15% off €35 OR 20% off €45

Code:SAVE
 

15% off €35 OR 20% off €45

Code:SAVE

OffersSave up to 1/2 priceBuy One Get One 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & MatchOnline OnlyOutlet2 for €23 Mix & MatchBuy 1 Get 1 FreeIntroductory Offer2 for €6 Mix & MatchVitamins & SupplementsVitamins & Supplements Shop AllCBDCollagen & SilicaHair, Skin & NailsShop all Hair, Skin & NailsHair GrowthFunctional MushroomsVitaminsShop all VitaminsMultivitaminsVitamin AVitamin BVitamin CVitamin DVitamin EVitamin KVitamin DrinksMineralsShop all MineralsMagnesiumIronZincCalciumSeleniumChromiumSupplementsShop all SupplementsFibre SupplementsAcidophilus & Friendly BacteriaPeppermint OilGrapeseed ExtractLecithinCollagen & SilicaOmega & Fish OilsPlant Sourced SupplementsSuperfood SupplementsArnicaApple CiderRaspberry KetonesAloe VeraChondroitin & MSMCo Enzyme Q10Evening Primrose OilGarlicGlucosamineGlucomannanSeaweed, Kelps and AquaceuticalsDigestive EnzymesCharcoalWomen's HealthShop all Women's HealthMenopauseMenstrual SupportUrinary Tract HealthPregnancy & ConceptionMen's HealthShop all Men's HealthProstate HealthChildren's HealthConditionShop all ConditionCholesterolAllergy & Hay Fever CareAnxiety SupportBone & Muscle HealthMuscle Support & Joint PainBrain & Memory SupportWomen's HealthMen's HealthChildren's HealthCold & Immune SupportFatigueDigestive HealthHair, Skin & NailsHeart & CirculationLiver CareMood SupportSexual HealthSleep & RelaxationStress ReliefVisionHerbal & Licensed RemediesShop all Herbal & Licensed RemediesRescue RemedyAshwagandhaMilk ThistleGinseng & GuaranaHomeopathic & Flower RemediesShop all Homeopathic & Flower RemediesRescue RemedyFlower RemediesVegan Vitamins & SupplementsHolland & BarrettVitabioticsSolgarNew NordicBioglanNatures AidBetterYouNovominsWild NutritionNeubria3 for 2 Mix & MatchBuy One Get One 1/2 PriceSave up to 1/2 priceOnline OnlyOutletBuy 1 Get 1 FreeIntroductory OfferDairy FreeGluten FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeKiwi FreeLupin FreeNew inFood & DrinkFood & Drink Shop AllEasterVegan FoodDried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsShop all Dried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsDried FruitNutsSeedsMixesChocolate CoatedTeas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesShop all Teas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesCoffee & Coffee SubstituteMushroom DrinksTeasMatcha & Green TeaSleep & Relaxation TeaSlimming TeaWomen's Health TeasDrinks & JuicesShop all Drinks & JuicesMultipack DrinksProtein ShakesJuices & Health ShotsNatural Energy DrinksKombuchaSoft DrinksWaterAlcohol Free DrinksKefirSuperfoodsShop all SuperfoodsSuperfood PowdersMoringa PowderSpirulinaGoji BerriesBaobabChia SeedsHealthier SnackingShop all Healthier SnackingProtein BarsLow Calorie SnacksChocolate, Cakes & BiscuitsSavoury SnacksSweet SnacksSnack BarsCrisps & ChipsFlapjacksPopcornFood CupboardShop all Food CupboardCondiments & SaucesApple Cider VinegarSuperfoodsBreakfast CerealsHoney, Jams & SpreadsTinned FoodsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsHoney, Jams & SpreadsShop all Honey, Jams & SpreadsManuka HoneyHoneyNut ButtersJams & ChutneysSpreadsPateBreakfast CerealsShop all Breakfast CerealsCereals, Bran & FlakesGranolaMuesliOats & PorridgeBreakfast BarsCookingShop all CookingCooking IngredientsApple Cider VinegarCondiments & SaucesSoya & Meat AlternativeSoup & Ready MealsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsHerbs, Spices & SeasoningGravy & StockHome BakingShop all Home BakingBaking MixesBreadFlourSweeteners & Sugar AlternativesEgg SubstitutesDairy AlternativesShop all Dairy AlternativesOat, Rice & Hemp DrinksSoya DrinksNut DrinksCoconut DrinksNutritionally Complete FoodHolland & BarrettNaturyaGrenadePukkaNakdHeath & HeatherPerfectTedTwiningsNOMOTREKSave up to 1/2 priceBuy One Get One 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & MatchOnline Only2 for €6 Mix & MatchBuy 1 Get 1 FreeOutletShort DatedGluten FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeSugar FreeEgg FreeMilk FreeSoya FreeNut FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeNew inSports NutritionSports Nutrition Shop AllProteinShop all ProteinClear ProteinProtein VeganMeal ReplacementsWhey ProteinMass GainersDiet ProteinCaseinSports SupplementsShop all