How pre-workouts work depends on their ingredients. Caffeine is a key ingredient in most pre-workouts and has been shown to increase time to exhaustion, delay perception of fatigue, and reduce perception of pain. Creatine can also aid in recovery between sets and increase training volume, helping you do more work in your session.

Some pre-workouts include vitamin B1 — which can help with cardiovascular function — and vitamin B12 — which can help with energy production. But pre-workout also typically contains high amounts of caffeine, which can be dangerous in large quantities, so do not exceed the recommended dose.

It's best to take pre-workout on the days you're training. Some ingredients, like creatine, need to be supplemented over an extended period to have any effect. After consumption, caffeine takes about minutes to reach peak levels in the bloodstream. If the pre-workout contains beta-alanine, you may experience tingling in your skin after 15 minutes or so.

The half-life of caffeine is hours, which is the time it takes for the amount of caffeine in your system to reduce by half. Tingling caused by beta-alanine will typically stop after around 90 minutes.

Coffee contains caffeine, which is good for endurance and can reduce perception of pain. Many athletes take pre-workout supplements to help improve their performance during training or competition. Pre-workout's effect on endurance may make it a useful supplement for a boxer to train harder, a runner to run further, or a weightlifter to do more reps.

Yogis and other fitness enthusiasts may also take pre-workout supplements to help increase their focus and energy during workouts. Pre-workouts can be useful for anyone looking to boost their performance. One of the main benefits of taking a pre-workout supplement is improved performance from the ability to train harder and longer.

Ingredients typically found in pre-workouts can help increase endurance and mental focus. Caffeine is a mental stimulant with studies showing improved mental alertness following consumption. The Pre-Workout supplement contains a blend of caffeine, creatine, and beta-alanine to help with energy production and mental focus.

THE Pump is a pre-workout with no added caffeine. The vegan supplement is designed to increase performance and blood flow using active ingredients like citrulline and VASO6. THE Pump also has Beta-Alanine to increase the buffering capacity of your muscles and BioPerine to enhance nutrient absorption.

Citrulline malate is a nitric oxide enhancer that helps increase blood flow during exercise. This can boost energy production, and potentially improve exercise performance. It has been suggested that citrulline malate can improve resistance training and enhance recovery.

Caffeine is a key ingredient in many pre-workout supplements due to its ability to increase endurance, and boost alertness and concentration. The new and improved version of THE Pump takes your training to the next level without the caffeine buzz. The people behind the scenes who are good at the science brought together scientifically studied, patented ingredients to make the ideal combination, delivering the power of a pre-workout, without the unwanted effects of caffeine.

The Protein Wafer blends milk and whey protein isolates to create a high-protein snack you can enjoy any time of day. The wafer provides a lighter, more textured protein treat for those craving a crunch.

When looking for an excellent pre-workout supplement, we value research-backed ingredients in clearly disclosed dosages. Transparent Labs is a company that heavily prioritizes both of those elements in their BULK pre-workout.

In fact, in our testing, it earned a perfect 5 out of 5 in multiple fields including formulation, solubility, and third-party testing. Transparent Labs BULK is our best-rated pre-workout, thanks in a big part to its…transparency. Accidentally doubling up on dosages for specific ingredients is dangerous at worst and redundant at best.

BULK features big hits of citrulline and beta-alanine, which gave our tester a nice pump toward the middle and end of their workout. Each scoop also contains a solid dose of boron, which may potentially boost testosterone production in the body.

The flavors are on point as well, especially Blue Raspberry — our tester, a certified nutrition coach, rated it a perfect 5 out of 5. Transparent Labs brought a potent pre-workout to the table.

BULK has effective doses of ingredients that can aid in focus, energy, blood flow, and testosterone production, making it a great choice all around. Read our full Transparent Labs BULK Review.

We found the latter in Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Build with a formula intended to support testosterone production and help you get a solid pump, both of which may help you pack on some lean pounds. This research-backed formula features a wide range of time-tested ingredients that can help promote muscle growth in several ways.

Each scoop has 3,mg of citrulline and 1,mg of betaine clinically-researched doses , which helped our testers get solid muscle pumps during testing. Research suggests that achieving a pump during workouts can actually trigger protein synthesis, resulting in muscle growth.

A widely-researched supplement, creatine may be able to help increase your strength gains when resistance training, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Bulk also packs a 4,mg shot of beta-alanine , an amino acid that has been shown to delay muscle fatigue, helping you push through your workouts.

It has several ingredients that may help trigger muscle growth, potentially promoting muscle-building pumps, all while delayin. Read our full Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Review. Transparent Labs BULK Black is one of the strongest pre-workout supplements on the market.

This product comes in five delicious flavors and has high levels of must-have pre-workout ingredients, like caffeine, citrulline, and beta-alanine. For athletes who love sipping on caffeine before a workout, not just any pre-workout can offer an adequate energy boost.

After testing this product ourselves, we think Transparent Labs BULK Black exceeds other formulas in energy-producing ingredients, making it the strongest pre-workout on the market. One reason we like this formula for strength is that it contains a large, 8,mg dose of citrulline malate.

This ingredient may be able to help improve strength and endurance, as it increases blood flow to your muscles, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

For reference, a standard cup of coffee contains around 95 milligrams. You also get 4, milligrams of beta-alanine, which can help reduce muscular fatigue. Despite the heavy-handed caffeine, our tester experienced minimal crashing and had zero jitters.

One of our expert product testers who has used nearly 40 pre-workout products himself rates BULK Black as his favorite supplement of all time. His favorite flavor is Peach Mango, which he gave a 5 out of 5 rating. He also gave BULK Black a 5 out of 5 for solubility, noting that it mixes well with water in a shaker cup.

Want the full scoop on pre-workouts? See our complete guide to pre-workout supplements here. Many men may supplement with a pre-workout to help boost energy, maintain focus, and potentially gain more muscle and strength. But they may also want a pre-workout that fills nutritional gaps and supports them where they may be most deficient.

After testing this product ourselves, we think Transparent Labs BULK checks more boxes than we knew we needed, making it the best pre-workout for men on the market. We like BULK because it contains over 4, percent of your daily need for vitamin B12 , and research suggests that men may be more likely to have a B12 deficiency.

Newbies and night owls and the caffeine sensitive take caution. This pre-workout contains a whopping 4, percent of your daily vitamin B12 needs to potentially help you avoid B12 deficiencies, which research suggests may disproportionately affect men. Read our full list of the Best Pre-Workouts for Men.

Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout boasts a unique formula aimed to increase energy and focus. Choose between two flavors and several subscription options to save money. Being a beginner in the gym can feel intimidating, but with the right guidance and supplementation, it may be a bit less daunting.

Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout is designed with some of the most important basic essentials while giving you some extras for focus and endurance. Every single person commented on their increase in focus, which comes as no surprise with the nootropics like ashwagandha and dynamine.

This is a winning combination for some gnarly muscle pumps. However, Chelsea Rae says the formulation is just above average. That makes it the most expensive pre-workouts on this list.

However, Onnit will knock 15 percent off the price if you opt for a subscription. Pre-Kaged® Elite provides nine patented ingredients with 35 milligrams of vitamin B6 and 1, micrograms of vitamin B12 in a single gram scoop.

Each serving is 25 calories and includes caffeine, taurine, l-citrulline, beta-alanine, l-tyrosine, and two types of creatine. For some, it might not just be an aesthetic benefit — more blood to the muscles may also help with hypertrophy and reducing muscle soreness. Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite may help facilitate pumps by potentially widening your blood vessels the same way the best nitric oxide supplements do.

We had a competitive weightlifter try out Pre-Kaged Elite before several of his training sessions. He rated it a perfect 5 out of 5 for its effects. Arnold Schwarzenegger said that one of the best feelings in the world is the pump, and we tend to agree. We like that Kaged Elite includes ingredients like l-citrulline, which can help improve performance and blood flow to your muscles, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Combined with betaine anhydrous an ingredient that promotes vascular function , you can get that coveted pump. Kaged does run third-party testing on all its products, including this one.

The key to weight loss and burning fat is consuming fewer calories than you burn, but is there a pre-workout that might offer a little extra help? We think Transparent Labs steps up to the plate big time with this unique pre-workout formula. Disclaimer: Please note that none of these products describe themselves as weight loss supplements and should not be taken as such.

Please consult with a medical professional before beginning any weight loss protocol. The iodine and zinc, may also support thyroid health.

Thyroid health is important for maintaining a healthy body weight, as it controls your metabolism. Some research shows that your thyroid may slow hormone production and your metabolism when you lose weight, so having those support ingredients is potentially very helpful if weight loss is your goal.

While some of the ingredients have lower amounts than dedicated fat burners and pre-workouts, the majority of the ingredients are dosed very well. Read our full Transparent Labs LEAN Review. This pre-workout supplement can come with or without caffeine and in 16 different flavors.

Each serving provides milligrams of L-theanine and eight grams of citrulline, which may facilitate better pumps. Several of our testers, including two personal trainers, have tested Legion Pulse.

One actually went through the entire container because he liked it so much. Pulse contains clinically-backed dosages of the key ingredients you would expect to see in a pre-workout, like beta-alanine, l-citrulline malate, and betaine anhydrous. We love the inclusion of 2.

Throw in electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and calcium, and Pulse delivers a well-balanced product. There are several flavor options available for Pulse. Our testers rated the flavors an average of 4 out of 5, noting that you might pick up on an aftertaste.

We see the brand offer big sales around the holidays, and they also have a subscription savings that takes as much as 30 percent off the price. Check out our full Legion Pulse Pre-Workout Review.

This pre-workout is designed to help with endurance. It features added electrolytes, as well as adaptogenic mushrooms, turmeric, tart cherry, and betaine.

These blends include a combination of adaptogenic mushrooms, turmeric, tart cherry, and more that work with the 3. Another plus for cardio lovers is the addition of creatine monohydrate. Even on your light cardio days, this pre-workout could still be a help in cross-training workouts, thanks to its beta-alanine and L-tyrosine for pumps and focus.

Plus, our tester loved the taste which is not something she can say for all of the products she has tested in her time working for us , giving it a 4.

Now that we have the hype for cardio out of the way, we do have one small bone to pick with this blend. With any supplement, it helps greatly if you can stomach the taste. The last thing you need is your stomach turning in the middle of a set of squats been there, done that.

Thankful, Jacked Factory Nitrosurge comes in 16 flavors, all of which are objectively delicious and pretty unique. Our testers unanimously gave it a perfect 5 out of 5 for taste.

The formula itself varies; Jacked Factory has one- and two-scoop information on its label. Overall, the key players are all here: caffeine, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, l-theanine, and l-citrulline.

One scoop is just right! But there are some shortcomings. Compared to lifting, running generally requires more endurance and stamina, though it is possible to balance strength training and running.

For those reasons, runners should reach for a pre-workout that prioritizes ingredients that stimulate long-term energy, focus, and performance when pounding out some miles. This formula notably includes electrolytes like calcium and magnesium lactate. Despite broad claims that lactate hinders performance, it may bolster endurance and can be gentler on the stomach than other forms of magnesium.

After taking this product, our tester, herself an avid runner, reported that her energy levels and focus were great, with no jitters to speak of. Also, our tester reported that the tingly feeling from beta-alanine was modest, which we like for running.

Beta-alanine is also well-known for enhancing muscular endurance and regulating pH balance, both of which are important when running. Beta-alanine might help keep everything in homeostasis so you can continue to perform optimally for longer.

I recommend diluting it with some extra water. Read our full XWERKS Ignite Pre-Workout Review. This pre-workout powder delivers a robust blend of energy, pump, and endurance-boosting ingredients. Our tester loved Genius Pre because he said it provided some good focus for his workouts.

In lieu of stimulants, the formulation of this non-stim pre-workout combines high-quality sports performance ingredients with antioxidant-rich natural additions. These worked well together to give our testers good pumps during their workouts.

The blood flow ingredients took a bit longer to feel, so you might want to take this earlier before hitting the gym than other stimulant-based pre-workouts.

One big hitter in this formula is 6 grams of citrulline malate, which promotes nitric oxide production for improved endurance and better pumps. Having more blood flowing to your muscles may also aid in recovery and delay fatigue by buffering local lactic acid buildup more efficiently.

Genius Pre earned a 5 out of 5 for both taste and solubility from our product testers. However, the brand does claim that it is free of artificial flavors and banned substances.

Exceptionally well dosed and very high in caffeine, Pre Jym shines for both its ingredient profile and its range of delicious flavors. If you want a pre-workout geared for performance and not just pumps, Pre-JYM might be it. Pre-JYM offers all the key ingredients pre-workouts should have, like caffeine, beta-alanine, l-citrulline malate, and betaine.

