8 Best Pre-Workout Supplements to Get You Pumped in 2022

We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. The newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.

Are you working out and eating healthily, but it still feels like something’s holding you back?

The best pre-workout supplements are designed to help you blast through any obstacle in your way. Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train, our top pick, is packed with energy-boosting ingredients to give you the focus and energy you need to step up your workout game.

The Best Pre-Workouts in 2022

The right pre-workout can make a difference in your strength and muscle gain, but they’re not all created equal. We’ve done the research and compared ingredients so you can make the best decision for your fitness journey.

1. Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train – Best Pre-Workout Overall – 4.9/5

Pros:

• Contains 19 beneficial ingredients
• Highly concentrated
• No jittery feeling
• Money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Only ships to USA and UK
• Limited flavors

Who Is Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train Best For?

If you’re struggling to make it through your workouts or not as focused as you’d like to be, Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train is a pre-workout that can help.

Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train contains a potent blend of 19 energy-boosting ingredients that are scientifically proven to improve performance. For example, beta-alanine and taurine can improve exercise performance [1] [2].

The pre-workout is highly concentrated, so you don’t need to take a lot to feel its effects. You can try it risk-free, as it comes with a money-back guarantee if you are unsatisfied.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

Because the ingredients in this blend are potent, we don’t recommend it for anyone who isn’t ready for an intense workout session. Intensive Pre-Train lives up to its name, and it’s formulated for maximum effect.

Side Effects

Intensive Pre-Train is made with all-natural ingredients, so there should be no severe side effects. However, you may experience mild discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, if you take too much.

Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train Rating: 4.9/5

Ingredients: 5/5

With zero sugar, the formula combines 19 different ingredients, including beta-alanine, niacin, caffeine, and taurine. The combination should help you power through your workouts without feeling jittery or crashing later.

Flavors: 4.7/5

Intensive Pre-Train comes in several flavors, including blue raspberry, fruit punch, and green apple. Users say they look forward to drinking it, which says a lot about the quality of the formula.

Customer Reviews: 5/5

Customers love the taste and energy boost from this supplement, and many say it took their lifts to a whole new level.

Our Verdict

Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train features scientifically proven ingredients to improve performance if you’re looking for an edge in your training. It comes in enjoyable flavors to help you look forward to your next workout.

>> Check best price for Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train

2. Blackwolf – Best Pre-Workout Flavors – 4.8/5

Pros:

• Optimally dosed ingredients
• Ships worldwide
• Free 10-week training program
• Endorsed by professional athletes

Cons:

• No satisfaction guarantee
• More expensive than other pre-workouts

Who Is Blackwolf Best For?

Blackwolf offers three refreshing fruity options that mix easily and are rated as great tasting. The formula gives you the energy, focus, and endurance you need to perform at your best. As well as beta-alanine and taurine, it features caffeine for increased power and mental alertness.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

The caffeine in Blackwolf is a stimulant, so it’s not recommended for anyone sensitive to caffeine or has a heart condition [3].

Side Effects

The most common side effect of Blackwolf is jitters, which the caffeine content can cause. Beta-alanine may also cause a tingling sensation in some people; however, this is harmless and generally goes away after a few uses [4].

Blackwolf Rating: 4.8/5

Ingredients: 4.9/5

The formula is designed to give you focus, endurance, and energy to help you push your limits in the gym. The 11 vegan-friendly ingredients include vegan-friendly taurine, L-citrulline, beta-alanine, creatine, betaine anhydrous, L-arginine, L-tyrosine, caffeine anhydrous, dynamine, coconut water powder, and BioPerine.

Flavors: 4.5/5

Blackwolf has a small selection of flavors, so you don’t have to drink the same thing every day. The green apple is rated the best, but the blue raspberry and fruit punch are close seconds.

Customer Reviews: 4.8/5

Many users said Blackwolf helped bring them closer to their goals. The only negative comments were about the slow customer support.

Our Verdict

Blackwolf is a pre-workout that tastes great and packs a powerful punch. It can give you focus and energy just in time for your workout while reducing fatigue and burnout.

