caffeine before working out?

[Darkmind]

I don't drink coffee too often, only when I get those frappuccino cravings (once a month about), and I was reading up on caffeine usage before working out, and on fat loss, and well, I'm just in total confusion. Many conflicting views on it. What is the REAL story behind caffeine before working out or for fat loss?

[Lost Dog]

I wouldn't rely on it for fat loss or suppression of appetite. It can help, but you quickly become acclimated to the level and require more, and more, and more, etc. Long term, it's not viable. And, the fat loss isn't that much, anyway.

Before a workout, a cup or two of joe can give you a boost that can help. Plus, two cups of coffee 3-4 times a week isn't that much or that regular, so you shouldn't get acclimated to the level much.

I often have one or two cups before a workout, while I'm finishing up my email, etc. for the day. Then I head to the gym.

Here's a little article from t-nation. Just this week, too.

The Stimulant Roundtable

[Jean-Paul]

By itself caffiene is not the greatest thermogenic aid, but it does give you a little jolt to the CNS if consumed prior to your workout.

I will never forgive the government for banning ephedra. That was the secret ingredient that, when combined with caffiene and aspirin, crippled your body's ability to store fat. But hey, a couple of idiot athletes died... Someone had to get all self righteous and pat himself on the back for stopping sales of such a dangerous substance.

Notice tobacco is still legal though. Hm.