How To Make Pre-Workout Taste Better

Did you know? Pre-workout supplements have become an essential part of many fitness enthusiasts' routines. They provide a much-needed energy boost, enhance focus, and improve endurance during workouts. But, there's a common issue that many gym-goers face—the taste. 

Yes, pre-workout supplements can be a chore to consume. But fear not, because in this guide, we'll look at ways of how to make pre-workout taste better and turn that necessary evil into a lip-smacking treat.

Taste buds at the ready.

What Is Pre-Workout, Exactly?

Pre-workouts are designed to give you a boost of energy during your no-doubt epic training session. The main ingredient in any good pre-workout supplement is caffeine, with most containing some other ingredients to help boost your athletic performance-enhancing ingredients. 

These body-boosting ingredients include creatine and amino acids. They're designed to be taken around 30 minutes prior to your workout for a maximum pump and the best possible gains.

The issue? Often people complain that pre-workouts have a very bitter taste which makes them harder to consume. Not ideal.

Does Pre-Workout Taste Bad?

Before we dive into ways to enhance the flavor of your pre-workout, it's important to understand why these supplements often have a reputation for tasting bad. The taste of pre-workouts can vary significantly based on several factors. Let's take a look.

Ingredients

Pre-workout supplements contain a mix of ingredients like caffeine, amino acids, and various performance-enhancing compounds. Some of these ingredients naturally have bitter or sour tastes, which can affect the overall flavor.

Artificial Sweeteners

Many pre-workout supplements use artificial sweeteners to add sweetness without adding extra calories. While these sweeteners are low in calories, they can sometimes leave an unpleasant aftertaste.

Personal Preference

Taste is subjective, and what one person finds unpalatable, another might not mind. Your personal taste preferences also play a big role in how you handle the taste of a pre-workout. Your favorite pre-workout flavors could be very different from that of your gym buddy.

The Different Types of Pre-Workouts

Before we delve into methods to enhance the flavor of your pre-workout, it's important to note that there are different types of pre-workout supplements available, including powers, pills, and ready-to-drink options. Let's explore.

Powder Pre-Workout

Powdered pre-workouts are the most common. They're usually mixed with water or another liquid before consumption. The taste of powdered pre-workouts can range from fruity to sour to downright bitter.

Pre-Workout Capsules or Tablets

Some people prefer the convenience of pre-workout capsules or tablets, which can eliminate the taste issue entirely. But, the pills are often large and hard to swallow—this may put you off even more than a bad-tasting drink.

Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Pre-Workouts

RTD pre-workout drinks are pre-mixed and come in bottles or cans. They often taste great but they're much more expensive and less customizable than powdered options.

So, from now on, we'll focus on improving the taste of powdered pre-workouts since they're the most widely used and offer the most room for flavor enhancement.

How To Make Pre-Workout Supplements Taste Good

Now that we understand why pre-workouts might not taste great and the different types available, let's explore easy ways of making your pre-workout experience more enjoyable.

Choose The Right Pre-Workout Flavor

Pre-workout supplements come in a wide range of flavors. The most common (and lip-smacking) pre-workout flavors include fruit punch, blue raspberry, watermelon, and more. Try different flavors to find one that you genuinely enjoy. 

Mix Your Pre-Workout In Cold Water

Mixing your pre-workout with very cold water can improve the taste in a big way. The cold temperature can mask some of the bitterness or sourness, making it more palatable. Plus, it's refreshing during your workout.

Adjust the Water-to-Powder Ratio of Your Pre-Workout

The ratio of water to pre-workout powder can influence the taste. Experiment with the amount of water you use to find the right balance for your taste buds. 

Less water can result in a more concentrated flavor, while more water can dilute the taste. Neither is the right way as such, it’s all down to what you like. So, experiment and find your pre-workout flavoring sweet spot.

Add Natural Flavour to Your Pre-Workouts

There are loads of ingredients which you can add to your pre-workout mix for a better, more satisfying taste. Here are a few ideas for your inspiration: 

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Coconut milk
• Lime
• Fruit juice
• Honey
• Mint leaves
• Agave nectar 

These are all brilliant options if you want to create a 'tastiest pre-workout flavor' of your own. Oh, and for more lip-smacking nutritional tips, check out our epic overnight protein oats recipe.

Use Flavored Ice Cubes In Your Pre-Workout

Prepare flavored ice cubes by freezing fruit juice or a pre-mixed beverage into ice cube trays. Add these cubes to your pre-workout for an extra burst of flavor as they melt.

Try Flavored BCAAs With Your Pre-Workout

If you're looking to boost your amino acid intake and improve taste simultaneously, consider using flavored branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). Mix them with your pre-workout for added flavor and recovery benefits.

How To Make Pre-Workout Taste Better

Many pre-workout supplements will help you get the job done, but when the taste is unbearable, it's unlikely you'll take them consistently. So, experimenting with flavors is the way forward.

By experimenting with different flavors, adjusting the water-to-powder ratio, and adding natural sweeteners or fruit, you can improve how your pre-workout tastes. 

Plus, if you add a few extra ingredients, you may even get some added health benefits. But, the most important thing is to start by buying a high-quality product to make sure your base powder tastes brilliant from the get-go.

Level Up Your Pre-Workout With Crazy Nutrition

Crazy Nutrition’s unique pre-train formula is your one-stop energy answer for transformative results.

It's one of the best-tasting pre-workout supplements available, with a choice of green apple, blue raspberry and fruit punch flavor, so you're guaranteed to find a flavour you'll love without having to add extra ingredients—unless you want to, of course.