>> Check best price for Blackwolf

3. Pre Lab Pro – Best Supplement for Muscle Gain – 4.7/5

Pros:

• Boosts blood flow
• Third-party tested
• Electrolytes for hydration
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Only available online
• Just one flavor

Who Is Pre Lab Pro Best For?

Pre Lab Pro is an advanced pre-workout supplement that’s designed to boost blood flow and help you gain more muscle. Formulated to reduce side effects and enhance effectiveness, Pre Lab Pro contains a moderate amount of caffeine in a 2:1 ratio with L-theanine, which improves performance [5].

The supplement is third-party tested for potency and purity, so you can be sure you’re getting exactly what you expect. Plus, with electrolytes for hydration, you’ll stay feeling strong throughout your entire workout.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

If you’re taking any medication, it’s always best to consult with a doctor before starting any new supplement. Additionally, if you have any health concerns, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid taking Pre Lab Pro.

Side Effects

The dose of caffeine can lead to nausea and an upset stomach in some users.

Pre Lab Pro Rating: 4.7/5

Ingredients: 4.9/5

This unique formula contains clean ingredients like red beetroot powder, L-theanine, L-tyrosine, L-glutathione, L-citrulline, caffeine, vitamin D3, B vitamins, iron, potassium, and Himalayan pink salt. It’s also free of fillers and artificial colors.

Flavors: 4.4/5

There is only one flavor, but the natural berry flavor is clean and refreshing, and the lack of artificial ingredients is a big plus.

Customer Reviews: 4.8/5

Customers say that Pre Lab Pro gives them the extra edge they need to push through their workouts and achieve their goals. From improved endurance to increased strength, this supplement is highly recommended.

Our Verdict

With its ability to boost blood flow, Pre Lab Pro can get you those give you those vein-popping muscles you’ve been working for. Add in the fact that it’s third-party tested and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you’ve got a winning formula.

>> Check best price for Pre Lab Pro

4. Powher – Best Pre-Workout for Females – 4.6/5

Pros:

• Designed for women
• Caffeine amplifier
• Boosts metabolism
• 90-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Only one flavor
• Contains sucralose

Who Is Powher Best For?

Powher is a pre-workout supplement that has been specifically designed to support the unique needs of women. It contains EnXtra, a powerful caffeine amplifier that can boost energy levels and mental focus [6].

Caffeine from green coffee beans provides a smooth, long-lasting energy boost, and vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid help support cognitive function [7]. L-tyrosine and beta-alanine are amino acids that help support endurance, while instantised leucine helps to reduce muscle soreness [8].

In addition, Powher is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health and well-being. Other benefits of Powher include a boost to metabolism and increased fat loss.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

If you are highly sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to avoid Powher and other stimulants. Additionally, Powher contains sucralose, which is an artificial sweetener. This ingredient can alter insulin levels, so if you have diabetes or are prediabetic, you should use caution when taking Powher.

Side Effects

This pre-workout powder is made with natural ingredients and is free of any harmful side effects. However, it does contain caffeine, so you may experience some side effects from the stimulant. Additionally, the artificial sweetener sucralose is included in Powher, which may alter your insulin levels [9].

Powher Rating: 4.6/5

Ingredients: 4.7/5

Powher is packed with high-quality ingredients that can ramp up your workout routine. One such example is EnXtra, which helps you stay energized and focused during your workout and prevents a caffeine crash.

Flavors: 4/5

Powher only has one flavor: pink lemonade. It’s a tart and refreshing taste that mixes well with water.

Customer Reviews: 4.9/5

Customers say it makes them feel stronger without getting jittery or anxious. They also appreciate that it helps to support their weight loss goals.

Our Verdict

Powher is the best pre-workout supplement for women because it contains ingredients that are specifically designed to support their unique needs. From increased energy and focus to improved metabolism and fat loss, Powher is a complete pre-workout package.

>> Check best price for Powher

5. Xwerks Ignite – Best Beginner Pre-Workout Supplement – 4.5/5

Pros:

• Sustainable energy
• Increased endurance
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Higher price
• Contains sucralose

Who Is Xwerks Ignite Best For?

