The 14 Best Pre-Workout Supplements of 2024 (Tested & MD Reviewed)

top x pre workout

Give yourself the best chance to improve performance and strength training with these great pre-workout supplements to see great muscle growth.

When it comes to building muscle mass and getting a great muscle pump, pre-workout supplements are possibly exactly what you need. As great training aids to improve performance and strength training, the best pre-workout supplements have the ability to provide benefits such as enhanced focus, accelerate weight loss, and deliver muscle pumps to assist with those big lifts and force our muscles to grow.

While our busy schedules do tend to drain us, it is important we find that all important energy from somewhere, and pre-workout supplements have just what you need to really make that happen for that desired improved performance, weight loss, and muscle building goals. Great for shedding body fat and increasing muscle, a pre-workout supplement can provide an energy boost, enhance recovery and allow you to bounce back faster for your next training session.

We’ve put together a list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements for 2024 so you can start to see the desired growth you want. You won’t be disappointed with the results from a good quality, highly effective pre-workout on your endurance, strength training, weight loss, and exercise performance for optimal training.

Best Pre-Workout Supplements For 2024


Finding a great pre-workout may seem daunting but their are those out there that can cover all your bases. From energy, to muscle pumps, reduced fatigue, and more; and we have carefully selected the top pre-workout for you.

Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout Overview

15 Grams of high quality pre-workout formula in every serving, and 30 servings per container, all for a great price!

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 0
Carbs 0g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 60
Flavors Fruit Punch, Blue Raspberry, Grape, and Peach Mango
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Nutricost’s Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout is designed to enhance energy, focus, and endurance during exercise. It is available in several flavors, such as fruit punch, blue raspberry, grape, and peach mango. Nutricost’s Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout aims to provide a delicious and effective solution for those looking to elevate their workout sessions with better focus, more energy, and some quality muscle pumps, all without breaking the bank.

Nutricost Pre-X

As far as ingredients, Nutricost Pre-X Extreme has a fully transparent label and does not include a bunch of junk blends like many other supplements. Instead, Nutricost includes key pre-workout ingredients such as L-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and caffeine.

Pros

  • High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps to get the blood flowing to stimulate growth.
  • Very clean ingredients for an honest product so you only get the best and put the best in your body from one of the strongest pre-workout products.
  • From a reputable company in Transparent Labs who works hard to product the best supplements around.
  • Vegan option

Cons

  • High in beta alanine and a lower dose would suffice.
  • Premium priced option for those looking for a cheaper product.
  • Only available directly from their site which limits where you can buy from.

Price: $34.16

Read our full Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Review.


Best Pre-Workout For Muscle Growth

The right pre-workout supplements for muscle growth can enhance all your goals by aiding in building quality muscle so you see the best gains possible.

MUTANT MADNESS ALL-In Pre-Workout

MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN is one of the most powerful pre-workouts ever. MUTANT is the supplier of this trailblazing pre-workout. MUTANT only creates supplements that are clinically proven to get results. 

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Number Of Servings 18
Serving Size 1 Scoop
Flavors Blue raspberry, roadside lemonade, fruit punch, sweet tea, peach mango, pineapple passion
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 12 oz. water and drink 30 minutes before exercise.

Next on the list is MUTANT MADNESS ALL-In Pre-workout. MUTANT is a top of the line company known for sponsoring some serious athletes, like Shaun Clarida. As far as MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN, this is undoubtedly our top choice of pre-workout for muscle growth. Coming from a company that only creates supplements that are clinically proven to get results, there is no doubt it would make this list as our favorite overall.

MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN Pre-workout
MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN Pre-workout Review

It is also worth mentioning that the list of MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN ingredients is impressive. It contains a strong citrulline malate, ensuring that MADNESS ALL-IN Pre-Workout will give you great pumps. Other ingredients in MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN are the one-two punch betaine anhydrous and creatine that will increase your strength by increasing muscle cell volume even more than normal workouts when taken beforehand!

Pros

  • Strong pre-workout
  • Reputable company
  • Great for pumps

Cons

  • Might be too much for some

Price: $29.99 for 30 servings

Read our full MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN review.


