Best Pump Pre-Workouts for Energy, Muscle Gain & Vascularity in 2024

Discover top pump pre-workout formulas to boost your performance. Our guide reviews products designed for optimal energy, focus and results in each intense session.

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; we may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. You can learn more about our review process here.

Overview

Navigating the rather complex world of fitness supplements can leave one feeling lost and overwhelmed. Many products promise to be the ultimate solution for your workout needs, making it challenging to find what truly works.

If you’re struggling with fatigue or lack of focus during your training sessions, there’s a potential remedy – pump pre-workout supplements. These fitness aids are designed to invigorate your body and mind, preparing you for an intense workout session.

They aim to boost your energy, improve blood flow, and enhance muscle pumps. But, forget the noise in the market for a moment. Let’s make it easier for you. Here’s a comprehensive review of the best pump pre-workouts available today.

Best Pump Pre Workout

Best Pump Pre-Workout Overall:
Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train

Best Natural Pump Pre-Workout:
Crazy Bulk D-bal

Best Pump Pre-Workout for Focus:
Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout

Best Pump Pre-Workout with Creatine:
Nutrigo Lab Strength

Best All-in-One Pump Pre-Workout:
PrimeShred

Our Top Picks

#1 Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train

Key features

  • Number of Servings: 30
  • Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Iron, Vitamins B6 & B12, Citrulline Malate 2:1, Beta-Alanine, EN-XTRA®, KSM-66® Ashwagandha, and more
  • Dosing: 1 scoop(20g)
  • Available Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Green Apple
  • Price per Serving: $2.16

What we love:

  • 13 natural, powerhouse ingredients for peak performance
  • Smooth energy boost without jitters or crashing
  • Delicious flavors that mix easily
  • Backed by scientific research for strength and recovery
  • 60-day money-back guarantee

What to consider:

  • Pricing information requires direct inquiry
  • May have individual variability in effectiveness

Why we choose Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train:

Crazy Nutrition’s INTENSIVE Pre-Train is a premium pre-workout supplement that combines essential vitamins, natural extracts, and innovative compounds like EN-XTRA®. Designed to enhance drive, focus, and physical endurance, it provides clean energy, reduces fatigue, and supports explosive workouts. Ideal for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, this high-caliber supplement helps you challenge your limits and achieve your fitness goals.

Overview

Crazy Nutrition’s INTENSIVE Pre-Train redefines the standard for pre-workout supplements. Unlike the myriad of inadequate options on the market, often laden with subpar ingredients comparable to a mediocre energy drink, our formula is the result of an unwavering commitment to finding a superior solution.

We’ve crafted a blend that is an embodiment of real scientific backing and clean, transparent ingredients that foster an unparalleled energy surge and determination. Experience INTENSIVE Pre-Train, a pre-workout formula unlike any other. With 13 natural and unique ingredients, it provides a boost in energy and stamina without the crash or discomfort.

Delightful and refreshing in taste, it guarantees an exhilarating workout experience. Your satisfaction is our priority, with a stress-free refund if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Prioritizing safety and tranquility, our formula avoids unwanted side effects while delivering sustained energy and enhanced strength.

INTENSIVE Pre-Train Formula 2.0 offers holistic benefits for enhanced performance. With its blend of trusted natural ingredients, it boosts drive, energy, focus, and endurance. The upgraded Version 2 stands out with its potent formula, superior mixability, and great taste. Unlike other pre-workouts, it doesn’t rely solely on caffeine and ensures no post-exercise crash. Experience the dedication to excellence and fitness with INTENSIVE Pre-Train.

#2 Crazy Bulk D-bal

Key features

  • Number of Servings: 30
  • Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Iron, Vitamins B6 & B12, Citrulline Malate 2:1, Beta-Alanine, EN-XTRA®, KSM-66® Ashwagandha, amongst others
  • Dosing: 3 Capsules 45 mins pre-workout
  • Price per Serving: $2.38
  • Available Form: Capsules

What we love:

    • Robust Ingredients: Packed with 13 natural ingredients engineered for peak performance.
    • Energy Release: Delivers a smooth, sustainable energy boost, free from jitters or crashing effects.
    • Flavor Profiles: Delectable flavors that blend effortlessly for maximum enjoyment.
    • Research-Driven: Compositions underpinned by scientific research to support strength and expedite recovery.
    • Customer Assurance: Comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind.

