Best Pre-Workout Supplements in 2021

Knowing the best pre-workout supplements in 2021 will vastly increase returns from your training sessions.

I’ll tell you why.

How often have you hit the gym and been determined to have the mother-of-all workouts? You’ve planned on pushing yourself to the absolute limit and know you’re going to eke out each one of those final all-important muscle-burning reps.

But then it all goes wrong.

Halfway through your second set, you begin to feel fatigued. For some reason, those muscles of yours are not working to maximum capacity today. Again, you have the will, but your body says, No!

You’ve been there.

The fact is, it happens to all of us. Whether the issue is mental or physical, sometimes we can’t push through as much as we want.

Yet, there’s a simple answer.

Guys taking the best top pre workout supplements have seen stamina, power, focus, and results go off the scale. They’re working like freakin’ machines in every one of their sessions.

And I’m going to make it all clear.

This article will bring you the top 21 best pre-workout supplements in 2021 — products with proven ingredients that will take your results to the absolute max.

Best Pre Workout Supplements – Top 21

PreFierce
4-Gauge
Bulk
Pulse
Pre Jym
Wild Thing
C4 Ultimate
Ghost
Vapor
N.O Xplode
Gols Standard Pre-Workout
Mr. Hyde
Vintage Blast
Endorush
Mp Assault
Savage Roar
Infinity
C4
Shadow X
The Curse
Alpha Gx-7

1. PreFIERCE Pre-Workout

Hands down the most powerful pre-workout on the market right now.

Trufierce took the market by storm. How?

Simple, they created a handful of products and used a science-based approach to dose their products to guarantee effectiveness.

Every single ingredient in PreFIERCE pre-workout is dosed correctly, and every single ingredient has a purpose.

The serving size is 19.5 grams of quality ingredients, which is 2-3 times more than most other pre-workout supplements.

Here are the ingredient highlights:

Citrulline Malate (7,000 mg) – Super impressive dose of the #1 pump ingredient
Beta-Alanine (3,500 mg) – Finally, a properly dosed beta-alanine pre-workout to boost power and strength
Betaine Anhydrous (2,500 mg) – Added pump amplifies that also helps boost strength and energy production
L-Theanine (250mg) & Caffeine (250mg) – ‘Smart Caffeine’ combination for high energy and mental focus
VASO6 Green Tea Extract (150 mg) – Patented pump amplifier
Coconut Water Powder Complex (300 mg) – Keeps you hydrated and boosts electrolytes

And those are not all, just a few of the highlights.

Pros

Clinically dosed
No proprietary blends
Works well for exercise performance and to increase muscle
It gives you insane pumps
High stimulant dose
A crazy energy boost without the crash
Laser focus ingredients (10 active ingredients)
Smooth energy combo
No Sugar
Mixes very easily with water
Legal ingredients for drug-tested athletes

Cons

Only available from their official website
Artificial flavoring

2. 4 Gauge Pre-workout

One of the top pre-workouts on the market for nitric oxide is why it is on the list of best pre-workout supplements in the 2021 list.

With a small dose of creatine monohydrate, proven to replenish ATP, packed alongside the nitric oxide enhancing l-citrulline—it’ll take endurance levels to the limit.¹ ²

However, the creatine dose is probably too small to make a significant impact.

Citrulline malate is ramped up to a phenomenal 6000 mg, higher than most other pre-workouts on the market. So not only will your muscles be filled with stamina-boosting oxygen—you’ll be seeing shocking pumps.

Pros

No proprietary blends.
Four-hour working duration (significant for exercise performance)
Eight active ingredients
A large dose of citrulline malate
Good pre-workout supplement for exercise and muscle pumps
No artificial flavoring
Studies available on ingredients in the formula

Cons

Customers can only purchase it on the official 4 Gauge website.
Low stimulant dose
Includes sugar
Creatine dose low

3. Bulk Pre Workout by Transparent labs

One of the top pre-workouts in 2021 for guys looking to achieve incredible bulk.

