In this article, I am going to review 6 pre-workout supplements that are viable for swimmers.
Being a swimmer trying to maximize your performance and wanting to win all the racing competitions is well justified.
However, sometimes lack of energy can halt you from reaching your true potential. The reason could be anything such as professional burnout, exercise fatigue, or inadequate diet.
Typically, optimizing your nutritional intake is one of the easiest ways to get better energy levels and give your best in the pool. And this is where pre-workout supplements enter the picture.
These nutritional supplements contain ingredients that promise to elevate your performance by offering laser-sharp focus, sustained energy, and elite endurance.
So, we are here to look into everything, including ingredients’ efficacy, benefits, possible side effects, and prices.
Continue reading to find the best pre-workout for swimming for yourself.
6 Best Pre-Workouts for Swimming
Here is a list of pre-workouts that might help fuel your swimming performance:
- NITROSURGE Pre-Workout Supplement (overall best)
- Nuclear Armageddon Pre-Workout Powder
- Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein
- ProSupps Mr. Hyde Signature Series
- Pre JYM Pre Workout Powder
- Rise Pre-Workout Powder Supplement
1. NITROSURGE Pre-Workout Supplement
Nitrosurge is a pre-workout energy powder manufactured by Jacked Factory, which contains solid doses of all the ingredients that are popular among fitness enthusiasts.
Firstly, we have 3g of citrulline malate, an ingredient that needs no introduction. If you’re into pumps and vascular appearance, you must be aware of it.
L citrulline malate works by increasing nitric oxide levels. It dilates your blood vessels, refining nutrient supply, blood circulation, and oxygen uptake.
Since swimming is an activity that involves your muscles, optimal blood flow and nutrient transport are vital for strength and keeping muscle soreness at bay.
Next, there is 1.6g of beta-alanine. It improves performance by increasing strength and decreasing muscle fatigue, which is why it is another helpful ingredient for swimmers.
1.25g of betaine anhydrous is added to elevate performance, strength, body composition, and power.
Some other ingredients are 90 mg of L-theanine, 50mg of theobromine, and 25mg of astragin.
When combined with caffeine, theanine brings better mental clarity, heightened focus, and pronounced concentration.
Similar to caffeine, theobromine is a stimulant that offers sustained energy for long sessions. Meanwhile, astragin is here to increase other ingredients’ bioavailability.
In all, it is a solid and well-rounded supplement. Although it doesn’t contain any innovative ingredients, it does the job efficiently and is perfect for anyone who wants a regular formula.
You can buy it from Amazon or the company’s official website for $29.99.
Pros
- Produced with proven and science-backed ingredients.
- Boosts energy, stamina, and focus.
- Supports pumps and muscle growth.
Cons
- Caffeine content is not that high.
2. Nuclear Armageddon Pre-Workout
Nuclear Armageddon is a pre-workout designed for men and women to level up their energy, endurance, and performance. Packed with ingredients like L-citrulline malate, betaine-anhydrous, and beta-alanine, it is a supplement targeted toward athletes and bodybuilders.
However, these ingredients can improve circulation, diminish fatigue, and improve stamina, making this pre-workout an equally helpful tool for swimmers and gym fanatics.
Nuclear Armageddon contains caffeine anhydrous, the epitome of energy and vitality.
Not to mention that it is a powerful stimulant that terminates the effects of adenosine, a tiredness-inducing substance in the brain.
As a result, you feel alert, focused, and more awake. Therefore, many people rely on caffeine to boost their productivity, and so can swimmers.
Next, betaine anhydrous is another ingredient dominating the ingredient list of pre-workouts. It has the potential to improve strength, hydration, and protein synthesis.
Then, there’s beta-alanine that can improve performance by elevating capacity and eliminating muscle soreness.
In a nutshell, Nuclear Armageddon boasts a pretty decent ingredient profile.
Such a formula offers the advantage of refining your performance in the gym and pool as well.
Fortunately, you won’t even have to splurge on it as it is cheaper than most competitors. If you want to buy it from the official website, you can get it for $42.99.
You can also find it on Amazon for $39.99.
Pros
- Elevated energy, focus, and strength
- Power-packed ingredients
- Well-rounded formula
Cons
- Nothing as such is to be listed as a con.
3. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is a crowd-favorite sports nutritional supplement. Available in over twenty vegan flavors, this protein powder tastes good and mixes well with milk and water.
Each rounded scoop offers three grams of carbohydrates, twenty-four grams of protein, one gram of sugar, and one gram of fat.
The protein they use is whey protein, a supplement popular among gym-goers. However, protein consumption is paramount for swimmers, too, as it helps enhance muscle recovery.
If you are an active swimmer who also works out, know that there is resistance applied to your muscles while doing any of these activities. It results in creating micro-tears in your muscle tissues. And this is why you feel soreness.
The protein you consume helps by repairing and growing muscle tissues that prepare you for a better performance next time. It is the reason why athletes need a sufficient protein intake, which they struggle to achieve sometimes.
But, also, it is where nutritional supplements come in handy. All you need is a drink high in macronutrients before beginning your activity, and you are good to go.
