At 78 years old, Arnold Schwarzenegger is after any edge he can get inside the gym. In his latest Arnold’s Pump Club newsletter on August 19, 2025, he discussed the pre-workout strength and endurance benefits of caffeinated chewing gum.
A good pre-workout ritual helps set the stage for intense training sessions. Whether it’s supplementation, coffee, or simply screaming profanity, all can offer lifters an extra jolt of energy when they’re under the weights, aiming for progress.
Schwarzenegger, a seven-time Mr. Olympia champion, believes that providing the body with proper fuel is essential to achieving fitness goals, which has led him to take a much closer look at the game-changing effects of caffeinated gum.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Talks Pre-Workout Strength and Endurance Benefits of Caffeinated Chewing Gum
In the newsletter, Schwarzenegger pointed to a pre-workout caffeinated chewing gum study. Scientists discovered it can significantly boost strength and endurance.
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“The Pre-Workout Boost Hiding in Your Pocket
When you think of performance enhancers, powder, pills, and maybe even needles probably come to mind. But a new study suggests a common approach for fresh breath can also help.Scientists found that caffeinated chewing gum can give a significant strength and endurance boost.”
While initially skeptical, Schwarzenegger explained that study subjects chewing caffeinated gum averaged 12 pounds heavier on the bench press and 23 pounds more on the back squat
“We laughed at first, but then we realized it was worth a second look.
Participants with resistance training experience took part in a randomized, double-blind trial where they chewed either caffeinated gum or a placebo. After five minutes of chewing and a standardized warm-up, participants tested their one-rep max (1RM) and muscular endurance (reps to failure at 60% 1RM) on the bench press and back squat.”
The results were impressive across the board.
For maximum strength, caffeinated gum boosted bench press performance by an average of 12 pounds (5 percent increase) and 23 pounds on the back squat (7 percent increase).”
The endurance benefits were even greater: participants were able to perform 19% more bench press reps and 33% more back squat reps compared to the placebo group.
“The endurance benefits were even more dramatic—participants performed 19 percent more bench press reps and 33 percent more back squat reps compared to placebo.”
“And despite the improvements, there were no changes in perceived effort or pain.”
Researchers believe these added benefits come from the absorption of caffeine through the inner cheek, which is faster-acting than traditional caffeinated drinks.
“The researchers believe the benefits come from the rapid absorption of caffeine through the inner cheek, which kicks in faster than traditional caffeinated drinks. Caffeine blocks adenosine — a compound that signals fatigue — while increasing dopamine and muscle recruitment, helping you lift more without feeling like you’re working harder.”
“Whether you’re lifting weights or pushing through any physically demanding task, caffeine (especially in quick-delivery forms like gum) may help you go further with less perceived strain.”
Schwarzenegger said the gum shouldn’t replace a morning coffee, but consider trying it when you feel fatigued or when chasing a new personal record.
“This isn’t about replacing your morning coffee—it’s about timing caffeine precisely when your muscles need it most. Try it on days when you’re feeling sluggish or attempting a new personal record. And remember, if you’re already sensitive to caffeine or consume it regularly throughout the day, start with a lower dose to see how you respond.”
“The study found that about 3 mg/kg of body weight — that’s roughly 200–300 mg of caffeine for most people — gave the performance boost.”
Beyond chewing gum, “The Austrian Oak” has come up with other strategies for maximizing workouts. He explained that simply rinsing your mouth with a carb-based drink can help improve power and training performance.
In retirement, Schwarzenegger remains committed to his health and longevity. He believes caffeinated chewing gum could be an unconventional and effective pre-workout performance booster if you’re after extra strength or endurance.
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