Preferably after,, because there is a 30 minute anabolic period after a training session.

I take one shake in the morning, one after workout and one before bed.

what is an anabolic period, it sound familiar, but i can't quite place it.

I don't know the science behind it, but basically that's when your body goes out of 'work out mode' and starts intaking nutrients, so taking protein 30 minutes after a workout will have your body take it in immediately.

There are also many forms of pre-workout supliments, though I think they're kind of over rated and a waste of money, but if you have the money, by all means use them.

The downside of pre-workout suppliments is if you don't take them your body won't work as well as when you do use them. It sounds obvious, but if you take them routinely before your workouts and one day you forget, aren't at home to take them, or whatever, you won't be able to keep your regular pace easily, and it can frustrate the shit out of you.