Sports SupplementsSports CollagenBars, Drinks & SnacksShop all Bars, Drinks & SnacksEnergy BarsProtein BarsProtein ShakesProtein SnacksNutritionally Complete FoodMeal Replacement ShakesPre Workout & EnergyShop all Pre Workout & EnergyPre WorkoutAmino Energy PowdersIntra WorkoutKetoPost WorkoutAmino AcidsShop all Amino AcidsBCAAArginineCreatineShop all CreatineCreatine PowderRehydrationShop all RehydrationElectrolytesEnergy GelsVegan Sports NutritionShop all Vegan Sports NutritionVegan ProteinVegan Protein BarsVegan Pre Workout & EnergyVegan Amino AcidsVegan CreatineSports AccessoriesShop all Sports AccessoriesBottles & ShakersFitness GoalShop all Fitness GoalRecoveryMuscle & StrengthLean MuscleEnergy & EnduranceDiet & Weight LossKetoPrecision EngineeredOptimum NutritionApplied NutritionMyproteinGrenadeUSNPhDTriActiveSiSPulsinSave up to 1/2 priceBuy One Get One 1/2 PriceIntroductory OfferOnline Only3 for 2 Mix & Match2 for €35 Mix & Match2 for €45 Mix & MatchOutletDairy FreeGluten FreeSugar FreeSoya FreePalm Oil FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeNew inBeautyNatural Beauty Shop AllAromatherapy & HomeShop all Aromatherapy & HomePure Essential OilsBlended Essential OilsBase & Carrier OilsHolisticSkincareShop all SkincarePremium SkincareFace CareBody CareSun CareTanning & BronzingEye CareLip CareFoot CareHand & Nail CareCBD BeautyHair Skin & NailsShop all Hair Skin & NailsNail ConditionsSkin ConditionsCollagenWashing & BathingShop all Washing & BathingShampoo & ConditionerBathing AccessoriesShower Gel & Body WashDeodorantDentalHand WashSoapBath Soak & OilBody ScrubBath Bombs & SaltsFeminine CareIncontinence SupportHair CareShop all Hair CareShampoo & ConditionerHair ColouringHair MasksHair Oil & SerumHair Spray, Gel & MousseHair AccessoriesMother & BabyShop all Mother & BabyBaby Skincare & ToiletriesMakeupDr OrganicFaith in NatureWeledaNaturtintTisserandMiaromaQ+ATrilogyChilds FarmSea MagikSave up to 1/2 priceBuy One Get One 1/2 Price2 for €23 Mix & MatchOnline OnlyOutlet3 for 2 Mix & MatchAlcohol FreeFluoride freePalm Oil FreeParfum FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeDairy FreeEgg FreeFish FreeNew inWeight ManagementSlimming TabletsFat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsShop all Fat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsFat BurnersFat BindersAppetite SuppressantsShakes & Weight Management ShotsShop all Shakes & Weight Management ShotsMeal Replacement ShakesDiet Food & DrinkShop all Diet Food & DrinkDiet FoodLow Calorie SnacksSlimming TeaExercise SupportHolland & BarrettGrenadeOptimum NutritionHeath & HeatherPulsinUSNPhDDiabloEat WaterKalloSave up to 1/2 priceBuy One Get One 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & MatchOnline OnlyOutlet2 for €35 Mix & MatchGluten FreeSugar FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeMilk FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeNew inHealth & WellnessShop all Health & WellnessJoints Bones & MusclesEnergyGut HealthShop all Gut HealthGut Health FoodHair Skin & NailsShop all Hair Skin & NailsNail ConditionsSkin ConditionsCollagenStress AnxietyShop all Stress AnxietyEnergy SupportSleep & RelaxationShop all Sleep & RelaxationRelaxationFood & DietShop all Food & DietKeto FoodMenopauseHolland & BarrettNaturtintVitabioticsDr OrganicSolgarBetterYouWildApplied NutritionOptimum NutritionWeleda3 for 2 Mix & MatchSave up to 1/2 priceBuy One Get One 1/2 PriceOnline Only2 for €23 Mix & MatchOutletBuy 1 Get 1 Free2 for €6 Mix & MatchGluten FreeDairy FreeSugar FreeAlcohol FreeWheat FreeSesame Seed FreeSoya FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeNew inNew InBest SellersTrendingShop for your WellnessGut HealthImmunityEnergyWomen's HealthMenopauseSkincareJoints, Bones & MusclesHair, Skin & NailsSleep & RelaxationFood & DietChildren's HealthStress ReliefHealthy HeartLow Mood & DepressionEye HealthSexual HealthLearn about WellnessJoints, Bones & MusclesEnergyWomen's HealthPeriod & Cycle HealthMenopauseImmunityGut HealthFood & DietSports & FitnessSleep & RelaxationHair Skin & NailsArticlesAll articlesHealthFood & nutritionGut healthImmunityJoints, bones & musclesWomen's healthWellnessHair & skinMental wellbeingSeasonalSleep & relaxationSports nutritionRecipesAll recipesGluten freeLow sugarVeganDairy freePodcast
Skip to content

