Q: Is a cold brew + protein shake a good pre-workout?
A: Yes — 150mg caffeine + 25g whey isolate 30 min before training gives you stimulant kick plus a leucine load. 180 kcal, fast-digesting.
Owner uses this exact shake before her morning workout three days a week. The combination of cold brew (smoother and more concentrated than hot coffee) plus whey isolate (digests in 30-45 minutes) gives you caffeine and amino acids hitting bloodstream at the same time. Allmax IsoFlex is the cleanest base — minimal carbs so the caffeine stays the wake-up driver.
Ingredients (1 serving)
- 1 scoop (30g) Allmax IsoFlex Chocolate or Vanilla — Allmax Nutrition Isoflex Whey Protein Isolate (1lb)
- 1 cup cold brew coffee (or 2 shots espresso + 1 cup water)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- Ice
- Optional: 2 drops liquid stevia
Instructions
- Add all ingredients except ice to a shaker.
- Shake hard for 20 seconds.
- Pour over ice in a tall glass.
- Drink 20-30 minutes before training.
Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
| Macro | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbs | 4 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Caffeine | ~150 mg |
Macros are estimates; exact values depend on brands/lots used.
Tips From the TNF Kitchen
- Drink 20-30 min before training — gives time for caffeine peak and protein clearance.
- Skip if you train after 5 PM — caffeine half-life kills sleep quality.
- Sub Allmax IsoFlex Vanilla for a less-coffee-bitter taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is whey isolate fine before training?
Yes — whey isolate digests in 30-45 minutes, fast enough that you're not training on a full stomach. Concentrate digests slower and may cause GI issues during cardio.
Why Allmax IsoFlex specifically?
Allmax is Informed Choice certified, which means batch-tested for banned substances — important for tested athletes.
Should I add carbs?
For sessions over 60 min or high-intensity intervals, yes — add 1 banana to the blend or take SiS GO Isotonic Gel mid-workout.
Stock Your TNF Pantry
Best Whey Protein in Canada · Best Protein Bars in Canada · Best Protein Snacks in Canada · TNF Buying Guides
Need help picking flavours or proteins? Visit us in-store in Montreal or chat with our team — we taste-test everything we sell.