Aminogen, lactase, and natural and artificial flavors are other ingredients in this product. Aminogen aids in protein digestion and gas reduction, while lactase is here to make lactose more digestible.
In all, it is a decent product for swimmers looking to skyrocket their protein intake.
You can buy this product from Amazon for $68.94 or bodybuilding.com for $35.99.
Pros
- Contains sufficient protein.
- Helps muscle growth, and promotes stamina and recovery.
- Available in a variety of flavors.
Cons
- Contains artificial sweeteners.
4. ProSupps Mr. Hyde Signature Series
Mr. Hyde Signature pre-workout is a supplement manufactured by ProSupps. It is one of those pre-workouts that contain creatine, which is good news for creatine fans.
Many consumers suggest that a consistent creatine intake significantly helped them maximize their stamina and performance.
Creatine is a naturally-occurring substance that serves different roles in the body. However, its fitness-related job is to help muscles by creating sustainable energy for demanding physical activities, whether it is a swimming race or HIIT.
Therefore, this ingredient is consumed by several swimmers as well.
Additionally, it contains beta-alanine, arginine silicate, L-citrulline, caffeine, theanine, TeaCrine, and more.
Here, TeaCrine might come across as something new. It offers an energy rush without a crash.
While we are aware of the valuable services of L-citrulline, caffeine, theanine, and beta-alanine, it is also imperative to know their potential side effects.
For instance, beta-alanine can cause paresthesia, a condition where you feel a tingly sensation in your skin.
Then, it has caffeine which is an excellent source of concentration boost. But, it may also trigger anxiety, disrupt sleep, or make some people feel uneasy.
Therefore, if you have caffeine sensitivity, take time to check its concentration in the product. Always go for the pre-workout that contains a moderate caffeine amount to prevent any problematic situation.
Don’t forget to check the complete nutritional details. If you know your allergies and triggering ingredients, you will be fine.
So, if you have made up your mind, you can buy this product from Amazon for $18.97.
Pros
- Made with powerful ingredients.
- Have a pleasant taste.
- Easy on the stomach.
Cons
- An energetic rush doesn’t kick off instantly.
5. Pre JYM Pre Workout Powder
Both the ingredient profile and the variety of exquisite tastes make Pre Jym stand out.
Formulated with 13 thoughtful ingredients, it optimizes your performance by targeting your focus, energy, and endurance.
Pre JYM contains everything you expect to see in a solid pre-workout supplement, such as citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine-anhydrous, caffeine, and creatine. What’s fantastic is that almost all ingredients are incorporated in high yet safe amounts.
For instance, it contains 6g of citrulline, which is ideal for improving blood flow.
Then, 300 mg of caffeine guarantees sharp focus and alertness. This amount is optimal for people who want an instantaneous focus boost for better performance, considering they have a decent caffeine tolerance.
2g of beta-alanine and creatine are optimal to support strength and lasting energy.
Some of the other significant ingredients are cysteine and tyrosine. Both are non-essential amino acids.
Cysteine is related to collagen production. Meanwhile, tyrosine is considered to augment focus and may help to lessen the exercise’s excruciating effects.
To sum it all up, this product is perfect for athletes and bodybuilders looking for a professional formula. Since it contains high doses of all ingredients, experienced pre-workout drinkers should give it a shot.
If you have decided to give it a go, find it on Amazon. It is available for $36.31.
Pros
- Well dosed and made with powerful ingredients.
- High caffeine content.
- Gluten-free.
Cons
- High caffeine content may cause jitters.
6. Rise Supplement by Sheer Strength
Here comes the last pre-workout supplement on our list.
Rise pre-workout powder is designed to increase energy, focus, endurance, and hydration. It can be used by both men and women, active gym-goers, swimmers, and bodybuilders.
Speaking of ingredients, we can spot L-citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine-anhydrous, L-theanine, caffeine, and theobromine.
The doses are decent and do the job by making you feel energetic and “prepared” for your physical activity.
Speaking of caffeine, it contains 150mg of it, which is not a high concentration at all. However, if you take tea/coffee in the morning and then drink this supplement before going for a swim, it balances out well.
Some of the lesser-known ingredients which are added to this supplement are coconut water powder and red ginseng root powder.
Coconut water powder contains a high concentration of electrolytes, which are known to aid in hydration. Meanwhile, red ginseng root powder is associated with peak energy.
Rise pre-workout is formulated in the United States under strict quality control and cGMP norms. So, rest assured that the brand values the finest quality and client pleasure.
You can place your order directly on the website. It will cost you $24.99. If you want a discount, head over to Amazon, and you will find it for approximately $20.
Pros
- Proven ingredients for premium results.
- Supports consistent energy, long-Term endurance, and hydration.
- Zero fillers, preservatives, and added sugar.
- Gluten and soy-free.
Cons
- None.
Should I Take A Pre-Workout Before Swimming?
If you are a budding swimmer, you must have seen swimmers getting tired after spending a day at the pool. It happens because swimming is a strenuous workout that engages all major muscle groups.