What to consider:

  • Pricing Transparency: Pricing details are available upon request.
  • Individual Responses: Efficacy may vary based on personal health and fitness levels.

Why we choose Crazy Bulk D-bal:

In a flooded market of performance enhancers, CrazyBulk’s D-bal stands out with its unwavering commitment to effectiveness and safety. Each ingredient is carefully selected and supported by extensive medical studies, confirming its benefits for muscular strength and recovery. D-bal’s scientific rigor sets it apart, delivering more than just empty promises.

Overview

CrazyBulk is committed to excellence, providing high-quality, natural, and legal dietary supplements since 2004. Their focus is on enhancing health and vitality without needles or prescriptions. The 90-count capsules are securely sealed, ensuring quality and customer safety.

Suitable for all ages and dietary inclusivity, the vegetarian-friendly formula reflects their dedication to diverse lifestyles and values. CrazyBulk is known for its synergistic approach to performance, creating products like D-bal that not only work effectively on their own but also complement each other.

By combining these supplements with a balanced nutrition and a robust exercise routine, you can achieve optimal results. D-bal, available individually or as part of a comprehensive regimen, is a cornerstone of a personalized plan for health and vitality.

CrazyBulk promotes a structured approach to supplement intake, emphasizing specific capsule intake timings and aligning with medical guidance. By complementing this with a disciplined diet and exercise plan, users can expect substantial progress within a month. CrazyBulk’s considerate and evidence-driven approach aims to enhance personal health over a consistent period.

#3 Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout

Key features

  • Price per Serving: $3
  • Number of Servings: 20
  • Dose: 1 scoop (10.4 g) pre-workout
  • Available From: Powder
  • Key Ingredients: Beta alanine, l-citrulline, African oil palm extract, ashwagandha extract, caffeine anhydrous, Alpha-GPC, theobromine, Dynamine

What we love:

  • Armed with a potent 200 mg of caffeine for an unrivaled energy uptick.
  • The Tiger’s Blood flavor, an invigorating choice, has garnered acclaim.
  • Includes a revitalizing 225 mg of ashwagandha extract for stress mitigation and enhanced vitality.
  • Formulated with performance-supporting ingredients beta-alanine and L-citrulline.
  • Offers a convenient subscribe-and-save option to ensure you never miss a beat.

What to consider:

  • Currently limited to just two flavor options, with Yuzu Peach failing to resonate with our discerning product testers.
  • At a premium price point of $3 per serving, it’s a significant investment in your workout regime.
  • Critical ingredients like citrulline and beta-alanine are present, but in doses that fall short of optimal potency.

Why we choose Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout:

Onnit’s Alpha BRAIN Pre-Workout is a formulated concoction tailored for enthusiasts seeking a blend of mental clarity and physical vigor during their fitness routines. While the Tiger’s Blood flavor stands out as a palatable favorite, a limited selection casts a shadow on the sensory experience. Despite its price tag, those with a focus on cognitive enhancement may find the investment worthwhile.

Overview

Onnit’s craft in fusing premier nootropics with traditional energizing ingredients results in Alpha Brain pre-workout—a fusion aimed at elevating your physical workout to a mental marathon. The renowned supplement, initially popularized by discussions on The Joe Rogan Experience, combines classic motivations with Onnit’s unique blends for a comprehensive mental and physical workout preparation.

Fortified with an arsenal of well-researched components, from the Onnit Flow Blend’s amino acids supporting neurotransmitter activity to Cat’s Claw extract for cellular fortification, Alpha Brain positions itself as more than a simple supplement. It’s a ritual that fans claim heightens mental clarity and physical readiness.

Ensuring a balanced caffeine intake is crucial before consuming a potent 200 mg serving. Alpha Brain, a supplement that embodies focus and exertion, offers value to mentally driven athletes but may be costly for those on a tight budget. It caters to the focused and could be the pre-workout breakthrough they’ve been waiting for.