Each of these ingredients packs a powerful punch for energy, focus, endurance, and more. However, what sets Pre-JYM apart is that it includes 6 grams of BCAAs branched chain amino acids. Using one of the best BCAA supplements may lead to better protein synthesis as well as prevent fatigue. On top of that, Pre-JYM offers a few grams of creatine, known for its role in energy and performance.

While the 2-gram dosage is less than the 3 to 5 grams we see in creatine supplements, it is nice that you get a little bit here. There are very many flavors of Pre-JYM available, and our testers mostly liked them, rating the ones they tried Pineapple Strawberry and Rainbow Sherbet a 4.

They warn that the taste is a little sweet. Read more in our Pre-JYM Pre-Workout Review. You get a creatine and pre-workout supplement in one! Creatine is a common staple for many gymgoers who are looking to get stronger and bigger. While many varieties of creatine exist, Nitrosurge Build contains creatine HCl.

Creatine HCl may be a more bioavailable form of creatine, which can help eliminate the stomach issues often associated with monohydrate.

This formula also contains some major pre-workout players in solid doses, like citrulline, dosed at three grams. Citrulline works to help increase nitric oxide levels, which, in turn, can relax the blood vessels, improving blood flow.

This can potentially help you achieve better pumps, improve recovery, and even improve endurance. Dietary nitrates are compounds that positively affect exercise performance when converted to nitric oxide after ingestion.

Nitric oxide has been found to increase blood flow to working muscles, improve oxygen efficiency during exercise, and reduce time to exhaustion 7 , 8. This plant-based supplement also contains vitamins B12, C, and K and an antioxidant blend.

Just keep in mind that this product contains erythritol, a sugar alcohol, which some people may prefer to avoid. One serving contains 5 grams of creatine, 1. This pre-workout is our pick for the best for recovery because it contains L-citrulline , a nonessential amino acid that may aid recovery by reducing muscle soreness after exercise 9 , The additions of creatine and beta-alanine also offer performance-enhancing benefits.

At the recommended intake of 3—5 grams per day, creatine has been found to act as a performance-enhancing compound that also increases lean muscle mass when used in combination with short, high intensity exercise bouts Additionally, beta-alanine has a performance-enhancing effect through mechanisms that delay muscle fatigue.

Research suggests that doses of 4—6 grams per day for 2—4 weeks are the most effective One scoop contains 75 mg of caffeine and 5 grams of TruBeet Beet Root Extract. Because it contains beetroot — a source of dietary nitrates that may have a positive effect on endurance exercise performance — this our top choice pre-workout for endurance exercise 13 , The powder is sweetened with a combination of sugar and stevia leaf and is free of artificial flavors and colors.

Promix Pre-Workout comes in six flavors, all of which are third-party tested. The Lemon flavor is also NSF Certified for Sport. One serving of this pre-workout supplement contains mg of caffeine and 3.

A single serving also includes 1 gram of taurine , an amino acid that may help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness This supplement is our top pick for focus because it also contains L-tyrosine , a nonessential amino acid that may have a positive effect on cognitive function 16 , One drawback is the higher dose of beta-alanine, which can cause a tingling sensation known as paraesthesia.

One flavor, Strawberry Lemonade, is also NSF Certified for Sport. One serving of this pre-workout contains mg of caffeine, 2.

Beta-alanine has been found to affect muscle fatigue and improve strength performance when taken at the recommended dose of 4—6 grams per day for 2—4 weeks. However, it can cause uncomfortable side effects in some people Gnarly Pre-Workout also contains citrulline malate, a compound that may have a positive effect on performance during high intensity exercise.

Citrulline malate has been found to improve blood flow to working muscles while also reducing fatigue during high intensity exercise and strength training. However, research is mixed regarding dose and effectiveness 18 , Ascent Pre-Workout is third-party tested and Informed Sport Certified.

One serving contains mg of caffeine and 5 grams of protein from whey protein isolate. While the caffeine in this pre-workout does offer a performance boost, the minimal protein per serving is unlikely to affect performance or recovery.

However, the supplement can still contribute to total daily protein intake to support muscle protein synthesis 4 , 20 , 21 , With mg of caffeine per serving, Pre-Kaged is higher in caffeine than many other pre-workouts.

Up to mg of caffeine per day has been found to be safe for consumption, with milligrams per kilogram of body weight providing a guide for customizing based on individual needs.

Research shows that 1. Pre-Kaged Pre-Workout also contains L-citrulline, BCAAs, beta-alanine, creatine HCL, and a proprietary blend of antioxidants. Vital Performance PRE is a pre-workout supplement in the sport-specific line of the Vital Proteins brand. A 2-scoop gram serving of the pre-workout powder contains mg of caffeine and 1.

It also provides 5 grams of BCAAs and 5 grams of collagen peptides. The addition of collagen to this pre-workout supplement makes it our top choice for injury prevention. Collagen plays an important role in the function of connective tissue. Research suggests that collagen supplementation may be beneficial for injury prevention and have a positive effect on joint health 25 , 26 , True Athlete Natural Energized Training Formula 2.

One serving contains 3 grams of micronized creatine monohydrate, 1. It also includes nitrates from beetroot extract. The powder is available in one flavor, Fruit Punch, and is free of artificial sweeteners and flavors. Its lower price point makes it our top choice for a budget-friendly pre-workout.

This approach may be cumbersome for those who are looking for a simple pre-workout supplement routine. However, the ability to split the ingredients based on individual needs may be appealing to some. The combination includes creatine, an amino acid complex, and a sustained-release formulation of beta-alanine.

All three formulations are caffeine-free, making this our top choice for those looking to avoid caffeine. In addition, all three products are third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport. One serving of the bundle provides 1.

As Kelly Jones, MS, RD, performance dietitian and owner of StudentAthleteNutrition. Checking labels and product websites is the best way to confirm that the product you choose is third-party tested. Pre-workout supplements can offer a variety of performance benefits, depending on their active ingredients and the amounts they contain.

Common ingredients in pre-workout supplements, such as caffeine, beta-alanine, and creatine, may have a positive effect on performance when taken in the amounts recommended in the research 28 , Research suggests that caffeine has an effect on perceived effort, beta-alanine has an effect on fatigue during high intensity exercise, and creatine contributes to increases in strength when taken over a period of time 12 , 23 , Additional pre-workout ingredients, such as tyrosine, may influence cognitive function, and others, such as nitrates, may have a positive effect on endurance 7 , 8 , For this reason, prioritizing diet and recovery before adding a pre-workout supplement is the most advantageous approach for performance.