Explore related topics

The pre-workout drinks you need to kickstart your training session

Laura Harcourt

Written byLaura Harcourt

heeral-patel-bio

Reviewed byHeeral Patel

H&B Edit pre-workout. Products on a blue podium.
Need extra energy to power through your workout session? These pre-workout drinks are sure to give you a little pep in your step…

Our top picks

40mg of vitamin C for energy support

TriActive Pre-Workout Electrolyte Effervescent Mango 20 Tablets
4.67

TriActive

TriActive Pre-Workout Electrolyte Effervescent Mango 20 Tablets

20% off

8.00

10.00

Essential pre-workout ingredients

Myprotein Origin Pre-Workout Orange Mango Soda 600g
5

Myprotein

Myprotein Origin Pre-Workout Orange Mango Soda 600g

Save up to 1/2 price

29.00

36.40

Helps support energy & performance

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre Workout Fruit Punch 330g
4.45

Optimum Nutrition

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre Workout Fruit Punch 330g

16+

39.00

Explore related topics

Before you hit the gym floor, roll out your mat or lace up your running shoes, making sure your body is fuelled right is so important to get the most out of your session.1

While the food you choose to power your workout is essential, the drink you choose might help too. Beyond hydrating your body, the right pre-workout drink could potentially support your performance and help you get more out of your movement.

So, get ready and get set, because here’s the lowdown on all you need to know about pre-workout drinks, plus our pick of the best to add to your basket.

Our favourite pre-workout drinks

TriActive Pre-Workout Electrolyte Effervescent Mango 20 Tablets

40mg of vitamin C for energy support

TriActive

10.00

8.00

€0.40/1 Tablet

Delicious, energy-packed tablets

Fuel your workouts with our Pre-Workout Tri Active Electrolytes effervescent tablets. A delicious mango drink with added vitamin C and magnesium to help support your energy, normal muscle function and hydration levels (when added to your favourite water bottle) whilst you work out.

Even better, there’s more flavours to choose from, like zingy ginger and lemongrass, so you can mix it up day after day.

To add to your pre workout routine, simply dissolve one tablet in 200ml water for a refreshing, on-the-go drink. Stick to one drink per day and don’t exceed the stated dose.
 

A tropical, fruity pre-workout powder to power your performance

Ignite your workouts with Myprotein’s potent pre-workout powder in a tropical orange and mango flavour. Packed with ingredients like beta-alanine, caffeine and essential vitamins, this pre-workout drink is designed to fuel your training.

Mix two scoops of powder with 300ml of water, shake well and drink around 30 minutes before exercising. Stick to one drink per day and don’t exceed the recommended dose.
 
Applied Nutrition ABE Ultimate Pre Workout Gel Energy 60g

Pre-workout on the go

Applied Nutrition

2.59

€4.32/100 g

Convenient and tasty: your new fave pre-workout gel

Fuel your workouts on-the-go with Applied Nutrition’s ABE ultimate pre-workout gel. In a convenient sachet, each gel offers 200mg of caffeine, 3g of creatine, 2g of beta-alanine, 4g of citrulline malate and B vitamins.

Have one sachet 15 minutes before the start of your workout, and ideally on an empty stomach. No mixing required, simply sip straight out of the sachet. Only have one a day though and store in a cool place.
 
