Is coffee good for athletes?

Coffee is among the most consumed and controversial beverages in the world. But surprisingly a cup of coffee in the morning may provide more than just an energy boost. Coffee contains caffeine, a natural stimulant indicated to be a safe alternative to improve our workouts. In fact, black coffee has become one of the most popular and effective pre-workout drinks according to research.

Why?

Improves athletic performance:

Endurance athletes appear to greatly benefit from consuming caffeine found in coffee. Coffee and caffeine have been shown to improve mental focus. Caffeine is a natural stimulant indicated to stimulate the central nervous system (CNS) and improve brain function. It has a positive impact on the areas of the brain responsible for memory and concentration. When thinking is sharp, it helps your workout become more productive and effective.

Fat oxidation:

Coffee provides effective fat burning during a workout and for several hours following exercise. This suggests that caffeine allows athletes to increase work rate, as there is a greater ability to rely on fat metabolism, than simply relying on glucose, consequently improving sports performance.

It is an effective pre-workout drink:

Firing up the coffee pot and enjoying a warm cup of coffee, minus the cream and sugar may be all you need to boost that workout. The peak stimulant effect of coffee occurs 30 to 60 minutes after drinking a cup. Once caffeine enters our bloodstream, several responses begin to occur in our body. Blood pressure and heart rate increase, fat stores are broken down, and fatty acids are released into the bloodstream. We typically feel energetic and ready for a great workout. Drinking coffee at least 30 minutes to no less than 15 minutes prior to exercise seems to provide the best results.

Reduces muscle pain:

Drinking a cup of coffee prior to exercise may help those who tend to give up during a workout. Exercise can cause painful lactic acid build-up when the muscle is stressed. Some tend to stop working out because of this discomfort. Research has shown that coffee and caffeine can reduce exercise-induced muscle pain.

Not only can you go harder, longer and with more accuracy thanks to improved focus, but can even keep you going beyond your pain barrier due to coffee’s abilities to slightly numb muscle pain. So just stick to plain black coffee to reap the largest benefits and stay away from the sugary lattes and macchiatos. You can try our 100% Premium Arabica Coffee for Athletes for a bold, strong cup of black coffee!