Xwerks Ignite pre-workout supplement is designed to give you sustainable energy to power through your day and workouts. It contains clinically studied ingredients such as caffeine, beta-alanine, and tyrosine to increase endurance and help you to focus.

The ingredients in Xwerks Ignite are in smaller doses than other pre-workouts, making this a good option for beginners. Plus, there are no dangerous chemicals or stimulants in Xwerks Ignite. If you’re not satisfied with the results, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

Ignite contains caffeine and sucralose, so you should avoid this pre-workout supplement if you are sensitive to stimulants or artificial sweeteners. Additionally, if you have other medical conditions that may be aggravated by caffeine or sucralose, you should consult with your doctor before taking Xwerks Ignite.

Side Effects

The side effects of taking Xwerks Ignite are minimal. However, because it contains caffeine, you may experience some side effects from the stimulant. Additionally, the artificial sweetener sucralose is included in Ignite, which may cause a change in insulin levels.

Xwerks Ignite Rating: 4.5/5

Ingredients: 4.5/5

Xwerks Ignite is ideal for beginners, and it contains ingredients like caffeine, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, Rhodiola rosea, DMAE, L-tyrosine, beta-alanine, calcium, magnesium lactate, L-citrulline malate. Together, these ingredients can give you the power to work out.

Flavors: 4.5/5

This simple yet effective supplement comes in four fruit flavors: green apple, orange, blue raspberry, and watermelon.

Customer Reviews: 4.5/5

Customers report experiencing increased pump and endurance, as well as improved focus and cognitive function when taking Xwerks Ignite. A few complained about the consistency of the powder in the tub.

Our Verdict

As a beginner-friendly pre-workout supplement with low doses of natural ingredients, Xwerks Ignite is formulated for those just starting out.

>> Check best price for Xwerks Ignite

6. Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout – Best Caffeine-Free Pre-Workout – 4.5/5

Pros:

• Stimulant-free
• No artificial sweeteners
• Plenty of flavors to choose from

Cons:

• No money-back guarantee
• Typical pre-workout taste

Who Is Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout Best For?

What sets Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout apart from the rest is that it is stimulant-free and made with all-natural ingredients. These include citrulline and beta-alanine, which can improve your overall exercise performance and delay the onset of muscle fatigue [10].

It comes in nine flavors, so you’re sure to find one that you enjoy. Compared to other supplements, it’s gentle on your stomach and won’t leave you feeling jittery or make you crash later on.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout is safe for most people. It has no artificial sweeteners, coloring, stimulants, or preservatives, so it’s gentle on your stomach. However, if you have any medical conditions that the ingredients in this product may aggravate, you should consult with your doctor before taking it.

Side Effects

The side effects of Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout are minimal. It contains high-quality, natural ingredients that are generally well tolerated. However, some people may experience an upset stomach, diarrhea, or bloating.

Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout Rating: 4.5/5

Ingredients: 4.5/5

Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout is loaded with ingredients to support your training. For example, BCAAs help reduce fatigue, and beta-alanine and taurine improve workout recovery.

Betaine anhydrous increases strength and power output, and citrulline enhances performance.

Flavors: 4.6/5

There are nine flavors to choose from, including fruit punch, blue raspberry, lemon-lime, sour grape, tropical punch, cherry limeade, green apple, orange, and strawberry lemonade.

Customer Reviews: 4.5/5

Customers love the power they get from the supplement, even though there’s no caffeine. They say it’s the best stim-free pre-workout they’ve tried and that it gives them the energy they need while also maintaining muscle mass.

Our Verdict

Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout brings you all the benefits of a pre-workout supplement without the jitters or crashes. You won’t need caffeine to power through your workout with this product.

>> Check best price for Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout

7. Cellucor Extreme Pre-Workout Powder – Most Effective Pre-Workout for Men – 4.4/5

Pros:

• 200 mg of caffeine
• Zero sugar
• 10+ years in the industry

Cons:

• Contains fillers
• Contains sucralose

Who Is Cellucor Extreme Pre-Workout Best For?

Cellucor’s Extreme Pre-workout Powder is an effective pre-workout for men. Cellucor has been in the industry for over a decade and is one of the most trusted sports nutrition brands.