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre-Workout Icy Blue Raspberry 270g

Supports energy and focus

Cellucor

30.00

24.00

€0.80/1 Serving

A refreshing pre workout powder to really power your workouts

When it comes to pre-workout drinks, C4 by Cellucor covers your bases. Taken 30 minutes before your training session, this electrifying pre-workout drink combines creatine, arginine, beta-alanine, taurine and caffeine with electrolytes, for energy. Magnesium supports energy-yielding metabolism.

Please note this product is not suitable for those under the age of 18.

Mix one level scoop of powder with 200-250ml of water around 30 minutes before exercising. Stick to the recommended daily dose and store in a cool, dry place.
 
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre Workout Fruit Punch 330g

Delicious fruit punch flavour

Optimum Nutrition

39.00

€11.82/100 g

A fruity pre-workout powder that packs a real punch

Boost your workout with Optimum Nutrition’s gold standard pre-workout powder. Featuring a delicious fruit punch flavour, this formula features beta-alanine, citrulline, L-carnitine, N-acetyl-tyrosine and B vitamins, plus caffeine and creatine.

Simply mix one level scoop of powder with 350ml of cold water and enjoy! Make sure to stick to the recommended serving of one per day and don’t exceed the recommended amount of powder. This pre-workout powder also isn’t suitable for people under the age of 16.
 

What’s the best pre-workout drink?

Before you start your workout, you should consume a good balance of carbohydrates, protein and fluids to give you all the fuel and hydration you need to perform at your best.2,3

While most of these nutrients should typically come from healthy whole foods, you can also reach for pre-workout drinks to get an energy boost.4,5  These usually contain nutrients like carbohydrates, caffeine, amino acids (molecules that the body uses to make protein), creatine (a substance that supplies energy to your muscles) and vitamins, which can also help support you alongside a healthy balanced diet.4,6 

These drinks come in various forms, including protein shakes, protein smoothies, electrolyte drinks and energy drinks.

Whatever your sport or exercise regime may be, carbohydrates are crucial for providing energy. Protein is also necessary for recovery, so if you’re giving your muscles a good workout, a drink that contains both nutrients is a great starting point.2,7 

We also know, from some emerging studies, that moderate doses of caffeine may have a positive impact on physical performance. So, if you’re feeling tired and in need of an energy kick, having a caffeinated drink pre-exercise could help you make the most of your workout.8,9

When you choose a pre-workout drink, check the label on the bottle or mix packet to see the nutrient values per portion. Comparing product labels in this way is a great way to choose the best drink for you, as you can better gauge nutritional factors like calories, protein and caffeine content.

What pre-workout drink options are there?

As well as the nutrient contents, the taste and texture of your pre-workout drink are also important to consider. After all, these drinks come in all sorts of forms and flavours – from bottled fruity electrolyte drinks to self-mix dessert-like protein shakes. 

It’s important to remember that pre-workout drinks aren’t a one-size-fits-all. So, weigh up the pros and cons of each to land on a product that works for your workout needs, as well as your tastebuds.

Aside from specific pre-workout drinks, you could also try…

Electrolyte drinks

Electrolytes are minerals like salt (sodium), potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride and bicarbonate that circulate in your blood.10  They can help to regulate many functions within the body, including nerve and muscle function.10 

As you exercise and sweat, your body loses electrolytes and water. Drinking an electrolyte drink before, during and/or after a workout can support these minerals in your body.11,12 

Electrolyte drinks also contain carbohydrates, so sipping on these can be a great way to fuel your body before a workout. They can also be good to sip on during long or vigorous training sessions when you need an energy boost.13  However, a potential drawback is that they're often high in sugar, so check the labels to make sure it’s right for you.14

While there are lots of bottled electrolyte drinks available, you can also find them in tablet, sachet and even chewable form. So, they’re easily adaptable to your dietary and workout needs.
 

Protein shakes

Protein plays a crucial role in the growth and repair of muscles.15  For this reason, many people like to have a protein shake after their workout. 

However, research in a small population of 21 resistance-trained men showed that the effectiveness of protein on muscle repair is actually more or less the same whether it’s consumed before or after a workout. But more research in larger sample sizes is needed.16

Protein shakes can be bought pre-mixed or as powders to mix with water or milk of your choice. They come in a range of flavours and are a delicious way to get some extra nutrients. 

But remember, protein shakes are a supplement, so they should be seen as an addition to a balanced diet, not a replacement. Take a look at our guide on how to use protein powders for some of our top tips. 

You should also know that some protein products come with extra calories in the form of added oils and sugars. This can impact your results if you're looking to lose weight, so make sure you read the label, so you know what exactly you’re drinking.14,17
 

The final say

Whether you’re grabbing a drink on-the-go, or have time to make a protein smoothie, there are plenty of pre-workout drink options available to help deliver the nutrients you need before you kickstart your sessions. 

