PWO vs. coffee - which is better?

When the goal is to perform better at the gym, get more out of your workouts, or just wake up your body and mind before a workout, many people reach for a cup of coffee or a pre-workout powder (PWO). But which is really more effective? Is PWO just a gym-goer's rant or a truly useful addition to your workout? Can coffee do the same thing as a more natural alternative?

What is PWO or pre-workout powder?

A pre-workout is a supplement designed to be taken approximately 15–30 minutes before exercise or training. Its goal is to increase focus and energy levels in order to achieve maximum performance.

PWO powders are often a combination of the following ingredients:

• Caffeine : improves alertness and performance, among other things
  

• Beta-alanine : may reduce muscle fatigue
  

• L-citrulline DL malate / arginine : enhance blood circulation and the feeling of the pump
  

• B vitamins and electrolytes : support metabolism and fluid balance
  

PWO products are available in different strengths and for different purposes, from stimulating options to completely caffeine-free versions.

Is coffee enough before a workout?

Coffee is a natural, readily available alternative to PWO. The average cup of coffee contains around 80–100 mg of caffeine, which in itself can improve performance.

Studies show that caffeine can help:

• To improve attention

• To increase endurance performance

• To improve physical performance

The benefits of coffee for training are largely due to the caffeine it contains. In addition, coffee also contains polyphenols, which can support metabolism and act as antioxidants.

Coffee still has limitations:

• The effect often begins more slowly (compared to PWO)

• It does not contain the same performance-supporting amino acids or electrolytes

Which one suits you better?

Choose PWO powder if:

• You want to maximize your workout performance (for example, during heavy gym workouts)
  

• You train in the morning or when you feel tired and need quick energy
  

• You want added value from amino acids or “pump” supporting compounds
  

• You are looking for caffeine-free options for evening workouts
  

Choose coffee if:

• You need a light boost before training, but don't want supplements
  

• You are intolerant to some of the ingredients in PWO
  

• You prefer traditional customs and the taste of coffee
  
  

Unfortunately, we don't offer coffee, but are you interested in PWO products? Check out the selection and find the pre-workout that suits your needs!

• Rage Juice – A highly effective PWO that provides energy, focus, and workout motivation.

• Stupid Pump – A caffeine-free pre-workout that maximizes muscle pumps and focus without stimulants. Perfect for evening workouts and those sensitive to caffeine.

• Nasty Stuff – An extremely potent PWO powder that maximizes alertness, focus, workout performance, and also provides nootropic effects within legal limits.

• Awake AF – A nutritional supplement designed to support alertness and focus while studying, working, monitoring, and exercising.