Always talk with a sports dietitian or another healthcare professional before taking a supplement. Because pre-workout supplements vary in ingredient composition, it can be difficult to compare brands and dosages.

Some feature dangerous ingredients or incorrect dosages of certain products, which could have a serious effect on your training and, more importantly, your health. So, do pre workout supplements work? Are they worth it? Or click here to browse out full range of gym supplements. Want some more information on sports nutrition?

Browse our blogs on glutamine , creatine monohydrate and BCAA. Looking for some workout inspo to burn your new pre-workout fuelled energy? Head over to our blog to find out 4 reasons why circuit training could be for you and discover the benefits of popular workout kickboxing. Home — Blogs — What Is In Pre Workout?

Should I Take Pre Workout Supplements? WHEN TO TAKE PRE WORKOUT? HOW LONG DOES PRE WORKOUT LAST? WHAT'S IN PRE WORKOUT?

What Is Pre Workout? When should I take a pre workout? How do you take pre workout supplements? How long does pre workout last? How much caffeine is in pre-workout supplements? What is in pre workout?

Should you take a pre workout? Eligible for Refund or Replacement Eligible for Refund or Replacement. This item is non-returnable, but if the item arrives damaged or defective, you may request a refund or replacement.

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Brand: Redcon1. Search this page. Purchase options and add-ons. Brand Redcon1 Flavour Caffeine Unit count Unstoppable Power - This award-winning pre workout contains mg of active caffeine powder from mg of caffeine anhydrous, a dehydrated form that promotes alertness and wakefulness.

Our 'pump' effect keto pre workout is formulated with premium ingredients backed by science and made for athletic people of all skillsets. Every scoop offers a delicious and refreshing flavor that never sacrifices your workout energy for taste. All-In-One Workout Supplements - Total War is a powerful combination of stimulants and focus factors along with N.

compounds making it your go to taurine powder. Frequently bought together. Get it by Sunday, Feb Creatine Monohydrate Powder g - Creatine Supplement for Muscle Growth, Increased Strength, Enhanced Energy Output and Improved Athletic Performance by Jacked Factory - 85 Servings, Unflavored.

Redcon1 Total War - Pre Workout, 30 Servings, Boost Energy, Increase Endurance and Focus, Beta-Alanine, mg Caffeine, Citrulline Malate - Keto Friendly Sabertooth-Orange Crush. Total price:. To see our price, add these items to your cart. Try again! Added to Cart. Add all 3 to Cart.

These items are shipped from and sold by different sellers. Show details Hide details. Choose items to buy together. What do customers buy after viewing this item? Page 1 of 1 Start over Page 1 of 1. Existentially speaking, there is no pre- workout without a workout.

So, what then does a pre-workout supplement become if we take one without working out? More importantly, what happens to us when we take a pre-workout without then working out??

For example, in some contexts, the herbal adaptogen Rhodiola rosea can be a powerful ergogenic aid for enhancing strength and stamina for bodybuilders and powerlifters. However, in other contexts, say in a workplace context, Rhodiola rosea can act as a powerful, fast-acting nootropic—one that drastically clears away cognitive stress and brain fog midway through your work shift.

Many people think of pre-workout supplements strictly in terms of physical performance enhancement. And while, yes, the primary purpose of pre-workout stacks is to boost physical measures of performance, many ingredients in these formulas also benefit cognitive measures of performance, as suggested by the Rhodiola rosea example above.

In a nutshell, pre-workout supplements mix several diversely bioactive ingredients to target multiple performance-enhancing bio-pathways related to competitive health and fitness performance.

Simply put, pre-workout supplements can help you improve your exercise performance, both short-term and long-term. Taken immediately before working out, pre-workouts at least effective ones are designed to help you work out harder, longer, and faster, netting greater muscle-building, fat-burning results.

Of course, in a work setting especially for hard labor , many of these benefits can be translated to work-related performance measures: heightened stamina and endurance, greater energy and vitality, clear and competitive cognition, etc. There are reasons why you should take a pre-workout before work.

Even so, physically demanding labor still thrives in much of the world. And if your work has you perpetually on your feet throughout the workday, taking a muscle-priming pre-workout formula may significantly help you get through the day.

Especially considering that we tend to adjust to poor form and posture as our muscle strength and stamina diminishes throughout the day, thereby increasing our risk of injury, protecting your muscle tissues against labor strain can help you stay fresh, lively, and well-postured.

Both physically and mentally, work can be draining. Of course, we all like to envision ourselves as staying focused and passionate about our daily work grind. Whether you work long hourly shifts or have extensive daily project demands e. What we think of as nootropics—i. This perhaps explains why many pre-workout formulas are adding nootropics to their formulas more and more.

Many of the same nootropics that assist with focus, attention, and intensity in the gym may also help sharpen focus and cognitive endurance in the workplace. So, unless your work is comparable to performing multiple sets of lb. Not all supplements that benefit exercise performance should also be taken for work performance.

With that in mind, we have here two pre-workout formulas—one non-caffeinated, the other caffeinated, respectively—that may help you physically and mentally boost your work performance, whether you work on your feet or from a chair:.

A totally stim-free, synthetic-free pre-workout formula, Performance Lab® Pre is an innovative sports nutrition stack designed to acutely enhance athletic performance while also supercharging long-term muscle power and energy for ongoing, daily fitness benefits.

Get the Best Deal on Performance Lab® Pre Here.

The only issue is that the majority of scientific testing demonstrating the effectiveness of alpha-GPC on cognitive performance was done using to milligrams per day, and Onnit Alpha-Brain Pre-Workout only has milligrams, so the positive effects may be limited. Onnit also offers a risk-free money-back guarantee.

Related Post: The Best Vitamins for Brain Fog, Ranked by Our Experts. With endurance in mind, we chose EBOOST POW as the best pre-workout for running. The POW formula has a combination of beetroot juice powder and natural caffeine. Research has shown that beetroot acts in a similar manner to L-citrulline, enhancing performance for some aerobic exercises by improving oxygen delivery in the body and delaying the onset of fatigue POW also contains a modest dose of caffeine milligrams which should provide focus and performance benefits without the negative side effects Since higher doses of caffeine can increase heart rate, endurance athletes like runners and swimmers attempt to keep their heart rate as low as possible during long-distance races.

Multiple reviewers on the EBOOST website agree that POW did not leave them with the dreaded crash or shaky feeling that pre-workouts with a higher caffeine content can.