The Extreme pre-workout is packed with 200 mg of caffeine for explosive energy. Plus, creatine nitrate (NO3-T) and NitraMax (NO3-C) give boost strength and performance, and CarnoSyn beta-alanine can delay muscle fatigue.

In addition, it has zero sugar and is low-calorie, so you can stay shredded without sacrificing taste or results.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

If you are pregnant or nursing, or currently taking PDE5 inhibitors or nitrates for chest pain, you should not take Cellucor Extreme Pre-workout Powder. Tyrosine can also interact with certain antidepressants, so speak with your doctor before taking this supplement.

Side Effects

You may experience side effects due to caffeine or artificial sweeteners. Furthermore, beta-alanine can cause a tingling sensation on your skin.

Cellucor’s Extreme Pre-workout Powder Rating: 4.4/5

Ingredients: 4.4/5

You may be able to push your body past its limits with powerful ingredients like beta-alanine, citrulline nitrate, creatine nitrate, caffeine, N-acetyl-L-tyrosine, and huperzine A. Huperzine A is a cognitive enhancer that may help you focus during your workout.

Flavors: 4.4/5

Cellucor Extreme Pre-workout Powder is available in classic flavors like Icy Blue Razz, Sour Batch Bros, Fruit Punch, Watermelon, and Ultra Frost.

Customer Reviews: 4.5/5

Customers enjoy the fun flavors and that it doesn’t contain any sugar. They say this product is especially great for early morning workouts, as it provides the energy they need to get going even if they’re not fully awake yet.

Our Verdict

Cellucor has over a decade of experience in the sports nutrition industry, so you can trust that their products are effective. Cellucor Extreme Pre-workout Powder is no exception. It’s packed with powerful ingredients to help you push your body through any workout.

>> Check best price for Cellucor Extreme Pre-workout Powder

8. Cellucor C4 on the Go Energy Drink – Best Pre-Mixed Pre-Workout – 4.4/5

Pros:

• Convenient pre-mixed drink
• Cognitive benefits
• 200 mg of caffeine for energy

Cons:

• Contains artificial sweeteners
• Less effective ingredients

Who Is Cellucor C4 On the Go Energy Drink Best For?

If you find yourself running out of steam, the Cellucor C4 on the Go Energy Drink can come in handy. This convenient pre-mixed drink is formulated with 200mg of caffeine to help you power through your workout and get the most out of it.

C4 on the Go also contains a blend of cognitive-enhancing ingredients such as tyrosine to help you stay focused and motivated throughout your session.

Who Should Avoid This Pre-Workout?

If you have any medical condition or are pregnant or nursing, avoid Cellucor C4 on the Go Energy Drink. PDE5 inhibitors and nitrates for chest pain can interact with this supplement, so it’s important to talk to your doctor first.

Side Effects

Caffeine and artificial sweeteners can cause side effects such as jitters, anxiety, and headaches. Beta-alanine is known to cause a tingling sensation on the skin, often referred to as “paresthesia.” While this sensation is harmless, it can be bothersome for some people.

Cellucor C4 on the Go Energy Drink Rating: 4.4/5

Ingredients: 4.3/5

Cellucor C4 on the Go Energy Drink is a powerful blend of vitamin B12, beta-alanine, niacin, citrulline, betaine anhydrous, caffeine, and tyrosine. This unique blend of ingredients provides a sustained release of energy that lasts for hours. However, it also contains sweeteners and flavorings.

Flavors: 4.4/5

C4 on the Go comes in refreshing flavors like Icy Blue Razz, Sour Batch Bros, Fruit Punch, Watermelon, and Ultra Frost.

Customer Reviews: 4.4/5

Customer reviews praise the convenience of this product and the fact that it doesn’t need to be mixed. They also prefer that it isn’t carbonated like other energy drinks. However, some people find the artificial sweeteners to be too sweet.

Our Verdict

Cellucor C4 on the Go Energy Drink is an excellent option for those who want a convenient, pre-mixed energy drink that can send you into overdrive. With 200mg of caffeine and cognitive-enhancing ingredients, it can give you the energy and focus you need to push yourself harder.