Strongest Pre-Workout

When it comes to finding the strongest pre-workout that is not for the faint of heart, you want something that is going to keep you going throughout your whole workout, and then some. The people looking for this type of supplement are typically veterans in the gym who have exhausted all other caffeinated options to harvest their energy.

Cellucor C4 Dynasty MMXX

Cellucor C4 Dynasty MMXX is a supercharged formula with 18 active ingredients to offer unique power, extra pump support, and better muscular endurance.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 5
Carbs <1g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 20
Flavors Violet Crown, Icy Blue Razz, Fruit Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Cellucor C4 Dynasty MMXX is the strongest pre-workout as it is a uniquely powerful and supercharged formula is crafted specifically to transform your gains to see those desired results. Cellucor combines cutting-edge innovation with leading industry research and expertise to send your performance to the next level. C4 Dynasty MMXX has 18 active ingredients in it, including 10 patented ingredients, so one scoop of this pre-workout will offer benefits such as explosive energy, powerful muscle pumps, and amplified muscular endurance to lead the way when it comes to pre-workout supplements.

c4 dynasty
C4 Dynasty Pre-workout Review

Pros

  • Clean and effective pre-workout made with natural flavors
  • Great benefits to strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery
  • Creatine is included for enhanced pumps
  • From a reputable and honest company

Cons

  • Premium priced option

Price: $69.99

Read our full C4 Dynasty MMXX review.


Best Pre-Workout For Pumps

Pre-workout should get the blood flowing for the best muscle pumps and a supplement geared towards this can benefit you greatly.

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite

Code GENIRON For 15% OFF

Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged Elite is that all-in-one pre-workout for extended energy, focus, pumps, and strength.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 20
Carbs 1g
Sugar 1g
Number Of Servings 20
Flavors Glacier Grape, Fruit Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 10-12 ounces of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite is that all-in-one pre-workout with premium and patented ingredients to offer energy, focus, muscle pumps, and increased strength. This advanced supplement is high-stimulant and health-conscious to give you great benefits while keeping your wellness in mind. With 9 patented and 20 premium ingredients, Kaged Muscle has created a pre-workout for the most elite of athletes. With great flavors as well, you will never grow bored of the taste.

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite
Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Best Pre-Workouts

Pros

  • Great for energy, focus, pumps, and strength
  • Clean and effective premium ingredients
  • Great flavors
  • From a reputable company (Kaged Muscle)

Cons

  • Premium priced option
  • High stimulants for those avoiding it

Price: $59.99


Best Pre-Workout For Cutting & Weight Loss

For those looking to lose weight and tone, diet and workouts are one thing, but good pre-workout supplements can help you get there. That being said, what is the best pre-workout for weight loss?

Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN

Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off

Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN is perfect for those looking to target stubborn belly fat while still maintaining that hard-earned lean muscle. For those looking to slim down and lose weight, look no further than this great pre-workout with quality ingredients at effective dosages.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Number Of Servings 20
Serving Size 1 Scoop
Flavors Natural Berry
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 12 oz. water and drink 30 minutes before exercise.

Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN Pre-Workout is our top choice of a pre-workout for weight loss. This supplement is great for those who are looking to cut weight, as it has 21 active ingredients designed to provide a high-intensity pre-workout experience, while at the same time working to ensure fat loss without draining your energy. There also are no added colored dyes, fillers, or harmful additives, you can be sure that great taste is coming from natural flavors with help from stevia giving you a sugar-free, vegan friendly pre-workout.

Pros

  • Clean and effective pre-workout made with natural flavors
  • Great benefits to strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery
  • From a reputable and honest company

Cons

  • Premium priced option
  • Only available directly on their website

Price: $49.99

Read our full review for Transparent Lab PreSeries LEAN.


Best All-Natural Pre-Workout

You deserve to have the best ingredients when it comes to your supplements. So, what is the best all-natural pre-workout?

Pre Lab Pro

Pre Lab Pro is the all-around pre-workout for strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery. Nootropic-enhanced caffeine for energy, focus, and calm intensity ensures fast and healthy progress.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Number Of Servings 20
Serving Size 1 Scoop
Flavors Natural Berry
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 12 oz. water and drink 30 minutes before exercise.

