I like those pre-workout supps. Some of them are good, some of them suck. If it has more than 6 ingredients, odd are it sucks.
I lift after work and keep the pre-workout nutrition simple. I have a nice big bowl of full fat yogurt (12-16 oz), a bunch of fresh fruit (right now I have been crushing fresh local strawberries and blueberries), and a nice big cup of strong coffee. All of this is consumed 45-60 min before I begin my warm-up.
I haven't used anything yet. I usually make sure I've eaten a few hours before lifting and usually drink coffee before my worksets. It has worked well. I'm considering using supplements like beta alanine in the future, most likely after I finish my current diet.
I used beta alanine for about 2 months, and honestly - I could tell no difference between taking it, and not taking it - other than the tingle you get immediately after. Which is kind of freaky.
I just finished my review of BPI Sport's 1.M.R., which is questionable at best. I hope someone from there reads it, because I'd like to hear what they have to say. As much as I hate to knock something that's on the site, I couldn't do anything else and keep my review bullshit free. It's here. If you read it and have some insight, let me know.
Preworkout nutrition is largely a waste of time. It's a marketing ploy.
I drink a cup of coffee and if it's a really special day I might add in an extra NoDoz. I also try to
lift on an empty stomach. Full bellies and lifting belts just lead to bloating and miserable sessions.
Post workout I eat food and lots of it. Protein powder gives me expensive farts and less money to
spend on important things like guns and motorcycles.
I take Jack3d on my volume and intensity days, it does help. First time I took 1.5 scoops and, during squats, I felt this weird rush of blood? into my traps during warmups, weird.
It does contain some creatine in it which I should take separately and regularly.
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