>> Check best price for Cellucor C4 on the Go Energy Drink

How We Chose the Best Pre Workout Supplements for 2022

A number of factors went into our selection of the best pre-workout supplements, from brand reputation and ingredient safety to flavors and customer reviews.

Brand Reputation

We only considered brands with a good reputation and are known for producing quality products. Manufacturers should have experience and expertise in the supplement industry.

Quality of Ingredients

We only selected products that contain high-quality ingredients. What you put into your body is important, so we made sure to only choose products with ingredients that are safe and clinically proven to be effective.

Potency

All of the products on our list are potent, meaning they contain a high concentration of active ingredients. This ensures you’re getting the most bang for your buck.

Flavor and Consistency

We only selected products that taste great and mix easily. No one wants to drink a pre-workout that tastes like chalk, so we made sure only to choose products with great flavors.

Label Transparency

All of the products on our list have transparent labels. This means you’ll know exactly what you’re putting into your body, and you won’t have to worry about any nasty surprises.

Benefits and Effectiveness

We want you to be getting the most out of your pre-workout, so we only selected products that have evidence behind their claimed benefits. This way, you can be sure you’re getting the results you want.

>> Check best price for Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train

Overall Value

We understand that not everyone has the same budget, so we made sure to include products at various price points. Most importantly, we only selected products that offer great value for the price.

Customer Reviews

We looked at customer reviews to see what actual users said about the products. This helps us get a better idea of how effective the products are. When most of the reviews are positive, you can be confident that you’re choosing a quality product.

Refunds and Guarantees

We prioritized brands that offer a money-back guarantee or some type of refund policy. This shows that the company is confident in its product and stands behind it.

What Is a Pre-Workout?

A pre-workout is a supplement you take before exercising to improve your performance.

Working out takes time, energy, and dedication to see results — and even then, there’s no guarantee you’ll reach your fitness goals. That’s where pre-workout supplements come in.

Taking these supplements before exercising can provide your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to get the most out of your training.

Pre-workout supplements come in various forms, including powders, capsules, and drinks. The best window for taking a pre-workout is about 30-60 minutes before you exercise.

This gives your body time to absorb the ingredients and put them to use. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the ingredients in the supplement. Whether you’re looking to build muscle or simply improve your overall fitness, a pre-workout supplement can help you achieve your goals.

>> Check best price for Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train

Advantages of Pre-Workouts

Pre-workout supplements offer several benefits that can help you reach your fitness goals, from increased energy and motivation to improved recovery.

Increased Energy and Endurance

Pre-workouts contain ingredients that can increase your energy levels and help you push through even the most intense workouts. Ingredients like caffeine and beta-alanine have been shown to improve endurance and performance.

Improved Muscle Pump

Ingredients used in pre-workouts can also help you achieve a better muscle pump. A muscle pump is when blood flow to the muscles is increased, resulting in a temporary increase in size. This can not only make you look bigger, but it can also help you lift heavier weights.

Enhanced Mental Focus

Pre-workouts can also help you improve your mental focus and concentration. This is especially helpful when you’re trying to push through a tough workout. Ingredients like caffeine and L-theanine have been shown to improve focus and attention.

Reduced Muscle Soreness

Muscle soreness is a common issue for people who work out regularly. Pre-workouts can help reduce muscle soreness by increasing blood flow to the muscles. This can help you recover from your workouts faster and feel less pain.

When used correctly, pre-workout supplements can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve physical fitness. But it’s important to remember that these supplements are not shortcuts to results. They should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise program.

>> Check best price for Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train

The Most Common Pre-Workout Ingredients

When it comes to finding a pre-workout supplement that will work for you, there are a few ingredients you should look for.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can improve focus and energy levels. It’s often combined with other ingredients like creatine and beta-alanine to enhance the effects.

While not every pre-workout contains stimulants, many people find them helpful in providing an extra boost of energy when they need it most.

Creatine

Creatine is a compound that’s been shown to increase muscle mass and strength [11]. It’s one of the most common ingredients in pre-workout supplements and is often combined with other ingredients like caffeine and beta-alanine.