#4 Nutrigo Lab Strength

Key features:

  • Price per Serving: $2.10
  • Available Form: Powder
  • Key Ingredients: Beta-Alanine, Taurine, Citrulline Malate, L-Arginine, N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, Creatine Hydrochloride, Creatine Malate, Caffeine Anhydrous, Niacin, Bitter Orange Extract, Vitamin B6, Rhodiola Extract, Cocoa Seed Extract, Beet Root Extract, Mountain Rose Root Extract, Alpinia Galgant Rhizomes
  • Dose: 2 Scoops (15g) pre-workout
  • Number of Servings: 30

What we love:

  • Muscle Development: Promotes significant muscle bulk and strength.
  • Performance Enhancement: Formula is designed to boost athletic prowess.
  • Elevated Energy: Increases energy for sustained workout intensity.
  • Mental Sharpness: Helps sharpen focus and alertness, essential for peak performance.
  • Recovery Speed: Assists in muscle recovery post-exercise, reducing downtime.
  • Fat Loss Adjunct: Acts as a catalyst for fat burning and paves the way for weight loss.

What to consider:

  • Limited Flavor Variety: Currently available in only one flavor option, which may not appeal to all tastes.
  • Exclusive Online Availability: The product is only purchasable through online channels.
  • Variable Individual Outcomes: Results can differ between users based on several individual factors.

Why we choose Nutrigo Lab Strength:

Nutrigo Lab Strength is a top-tier supplement, highly recommended for its unmatched composition and effectiveness. It combines scientifically-backed ingredients known for their impact on muscle growth and recovery. Trusted by elite athletes and supported by numerous studies, it consistently delivers impressive results. For those seeking tangible outcomes, Nutrigo Lab Strength is the ultimate choice.

Overview

Nutrigo Lab Strength emerges as a competitor in the intense realm of workout supplements. Its formulation is a thoughtful symphony of Beta-Alanine, Taurine, and other potent ingredients dedicated to the enhancement of one’s physical regimen.

Distinguished by the absence of caffeine crashes and unwanted additives, Nutrigo Lab Strength stands as a paragon of organic integrity amongst its peers. Priced at $68.92, it reflects a commitment to quality underpinned by the ethos of its manufacturer, Key Player Limited—a leader in health and fitness headquartered in Dubai.

Nutrigo Lab Strength enhances workout sessions with its natural composition, targeting athletic performance. It boosts vigor, optimizes circulation, and amplifies muscular force through ingredients like caffeine anhydrous, L-arginine, citrulline malate, and creatine.

#5 PrimeShred

Key features:

  • Price per Serving: $2.16
  • Key Ingredients: Green Tea Extract, L-Tyrosine, L-Theanine, Rhodiola Rosea Root, Capsaicin Extract, Caffeine Anhydrous, and more
  • Available Form: Capsule
  • Dose: 3 Capsules pre-workout
  • Number of Servings: 30

What we love:

  • Advanced thermogenic properties for optimal fat loss
  • Boosts mental clarity and sustained energy without the crash
  • Contains mood-enhancing vitamins to support positivity during diets
  • Fully disclosed ingredients for informed supplementation
  • Supports vegetarian and vegan dietary choices

What to consider:

  • Requires initiation of contact to reveal pricing
  • May yield different results based on individual responses

Why we choose PrimeShred:

PrimeShred is the ultimate thermogenic fat burner, targeting key areas of weight management like thermogenesis and mood enhancement. With clean, science-backed ingredients, it offers a peak performance experience that supports health and fitness goals effectively and ethically.

Overview

PrimeShred is not just another fat burner in a saturated market – it stands out for its unique blend of advanced thermogenic properties, mental clarity and mood-enhancing ingredients. This makes it the top choice for anyone looking to achieve their leanest physique yet.

PrimeShred stands out as a supplement that combats fatigue, elevates mood, and supports calorie restriction diets. Its carefully selected blend of ingredients works together to boost energy, enhance focus, and promote a positive outlook. With a commitment to transparency and safety, PrimeShred discloses all ingredients and exceeds purity standards set by the European Union.

PrimeShred is the superior choice for weight management, offering unsponsored customer reviews as social proof of its effectiveness. Backed by science and rigorous testing, this advanced formula empowers users to achieve their desired physique. Say goodbye to mediocre weight loss supplements and unlock your potential with PrimeShred.

How Pump Products Work?

