Pre-workout supplements are some of the most popular products in the entire fitness industry. They’re typically used by athletes or workout enthusiasts looking to boost their workout performance.
While pre-workout supplements are commonly associated with exercise, some people have started using them for non-exercise purposes, such as studying, focusing, and improving memory. The idea is that some of the ingredients that enhance physical performance during exercise could also boost cognitive function.
It may not seem as such on the surface, but many of the characteristics associated with a great workout are the same as a quality study session. In particular, the ability to focus with laser-like precision for an extended period of time.
With advancements in technology, we are constantly bombarded with distractions from social media apps, on-demand streaming services, and cell phone notifications. Now more than ever it has become a challenge to focus on a specific task.
It’s important to note that pre-workouts encompass a wide range of products. Pre-workouts are not like vitamins. For example, vitamin D is vitamin D. While there may be superior forms, all vitamin D supplements are generally the same.
Two different pre-workout brands could have completely different formulations. If you’re looking for a pre-workout specifically to improve focus and memory, there are certain ingredients to target.
How Pre-Workout Impacts Cognitive Function
Pre-workout supplements may boost cognitive function by improving blood flow to the brain, increasing the availability of neurotransmitters, and enhancing neural signaling.
With that said, you can see there are a number of pathways to achieve the desired results: focus, concentration, and memory. This also means you may have to try a number of different ingredients or ingredient combinations to see what works for you.
Aside from caffeine, the research is limited on pre-workout ingredients as it pertains to cognition. Cognition can also be a challenging thing to define and test. There are many components to cognition. For example, is improvement on a memory test a true measure of cognitive performance?
Nootropic Cognitive Boosters
Nootropics, also known as cognitive enhancers or “smart drugs,” are a class of supplements that are specifically designed to enhance brain function. Unlike traditional pre-workout supplements, which are primarily geared towards improving physical performance, nootropics are designed to target mental performance.
Nootropic pre-workout supplements may contain a variety of ingredients, such as amino acids, plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals, that are thought to enhance cognitive function in different ways. For example, some nootropics may contain alpha GPC, a nutrient that is a natural precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in memory and learning.
Other nootropics may contain ingredients like Huperzine A or vinpocetine, which are believed to increase blood flow to the brain and improve cognitive function.
One of the key advantages of nootropic pre-workout supplements is that they are designed to provide a more targeted approach to cognitive enhancement. Rather than relying solely on stimulants like caffeine, nootropic pre-workout supplements aim to support cognitive function in a more holistic way.
Caffeine is still a viable study aid since it increases mental alertness. However, some people have a hard time finding the right dose, or may want to avoid stimulants completely.
However, as with any supplement, it is important to approach the use of nootropic pre-workout supplements with caution. Some nootropics may have side effects, especially when taken in large amounts or combined with other supplements or medications.
The safety research on nootropics is limited, especially as it pertains to long-term studies. Nootropics in general just have not been around that long.
Other Pre-Workout Cognitive Boosters
In addition to nootropics, there are several other ingredients commonly found in pre-workout supplements that may have an impact on cognitive function.
Creatine is a popular ingredient in many pre-workout supplements and is primarily used to improve physical performance. However, some studies suggest that creatine may also have cognitive benefits. A systematic review consisting of 6 studies showed that creatine may improve memory and reasoning [1]. Other measures saw conflicting results.
Tyrosine is an amino acid that is a precursor to several catecholamines, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Some studies suggest that tyrosine supplementation may improve cognitive function in young healthy adults, particularly in high-stress situations [2].
Beta-alanine is an amino acid that is often used in pre-workout supplements to improve physical performance. If you are familiar with pre-workout supplements, you probably recognize beta-alanine and may be surprised to see it on this list.
Beta-alanine can actually help to stabilize mood. It’s unclear whether it has a direct effect on cognition or if it’s an indirect effect due to the mood stabilization.
B vitamins, including B6, B9 (folate), and B12, are essential for brain function and may play a role in cognitive function. Some pre-workout supplements may contain these vitamins, either individually or in combination. These mental boosting effects are typically only apparent in individuals who have low levels of these vitamins.
Supplement Recommendations
Below are supplements containing a number of the ingredients mentioned in this article. While it may seem like a cop-out answer, there is some trial and error involved when finding the right pre-workout for you.
I’ve seen formulations that look perfect on paper that just don’t work out for some people. Caffeine dosage in particular seems to vary wildly from person to person. Some people are quite sensitive while others can have multiple servings per day.
Cutler Nutrition Prevail
Jay Cutler’s Prevail contains almost every ingredient listed aside from the B vitamins. One scoop contains a modest 200mg of caffeine along with Alpha-GPC, Tyrosine, and Huperzine-A. It also contains L-Theanine, which helps to counteract the jittery and anxious feelings some experience with caffeine.
Genius Pre
If you’re looking for a pre-workout designed for focus and concentration without caffeine, Genius Pre is one of the best options.
Genius Pre contains clinical doses of Beta-alanine, Tyrosine, Alpha-GPC, and Huperzine-A. It also contains herbs like Rhodiola.
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