Working out on Modafinil can improve the mind-muscle connection, focus, and workout regimen adherence and reduce fatigue. Modafinil for bodybuilding further helps achieve better muscle growth and strength.
Currently, using Modafinil for exercise and muscle building has gained attention from serious Nootropic users and fitness enthusiasts. Studies indicate that the use of Nootropics, when taken before exercising, can boost muscle strength and endurance. This helps people complete their intense workout routine without feeling exhausted.
It's surprising, isn't it?
Let us explore the pros and cons of exercising after taking Modafinil and its brand drugs, such as Modalert.
What Are Pre-Workout Supplements?
Before we get into the use of Modafinil for exercising, let us first understand what pre-workout supplements are.
Pre-workout supplements are multi-ingredient dietary formulas that boost your energy and performance while working out. Normal pre-workout formulas consist of ingredients such as
Caffeine-
This is one of the most frequently used pre-workout supplements that helps boost focus and energy. It improves user performance and mental alertness.
Beta-alanine-
It is an amino acid (the building block of protein) that helps prevent acid buildup in your muscle tissue.
When a person performs an intense exercise, lactic acid, a chemical that is produced when the body breaks down carbohydrates for energy, is formed. This acid buildup can result in muscle fatigue and soreness, which is the key reason for experiencing body pain after working out.
Creatine-
This is a compound that is produced naturally in the body. It is often included in the pre-workout formula of bodybuilders and weightlifters. The use of creatine can improve strength, recovery time, performance, and muscle mass in people.
The Relationship Between Modafinil And Exercise
Clinical studies suggest that the use of Modafinil can positively impact exercise in several ways.
Enhances Motivation-
Modafinil's ability to improve motivation and concentration can help unmotivated individuals follow their diet plan and workout routine. It can also improve alertness and concentration, which helps improve focus during workouts.
Some people find it challenging even to put moderate effort into any form of physical activity.
Such people can significantly benefit from taking Modafinil.
Lowers Fatigue-
The use of Modafinil assists in reducing fatigue and exhaustion while exercising [1]. This helps people stay active and work out for a longer period of time.
A clinical study on 15 healthy male volunteers shows that its use can prolong exercise time.
Accelerated Recovery-
Modafinil's ability to build endurance helps in post-exercise recovery.
Potential Weight Loss-
Modafinil can cause appetite suppression, which has led to speculation about its effectiveness for weight loss. It also helps in increasing muscle power after completing the workout.
Modafinil For Bodybuilding
A study published in “The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research” suggests that Modafinil, when used before weight lifting, can boost strength and performance.
The bodybuilding and strength training journey of Phil Hawksworth notes the differences in how using Modafinil was beneficial for working out [2]
“For bodybuilding, Modafinil will allow you to get a killer mind-muscle connection. It seems to dull the burn and fatigue. It's like you are focused on doing the movement and contracting the muscle. It's an intense level of focus, without the thought of anything else. You will definitely add a rep or two to your set."
Benefits Of Using Modafinil Before Workout
Using Modafinil and working out may help in the following ways.
Enhancing Muscle-Mind Connection-
Modafinil effectively enhances the ability to contract a muscle, thus improving your form. During exercise, when you combine correct movement and concentration with maximum muscle contraction, it will result in improved strength and better muscle gain.
Improves Muscle Growth-
A study reveals that administering Modafinil two hours before exercising can increase muscle growth by 20% [3].
Reduces Reaction Time-
A study on the impact of Modafinil on exercise endurance shows that Modafinil shortens reaction time and enhances performance. The study indicates that its use can increase the exhaustion time by 10 to 15% [1].
Modafinil Dosage For Bodybuilding & Exercising
The standard dose of Modafinil and Modalert, which has been approved by the FDA, is 200mg. People taking Modafinil for exercise should consider the following advice.
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Take your Modafinil dose between 30 and 120 minutes before going to the gym.
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Avoid taking caffeine with Modafinil as it can make you feel jittery
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Do not take more than one pill a day.
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Women taking hormonal contraceptives should avoid Modafinil tablets.
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Nursing mothers should avoid Modafinil intake without consulting a physician.
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Do not take the Nootropic with other medicines and workout supplements.
Disadvantages Of Working Out On Modafinil
A common drawback of Modafinil bodybuilding is its ability to affect the user's sleep cycle. A few other notable disadvantages of taking Modafinil before working out include-
Higher Chances Of Dehydration-
One of Modafinil's primary side effects is dehydration or dry mouth. If scientific data are to be believed, the focus level can diminish the feeling of thirst.
It can be dangerous to start your workout dehydrated. Lack of proper hydration can also risk the occurrence of severe injury and muscle cramps.
Joint Pain-
Joint pain is one of the infrequent yet possible side effects of Modafinil. This condition is more frequent in individuals with poor posture. So, people mixing Modafinil and exercise are advised to warm up with light mobility exercise and cardio before getting into intense workouts.
Eyesight Sensibility -
The administration of Modafinil can enable people to pick up colors and patterns better. It may not be a problem for all, but it can affect some people.
Heart Disorder-
It is important to note that both exercise and Modafinil can increase heart rate. Thus, it is important to monitor your heart rate while taking Modafinil to work out.
Disadvantages Of Working Out On Other Pre-Workout Supplements
The health risks of taking the above-mentioned pre-workout supplements are listed below.
|
Caffeine |
Beta-alanine |
Creatine |
|---|---|---|
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One of the most common side effects of drinking coffee before exercising is stomach upset. |
Its use with medications used to treat Erectile Dysfunction and heart disorder is not recommended. |
The use of creatine can cause bloating in higher doses. |
|
Drinking too much coffee can also lead to caffeine overdose. |
The safety profile of Beta-alanine is not established in children. |
The side effects of creatine include liver and heart damage, digestive concerns, muscle cramps, and weight gain. |
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The intake of coffee in larger amounts can cause insomnia and anxiety. This may be a major concern for athletes as it may affect muscle recovery. |
The use of Beta-alanine is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). |
Creatine can cause dehydration. A study suggests that its use while exercising in summer can increase the chances of dehydration. |
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A large dosage of beta-alanine can cause paresthesia, which is a tingling feeling on the chest, face, and abdomen. |
Its use can raise the creatinine level in the blood. Creatinine is a compound that is used to measure the condition and functioning of the kidney. |
Tips For Optimizing Your Fitness Routine With Modafinil
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Understand your goals- Before taking Modafinil to work out, it is important to set a fitness goal.
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Consult a doctor- It is important to consult a doctor before taking Modafinil, especially for people with kidney, heart, and liver disorders.
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Stay Hydrated- Both Modafinil and a hectic workout can cause dehydration. So, stay hydrated and consume at least 1 liter of water before the workout.
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Maintain a balanced diet- Ensure you have a nutritious meal before working out and take a protein-rich meal after your workout.
Modafinil vs. Other Pre-Workout Supplements- Which Is Better?
Based on our understanding and findings, we would suggest the use of Modafinil over the other popular pre-workout supplements.
Our reasonings-
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Modafinil has the ability to enhance focus and concentration. This helps people to stick to their workout routine and diet plan.
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Its ability to boost energy and reduce fatigue while exercising helps people work out for a longer time.
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Compared to caffeine, beta-alanine, and creatine, it has a lower risk of side effects.
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The appetite-suppressing effect of Modafinil further aids in the weight loss regimen.
The best option for a pre-workout supplement may depend on personal goals and preferences. We recommend consulting a healthcare professional or fitness expert before taking any supplement mentioned here.