Each serving of POW also contains 1, milligrams of beta-alanine. A common ingredient in pre-workout, beta-alanine may be able to reduce muscle fatigue and improve exercise performance if taken consistently for at least two weeks XWerks Ignite is a good alternative to the common pre-workout formulas that are stimulant-heavy.

Instead, Ignite focuses on Rhodiola rosea, which is a nootropic that may help reduce your muscle recovery time and improve your explosive output According to that same study, best results were seen when milligrams of Rhodiola were given about a half hour before a workout, which is exactly the dose included in the Ignite formula.

Another key ingredient in this formula is DMAE or Deanol , which XWerks claims can help improve cognitive function, though there are limited studies to support this. Other important ingredients include vitamins B6 and B12, which help make energy production efficient 28 and L-tyrosine, which is an amino acid that may boost cognitive function Related Post: The Best Pre-Workout Supplements for Women.

Far from being a silly gimmick, having a more tailored approach to your health is an excellent approach, akin to having a personal dietician. In fact, when you have a subscription to Gainful, you also get access to chat with a dietician.

But back to the pre-workout: Technically, this will be a choose-your-own-adventure. You can go for a stim or non-stim based, creatine or no creatine—the choice is yours.

A study of gym-goers in Spain who took 8, milligrams of citrulline malate one hour before resistance training found they had less muscle soreness 24 and 48 hours later when compared to the control group Our tester loved the watermelon flavor, and the other option, strawberry lemonade, got rave reviews as well.

And all in all, reviews of Gainful averaged a 4. Related Post: Gainful Protein Powder Review. Many popular pre-workout supplements contain artificial ingredients sweeteners, flavors or colors. Legion Athletics stands apart with its commitment to providing customers with sports supplements free of artificial ingredients and rigorously tested by third parties.

Legion Pulse is an all-natural pre-workout formula that contains six active ingredients and a handful of mineral electrolytes to promote healthy hydration One study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that Legion Pulse increased perceived ratings of energy and showed improved force when performing exercises like the squat Note that the study was supported by a research grant from Legion Athletics, Inc.

Pulse also comes in 18 flavors that are naturally sweetened with stevia, erythritol and monk fruit extract. My personal favorites are Strawberry Kiwi, Cherry Limeade and Pink Lemonade, but many consumer reviews from the Legion website claim the Peach Ring flavor is the way to go.

Transparent Labs Bulk is a powerhouse pre-workout supplement designed to support lean muscle gain. What makes this product so unique is that it contains a staggering ingredient formulation created to enhance strength, improve stamina and increase both energy and focus during training.

Some of the notable ingredients include citrulline malate 8, milligrams , beta-alanine 4, milligrams , betaine anhydrous 2, milligrams , taurine 1, milligrams and caffeine milligrams , all of which are included at clinically effective dosage levels.

This is important because, while many pre-workout powders contain a number of the same ingredients, they are often underdosed and therefore ineffective. For example, a study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that an eight-gram dose of citrulline malate which is found in Transparent Labs Bulk was necessary to increase muscular endurance and strength performance As with all of the ingredients in the formulation, anything less may not allow you to see the same strength and muscle building effects.

Additionally, products from Transparent Labs are third-party tested for purity, certified banned substance free by Informed Choice and never contain proprietary blends or artificial ingredients. Intensive Pre-Train from Crazy Nutrition is an all-in-one pre-workout powder that contains 13 key ingredients and 10 vitamins and minerals.

This supplement was developed to improve your energy, focus, drive, endurance and strength. The ingredients list and dosage levels make it an effective supplement for a wide range of different fitness enthusiasts, ranging from bodybuilders to CrossFitters to endurance athletes.

The reason for this is a bit counterintuitive: While all of the ingredients are included in clinically effective dosages, they are on the low-end of the range, which in this case is actually a benefit not a downside. The formula is accessible for beginners, regular gym-goers and athletes alike.

Intensive Pre-Train contains common pre-workout ingredients like citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, taurine and caffeine. In addition, it also contains a range of lesser known components like glycerol monostearate, glucuronolactone, L-phenylalanine and two trademarked ingredients, KSM and En-Xtra.

Glycerol monostearate is known for its ability to increase the total volume of water in the body. The next ingredient, glucuronolactone, is one that needs further testing, however, some studies claim that this natural compound has been shown to increase endurance capacity, improve focus and concentration and reduce subjective feelings of fatigue That being said, this ingredient is often studied as part of a multi-ingredient pre-workout or energy drink, and it's difficult to say whether these benefits are from glucuronolactone alone.

The next ingredient is L-phenylalanine, which is an amino acid that may help stimulate whole body fat oxidation and ultimately help with weight loss The final two ingredients are KSM, which is a combination of ashwagandha and withania somnifera, and En-Extra, also known as alpinia galanga.

In a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial, KSM was found to reduce stress, improve sleep quality, enhance memory and cognition and increase strength, endurance and immune function En-Extra has been shown to improve mental alertness, as well as impede the typical caffeine crash associated with pre-workout supplements.

No jitters and no nasty taste. Ignite contains all of the major active ingredients you'd expect in a pre-workout supplement, but the dosage levels are around half of what you find in the top-tier pre-workout powders on the market.

While this may seem like a downside, this supplement is a great option for users who are new to pre-workout supplements, or those who are sensitive to caffeine. This supplement also works as a great transition product for beginners who may have started their fitness journey using non-stim pre-workouts, but are ready to dip their toes into the world of more powerful caffeinated products.

Ignite features a combination of vitamins, minerals and a range of active ingredients, such as L-citrulline malate 3, milligrams , L-tyrosine 2, milligrams , CarnoSyn beta-alanine 1, milligrams and caffeine anhydrous milligrams.

Ignite also features two less common ingredients—Rhodiola milligrams and DMAE bitartrate milligrams —which are steadily rising in popularity as more scientific evidence is coming out regarding their effects on sports performance.

A recent study reviewing 10 papers on Rhodiola rosea found that the majority of studies reported that supplementation has a positive effect on sports performance. Some of the key findings include a reduction in pain and muscle damage after exercise, enhanced antioxidant capacity and improved power output Similar findings are true for DMAE bitartrate, a choline precursor that enhances acetylcholine production in the brain.

This relates to overall sports performance because acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory This supplementation has translated into improvements in alertness, attention, overall mood and even sleep quality That being said, the evidence suggests the daily dosage should be between and 2, milligrams per day, so Ignite does fall short here Our team has personally tried a few of the flavors, including Watermelon and Orange, and although pretty sweet sweetened with sucralose , they were fairly true to flavor.

