Pre-workout supplements fuel explosive energy, laser focus, and lasting endurance. Unleash your inner athlete now!
Our Top Picks
Feeling drained before the gym? A pre-workout formula can be a fantastic energy booster, turning you into a workout machine. But with countless options, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. And if you’re looking for the top recommendations, you’ve landed on the right page. We cut through the marketing hype to find pre-workouts that deliver results and will help you conquer your workouts like a pro. Get ready to explore our top picks for the best pre-workouts, designed for different fitness goals and body types.
1
Cellucor Pre-Workout Powder
This NSF certified pre workout powder is packed with 135mg of caffeine and creatine monohydrate, which provides the perfect combination of mental focus and physical strength to power through even the most challenging workouts. The refreshing watermelon flavor is a welcome change from the usual pre-workout taste, and the 30 servings provide long-lasting endurance for both men and women. The scientifically designed formula enhances muscle endurance and reduces fatigue, allowing you to push yourself to the limit and achieve your fitness objectives. With no artificial colors or dyes, this pre workout powder is a healthy alternative to other supplements on the market.
Provides a significant energy boost for workouts
Fruit punch flavor is tasty
NSF certified for sport
Tingling sensation in fingers may be uncomfortable for some
2
Optimum Nutrition Pre-Workout Powder – Watermelon Splash
This delicious pre workout powder in watermelon splash flavor provides 72 servings of a pre workout drink that supports energy and focus and post-workout muscle recovery. With 100mg of caffeine per serving, this drink will give you the boost you need to crush your workouts. But that’s not all – the added electrolytes ensure you stay hydrated and replenish your body’s essential minerals during training. Plus, with only five calories per serving, you can feel good about what you’re putting into your body.
Versatile flavor can be mixed with other beverages
Provides benefits of hydration
Supports muscle protection
Excessive consumption may lead to overstimulation
3
Optimum Nutrition Pre-workout Drink
This pre-workout drink is all about keeping you energized and focused throughout the day. With natural caffeine from green tea and green coffee extracts, it gives you a smooth energy boost that won’t leave you jittery. But it’s not just about energy—5g of amino acids per serving support muscle recovery, helping you stay on top of your fitness goals. Whether you’re starting your morning or gearing up for a tough gym session, this drink offers the perfect combo of focus, energy, and muscle support. Plus, with zero sugar, it’s a guilt-free choice!
No sugar included
Adjusts to Keto diets
No jittery side effects
Very low-quality packaging
4
Frog Fuel Pre-Workout Powder
With 80mg of caffeine and 1500mg of Beta-Alanine, this pre-workout powder will give you the boost you need to power through your toughest workouts. And that’s not all—this shot also contains 8g of protein from nano-hydrolyzed grass-fed collagen, 10g of carbs, and essential electrolytes to keep you fueled and hydrated. The formula is also gluten-free.
Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Low-calorie with added protein for nutritional benefits
Gluten-free
Taste may be too tart for some individuals
5
Optimum Nutrition Pre-Workout Powder – Watermelon Candy
Boasting a delicious watermelon candy flavor, this pre workout is perfect for those who want to kickstart their workout routine. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D for immune support, this pre workout powder will give you the energy boost you need to power through your workouts. Adding creatine and beta-alanine helps increase muscle strength and endurance, while caffeine provides a quick burst of energy. Plus, it’s keto-friendly, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb diet. With 30 servings per package, this pre workout is an excellent value for your money.
Vitamin D for immune support
Contains creatine for muscle growth
Supports performance
energy
and focus
May not be suitable for those seeking a caffeine-free pre-workout option
6
Sunwarrior Pre-Workout Powder – Blue Raspberry Pineapple
With a delicious blue raspberry pineapple flavor, this supplement is perfect for anyone looking to pump, hydrate, focus, and build endurance and strength. This pre workout is made from all-natural ingredients, including caffeine, beta-alanine, and citrulline malate, which work together to provide a sustained energy boost without the crash. Plus, 30 servings per container will give you plenty of fuel to power through your workouts.
Clean
vegan formula suitable for various dietary preferences
Optimize workout sessions for improved performance
Great flavor
May not be suitable for people with nut allergies
7
Sunwarrior Pre-Workout Powder – Mango
Loaded with plant-based ingredients, this non-stimulating pre workout is perfect for anyone looking to build endurance, strength, and focus without the jitters or crash associated with caffeine. With 30 servings per bottle, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try out the delicious yuzu mango flavor while benefiting from the powerful blend of amino acids, electrolytes, and vitamins that this supplement provides. Give this vegan-friendly pre workout powder a try and see the difference it can make in your performance!
Tropical blend ensures great taste
Contains Lion’s Mane for focus enhancement
Vegan-friendly
Taste preferences may vary
FAQ
Q: I’m new to exercise. Do I need pre-workout supplements?
A: Pre-workouts aren’t essential for beginners. Focus on building a consistent workout routine first. However, a pre-workout with low stimulant content (like natural caffeine sources) might be beneficial if you struggle with low energy. Consult your doctor before starting any supplements.
Q: Can pre-workout help me lose weight?
A: While some pre-workouts contain ingredients that boost metabolism, they’re not magic weight-loss pills. Pre-workouts primarily enhance energy and focus, helping you perform better during workouts, which can lead to increased calorie burning. Pre-workouts often contain stimulants like caffeine, which can temporarily boost your metabolic rate. This means your body burns slightly more calories at rest and during exercise. Pre-workout won’t magically make you work harder. It enhances your ability to push yourself, but the effort still comes from you. Remember, weight loss depends on a combination of a healthy diet and exercise.
Q: Are Pre-Workouts Safe for People with Pre-Existing Conditions?
A: Many pre-workouts contain stimulants like caffeine, which can interact with medications and potentially worsen certain conditions. For example, stimulants can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Additionally, stimulants can exacerbate anxiety symptoms in those prone to anxiety disorders. Consider stimulant-free options if needed.
Q: Do I have to take a pre-workout every time I exercise?
A: No! Pre-workouts are meant to enhance your workout, not become a crutch. It’s okay to have workout days without them. Listen to your body and strategically use pre-workouts when you need an extra energy boost. Overdependence on pre-workout for energy can make it harder to muster motivation on days you choose not to use it. This can lead to a cycle of needing pre-workout just to feel normal during workouts, hindering your body’s natural ability to generate energy. Monitor your performance with and without pre-workout. This can help determine where pre-workout offers the most significant benefit and tailor your approach accordingly.
Q: Can pre-workouts help with muscle recovery?
A: While pre-workout supplements aren’t a magic bullet for recovery, some ingredients can indirectly contribute to this process. Ingredients like L-arginine and beetroot extract can promote vasodilation, which widens blood vessels. This increases blood flow and allows for better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles, aiding in muscle repair and reducing fatigue. Similarly, some pre-workouts contain ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, like curcumin or tart cherry extract. These can help minimize post-workout muscle soreness and inflammation, allowing faster recovery.
Article Contributors
Caden Lindblom
Caden Lindblom is a freelance editor and writer specializing in the travel and outdoor recreation industries. When he’s not exploring the world around him, you can find him at home relaxing with his pets and researching new ways to deliver insightful content to clients across the globe.