If you're looking to improve your physical performance, coffee might be the answer you're looking for. Studies have shown that caffeine, the main active ingredient in coffee, can help to enhance athletic performance and reduce fatigue.
A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that caffeine can help to improve endurance exercise performance by increasing the availability of energy and reducing the perception of effort. The study followed 10 cyclists who consumed either caffeine or a placebo before a cycling time trial. Those who consumed caffeine completed the time trial faster and reported feeling less fatigued.
Another study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that caffeine can help to improve power output during short-term, high-intensity exercise. The study followed 13 male athletes who consumed either caffeine or a placebo before performing a series of 6-second sprints on a stationary bike. Those who consumed caffeine had higher power output and reported feeling less fatigue.
But how much coffee should you drink to see physical performance benefits? Experts recommend consuming 3-6 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight, which translates to roughly 1-2 cups of coffee for the average person.
Now that you know the physical performance benefits of coffee, here's a recipe for a delicious and energizing pre-workout coffee drink.