Pre Lab Pro is the best all natural pre-workout, as it is the next-gen pre-workout formula designed for all-around strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery. Using nootropic-enhanced caffeine, this provides for smart stimulation for energy, focus, and calm intensity. This revolutionary design targets three key pathways that work in synergy to supercharge workout performance, promote health balance, and accelerate your overall progress. Using premium ingredients, Pre Lab Pro works to optimize the safety and effectiveness of this product so you only see those gains you want most.

Pros

  • Clean and effective pre-workout made with natural flavors
  • Great benefits to strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery
  • Nootropic enhanced caffeine for energy and focus
  • From a reputable and honest company

Cons

  • Premium priced option
  • Only available directly on their website

Price: $59.00

Read our full Pre Lab Pro review.


With many of these popular supplements being loaded with stimulants, finding a great stimulant-free pre-workout can be hard. But Transparent Labs has made a stim-free product to still offer great benefits to your workouts.

Nutricost Stim-Free Pre-Workout Overview

A stim-free pre-workout that still gives you great focus, energy, and pumps, without breaking the bank.

Stim Or No Stim No Stim
Calories 0
Carbs 0g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 30
Flavors Peach Mango, Pink Lemonade, Blue Raspberry
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

The Nutricost Stim-Free Pre-Workout is our favorite stimulant free option, and it comes in a convenient 30-serving container, designed for users who want to avoid the stimulating effects of caffeine or other stimulants. Aimed at providing a balanced and jitter-free boost, the formula focuses on key ingredients to enhance energy, endurance, and mental clarity during workouts. Let’s break down the key features of Nutricost Stim-Free Pre-Workout.

Nutricost Stim-Free Pre-Workout

Pros

  • Great advantages while being stim-free for those looking to avoid stimulants.
  • Perfect for those insensitive or looking to get off caffeine so you still get a great product.
  • Clean ingredients and advanced formula to provide awesome benefits and proven results from one of the strongest pre-workout products.
  • Provides for energy and focus while decreasing muscle fatigue so you can tackle any workout with ease.

Cons

  • Premium priced option for those looking for a cheaper option.
  • Only available directly through their site which limits where you can buy from.
  • Does not have caffeine or other stimulants for those looking to get a boost of energy through caffeine.

Price: $49.00

Read our full Nutricost Stim-Free Review


Best Pre-Workout With Creatine

Creatine can be a main ingredient in many pre-workouts. It is primarily used to increase strength and other important aspects of your performance. That being said, it can be great to include in your pre-workout.

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite

Code GENIRON For 15% OFF

Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged Elite is that all-in-one pre-workout for extended energy, focus, pumps, and strength.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 20
Carbs 1g
Sugar 1g
Number Of Servings 20
Flavors Glacier Grape, Fruit Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 10-12 ounces of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite is that all-in-one pre-workout with premium and patented ingredients to offer energy, focus, muscle pumps, and increased strength. This advanced supplement is high-stimulant and health-conscious to give you great benefits while keeping your wellness in mind. With 9 patented and 20 premium ingredients, Kaged Muscle has created a pre-workout for the most elite of athletes. With great flavors as well, you will never grow bored of the taste. Not to mention, Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite includes Creatine Nitrate (NO3-T). This is a 2-in-1, patented, and highly effective form of creatine that works as a nitric oxide booster helping produce incredible muscles pumps. NO3-T can enhance endurance, allowing you to train harder, longer.

Pros

  • Great for energy, focus, pumps, and strength
  • Clean and effective premium ingredients
  • Great flavors
  • From a reputable company (Kaged)

Cons

  • Premium priced option
  • High stimulants for those avoiding it

Price: $59.99


Best Vegan Pre-Workout

Not everyone enjoys products that are have their ingredients derived from animals, and that is more than okay. The best vegan pre-workout will be formulated with the right ingredients to deliver serious energy and muscle pumps so you see the best gains possible, all while being good for athletes that are animal product free.

Transparent Labs PreSeries Bulk

Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off

Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK is backed by science with clinically effective dosages to increase muscle size and mass. This pre-workout is perfect for reducing fatigue, aiding in muscle growth, and boosting energy levels for better overall performance.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 0
Carbs 0g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 30
Flavors Orange, Green Apple, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

We simply could not give this category to anything but Transparent Labs BULK. Covering it one more time, it contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, 4,000 mg of BCAAs, and 2,500 mg of betaine to boost your workouts, blood flow, weight loss, and muscle growth, all in attempts to improve performance. The best part is, in order for it to win this category, Transparent Labs Bulk Pre-workout had to be vegan, and it is.

