Does coffee affect athletic performance? Is that a thing that makes you curious as well? Coffee isn’t just coffee from your favourite coffee shop; it’s a powerhouse beverage that can boost your athletic performance. Whether you’re a casual gym-goer or a professional athlete, understanding how coffee affects your body can help you make the most of your workouts. But, is caffeine allowed in athletics still turns most of the heads out there!

The Science Behind Coffee and Performance: Does Coffee Help Athletic Performance?

Coffee contains caffeine, a natural stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Here’s how caffeine enhance your athletic performance:

1. Increased Energy Levels: Caffeine boosts adrenaline levels, giving you an energy surge that can enhance physical performance.
2. Improved Endurance: Studies show that caffeine can improve endurance by helping the body burn fat for energy, preserving glycogen stores for longer periods.
3. Enhanced Focus and Alertness: Caffeine sharpens mental focus, allowing for better concentration and coordination during workouts.

How to Use Coffee for Athletic Performance

1. Timing is Key: Drink coffee about 30-60 minutes before your workout to maximise its benefits. This allows caffeine levels to peak in your bloodstream.
2. Moderate Your Intake: Around 3-6 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight is effective for most people. For a 70 kg person, that’s about 210-420 mg of caffeine or roughly one to two cups of coffee.
3. Stay Hydrated: Coffee is a diuretic, which means it can increase urine production. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Athletes And Coffee: Best Friends
        1. Espresso: A straightforward, crisp shot with a firm core. Loved worldwide by cyclists and Italians alike

1. Long black: A weakened shot of espresso meant to provide a more leisurely sip. The dependable coffee lover’s choice.

This is as sophisticated as it gets when it comes to coffee—a cappuccino or normal white coffee. Ideally, you would use unsweetened almond milk in place of the milk, but we understand that this isn’t always easy in real life.

Coffee: The Natural Pre-Workout Drink

Many pre-workout supplements contain caffeine, but coffee is a natural substitute without the added chemicals and artificial flavours. Plus, it’s easy to adjust your caffeine intake based on your personal tolerance and needs.

Potential Side Effects Of Caffeine:

1. Jitters and Anxiety: Too much caffeine can lead to jitters and anxiety, which can negatively impact performance. Start with a small amount and see how your body reacts.
2. Digestive Issues: Coffee can sometimes cause stomach upset. If this happens, try a lower acidity coffee or eat a light snack with your coffee.
3. Sleep Disruption: Caffeine can stay in your system for up to six hours, so avoid drinking coffee too close to bedtime to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Kiosk Kaffee: Serving The Best Coffee For Athletes
The Power of Espresso for Athletes

Espresso, the heart of many coffee beverages, is a concentrated shot of pure coffee perfection. Here’s why it’s a favourite among athletes:

1. Quick Energy Boost: With its high caffeine content, espresso delivers a quick and efficient energy boost. Perfect for pre-workout consumption, it helps you power through even the most grueling training sessions.
2. Enhanced Focus and Alertness: The concentrated nature of espresso sharpens your mental clarity, helping you stay focused and alert during your workouts or competitions.
3. Rich in Antioxidants: Espresso is packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, promoting faster recovery and overall well-being.

Black Coffee: The All-Natural Performance Enhancer

For those who prefer a less intense coffee experience but still want the benefits of caffeine, black coffee is an excellent choice. Here’s why black coffee from Kiosk Kaffee stands out:

1. Sustained Energy: Black coffee provides a more gradual release of caffeine compared to espresso, offering sustained energy that lasts throughout your workout.
2. Calorie-Free: With no added sugars or cream, black coffee is a zero-calorie beverage, making it ideal for athletes who are mindful of their caloric intake.

The good news is coffee and athletic performance do go simultaneously. All you have to do is make great coffee and time it right. STAY HAPPY!