It’s a monster of a pre-workout, designed to take the muscle-building hormone, testosterone, to maximum levels—achieved through its inclusion of zinc, boron, and vitamin D3.⁷ ⁸

Furthermore, its high l-citrulline malate dosage is ideal for guys looking for that serious pump.

Pros

Five different flavors make it the best pre-workout drink.
Includes Bioperine to improve absorption.⁹
Flavored with Stevia.
Ingredients with studies to back up the effectiveness
Works well for performance and power
Natural flavoring
It can help to increase muscle
0 gr sugar

Cons

Relatively low caffeine content.

4. Pulse by Legion Athletics

Pulse pre-workout is made only with natural ingredients; this pre-workout is ideal for guys looking to skyrocket stamina levels. A large dosage of caffeine elevates energy, while theanine increases mental focus. ¹⁰

Additionally, the inclusion of l-ornithine and betaine anhydrous raise endurance and assist in the utilization of fats for energy.¹¹

Intake of this pre-workout will take your body to the next level while working out.

It also contains beta-alanine, which guys either love or hate, so overall, it’s a rock-solid product.

Pros

No artificial sweeteners
Ideal for athletic performance—stamina-boosting power combined with fat-burning ability.
A huge dose of citrulline malate
Great for exercise performance and power
Six active ingredients dosed to the max
The serving size is 24 grams
Available from a large number of outlets.
0 gr sugar

Cons

One serving is two scoops, so It might not last as long as other pre-workouts.

5. Pre Jym

An excellent all-around performer, including BCAAs in the 2:1:1 ratio (leucine, isoleucine, valine), which can help alleviate fatigue and work as a booster to muscle protein synthesis.

However, amino acids bcaas do not necessarily belong in pre-workout supplements.

A large dose of the increasingly popular beta Vulgaris supercharges nitric oxide production. This raises both oxygen and nutrient-providing blood to the muscles—allowing for longer and more productive workouts.¹⁵

Pros

No proprietary blends or fillers.
Includes piperine to increase absorption.
Can increase focus
Good for exercise
A great dose of citrulline malate
No artificial flavoring
14 active pre-workout ingredients
No sugar

Cons

Only 20 servings per tub.
Big dose in the form of bcaas

6. Wild Thing Pre Workout

This could be one of the top products in 2021 for guys who struggle with focus.

Including the nootropics, phenylethylamine hydrochloride (PEA), and choline bitartrate, it will enhance concentration and alertness and improve neurotransmitter activity to the muscles.¹² ¹³

It contains some good ingredients, including agmatine sulfate, which is derived from arginine.

If vascularity and muscular pumps are your goals, this is a great pre-workout for seriously showing your body off to its absolute best—it has no less than four different nitric oxide boosters.

Pros

A powerful mental focus builder.
It is packed full of nitric oxide boosters.
Includes B vitamins for all-around health benefits.
A good dose of Citrulline malate
Works well for performance

Cons

Low caffeine content.
artificial flavoring

7. C4 Ultimate

This pre-workout is designed for guys who need an extreme mind and body kick and are not sensitive to large doses of stimulants.

While this does contain creatine to help prevent muscle fatigue, its primary focus is boosting energy. However, with 11 different stimulants (including caffeine, tyrosine, alpha-GPC, and theacrine), it could prove too potent for some.

Pros

Designed with energy-boosting in mind.
Eleven proven stimulants.
High caffeine content
40 servings per container.

8. Ghost Legend

A pre-workout that doesn’t scrimp on its dosages—containing four grams of citrulline and two grams of beta-alanine. However, it would be nice to see creatine included too.

While it contains a relatively low dose of caffeine—mind and body stimulation are achieved through the inclusion of theobromine,taurine, Rauwolfia vomitoria, and alpha-GPC (l-alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine).

Pros

No proprietary blends.
Numerous mind and body stimulants.
High caffeine content
Can increase energy
Good for exercise, training, and performance
Mixes easily with water

Cons

Only two flavors.