However, even if you are not vegan, we still clearly recommend this product.

transparent labs bulk ingredients

Pros

  • High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps to get the blood flowing to stimulate growth.
  • Very clean ingredients for an honest product so you only get the best and put the best in your body from one of the strongest pre-workout products.
  • From a reputable company (Transparent Labs) who works hard to product the best supplements around.
  • Vegan

Cons

  • High in beta alanine and a lower dose would suffice.
  • Premium priced option for those looking for a cheaper product.
  • Only available directly from their site which limits where you can buy from.

Price: $49.00

Read our full Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK review.

Also, use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off!


Supplements certainly are not cheap, so you want to cut costs where and when you can. That being said, finding a good budget pre-workout supplement is ideal.

Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout Overview

15 Grams of high quality pre-workout formula in every serving, and 30 servings per container, all for a great price!

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 0
Carbs 0g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 60
Flavors Fruit Punch, Blue Raspberry, Grape, and Peach Mango
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Nutricost’s Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout is the best budget pre-workout. This top of the line supplement is designed to enhance energy, focus, and endurance during exercise. It is available in several flavors, such as fruit punch, blue raspberry, grape, and peach mango. Nutricost’s Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout aims to provide a delicious and effective solution for those looking to elevate their workout sessions with better focus, more energy, and some quality muscle pumps, and the best part it, it does not break the bank.

nutricost pre-x

As far as ingredients, Nutricost Pre-X Extreme includes key pre-workout ingredients such as L-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and caffeine.

Pros

  • High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps to get the blood flowing to stimulate growth.
  • Very clean ingredients for an honest product so you only get the best and put the best in your body from one of the strongest pre-workout products.
  • From a reputable company in Transparent Labs who works hard to product the best supplements around.

Cons

  • High in beta alanine and a lower dose would suffice.
  • Premium priced option for those looking for a cheaper product.
  • Only available directly from their site which limits where you can buy from.

Price: $34.16

Read our full Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Review.


Best Pre-Workout for Men Specifically

Pre-workout can be taken by men and women, but sometimes you may want something catered to you. So, here is a pre-workout supplement that is crafted specifically for the gentlemen.

Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK

Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off

Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK is backed by science with clinically effective dosages to increase muscle size and mass. This pre-workout is perfect for reducing fatigue, aiding in muscle growth, and boosting energy levels for better overall performance.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 0
Carbs 0g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 30
Flavors Orange, Green Apple, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Again on the list is Transparent Labs BULK. You can’t go wrong with pre-workout supplements backed by science containing clinically effective dosages. As said before, it is the most effective pre-workout for those looking to increase in size and muscle mass, making it ideal for men.

Going over ingredients again, BULK is packed with 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, 4,000 mg of BCAAs, and 2,500 mg of betaine to boost your workouts, blood flow, weight loss, and muscle growth, all in attempts to improve performance. BULK can reduce fatigue and increase your energy making your workouts longer and more effective. Transparent Labs has a 100% label and there are no artificial additives, colorings, or preservatives to ruin this clean product.

Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK Pre-Workout Review

Pros

  • High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps to get the blood flowing to stimulate growth.
  • Very clean ingredients for an honest product so you only get the best and put the best in your body from one of the strongest pre-workout products.
  • From a reputable company in Transparent Labs who works hard to product the best supplements around.
  • Vegan

Cons

  • High in beta alanine and a lower dose would suffice.
  • Premium priced option for those looking for a cheaper product.
  • Only available directly from their site which limits where you can buy from.

Price: $49.00

Read our full Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK review.

Also, use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off!


Best Pre-Workout For Women

Cannot forget something for the women! Pre-workouts for women are great for helping you ladies to tackle any of your workouts. With certain ingredients and different doses, this is geared for all the needs of those female athletes.

Pre Lab Pro

Pre Lab Pro is the all-around pre-workout for strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery. Nootropic-enhanced caffeine for energy, focus, and calm intensity ensures fast and healthy progress.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Number Of Servings 20
Serving Size 1 Scoop
Flavors Natural Berry
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 12 oz. water and drink 30 minutes before exercise.