Beta-Alanine

Beta-alanine is an amino acid that can improve exercise performance and increase muscle mass. It’s often combined with other ingredients like creatine and caffeine to provide a well-rounded pre-workout supplement.

Betaine Anhydrous

Betaine anhydrous is a compound that’s been shown to improve power and strength [12]. It’s often found in pre-workout supplements geared towards people looking to increase performance and size.

>> Check best price for Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train

Citrulline

Citrulline is an amino acid that can improve exercise performance. Research shows it can also reduce post-exercise fatigue and muscle soreness without lowering blood lactate levels [13].

L-Tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that’s been shown to improve cognitive function and memory. It can also increase dopamine availability, improving focus during your workout [14].

Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid that can improve exercise performance and increase fat metabolism [15]. If you’re looking to burn fat while building muscle, taurine is an ingredient you should look for in a pre-workout supplement.

>> Check best price for Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train

Pre-Workout Ingredients You Should Avoid

While our top picks contain natural ingredients and no banned substances, not all pre-workouts are made equal. Some contain harsh chemicals and artificial sweeteners that can be dangerous to your health. Here are a few ingredients you should avoid:

• Aspartame: Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that’s been linked to cancer and other health problems. It’s often used to sweeten pre-workout supplements, so check the label before you buy.
• Proprietary Blends: Proprietary blends are mixtures of ingredients that are not disclosed on the label. This makes it impossible to know how much of each ingredient you’re getting, which could be dangerous.
• Banned Substances: Some pre-workout supplements contain banned substances like DMAA and ephedrine. Be sure to check the label before you buy it to ensure the product doesn’t have any illegal or dangerous substances.

Possible Side Effects of Using Pre-Workout Supplements

Most pre-workout supplements are safe and don’t have any significant side effects. However, some people may experience minor side effects like:

• Jitters
• Anxiety
• Increased heart rate
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Diarrhea
• Post-workout crash

The caffeine in pre-workout supplements usually causes these side effects. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to avoid pre-workouts or start with a lower dose to see how you react. You can also look for caffeine-free pre-workouts such as Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre Workout.

In rare cases, some people may have an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients in a pre-workout supplement. If you experience severe side effects, stop using the product immediately and consult a doctor.

>> Check best price for Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train

Natural Alternatives to Pre-Workout Supplements

There are many natural alternatives to pre-workout supplements. If you’re looking for a more natural option, consider adding these to your diet:

• Caffeine
• Green tea
• Yerba mate
• Black coffee
• Beet juice
• Apple cider vinegar
• Ginseng
• Maca root powder
• Rhodiola rosea

These ingredients are all safe and effective ways to boost your energy and performance. You can find them in supplement form or add them to your favorite beverage.

FAQs: The Best Pre-Workouts and How to Use Them

Now that we’ve taken an in-depth look at the best pre-workout supplements in 2022, let’s answer some common questions about these products.

When’s the Best Time to Take a Pre-Workout?

The best time to take a pre-workout is at least 30 to 60 minutes before exercise. This allows your body to properly digest and absorb the nutrients in the pre-workout to reap the maximum benefits during your workout. Of course, everyone is different, and you may need to experiment a little to find the perfect timing for you.

How Long Will the Effects of a Pre-Workout Supplement Last?

Depending on how active you are, your diet, and your metabolism, the effects of a pre-workout supplement can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

If you have a fast metabolism, you may find that the effects wear off more quickly. If you have a slow metabolism, you may find that the effects last longer. Additionally, what you eat can also affect how long the results of a pre-workout supplement last.

Which Pre-Workout Supplement Is Most Effective?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best pre-workout supplement will depend on your individual fitness goals, needs, and preferences. However, Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train is one of the most effective pre-workouts available today.

This product contains clinically-proven ingredients to boost your energy, performance, and endurance. Plus, it’s affordable and comes in enjoyable flavors.

What’s the Best Way to Take a Pre-Workout Powder?

You should always mix the powder with water as directed on the label. Never “dry scoop” the powder, as this could be dangerous. The water helps break down the powder and makes it easier for your body to absorb.

