Looking for a little extra edge to power you through your next high-intensity spin class or gym session? Rather than opting for a sugary pre-workout drink, energy shot or supplement, consider grabbing a cup of joe before heading out the door.

That’s right - studies have found that drinking coffee before a workout can actually benefit your overall athletic performance. We’ll cheers to that!

Check out all the ways coffee can improve your next workout.

1. Stimulates Fat Burning

A recent study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition looked at the effect that coffee consumption has on fat oxidation - aka fat burning. Participants were given caffeine at various points throughout the day, 30 minutes before performing some kind of aerobic exercise.

The results? Researchers found that participants who consumed caffeine before a workout experienced increased fat oxidation compared to those who were given a placebo.

Furthermore, the same study also found that drinking coffee in the afternoon was the optimal time for fat burning:

“Overall these results suggest that a combination of acute caffeine intake and exercise at moderate intensity in the afternoon provides the best scenario for individuals seeking to increase whole-body fat oxidation during aerobic exercise.”

2. Improves Endurance

There’s nothing worse than getting all the way to the gym only to feel tired and lethargic half-way through your workout. It can be difficult to maintain your stamina, especially if you’re working out early in the morning or after a long day at work.

When looking at the connection between caffeine intake and endurance, scientists found that consuming coffee 1 hour prior to aerobic activity can “improve endurance exercise performance.”

Coffee allows you to continue outputting high-amounts of energy before exhaustion or fatigue settles in. Next time you’re heading out on a long hike or bike ride, try drinking a cup of coffee beforehand!

3. Increases Focus

Most of us rely on our morning coffee to help us concentrate at the office, but did you know that caffeine can also help you stay alert during a workout as well?

Caffeine helps to improve alertness and focus, which can often mean the difference between getting a PR or getting injured at the gym. If you’re not fully alert before lifting heavy weights or taking a HIIT class, you can do some serious damage to your body.

Drinking coffee before engaging in intense physical activity will provide a helpful energy boost to ensure that you’re 100% focused on your training. Grab your favorite flavor of BuzzFit protein coffee before heading to the gym and get ready to smash your fitness goals!


* Always consult a doctor, nutritionist or trusted medical expert before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.