9. Vapor 1

This pre-workout from the giants at muscle tech is pretty good.

It contains 4 grams of pure citrulline, a good dose of beta-alanine 3.2 grams, and a vast 350 mg caffeine dose.

The Vapor 1 serving size is enormous, 21 grams!

Pros

It contains taurine to counteract the jittery side effects of caffeine.⁵
Scientifically proven ingredients.
Key ingredients dosed correctly
Huge stimulant dose
Works well for exercise performance
13 active ingredients

Cons

Premium-priced
It doesn’t mix well
Can cause adverse side effects due to high stimulant dose such as high blood pressure

10. N.O Xplode by BSN

In terms of pre-workout supplements, BSN launched this one back in 2004, so you could say it’s well-established on the gym scene.

The product concentrates heavily on ensuring every aspect of your workout is covered. It has five blends, each attending to nitric oxide boosting, stamina building, mental focusing, muscle shocking or post-workout recovery.

Each tub contains 60 servings, meaning that reordering is only required intermittently.

Pros

It contains over 50 ingredients.
Addresses all aspects of an intense workout.
Users compliment it for its pleasant flavor.
Suitable for exercise performance and power

Cons

With five proprietary blends, more than half of the ingredients are not quantified—Users cannot judge efficacy.

11. Gold Standard Pre Workout

Manufactured by Optimum Nutrition, one of the best-known names in supplementation, comes this effective pre-workout.

Through the inclusion of l-carnitine, this product provides both during and post-exercise benefits—proven to both enhance energy production and reduce recovery times in athletes.¹⁶ ¹⁷

What’s more, three grams of creatine monohydrate and 1.5 grams of beta-alanine mean your muscles will push through to the end of every set.

Pros

A trustworthy manufacturer.
Includes l-carnitine.
It is tested for banned substances.

Cons

Includes a proprietary blend.

12. Mr. Hyde

A great supplement that combines the typical ingredients of a pre-workout with the unexpected—suitable for those who want something a little different.

The usual suspects of beta-alanine, creatine and citrulline are all included—reducing acidosis, replenishing muscle-powering ATP and boosting nitric oxide levels.

More unfamiliar components are also included in the formulation. These include: noble orchids for stimulation and reducing inflammation, Citrus aurantium to boost the metabolism, and octopamine to accelerate fat loss. ¹⁸ ¹⁹ ²⁰

Pros

Takes a different approach to pre-workouts.
It contains critical pre-workout ingredients.
Good for exercise, performance, and training

Cons

It contains a very high caffeine dose
Small serving size

13. Vintage Blast Pre Workout

A pre-workout is formulated to act in a two-stage process. Firstly, arginine, citrulline, carnitine are included to ensure every lift is taken to the max and fatigue is alleviated.

Secondly, the inclusion of d-aspartic acid promotes testosterone production—essential for muscle protein synthesis. This ensures that every one of those hard-pushed sessions yields the results it deserves.²¹

Sweetened with stevia, it means excess calories are not contributing to hiding your definition.

Pros

Five grams of citrulline.
Two grams of d-aspartic acid.
Gluten-free, vegetarian-friendly, and suitable for keto diets.

Cons

Only 20 servings per tub.
artificial sweeteners

14. BSN Endorush Pre Workout

This supplement takes a three-pronged approach to workout enhancement.

Firstly, it includes ingredients to optimize performance—creatine and beta-alanine to ensure the muscles do not tire. Secondly, it’s designed for major pumps, escalating nitric oxide levels with its 1.5 grams of l-citrulline.

Thirdly, mental focus and attention are addressed through the inclusion of caffeine, yohimbine, and longan.

Pros

A holistic approach to training.
Available in four flavors.
30 servings per container.

Cons

Users have complained of a powdery texture.
Artificial sweeteners

15. Muscle Pharm Assault Pre Workout

A pre-workout that’s ideal for both bodybuilders and athletes, concentrating heavily on ensuring the muscles do not tire through ATP depletion.

