Caffeine in Pre-Workout vs. Coffee/Energy Drinks: Why the Difference?

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I’ve been diving into the world of caffeine sources lately and wanted to get your thoughts on something I’ve noticed. I’m currently using Core Nutritionals FURY AUS for my pre-workout caffeine kick, and it feels way different compared to the caffeine I get from coffee or energy drinks. I’m curious if anyone else has experienced this or has insights to share.

When I drink coffee or energy drinks (usually 100-200 mg of caffeine), I get this mental fog. My brain goes into overdrive with intrusive thoughts and overthinking, which makes it hard to stay focused or calm. It’s like my mind is racing in all the wrong directions.

With FURY AUS (around 200 mg of caffeine per scoop), the energy feels clean and sharp. I’m alert, focused during my workouts, and don’t deal with that mental clutter. It’s like night and day.

I’m wondering what’s causing this. Could it be the extra ingredients in the pre-workout, like L-Theanine or other focus-boosting compounds? Maybe the caffeine in pre-workouts absorbs differently? Or is it just a purer form of caffeine? I’d love to hear your theories or any science behind this.

One thing I’m not loving about FURY AUS is the beta-alanine. It gives me that pins-and-needles tingle on my skin, which I find super uncomfortable. I’ve tried taking smaller doses to lessen it, but it’s still a hassle. Anyone else deal with this?

If you’ve noticed a similar difference between pre-workout caffeine and coffee/energy drinks, I’d love to hear about it. Also, any recommendations for pre-workouts with that “clean” caffeine feel but without beta-alanine? Personal experiences, supplement suggestions, or even studies would be awesome.

 

[Conmike41]

When I workout in the morning before work, I usually get to the gym around 530-545… I’ll typically just drink my black coffee while I get my steps in the morning

If it’s an afternoon workout after work I typically drink a can of Mateina

I’m sure there’s ingredients in real pre workouts that help give you that stimulated focus , but just don’t tolerate () the artificial sweeteners they use

 

[codem]

When I workout in the morning before work, I usually get to the gym around 530-545… I’ll typically just drink my black coffee while I get my steps in the morning

If it’s an afternoon workout after work I typically drink a can of Mateina

I’m sure there’s ingredients in real pre workouts that help give you that stimulated focus , but just don’t tolerate () the artificial sweeteners they use

I think the caffeine in FURY is a slow release? I don't agree well with caffeine from coffee, but this preworkout is fire.