NUTRITION

The Best Pre-Workout Supplements of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

By Emma ParkerUpdated on Nov 15, 2024

Selecting an effective pre-workout supplement can significantly enhance your exercise performance by boosting energy, focus, and endurance. Here are some of the top pre-workout supplements of 2024, each catering to specific fitness goals:

Transparent Labs BULK

4.9

Best For: Individuals aiming for muscle gain and improved workout performance
Key Ingredients: 8g Citrulline Malate, 4g Beta-Alanine, 2.5g Betaine Anhydrous, 1.3g Taurine, 200mg Caffeine from organic green coffee beans, 3000mcg Boron
Flavors include Black Cherry, Blue Raspberry and Cherry Kiwi

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

This supplement offers a transparent ingredient list with research-backed dosages, including 8g of citrulline malate and 4g of beta-alanine. It also contains 200mg of caffeine and 1.3g of taurine to enhance energy and focus.

Pros & Cons

Free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives

The product offers full disclosure of its ingredients and their dosages

Enhanced Energy and Focus

The substantial caffeine dosage may not be suitable for individuals sensitive to stimulants or those who consume other caffeine sources throughout the day

Jacked Factory Nitrosurge

4.9

Best For: hose seeking enhanced muscle pumps and sustained energy during workouts
Key Ingredients: 3g L-Citrulline, 1.6g Beta-Alanine, 1.25g Betaine Anhydrous, 180mg Caffeine Anhydrous, 90mg L-Theanine, 25mg AstraGin
Flavors include Arctic White, Black Cherry, Blue Raspberry, Cherry Limeade. Fruit Punch, Grape, Green Apple, Pinapple and Sout Peach Rings

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Nitrosurge combines 3g of L-citrulline, 1.6g of beta-alanine, and 1.25g of betaine anhydrous to support muscle pumps and endurance. It includes 180mg of caffeine and 90mg of L-theanine for balanced energy without jitters.

Pros & Cons

Affordable Pricing

Variety of Flavors

The product is suitable for vegans, as it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients

The supplement contains artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which some users may prefer to avoid

Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout

4.8

Best For: Individuals looking for a cost-effective pre-workout with high stimulant content
Key Ingredients: 4g L-Citrulline, 2g Beta-Alanine, 1.5g Betaine Anhydrous, 300mg Caffeine Anhydrous, 500mg L-Tyrosine
Flavors include Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch and Grape

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

This budget-friendly option provides 4g of L-citrulline, 2g of beta-alanine, and 1.5g of betaine anhydrous per serving. It also delivers a strong energy boost with 300mg of caffeine.

Pros & Cons

The product is vegetarian-friendly, non-GMO, gluten-free

Affordable Pricing

Energy and Focus Enhancement

The product contains artificial sweeteners and flavors, which may not appeal to users seeking a more natural supplement

Legion Pulse

4.7

Best For: Individuals seeking a high-caffeine pre-workout with natural ingredients
Key Ingredients: 8g Citrulline Malate, 3.6g Beta-Alanine, 2.5g Betaine Anhydrous, 350mg Caffeine Anhydrous, 350mg L-Theanine
Flavors include Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch and Blueberry Lemonade

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Legion Pulse offers a high dose of citrulline malate and beta-alanine, along with 350mg of caffeine and L-theanine to promote energy and focus. It's naturally sweetened and flavored.

Pros & Cons

Natural Ingredients

For those sensitive to stimulants, Legion Pulse offers a caffeine-free version

Clinically Effective Dosages

Legion Pulse is more expensive than other pre-workout supplements on our list

What Are Pre-Workout Supplements, and What Do They Do?

If you’ve ever hit the gym and felt like you needed an extra boost to power through your workout, you may have heard about pre-workout supplements. But what exactly are they, and how do they help you make the most out of your exercise routine?

What Are Pre-Workout Supplements?

Pre-workout supplements, often referred to simply as "pre-workouts," are specially formulated products designed to enhance your exercise performance. Typically consumed 20-30 minutes before a workout, they come in various forms such as powders, drinks, capsules, or even snacks.

These supplements contain a blend of ingredients aimed at increasing energy, improving focus, boosting endurance, and supporting muscle performance. While the exact formula varies by brand and product, most pre-workouts are designed to give you the extra push you need to maximize your workout intensity and results.

What Do Pre-Workout Supplements Do?

Pre-workouts work by targeting key areas of your fitness performance, helping you to:

1. Boost Energy

Most pre-workouts contain caffeine, a powerful stimulant that increases alertness and combats fatigue. This helps you feel energized and ready to tackle intense workouts, whether it’s lifting heavy weights or completing a long cardio session.

2. Enhance Focus

Ingredients like L-theanine, tyrosine, and choline are often included to improve mental clarity and focus, ensuring you stay concentrated on your form and goals during your workout.

3. Improve Endurance

Compounds such as beta-alanine and L-citrulline help delay the onset of fatigue by buffering lactic acid buildup and improving blood flow to the muscles. This means you can push harder for longer without tiring as quickly.

4. Support Muscle Pump and Performance

Nitric oxide boosters like L-arginine or L-citrulline promote better blood flow, resulting in a more satisfying "muscle pump." Additionally, creatine, a common pre-workout ingredient, can enhance strength and power output during high-intensity exercises.

5. Aid Recovery

Some pre-workouts include branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) or other ingredients to reduce muscle soreness and kickstart recovery, allowing you to bounce back faster after a tough session.

Common Ingredients in Pre-Workout Supplements

Caffeine: Increases energy and focus.
Beta-Alanine: Reduces muscle fatigue and improves endurance.
L-Citrulline or Citrulline Malate: Enhances blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles.
Creatine: Boosts strength and muscle power.
BCAAs: Supports muscle recovery and reduces soreness.
Taurine: Improves hydration and overall performance.
Nitric Oxide Boosters: Enhance muscle pump and vascularity.

Are Pre-Workout Supplements Right for You?

Pre-workout supplements can be a great addition to your fitness routine if you’re looking to improve performance, increase energy, or overcome workout fatigue. However, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Consider the following before trying a pre-workout:

Sensitivity to Stimulants: Some people may experience jitters, anxiety, or a racing heart from high caffeine content. Look for stimulant-free options if needed.
Dietary Preferences: Many pre-workouts are vegan, non-GMO, or gluten-free, but always check the label.
Fitness Goals: If your focus is on endurance, strength, or fat loss, choose a formula that aligns with your objectives.

Final Thoughts

Pre-workout supplements can be a game-changer for your fitness journey, helping you stay energized, focused, and ready to push your limits. However, as with any supplement, it’s essential to choose products with transparent labeling, clinically backed ingredients, and dosages tailored to your needs. Combine them with a balanced diet, proper hydration, and a solid workout plan for the best results.