Pre Lab Pro is the best pre-workout for women. This is the next-gen pre-workout formula designed for all-around strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery. Using nootropic-enhanced caffeine, this provides for smart stimulation for energy, focus, and calm intensity. This revolutionary design targets three key pathways that work in synergy to supercharge workout performance, promote health balance, and accelerate your overall progress. Using premium ingredients, Pre Lab Pro works to optimize the safety and effectiveness of this product so you only see those gains you want most.

Pros

  • Clean and effective pre-workout made with natural flavors
  • Great benefits to strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery
  • Nootropic enhanced caffeine for energy and focus
  • From a reputable and honest company

Cons

  • Premium priced option
  • Only available directly on their website

Price: $59.00

Read our full Pre Lab Pro review.


Best Pre-Workout for Athletes

When it comes to what exactly these supplements are for, many people think they are just for bodybuilders and powerlifters. However, whether you are a runner, do CrossFit, or participate in some other type of sport, pre-workout can be beneficial for you. 

Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK

Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off

Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK is backed by science with clinically effective dosages to increase muscle size and mass. This pre-workout is perfect for reducing fatigue, aiding in muscle growth, and boosting energy levels for better overall performance.

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 0
Carbs 0g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 30
Flavors Orange, Green Apple, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Again on the list is Transparent Labs BULK, this time for the athletes that are reading. You can’t go wrong with pre-workout supplements backed by science containing clinically effective dosages. As said before, it is the most effective pre-workout for those looking to increase in size and muscle mass, which can be extremely beneficial for you if you are an athlete.

Going over ingredients again, BULK is packed with 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, 4,000 mg of BCAAs, and 2,500 mg of betaine to boost your workouts, blood flow, weight loss, and muscle growth, all in attempts to improve performance. BULK can reduce fatigue and increase your energy making your workouts longer and more effective. Transparent Labs has a 100% label and there are no artificial additives, colorings, or preservatives to ruin this clean product.

Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK Pre-Workout Review

Pros

  • High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps to get the blood flowing to stimulate growth.
  • Very clean ingredients for an honest product so you only get the best and put the best in your body from one of the strongest pre-workout products.
  • From a reputable company in Transparent Labs who works hard to product the best supplements around.
  • Vegan

Cons

  • High in beta alanine and a lower dose would suffice.
  • Premium priced option for those looking for a cheaper product.
  • Only available directly from their site which limits where you can buy from.

Price: $49.00

Read our full Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK review.

Also, use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off!


Now if you are just starting out in the gym, the chances are that you do not want to go right to the strongest pre-workout, nor do you need the most expensive. Finding a good pre-workout option for beginners that gives you an idea of how your body reacts to caffeine without breaking the bank is ideal.

Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout Overview

15 Grams of high quality pre-workout formula in every serving, and 30 servings per container, all for a great price!

Stim Or No Stim Stim
Calories 0
Carbs 0g
Sugar 0g
Number Of Servings 60
Flavors Fruit Punch, Blue Raspberry, Grape, and Peach Mango
Best Way To Take Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Nutricost’s Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout is great for beginners, designed to enhance energy, focus, and endurance during exercise. It is available in several flavors, such as fruit punch, blue raspberry, grape, and peach mango. Nutricost’s Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout aims to provide a delicious and effective solution for those looking to elevate their workout sessions with better focus, more energy, and some quality muscle pumps. It is not too strong for beginners, and it great for getting a good understanding of how you like your pre-workouts.

As far as ingredients, Nutricost Pre-X Extreme includes key pre-workout ingredients such as L-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and caffeine.

Pros

  • High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps to get the blood flowing to stimulate growth.
  • Very clean ingredients for an honest product so you only get the best and put the best in your body from one of the strongest pre-workout products.
  • From a reputable company in Transparent Labs who works hard to product the best supplements around.
  • Vegan option

Cons

  • High in beta alanine and a lower dose would suffice.
  • Premium priced option for those looking for a cheaper product.
  • Only available directly from their site which limits where you can buy from.