This is achieved by both the inclusion of three grams of creatine to replace ATP, and l-glycine which stimulates natural creatine production. Lean muscle creation is also enhanced by betaine anhydrous, which promotes protein synthesis.

Pros

Potent muscle fatigue buster.
Includes numerous vitamins for all-around health benefits.
It contains taurine to counteract the unwanted side effects of caffeine.

Cons

Lacks beta-alanine.
Artificial sweeteners

16. Savage Roar by Dynamik Muscle

A milder pre-workout for guys who don’t want the insane power of the top pre-workout supplements on this list, nor the meager ingredient count of other products, such as Cobra Labs’ The Curse.

Beta-alanine and citrulline respectively contribute to reduce acidosis and increase oxygen delivery—yet there’s no testosterone boosting d-aspartic acid or ATP producing creatine.

Additionally, a hefty dose of caffeine can increase focus and energy levels, but there’s little extra to take this to the next level.

Pros

A good “starter” pre-workout.
It is reasonably priced.
It contains 30 servings.
Can improve endurance
Good for exercise performance
Contains citrulline malate

Cons

Lacks higher serving of some vital pre-workout ingredients
Artificial sweeteners

17. Infinity by Rari Nutrition

A supplement that aims to take away all the unwanted effects some pre-workouts can provide. However, it could be said that much of this is due to the low dosage, and lack, of ingredients.

Beta-alanine and l-citrulline are included, but there’s no creatine. Neither are there any stimulants, apart from caffeine—for mind or body.

With no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or sweeteners—it’s ideal for guys who want the most natural product available.

Pros

An all-natural product.
Low dosages for more sensitive guys.
30 servings per tub.

Cons

Low caffeine dose.
Small serving size
artificial sweeteners

18. C4 by Cellucor

Containing two proprietary blends, this pre-workout is designed to hit two areas of training—energy and performance.

For energy, it includes caffeine, turmeric, and pyridoxal 5’-phosphate. For lifting performance, the blend contains creatine, arginine, and beta-alanine.

If peace of mind is important, this supplement has achieved NSF certification for sport status—ensuring the ingredients are not banned as performance enhancers. ¹⁴

Pros

Certified for use in sports.
Respectful manufacturer.
No fillers.

Cons

Proprietary blends mean ingredients cannot be quantified.

19. Shadow-X by Cobra Labs

A gluten-free pre-workout, which includes a 350 mg caffeine dosage—about the same as a large coffee from your favorite drinks chain. Additionally, taurine and l-tyrosine boost your energy levels even further.

As this supplement lacks creatine and only has an average dosing of beta-alanine, it’s probably best suited to the cardio athlete or the “toning” lifter, rather than those looking to make massive gains.

Pros

Good for raising energy levels.
No proprietary blends.
Gluten-free.
Available in nine flavors.

Cons

Some key ingredients are low dosed.

20. The Curse by Cobra Labs

For guys who want to take things back to basics or are concerned about overloading their bodies with numerous ingredients, this supplement could appeal.

With only seven active ingredients (in three unspecified blends) it’s a simple formula. It does include creatine, l-citrulline, l-arginine, and caffeine—what you would expect in a pre workout.

However, the lack of beta-alanine may not be suitable for those who suffer from lactic acid build-up when lifting.

Pros

Large 50 serving container.
A simple formula for more sensitive guys.
Available from numerous outlets.
Useful for training and exercise
Can improve endurance

21. Alpha Gx7

Although a simple formula of nine ingredients, each one has scientifically proven benefits for enhancing workouts and speeding up post-exercise recovery.

The pre-workout essentials are nearly all there—beta-alanine, citrulline, carnitine, and caffeine—but it lacks creatine. Additionally, it’s good to see the inclusion of the mind focusing mucuna dopa and fat-burning yohimbine.²²

Pros

Simple formulation.
30 servings.
Third-party tested.