The star ingredient in this formula is L-citrulline, which has been shown to improve vascular function and oxygen uptake during exercise 9.

Pump has 8, milligrams of L-citrulline which is almost three times the clinically studied effective dose of 3, milligrams In addition to the ingredients being included in evidence-backed dosage levels, supplements from Transparent Labs are always third-party tested and free from artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors and preservatives.

Legion Pulse Stim Free is our choice for the best caffeine-free pre-workout because of its evidence-backed, effectively dosed stim-free formula and affordable price point.

Products from Legion are also tested by Labdoor the gold standard of third-party test labs for purity and potency, which ensures the amount of ingredients in the tub matches the supplement facts label. The four active ingredients in Legion Pulse Stim-Free include citrulline malate 8, milligrams , beta-alanine 3, milligrams , betaine anhydrous 2, milligrams and alpha-GPC milligrams.

Research shows that citrulline malate enhances blood flow While some studies suggest that citrulline malate can improve muscular endurance and strength performance when taken before a workout, more research is needed The other key ingredient in Pulse Stim-Free is beta alanine, which may enhance high-intensity exercise performance and improve fatigue resistance during workouts if taken for at least two weeks 4 5 Legion Pulse stim-free is available in eight unique flavor profiles, so you will always have a wide variety of different flavors to choose from.

Based on the consumer reviews available on the Legion website, consumers have rated this product 4. Legion Athletics Pre-Workout Energy Stack comes with two products: Pulse Pre-Workout and Energy Surge.

These products are designed to work with each other, and they can be taken together to help you magnify your energy and output; however, unless you opt for the stim-free Pulse formula, taking both on the same day amounts to milligrams of caffeine, which is 50 milligrams over the FDA recommended daily limit On its own, Pulse is a classic and strong pre-workout supplement.

I also get a tingly sensation in my hands and neck if I drink it too fast. Energy Surge is formulated more like a mild energy drink. It should give you a small energy boost along with improved mental clarity and focus.

It has milligrams of caffeine for energy, 2, milligrams of taurine to increase focus and attention 17 and a B-vitamin complex to reduce stress It contains a whopping milligrams of caffeine per serving, making it one of the strongest pre-workout powders on the market.

In addition to the caffeine, this product also contains 8, milligrams of citrulline malate, 3, milligrams of beta-alanine, 2, milligrams of betaine, milligrams of AlphaSize alpha-GPC and 3, milligrams of creatine monohydrate.

With the clinically effective maintenance dose of creatine being around 0. This is why Jacked Factory recommends that new users assess their tolerance by mixing a half scoop of Altius with eight to 10 ounces of water 25 to 35 minutes before their first workout to see how they feel.

If you can handle the half-scoop, then you may want to progress to full scoop, but be sure to mix with 16 to 24 ounces of water before training. Pre-Kaged Elite from Kaged Supplements is one of the most comprehensive pre-workout powders available.

The combination of potent stimulants, nitric oxide boosters, vitamins, minerals and creatine is designed not to just enhance your training, but your overall health and fitness routine. This is because you will want to supplement with creatine on your non-training days, and I doubt you want to take a high-stim pre-workout on your rest days.

Pre-Kaged Elite is available in five flavors, and our tasters really liked the taste. They said the Orange Mango flavor was citrusy, but not overpowering, and that the powder dissolved completely when mixed with water.

Not too hyped, no spikes, no crashes. Related Post: 7 Best Pre-Workouts with Creatine. If you already pay for an Amazon Prime membership, then you may want to purchase your pre-workout supplement directly from Amazon to take advantage of its two-day shipping and subscribe and save discounts.

A two-scoop serving size contains 6, milligrams of L-citrulline, 3, milligrams of beta-alanine, 2, milligrams of betaine anhydrous and milligrams of caffeine.

This formulation is robust enough to compete with some of the strongest pre-workouts on the market. That being said, many individuals, especially those who are newer to pre-workout supplements, will likely find a single-scoop serving size to be effective.

Some of the performance-enhancing effects you can expect from Nitrosurge include increased strength, power output, enhanced focus and a reduced perception of fatigue An added bonus of ordering from Amazon is that they have Nitrosurge available for purchase in 17 flavors, while the Jacked Factory website has only This may help to ensure you will find a flavor that you will enjoy and actually want to drink.

Its passion lies in the commitment to promote athletic performance through science-backed nutrition, rigorous product testing and transparent, natural and straightforward ingredient labels.

All Gnarly products are free from GMOs, artificial colors and flavors, and any soy or gluten. In addition, most of the lineup is vegan-friendly, including the Gnarly Pre-Workout. While most pre-workout supplements are generally vegan, Gnarly Nutrition contains branched-chain amino acids in its product, which are usually derived from animal sources.

Gnarly uses a vegan BCAA blend with a ratio of L-leucine to L-isoleucine and L-valine. These BCAAs are included in the formula because they may help to reduce muscle damage and soreness after intense training and exercise In addition to the BCAAs, Gnarly Pre-Workout also contains citrulline malate 5, milligrams , beta-alanine 2, milligrams , caffeine from green tea leaf milligrams and Asian ginseng root powder milligrams.

These ingredients are well-dosed and should provide performance-enhancing benefits. Gnarly also offers a caffeine-free version of its pre-workout for individuals who work out in the evening, are sensitive to caffeine or prefer to get their caffeine through other sources.

The Gnarly pre-workout is available in two flavors: Strawberry Lemonade and Mango. Gnarly keeps its product completely artificial ingredient-free with the use of natural flavors, stevia leaf extract as a sweetener and beetroot powder for the color.

For the best results, Gnarly advises using its product 30 minutes before exercise or training. Overall, this supplement is a top choice for individuals looking for vegan supplements to enhance their workout performance. As well as being third-party tested for purity, this product is non-GMO, gluten-free, banned-substance free and does not contain artificial colors or flavors.

The ingredients list contains organic caffeine and L-tyrosine for enhanced energy, focus and mood 84 85 , coconut water, taurine, vitamins and mineral electrolytes for improved hydration, and a sports performance blend of L-citrulline, beta-alanine and betaine anhydrous.

These individual ingredients are all dosed so that you should experience the performance-enhancing benefits without the potential unwanted negative side effects of higher-stim or more concentrated products.

For the best results, athletes should consume one scoop of pre-workout powder dissolved in eight to 12 ounces of water approximately 20 to 30 minutes before training.