It’s important to take the time to consider which is the best option for your specific needs and lifestyle or consult a nutritionist or healthcare professional if you need help deciding. Plus, remember to stay hydrated and enjoy a balanced meal alongside pre-workout drinks.

Disclaimer

This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Curated by experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
 

Sources

1. Sport and exercise | British Nutritional Foundation [Internet]. British Nutrition Foundation. 2024 [cited 2024 Jun 18]. Available from: https://www.nutrition.org.uk/creating-a-healthy- diet/sport-and-exercise/
2. The Association of UK Dieticians. Sport and Exercise [Internet]. [cited 2024 April 30]. Available from: https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/sport-exercise-nutrition.html
3. Ormsbee M, Bach C, Baur D. Pre-Exercise Nutrition: The Role of Macronutrients, Modified Starches and Supplements on Metabolism and Endurance Performance. Nutrients [Internet]. 2014 Apr 29 [cited 2024 Jun 18];6(5):1782–808. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4042570/ 
4. Collins, PB., et al. Short-term effects of a ready-to-drink pre-workout beverage on exercise performance and recovery. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):823. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579616/.
5. Diet and Exercise: Choices Today for a Healthier Tomorrow [Internet]. National Institute on Aging. 2023 [cited 2024 Jun 18]. Available from: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/healthy-eating-nutrition-and-diet/diet-and-exercise- choices-today-healthier-tomorrow
6. Lopez MJ, Mohiuddin SS. Biochemistry, Essential Amino Acids [Internet]. Nih.gov. StatPearls Publishing; 2024 [cited 2025 Feb 18]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557845/
7. British Heart Foundation. Food for fitness [Internet]. British Heart Foundation. 2025 [cited 2025 Feb 18]. Available from: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/food-for-fitness
8. Guest NS, VanDusseldorp TA, Nelson MT, Grgic J, Schoenfeld BJ, Nathaniel, et al. International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and exercise performance. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition [Internet]. 2021 Jan 2 [cited 2025 Feb 18];18(1). Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33388079/
9. Lopez MJ, Mohiuddin SS. Biochemistry, Essential Amino Acids [Internet]. Nih.gov. StatPearls Publishing; 2024 [cited 2025 Feb 18]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557845/
10. NHS website. Electrolyte test [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2018 [cited 2025 Mar 24]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/electrolyte-test/
11. Orrù S, Imperlini E, Nigro E, Alfieri A, Cevenini A, Polito R, et al. Role of Functional Beverages on Sport Performance and Recovery. Nutrients [Internet]. 2018 Oct 10 [cited 2025 Feb 18];10(10):1470. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6213308/
12. Baker LB, John P, Ungaro CT, Sopeña BC, Nuccio RP, Reimel AJ, et al. Exercise intensity effects on total sweat electrolyte losses and regional vs. whole-body sweat [Na+], [Cl−], and [K+]. European Journal of Applied Physiology [Internet]. 2018 Dec 6 [cited 2025 Feb 18];119(2):361–75. Available from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00421-018-4048-z
13. Silva MRG, Paiva T, Silva HH. The Impact of Sports and Energy Drinks in Performance. Elsevier eBooks [Internet]. 2019 Jan 1 [cited 2025 Feb 18];183–204. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780128158517000061
14. Tomke PD, Rathod VK. Additionally Added Ingredients and Enrichment of Beverages: An Overview. Elsevier eBooks [Internet]. 2019 Jan 1 [cited 2025 Feb 18];1–35. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780128166871000011
15. Protein and exercise. Protein and exercise [Internet]. British Heart Foundation. 2025 [cited 2025 Feb 18]. Available from: https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/events/training-zone/nutrition-for-sporting-events/protein-and-exercise
16. Schoenfeld BJ, Aragon A, Wilborn C, Urbina SL, Hayward SE, Krieger J. Pre- versus post-exercise protein intake has similar effects on muscular adaptations. PeerJ [Internet]. 2017 Jan 3 [cited 2025 Feb 18];5:e2825–5. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5214805/
17. Cintineo HP, Arent MA, Antonio J, Arent SM. Effects of Protein Supplementation on Performance and Recovery in Resistance and Endurance Training. Frontiers in Nutrition [Internet]. 2018 Sep 11 [cited 2025 Feb 18];5. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6142015/
 

Related Articles

Sign up for exclusive offers
Plus, get expert advice to support your health & wellness straight to your inbox when you sign up to Holland & Barrett emails.