellogg's Squares bar. With a good carb and sugar ratio, we frequently hear of people (particularly females) using them as a pre-workout food. If you'd like to explore Rice Krispie pre-workout treats further, EveryDayHealth do a great job outlining the science behind the energy boost.
So, to round up, these are just a few of the best stimulant-free pre-workout drinks. All these drinks can help give you an energy boost and help you power through your workout without the side effects of stimulants. If you're looking for a natural energy boost, give one of these drinks a try. On the other hand, should you decide to opt for a stimulant-free powdered formulation, make sure to read our article on clumpy pre-workout so you know what to expect.