Pump pre-workouts are designed to enhance vasodilation – the widening of blood vessels. When you exercise, your muscles need more oxygen and nutrients to sustain their efforts. This demand is met by increasing blood flow[1].

Pump pre-workouts employ ingredients like Citrulline and Arginine, known for their vasodilatory effects. They stimulate your body to produce more Nitric Oxide, a molecule that sends a relaxing signal to the smooth muscles around your blood vessels.

As these muscles relax, your vessels expand, allowing more blood, oxygen, and nutrients to reach your hard-working muscles. The result? Greater stamina, improved strength, and those coveted muscle pumps[2].

So, the best pump supplement fine-tunes your body’s engine, helping you push through barriers and reach new heights in your fitness journey.

How We Tested and Picked the Best Pre-Workout for Pump

Our process was meticulous and thorough, involving extensive research, product testing, and even crowdsourcing opinions from fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

We evaluated each supplement based on several key parameters. The ingredients breakdown was the focus area – we were particularly interested in products containing proven vasodilators like Citrulline and Agmatine.

We also assessed the stimulation effect – how effectively did each product boost energy levels and focus? Taste and flavor were considered, because let’s face it, no one wants to chug down something unpleasant before hitting the gym.

Lastly, we scrutinized nutrition labels to ensure transparency and quality. After sifting through countless pump supplements, we’ve narrowed down the top pump pre-workouts that truly stand out in the market.

Benefits of Pump Pre-Workouts

  • Increased Performance: These supplements are crafted to boost your stamina and strength, so you push harder and perform better during your workouts. They help you break through plateaus, to make each session more effective.
  • Enhanced Focus: Many pump pre-workouts contain ingredients that improve mental clarity and focus. This means you’re not just physically primed for your workout, but mentally as well. It’s this mind-muscle connection that often makes the difference between a good workout and a great one.
  • Faster Recovery: By improving blood flow, these supplements help speed up recovery post-workout. They ensure your muscles receive ample nutrients and oxygen, reducing soreness and helping you bounce back faster for your next session.
  • Better Nutrient Delivery: Improved vasodilation means more efficient nutrient delivery to your muscles. This can enhance the effectiveness of other supplements you’re taking, like protein or BCAAs, by ensuring they reach your muscles swiftly and effectively.
  • Motivation Boost: Let’s be honest, seeing your muscles pumped up can provide a significant psychological boost. It’s a visual confirmation of your hard work and can motivate you to keep pushing towards your fitness goals.

Who Should Use Pump Pre-Workouts?

  • Fitness Enthusiasts and Athletes: If you’re someone who consistently pushes their body to its limits, pump products can be a valuable addition. They can help enhance your performance, improve focus, and speed up recovery – all key components of an effective training regimen.
  • Morning Exercisers: For those who love getting their sweat session in at the crack of dawn, stimulant-based pump powders can provide the energy kick you need to jumpstart your day and your workout. However, remember that caffeine has a half-life of about 5 hours, so, get your timing right!
  • People Seeking Enhanced Muscle Pumps: If you’re after that satisfyingly swollen look post-workout, pump pre-workouts are for you. They promote vasodilation, helping you achieve those coveted muscle pumps.
  • Individuals on a Stimulant Break: Non-stimulant pump pre-workouts can be a great choice for those taking a break from caffeine or other stimulants but still want to maintain high energy levels during workouts.
  • Those Looking to Maximize Other Supplements: Pump pre-workouts improve nutrient delivery, making them a good choice for people using other supplements like protein or BCAAs. The enhanced circulation ensures these nutrients reach your muscles more efficiently.

How To Choose The Best Pump Pre-Workouts

Effective Ingredients

Not all pumped supplements are created equal. The effectiveness largely depends on the ingredients used.

For instance, L-citrulline is an amino acid that boosts nitric oxide production in the body, enhancing blood flow to your muscles during workouts[3]. Betaine can boost power and strength, while beta-alanine can help delay muscle fatigue[4].

Stimulant Content

Some people thrive with a caffeine boost before their workout, while others may experience jitteriness or trouble sleeping. Always check the stimulant content, and if you’re sensitive, look for caffeine-free options.

Transparency

Some companies use ‘proprietary blends’ as a way to hide the exact amounts of each ingredient in their products. Opt for brands that clearly list the quantity of each ingredient on the label. This transparency lets you know exactly what and how much you consume.