If you need help choosing one of the five delicious flavors, then I would personally suggest the Mango Lime as the way to go. Cellucor C4 Original is one of the O. pre-workout supplements and remains one of the most popular products on the market.

Especially considering that we tend to adjust to poor form and posture as our muscle strength and stamina diminishes throughout the day, thereby increasing our risk of injury, protecting your muscle tissues against labor strain can help you stay fresh, lively, and well-postured.

Both physically and mentally, work can be draining. Of course, we all like to envision ourselves as staying focused and passionate about our daily work grind. Whether you work long hourly shifts or have extensive daily project demands e.

What we think of as nootropics—i. This perhaps explains why many pre-workout formulas are adding nootropics to their formulas more and more. Many of the same nootropics that assist with focus, attention, and intensity in the gym may also help sharpen focus and cognitive endurance in the workplace.

So, unless your work is comparable to performing multiple sets of lb. Not all supplements that benefit exercise performance should also be taken for work performance.

With that in mind, we have here two pre-workout formulas—one non-caffeinated, the other caffeinated, respectively—that may help you physically and mentally boost your work performance, whether you work on your feet or from a chair:. A totally stim-free, synthetic-free pre-workout formula, Performance Lab® Pre is an innovative sports nutrition stack designed to acutely enhance athletic performance while also supercharging long-term muscle power and energy for ongoing, daily fitness benefits.

Get the Best Deal on Performance Lab® Pre Here. Naturally, work and coffee go hand-in-hand. But, as many people know, drinking a lot of coffee to solve the problem of long work schedules and low stamina can become a problem in itself.

As the coffee intake increases, the stimulation counterproductively impairs cognition and soon follows with a post-energy comedown and crash.

Ultimately, whether or not you should take a pre-workout before work is up to you. If your work is in itself a workout—a physically demanding job—then taking a pre-workout supplement can certainly help you stay fresh and fit.

Likewise, taking some pre-workout supplement ingredients intended for intense focus and cognitive performance may also assist with the cognitive demands of labor. Safe for workers of all types and dietary lifestyles.

createElement 'div' ; el. parse el. querySelector '[data-options]'. Home Blogs Pre Workout Taking Pre-Workout Before Work: A Good Idea? Is It Okay to Take Pre-Workout Supplements Without Going to the Gym? But there are a few caveats to this: Not all pre-workouts should be taken without working out.

Pre-workouts without exercise do not confer the benefits of exercise obviously. Similarly, beetroot powder is added for color and can also help improve nitric oxide production Amanda Capritto, GGR staff writer and expert product tester who also tested this pre-workout, said the Cherry Limeade flavor was tasty and not overly sweet, though she said it was difficult to get it thoroughly mixed.

If you are looking for a clean pre-workout supplement with a simple list of natural vitamins and minerals, Naked Nutrition's Stim Free Pre Workout may be for you.

It is gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and non-GMO. Also, there are no proprietary blends in Naked Energy, which is third-party tested.

It does have one gram of creatine, which is better than nothing but not enough to cause a significant uptick in strength and muscle mass. When it comes to flavors, Naked Nutrition has three—all of which contain no artificial sweeteners: Unflavored, Fruit Punch, and Citrus. Nicole tried the unflavored option and said it was a bit bitter, though it would go well with a sports drink.

The 90 cents per-serving cost is another big plus in our books, and each container comes with 50 two-scoop servings. While Gorilla Mode receives mixed reviews, it is formulated with all the key ingredients you want in a pre-workout drink to improve performance in the gym. However, if you are sensitive or want to avoid stimulants, this may not be the supplement for you.

Gorilla Mode has been formulated specifically to support increased energy, focus, muscle strength, and endurance. The combination of L-Citrulline 16 , GlycerPump 24 , and Agmatine 25 can boost nitric oxide production, promote increased blood flow, and improve intramuscular hydration.

Several people tested Gorilla Mode for us, including Jacob Penner, USA Weightlifting L-2 coach and owner of Endless Strength Weightlifting Club.

Moving down the ingredient list, we see a unique blend of nootropics designed to support enhanced focus and mood 9. The combination of L-Tyrosine 6 , Kanna 26 , and Huperzine A 22 are known for their cognitive-supporting properties and their ability to help ease daily stress.

Add in the milligrams of caffeine and 2, milligrams of creatine per serving and you have yourself a pre-workout cocktail that could help get you closer to your goal of bigger, stronger muscles 8.

There are some countries, like Australia, and some sports associations where the stimulant is banned. In terms of taste, we had mixed results. I mixed one scoop with 20 ounces of water, and it tastes like all three flavors of a rocket pop at once.

It just tastes like something sweet. Endura-Formance is formulated with all the key ingredients one would look for in a pre-workout drink. While the taste is not for everyone, most users experienced improved performance at the gym.

Endura-Formance is their premium pre-workout product containing research-backed ingredients shown to enhance muscular endurance and speed up the recovery process after a tough treadmill workout.

Certified personal trainer and former competitive triathlete Amanda Capritto used Endura-Formance when training for her races and says it always gave her a boost, giving it a 5 out of 5 for effects.

As a reminder, sodium is an electrolyte that can help fuel longer workouts that leave your clothes drenched in sweat. Amanda points to two other ingredients that make this a perfect fit for runners: PeakO2 and S7.

The Genius Brand Genius Pre is a stimulant-free, nootropic-based pre-workout designed to help improve your focus and performance in the gym. With no preservatives, no proprietary blends, no artificial flavors, and no banned substances, Genius PRE is a vegan-friendly pre-workout ideal for anyone looking for a clean product.

We should also point out that this is a stimulant-free product, so there is no caffeine, and no big energy boost like you might get from other products.

Jacob Penner, a USA Weightlifting coach who has been testing different pre-workouts for years, used Genius PRE a number of times to check out its efficacy. He gave it a 4 out of 5 for its workout effects. Pretty much by the time I was done lifting, the pump was fading.

In terms of formulation, we gave this a 4 out of 5, only knocking it down a point because it lacks a stimulant, which is something most people are looking for in a pre-workout.

However, by all other accounts, this checks a lot of boxes with its ingredient lineup. Amanda Capritto, certified sports nutrition coach and GGR senior staff writer, points out that there are clinically-backed ingredients and dosages of key pre-workout players like l-citrulline malate, carnosyn, betain anhydrous, l-tyrosine, l-arginine, and taurine.

