Yes, there are pre-workouts that are clean, plant-based and support your training without leaving you feeling strung out. Here's what to look for in a pre-workout as a woman, and how Ora's Renewable Energy fits.
What should women look for in a pre-workout?
- A caffeine dose that fits your body. Caffeine improves performance at 3 to 6 mg per kilogram of body weight. For a 60 kg (132 lb) woman, the low end is about 180 mg, less than many high-stimulant formulas.
- A fully disclosed label. In an analysis of top-selling pre-workouts, nearly half of all ingredients were hidden in proprietary blends.
- Plant-based support such as adaptogens, nitrate-rich fruits and vegetables, and a natural source of electrolytes.
- Little or no added sugar, so your energy doesn't depend on a sugar rush.
For the full checklist, read the best pre-workout for women: what to look for and what to avoid.
What's in Ora's Renewable Energy pre-workout?
Renewable Energy is a USDA Organic, plant-based pre-workout powder. Each serving includes:
- 90mg of caffeine from organic green coffee bean, matcha green tea and yerba mate, a moderate dose for steady energy and focus
- An organic adaptogen blend of ashwagandha, rhodiola root, panax ginseng and maca root to help you stay focused and energized
- Organic beetroot and pomegranate juice powders to support healthy blood flow and endurance
- Organic coconut water, a natural source of electrolytes
It comes in Raspberry Lemonade and Beet Pomegranate, is sweetened with organic monk fruit and stevia, and has no beta-alanine and no artificial sweeteners. Beet Pomegranate has no added sugar; Raspberry Lemonade has 5 g from organic coconut sugar.
Take one scoop with water about 30 minutes before your workout. Because of the caffeine, it's best in the morning or early afternoon. If you want a stronger option for harder sessions, Renewable Energy Plus has 180mg of caffeine from organic green coffee beans with beetroot, pomegranate, ashwagandha, ginseng and maca.
Who should check with a doctor first?
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using any pre-workout. ACOG advises keeping caffeine under 200 mg a day during pregnancy, and the NIH advises avoiding ashwagandha while pregnant or breastfeeding. The same goes for anyone with a heart condition or high blood pressure, or who takes medication.
Not sure how to time it? See when to take pre-workout.
