Aggression and the Big Five Personality Factors Among Fitness Practitioners and Pre-Workout Consumers

Background: The use of pre-workout supplements has surged among fitness practitioners, with various ingredients purported to enhance performance and recovery. This study aims to explore the potential link between pre-workout supplement consumption and aggression, as well as the correlation between the Big Five personality traits and aggression levels. Methods: The sample comprised 62 male fitness practitioners aged 20-55 years, divided into two groups: 32 pre-workout consumers and 30 non-consumers. Participants were assessed using the Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire and the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). Results: The results indicated no statistically significant differences in aggression levels between the supplement users and the control group. However, notable personality differences were observed, with pre-workout users showing lower Neuroticism and higher Agreeableness and Conscientiousness compared to non-users. Correlation analyses revealed a significant positive relationship between Neuroticism and all forms of aggression, while Agreeableness and Conscientiousness were negatively correlated with aggression. Conclusions: These findings suggest that personality traits may play a more substantial role in moderating aggression among pre-workout users than the supplements themselves. Further research is needed to clarify the potential long-term effects of pre-workout supplementation on aggression and personality dynamics.