Taste and Mixability

A pre-workout that tastes like chalk or doesn’t mix well can be off-putting. Customer reviews often provide insights into these aspects, so take time to read through them.

Value for Money

Consider the cost per serving, not just the overall price tag. An inexpensive product might seem like a bargain but could end up costing more in the long run if it requires multiple servings to meet your needs.

Company Reputation

A company’s reputation can give you a sense of the product’s quality. Look for companies with positive customer reviews, high ratings, and good customer service. It’s also worth checking if the company follows good manufacturing practices (GMP) to ensure their products are consistently high-quality.

How to Use Pump Pre-Workouts

When using pump pre-workout supplements, timing is everything. As a general rule of thumb, consume your pre-workout 20-30 minutes before hitting the gym. This gives the ingredients enough time to kick in, ensuring you’re revved up and ready to go when you start your workout. Remember, everyone’s body is different, so you may need to tweak this timing a bit to find what works best for you.

As for dosage, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Overdoing it won’t necessarily give you better results and could lead to unwanted side effects like jitters or an upset stomach. If you’re new to pre-workouts, consider starting with half the recommended dose to assess your tolerance.

And remember, while pre-workout supplements can boost your performance, they’re not a substitute for a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and a well-structured training program.

final-sec verdictConclusion

Pump pre-workouts can be a valuable addition to your fitness routine, helping to maximize your workouts and achieve better muscle pumps. However, they’re not one-size-fits-all, and the best choice depends on various factors like ingredients, stimulant content, taste, value for money, and the brand’s reputation.

While these supplements can boost your performance, remember, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. A balanced diet, proper hydration, and a well-structured training plan are equally crucial for reaching your fitness goals. If you’re considering adding a pump pre-workout to your regimen, take the time to understand its potential benefits and drawbacks, and, of course, consult with a nutritionist if you have any concerns.

Now, it’s over to you, my friend. You’re now well-positioned to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and fitness objectives. Here’s to making every workout count!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Should you take pre-workout every day?
A. It’s generally safe to take pre-workout supplements daily. However, it’s not necessarily recommended. Your body can build up a tolerance to the stimulants in these products, reducing their effectiveness over time. Plus, taking a break can help prevent potential side effects like disturbed sleep or jitteriness. Listen to your body and consider cycling your pre-workout use.

Q. Is Pump Pre-Workout Good For You?
A. Pump pre-workouts can be beneficial for enhancing athletic performance, increasing blood flow to muscles, and improving overall workout intensity. However, they’re not essential for everyone. If you maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get enough rest, you might already have optimal workout performance.

Q. What happens if you take pre-workout but don’t work out?
A. If you take pre-workout and don’t exercise, you might feel jittery or restless due to the stimulants, especially caffeine. Pre-workouts are designed to enhance physical performance, so it’s best to use them when you plan to be active.

Q. What are the best stim-free pre-workouts for muscle pumps?
A. Stimulant-free pre-workouts are a great alternative for those sensitive to caffeine or training late in the day. These products focus on ingredients like citrulline, betaine, and creatine to boost muscle pumps without the jitters.

Q. Are there any negative side effects of using pump supplements?
A. Like all supplements, pump pre-workouts can have potential side effects, especially when taken in excess. These can include jitteriness, insomnia, digestive upset, and increased heart rate. Always start with a lower dose to assess your tolerance, and consult your nutritionist if you have any concerns.

4 Sources

BodybuildingReviews avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in BodybuildingReviews, you can read more about the editorial process here.

  1. Regulation of Increased Blood Flow (Hyperemia) to Muscles During Exercise: A Hierarchy of Competing Physiological Needs: https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00035.2013
  2. A comparison of citrulline and arginine for increasing exercise-induced vasodilation and blood flow: https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-12-S1-P6
  3. Acute L-Citrulline Supplementation Increases Nitric Oxide Bioavailability but Not Inspiratory Muscle Oxygenation and Respiratory Performance: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13103311
  4. Effect of betaine supplementation on power performance and fatigue: https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-6-7

Denis Faye, MS

Denis Faye, MS, is a nutrition consultant, journalist, and athlete committed to changing people's lives for the better.
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