Caffeine is one of the most widely used supplements in the health and fitness industry. Caffeine finds its way into tea, coffee, soft drinks, chocolate, and medications, in addition to most pre-workout supplements on the market.
Caffeine is addictive; ask any coffee lover; but what does it actually do? It’s well known to stimulate the human body and can be used to boost and improve physical strength and endurance.
It is also classified as a nootropic as it stimulates the brain, causing you to be a lot more alert and awake by inhibiting adenosine within the brain. It sensitises neurons and provides mental stimulation.
When talking about training and performance, studies show that it has a greater positive effect on aerobic endurance performance than strength performance. However, it still improves strength endurance, though there isn’t enough evidence to show if these acute improvements can have a long term effect on strength and hypertrophy gains.
Dosages of caffeine vary between each individual. If you are new to caffeine supplements, the recommended dosage is roughly 100mg. The average dose is roughly 200mg with studies showing that acute strength increases occur at 400mg+ dosages.
Are you a coffee lover? Do you use caffeine to enhance training performance? How do you consume caffeine? Coffee? Energy drinks? Pre-workout?
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