Price: $34.16

Read our full Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Review.


best pre-workout supplement top pre-workout best workout supplements

Benefits Of Pre-Workout

Now that we have covered all the best pre-workout supplements, we are going to cover just what they do for you. The benefits of pre-workout should not be ignored for what they can do for your strength training and performance is incredible. Great tasting and safe to use, a good pre-workout supplement can:

  • Increase focus and energy: Provide for more intense workouts while being locked into every exercise so nothing interferes with a good workout (1).
  • Reduce fatigue: Allow for longer training sessions and calorie burn giving your body the fuel it needs from endurance and strength exercises while reducing muscle soreness and unwanted pain for improved performance.
  • Muscle pumps: Watch your strength and muscle gains flourish and allow blood to flow through your muscles.(2).
  • Enhanced recovery: Bounce back faster and promote more efficient growth while recovering more effectively for faster turn arounds.

Key Ingredients In Pre-Workout

Here are some key ingredients to look out for when choosing a pre-workout supplement:

  • Caffeine: Works to elevate energy so you can tackle any grueling workout while boosting focus and reaction time to improve performance. For those looking to steer clear of caffeine, there are stim-free pre-workouts that work just as well (3).
  • Creatine: To keep it simple, creatine helps your body produce more of a high energy molecule called ATP, which is often called the body’s energy currency. When you have more ATP, your body can perform better during exercise, as well as recover better after (4).
  • BCAAs: BCAAs are great for promoting muscle protein synthesis, they can help with both your post workout recovery and intra-workout needs (5).
  • Beta-Alanine: Works as a buffer for pH levels to push past fatigue that may strike. Keep in mind that ingesting beta-alanine triggers certain neurons responsible for initiating a tingling of the skin. This sensation is referred to as paresthesia, and the level of it varies from person to person.
  • L-Citrulline: Can boost nitric oxide while maintaining good blood flow for increased muscle pumps.
  • Betaine Anhydrous: Betaine is useful for building strength and peak power output, but also for those looking to change their body composition around for that desired physique (6).
  • L-Theanine: L-theanine is good for mental assistance and can ease stress and anxiety while taking away the jitters of caffeine. So, you get the energy without the dreaded crashes (7).
  • Green Tea Extract: Green tea extract is another source of caffeine, so in turn energy. It will also boost your metabolism for added weight loss benefits and give you a nice boost to carry you through any workout.

best pre-workout supplement top pre-workout best workout supplements

How Much Are These Pre-Workouts?

Finding the right pre-workouts for your gains while also being affordable can be challenging. Lifting is not a cheap hobby. You have food, gym memberships, clothes, and supplements to budget for.

Of course, those more premium options will cost more money, so knowing how much it is per serving may help make your decision a little easier. We’ve broken down our list so you can see the overall price and price per serving as you compare amongst our Best Pre-Workouts list.

Category Product Price
Best Pre-Workout Overall Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Pre-workout Complex  $34.16
Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Growth MUTANT MADNESS ALL-IN Pre-Workout $29.99
Strongest Pre-Workout Cellucor C4 Dynasty MMXX $69.99
Best Pre-Workout for Pumps Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite $59.99
Best Pre-Workout for Cutting and Weight Loss Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN $49.99
Best All-Natural Pre-Workout Pre-Lab Pro $59.00
Best Stim-Free Pre-Workout Nutricost Stim-Free Pre-Workout $49.00
Best Pre-Workout with Creatine Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite $59.99
Best Vegan Pre-Workout Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK $49.00
Best Budget Pre-Workout Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Pre-workout Complex  $34.16
Best Pre-Workout for Men Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK $49.00
Best Pre-Workout for Women Pre Lab Pro $59.00
Best Pre-Workout for Athletes Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK $49.00
Best Pre-Workout for Beginners Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Pre-workout Complex  $34.16

What to Consider Before Buying Pre-workout

Before buying your pre-workout supplement, there are some important factors to consider so you get the best product possible.

Caffeine & Sensitivity

For many people, caffeine can cause unwanted side effects, like jitters and crashing, that you just don’t want. Knowing your limit and looking into how much caffeine, or other stimulants, are in your pre-workout can be helpful in the long run. There are stim-free pre-workouts for those sensitive so they can still get a great boost for their workout.

Ingredients That Don’t Belong

Making sure your product contains only ingredients you need is important. You don’t want to consume something that contains unnecessary ingredients for that will only cause problems and not benefit your gains. Knowing what pre-workout ingredients are useful is more than helpful.