There are also nootropics like choline 31 and huperzia serrata 22 , which support cognitive function. I felt almost euphoric taking this, actually. In terms of taste, Jacob rated this a perfect 5 out of 5.

Absolutely love the taste — this is like a blue icee. Read more in our Genius pre-workout review. Fuel your body with a delicious pre-workout supplement with nutrients and 14 active ingredients for an energy-boosting workout. Earning a perfect 5 out of 5 for its workout effects, Pre JYM Pre-workout is our pick for best for focus.

Caffeine, of course, is one of the primary ingredients that help with increased focus 12 , as is Huperzine A 22 and L-Tyrosine 6. Both also note that this pre-workout mixes perfectly in a shaker bottle with water. You can read more of their thoughts in our full JYM Pre-Workout review.

Good for: Those who want a high-quality and affordable pre-workout powder. C4 is the flagship product for Cellucor, and is considered by many as the No.

Many people at Garage Gym Reviews have used both the C4 powder and the drink. Here, we will dive into the specs of the powder. Olympia-level pumps from it, but your sleeves will feel a bit tighter than they were before you started the workout.

It also contains 1. Check out our full C4 pre-workout review for more. BlackWolf Pre-Workout contains 11 scientifically proven ingredients designed to improve energy, focus, and performance without any unwanted side effects. Containing 11 key ingredients and no proprietary blends, Blackwolf pre-workout is formulated to provide you with heightened focus support and maximal endurance to improve overall athletic performance.

Whether you enjoy training in the evening, or just looking for a stimulant-free pre-workout, the fruit-flavored version of Blackwolf pre-workout is designed to support and enhance your performance without caffeine.

Nicole Davis, GGR senior editor, gave Blackwolf a try before one of her workouts. Each serving contains 6 grams of citrulline malate, which has been shown to promote increased blood flow 2.

This can contribute to improved oxygen delivery to your muscles during workouts, as well as faster removal of metabolic byproducts caused by intense training sessions. Similar to citrulline, L-Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate works as a nitric oxide booster 32 to help you get more out of your workouts.

The 3. This product also contains creatine monohydrate 8 and betaine anhydrous 33 , both of which can assist with muscle strength and exercise performance. Despite the absence of caffeine, you can still expect support for focus and concentration due to the addition of DMAE 14 and Huperzine A These powerful nootropics can enhance cognitive function during workouts.

In terms of flavor, Nicole rates it at a 3 out of 5. There are lots and lots of pre-workouts on the market. Deciding on the 18 best pre-workouts was no easy feat.

We weighed the pros and cons of each product after analyzing these factors and using our GGR supplement testing methodology :. Are important ingredients like caffeine, creatine, citrulline, citrulline malate, and beta-alanine included?

Are there high levels of stimulants that have been shown to have detrimental effects? Stimulants to keep an eye out for: High levels of caffeine, dendrobium, synephrine, DMAE, rauwolfia vomitora.

This is subjective, but we base it on the views of our testers, as well as what the general consensus is in online customer reviews. We took the individual flavor and full range of flavors into consideration. How well does this product dissolve in the suggested amount of liquid?

Are there floaties? Is it grainy? Is it super thick or super thin? Does it separate after a few minutes? What do customers think of the product? Are reviews consistent? Does the company interact with customer reviews? If not, you might as well buy a more affordable supplement.

This is particularly important for pre-workouts, because overloading on stimulants can be dangerous. Caffeine is a stimulant that targets the central nervous system, helping to support increased mental alertness while reducing the perception of fatigue Additionally, it can increase fat oxidation and spare muscle glycogen levels Creatine is a naturally occurring substrate that aids in energy production.

When taken as a dietary supplement, creatine has been shown to promote increased muscle strength, muscle size, speed, and high-intensity exercise capacity 8.

Nitric oxide supports improved blood flow via vasodilation widening of blood vessels Citrulline malate is a compound that combines citrulline with malate, a substrate essential for the production of energy needed for muscle contractions.

Citrulline malate has been shown to help delay muscle fatigue and increase oxygen delivery to muscles 3. Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid that binds with histidine to form carnosine.

In your muscles, carnosine acts as a hydrogen ion buffer to help delay fatigue and improve high-intensity exercise performance 4.

Wondering why you should consider drinking a pre-workout before your next sweat session? Some benefits include:. Pre-workouts are probably best known for their ability to support increased energy and focus during workouts. Caffeine is well-known for its ability to boost energy and endurance levels during intense workouts 12 , and nitric oxide boosters like citrulline 15 and beetroot extract 17 can promote blood flow, which may result in more oxygen and nutrients being delivered to your muscles to maximize performance.

Pre-workouts can enhance strength in several ways. For one, they can provide you with more energy so that you hit your workouts harder and increase your training volume. But, perhaps the most important ingredient for increasing strength is creatine.

Creatine, which is present in some pre-workouts, aids in energy production during short, intense efforts and has been shown to increase strength when combined with resistance training in numerous research studies 7. Ingredients like L-Theanine 5 , Rhodiola rosea 13 , and L-Tyrosine 6 can help you stay focused and motivated throughout your workout.

Nootropics like these have also been shown to enhance memory, attention, and concentration 9. One way to boost stamina during your workouts is to combat feelings of fatigue. Supplementation with beta-alanine 4 has been shown to increase intramuscular stores of carnosine. Carnosine works as an intracellular buffer to reduce the accumulation of hydrogen ions— ultimately delaying fatigue Caffeine 12 , citrulline 16 , beta-alanine 4 , and creatine 8 can help maximize your energy and strength while reducing fatigue.

Make sure key ingredients are present in research-backed dosages. There are countless research studies that pinpoint the minimal dose needed to experience energy- or strength-boosting effects from ingredients like beta-alanine and creatine, but here are a few you should know before you start shopping:.

These blends will make it difficult to know the exact dosages used. A detailed ingredient list that clearly states the dose of each ingredient will ensure you know exactly what you are consuming.

This means that a company, not affiliated with the supplement manufacturer, evaluates the dietary supplement to ensure what is printed on the label is actually inside the product. RELATED: Best supplements for men.

When taken as directed, pre-workouts are generally considered safe to use for healthy individuals. There are special populations, like pregnant women and adolescents, who should avoid them altogether though.

Always check with your doctor before taking a new supplement. You should never consume more than the recommended dose, especially if the product contains stimulants like caffeine. The name pretty much gives it away—pre-workouts should be taken before your training session, with most people downing their supplement minutes before they intend to start seriously training.