In order to give your best and not feel drained the next time you are in the pool, you need to rest well and eat like a boss. Hence, many swimmers try to eat energy-dense and nutritious meals.
You may need a precise combination of carbohydrates and protein to stay energetic. Foods like whole grains, meat, pasta, lentils, fish, eggs, and fruits are pretty helpful to accommodate long training sessions.
However, some people don’t have time to cook.
While for others, eating before physical activity is not comfortable as they feel bloated. People who face any of these issues can try pre-workouts.
You can also take a pre-workout before swimming if the following points resonate with you:
- The primary purpose of a pre-workout supplement is to make you feel motivated to work out by giving an instant energy kick. These supplements contain ingredients like caffeine and creatine that raise your energy levels. If you think there is a lack of energy in your aura, you can give it a shot.
- Swimming requires tolerance and stamina. If you feel you are lacking the capacity to work out for long hours, you might check out a pre-workout containing protein, beta-alanine, and L-glutamine. These elements can help you work for an extended time without getting drained.
While you are here, it is also imperative to acknowledge that a pre-workout’s primary job is to give you the energy to feel motivated to get up and beat procrastination.
It might help you stay energized for longer than usual and postpone exhaustion.
However, it can not directly influence your swimming performance and make you the best swimmer on your own.
Ultimately, your swimming outcomes are dependent on daily practice, dedication, and healthy eating habits.
Best Pre Workout for Swimmers – Buyer’s guide
Whether you have been recommended to use Olympic swimmer supplements pre-workout by someone or you are the one choosing yourself, being aware of the things you are putting inside your body is the key.
The problem arises when people start buying a product without checking supplement facts.
So, always check out the ingredients to know you are not ingesting something you are sensitive to.
Also, do a bit of research on a brand’s reputation as well to confirm that you are in the safe zone.
If you are a swimming enthusiast in search of a pre-workout meal for swimmers, know that you need the following ingredients in the supplement to optimize your performance.
1. Caffeine & Other Stimulants
If you are someone who refuses to function without your morning coffee or tea, you can find solace in caffeine supplements to get energized before your swimming class.
All major muscle groups are involved and worked in swimming, and it can be an exhausting workout.
Therefore, a supplement with caffeine might help you gear up for it by enhancing your energy levels and focus.
Research suggests that caffeine can significantly refine your cognition even if you consume it in a low dose. Almost all pre-workout supplements contain caffeine anhydrous to boost focus, and you can easily find them.
These days, supplements provide up to 300mg of caffeine.
However, it is better to keep your caffeine tolerance level in mind. Choose a pre-workout that does not contain more than 150mg of caffeine if caffeine makes you feel jittery or anxious.
Other than caffeine, there are several focus boosters and stimulants which bring similar results. Some common examples are theanine, theobromine, and TeaCrine, which can boost your focus and mental clarity.
2. Creatine
Creatine is a compound made up of three amino acids: arginine, glycine, and methionine.
Research suggests that it has therapeutic effects which support muscle strength, improve performance, and enable you to work for longer.
It is one of the most widely used supplements to boost physical performance.
Creatine supplies the muscles with energy in the form of ATP. Since swimming is a physically demanding sport, it might leave you feeling exhausted and sore. In this way, creatine can be helpful as it fills your body with energy that is used rapidly during swimming.
Although we still don’t have adequate research suggesting that creatine supplements improve sprint swimming performance. It suggests that dietary creatine supplementation may improve the performance of repeated interval swim sets.
3. L-citrulline Malate
Swimming utilizes all of your muscles, which may cause muscle soreness and pain. You don’t want the swimming fatigue to make you underperform. Hence, this is where a pre-workout comes in handy.
Almost all pre-workouts in the market contain L-citrulline. It is a powerful nitric oxide booster that regulates blood circulation to muscles, which is imperative to prevent muscle discomfort.
4. Protein
Although most people can and should get their daily protein intake from natural ways and whole foods. But if you can’t get an optimal intake, think about protein powders. A protein shake can be consumed before swimming, just like a pre-workout.
Getting an optimal macronutrient intake is crucial for everyone, let alone swimmers.
After all, it is an essential component of our diet and necessary for the growth of all forms of bodily tissue, including muscle.
While there is a hot debate about types of protein, it is vital to note that whey protein remains the most researched form of protein. It is highly bioavailable with a fast rate of absorption.
You will find multiple whey protein powders on the market. But pre-workout protein, particularly branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), ensures that your muscles are properly fueled.
Plus, pre-workout protein has the potential to elevate amino acid delivery by muscles. Consequently, it will boost your swimming performance.
So, if you are looking to improve your physical performance and nutritional intake, you can check out available protein powders.
Wrap Up
We have established that pre-workout supplements can help you reach your goals faster by putting you in a better headspace and energy. However, it does not mean any pre-workout on the planet can deliver these results.
Therefore, always conduct thorough research on the brand and product’s ingredients to avoid any inconvenience.
With the help of the right product, you can achieve your goals and slay your swimming classes.
I hope you find the products I’ve mentioned useful.