Artificial Additives

Looking into what additives are involved is also something to consider. For those seeking a natural product, it is important to really look for those options that don’t contain tons of artificial additives that can ruin a great supplement.

Number Of Servings

You are paying a lot of money already and having an appropriate amount of servings can ensure your money goes to the right place. Some of the more premium options may have less servings, but that is something you have to consider for those more top-tier products.

Protein Bars Vs. Protein Powder

How We Test and Decide the Best Pre-Workouts

Choosing the right pre-workout can be difficult and with so many on the market, the choices do seem endless. With this list, we sought to bring the best to you by combing through all the nonsense pre-workouts to bring you the best around. We look at ingredients closely because many companies will put in ingredients you just don’t need. Quality of the brand and where they get ingredients from is also important because you deserve to have an honest company backing you up. Of course, price matters and since supplements can add up and be a real hit on the wallet, we sought to bring you top tier products at a reasonable and affordable price.

FAQ Section

What is the best pre-workout?

Nutricost Pre-X Extreme Pre-Workout Complex. It made the list for good reason. Packed full of good ingredients to deliver enhanced pumps, promote muscle growth, and fatigue reduction, not to mention it is ultra dosed. You are paying a small price for a high quality product, that can deliver high quality results.

What does pre-workout really do?

Pre-workout is designed to give you an edge for your strength training and performance. It will enhance energy and focus for more efficient workouts, increase your heart rate and get your blood pumping for better blood flow and weight loss, and increase muscle so you turn that unwanted fat into a shredded physique to have confidence in the effects.

Difference between stim and stim-free pre-workouts?

It is no secret that many pre-workout products pack caffeine in as a main ingredient. However, many people are sensitive to caffeine or just don’t want it in their daily routine for strength training. So companies have created stim-free options to give you the same results without the caffeine as an ingredient.

Is pre-workout safe?

Pre-workouts are not monitored by the FDA but are safe for public use. Many contain caffeine, so for those sensitive it is something to be cautious of. Some potential side effects are dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and high blood pressure, but many of these come from the overload in caffeine for some. Also, many companies will have their products be third party tested to ensure quality pre-workout products for exercise performance.

When is the best time to take pre-workout?

It is ideal to take pre-workout 30 minutes before your strength training workout. This will ensure all of the ingredients will kick in so they work as effectively as possible for optimal effects and results. It is important to stay hydrated in the time in between taking in your pre-workout and during your workout, for pre-workout can dehydrate you.

Wrap Up

Pre-workout supplements are great to use for those looking to build their muscle and really start to see that shredded physique unfold. With the power to increase energy, provide for great focus, promote pumps, and enhance recovery, a good quality and highly effective pre-workout will boost your gains to the next level. Check out our list above and see which one is right for you, for you won’t be disappointed with the results.

A solid pre-workout can only add to your gains and those gains are what you want most. Give these products a try and really see what they can do for your gains. You won’t be disappointed with the results when you buckle down and get a good supplement to accompany you on your muscle building journey.


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References

  1. Ellerbroek, Anya C.; Antonio, Jose (2019). “Effects of Pre-Workout Supplements on Strength, Endurance, and Mood”. (source)
  2. Kedia, A.; Hofheins, J.; Habowski, S.; Ferrando, Arny; et al. (2014). “Effects of a Pre workout Supplement on Lean Mass, Muscular Performance, Subjective Workout Experience and Biomarkers of Safety”. (source)
  3. McLellan, Tom M.; Caldwell, John A.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2016). “A review of caffeine’s effects on cognitive, physical and occupational performance”. (source)
  4. Kreider, Richard B. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
  5. Negro, M.; Giardina, S.; Marzani, B.; Marzatico, F. (2008). “Branched-chain amino acid supplementation does not enhance athletic performance but affects muscle recovery and the immune system”. (source)
  6. Cholewa, J.; et al. (2013). “Effects of betaine on body composition, performance, and homocysteine thiolactone”. (source)
  7. Nobre, A.; et al. (2008). “L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state”. (source)
Austin Letorney
Austin Letorney is a writer, actor, and fitness enthusiast. As a former rower, he has shifted his focus to sharing his knowledge of the fitness world and strength sports with others.