How Much Caffeine Should Be in a Pre-Workout?

This is a matter of personal preference. Some people tolerate caffeine well and can handle large doses, while others are more sensitive to its effects and do better with smaller quantities.

If you’re new to taking pre-workouts, start with a low dose of caffeine and see how you tolerate it. You can always increase the dose later if you can handle more.

Pre-workout supplements like Blackwolf are clinically dosed with the optimal amount of caffeine to give you a clean energy boost without the jitters.

Our Final Take on the Best Pre-Workout Supplements for 2022

Pre-workout supplements are designed to give you energy and nutrients to help you make the most out of your workout. When used as directed, they are safe and effective ways to improve your performance.

Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train is the way to go if you’re looking for maximum endurance and off-the-charts energy. It’s packed with clinically-proven ingredients to help you go harder and longer.

For something a little less intense, try Blackwolf’s Pre-Workout Powder. This supplement is loaded with everything you need for a killer workout without fillers or artificial ingredients.

Whatever pre-workout supplement you choose, give yourself enough time to digest and absorb it properly. That way, you get the full benefits while minimizing the risk of side effects. And for the best results, always drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during your workout.

References:

1. “Office of Dietary Supplements – Dietary Supplements for Exercise and Athletic Performance.” NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 29 Mar. 2021, https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ExerciseAndAthleticPerformance-HealthProfessional.
2. Kurtz, Jennifer A., et al. “Taurine in Sports and Exercise – Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.” SpringerLink, BioMed Central, 26 May 2021, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12970-021-00438-0.
3. “Caffeine in Food and Dietary Supplements: Examining Safety: Workshop Summary.” National Library of Medicine, National Academies Press (US), 23 Apr. 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK202224/
4. Trexler, Eric T, et al. “International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Beta-Alanine.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, BioMed Central, 15 July 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4501114/
5. Giesbrecht T;Rycroft JA;Rowson MJ;De Bruin EA; “The Combination of L-Theanine and Caffeine Improves Cognitive Performance and Increases Subjective Alertness.” Nutritional Neuroscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21040626/
6. Srivastava, Shalini, et al. “Effect of Alpinia Galanga on Mental Alertness and Sustained Attention with or without Caffeine: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 14 Sept. 2017, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28910196/.
7. Kim, Hyesook, et al. “Association between Intake of B Vitamins and Cognitive Function in Elderly Koreans with Cognitive Impairment – Nutrition Journal.” BioMed Central, BioMed Central, 17 Dec. 2014, https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1475-2891-13-118
8. Matsui, Yasushi, et al. “Effect of a Leucine-Enriched Essential Amino Acids Mixture on Muscle Recovery.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Jan. 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6348179/
9. Schiffman, Susan S, and Kristina I Rother. “Sucralose, a Synthetic Organochlorine Sweetener: Overview of Biological Issues.” Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part B, Critical Reviews, Taylor & Francis, 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3856475/
10. Pérez-Guisado, Joaquín, and Philip M Jakeman. “Citrulline malate enhances athletic anaerobic performance and relieves muscle soreness.” Journal of strength and conditioning research vol. 24,5 (2010): 1215-22. doi:10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181cb28e0
11. Cooper, Robert, et al. “Creatine Supplementation with Specific View to Exercise/Sports Performance: An Update.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, BioMed Central, 20 July 2012, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3407788/
12. Cholewa, Jason M, et al. “Effects of Betaine on Body Composition, Performance, and Homocysteine Thiolactone.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, BioMed Central, 22 Aug. 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3844502/
13. Rhim, Hye Chang, et al. “Effect of Citrulline on Post-Exercise Rating of Perceived Exertion, Muscle Soreness, and Blood Lactate Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Journal of Sport and Health Science, Shanghai University of Sport, Dec. 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7749242/
14. Kühn, Simone, et al. “Food for Thought: Association between Dietary Tyrosine and Cognitive Performance in Younger and Older Adults.” Psychological Research, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, Sept. 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6647184/
15. Kurtz, Jennifer A, et al. “Taurine in Sports and Exercise.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, BioMed Central, 26 May 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8152067/