How to make the most of a pre-workout routine

As if working out wasn’t enough work for many of us, there is such a thing as pre-workout and according to Pinkvilla, it’s super important and helpful if you’re looking to up your workout routine.

Are you one of those who can barely muster up enough strength and stamina to go through your complete workout routine, or struggle to even gather enough motivation to start it in the first place? A proper pre-workout routine is all you need to get yourself pumped up and energised. It will not only improve your performance but also help you achieve your goals!

Pinkvilla talked to Dr. Ashish Jain, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, P.D Hinduja Hospital, and a fitness freak, who says, “One must have a ‘workout routine’ in place for the week to be able to effectively decide on the ‘pre-workout’ prep.”

“A good weekly routine involves a mix of cardio and strength training days with one or two days for rest and recovery,” he adds.

Here are some tips, compiled from Pinkvilla, courtesy of Dr. Jain to help you make the most of your pre-workout routine!

Good nutrition

Taking in the right kind of nutrients before you hit the mat will make sure that you have ample energy throughout the routine and positively affect your performance. “Cardio is best done fasted to ensure maximum fat utilization for energy. However, for a good strength workout, one must eat a good meal at least an hour prior. Complex carbs like sweet potato or oats along with a protein is ideal to ensure sustained energy for the session,” recommends Dr. Jain. He also says that black coffee can help build focus and energy levels.

The right supplements

Supplements are known to enhance performance, improve strength, increase lean body and reduce fatigue, and have been gaining quite some popularity as more and more people get into fitness training.

While you must consult your doctor before adding any in your diet, Dr. Jain has some advice. “These are optional boosters to enhance workout performance and results. Some of the commonly used are L-Carnitine, caffeine, L-Arginine or Citrulline, Creatine, or a combination of the above as a pre-workout drink with or without a whey protein scoop,” he says.

Proper warm-up

Dr. Jain says that it is important to get our body and muscles warmed up before you dive into our workout routine. It can even help prevent unwanted injuries!

For a general body warm-up, a short run or brisk walking or cycling can help. If you’re at home, you could perform knee-ups, jumping jacks or mountain climbers. These will raise your heart rate and get you warmed up.

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