Cons

It doesn’t contain some of the best ingredients
Small serving size

Summary

Pre-workout supplements give you an extra boost to your workouts.

Studies show they increase focus, provide extra strength, reduce muscle fatigue, and improve post-exercise recovery.

Yet, all pre-workouts are not the same. Look for those that include quantified ingredients and compounds that have proven scientific enhancement benefits.

The best all-around pre-workout for monster sessions leading to the impressive lean muscle is PreFierce. It contains the top ingredients dosed to the max and a lot of studies behind them.

FAQ

“Do Pre Workouts Come With Side Effects?”

Usually no. If they contain caffeine, they can sometimes promote headaches or jitters.

The only common pre-workout ingredient known for side effects is beta-alanine, which can cause tingling. Similar to pins and needles, it’s completely harmless.

“What Is the Strongest Pre Workout?”

When taken as a whole, the pre-workout supplement with the most potent formulation is PreFIERCE.

“How do I know if a pre-workout is good?”

You can look at the ingredients label; if it contains a proprietary blend, it may be underdosed. Look for pre-workout supplements that contain ingredients with clinical studies that prove effectiveness, such as Caffeine, betaine, beta-alanine, and l-citrulline malate.

“Can pre-workout supplements be dangerous?”

Yes, pre-workout supplements can be dangerous. You always have to read the ingredients label before putting anything into your body for your health’s sake. Certain ingredients are illegal to use, and you have to be aware of that. Some pre-workout supplements also have large servings of caffeine, which can cause potential side effects. PreFierce is a safe pre-workout to use with zero illegal ingredients.

“What Will I experience when using a pre-workout?”

It depends on if you use one of the best pre-workout or a mediocre product. If you use an excellent pre-workout, you will feel more awake, get more muscle pumps while lifting, and have more energy throughout the workout. With continued use, ingredients such as betaine and beta-alanine will kick in, and you will experience a performance boost.

“How Long Can I Use A Pre-Workout for?”

You don’t have to cycle off a pre-workout, but it’s a good idea to cycle off for a week after 6-8 weeks of continued use. Some ingredients work better if used consistently in a pre-workout, like beta-alanine and betaine. Your body gets used to caffeine, and the effects will get weaker with time unless you cycle off.

“What Is the Best Pre-Workout Supplement for Weight Loss?”

The best pre-workout for weight loss is by PreFierce.

This pre-workout fat burner is specifically designed to improve workout sessions while burning an extra 278 calories per day.

“What Pre-Workout works best for performance?”

Pre-Workout supplements that contain betaine, caffeine, acetyl-l-carnitine, and beta-alanine work best for exercise performance. PreFierce contains all these ingredients and is considered the top pre-workout supplement.

“What’s the Best Pre Workout for Lean Muscle?”

PreFierce is the best pre-workout for lean muscle available today.

Its potent formulation, which includes the performance-enhancing betaine, beta-alanine, and L-citrulline malate for insane muscle pumps.

The best pre-workout supplement reviews from users have praised its shocking efficacy.

“How does Beta-Alanine Work?”

Beta-alanine can increase exercise performance and stamina. Beta-Alanine produces carnosine, and carnosine reduces lactic acid buildup in your body when exercising. That’s why it’s often placed in a pre-workout supplement.

“Are Pre Workout Supplements Safe?”

Yes. Although, if you suffer from any allergies, check the label to make sure none of the ingredients will aggravate your condition.

Always remember to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use and do not exceed the stated dose.

“When to Use Pre Workout?”

These supplements should be taken approximately 30 to 45 minutes before commencing your workout.

However, always check the manufacturer’s instructions first in case there are specific guidelines.

“What Should my Pre-Workout Nutrition be like?”

Nutrition is essential, but when it comes down to pre-workout nutrition, you may have to find it out on your own what works the best for you. Some people train in the morning on a fasted stomach while others don’t like training unless they have eaten a few meals. Generally, you want something light into your stomach before a workout like chicken breast, fish, fruits, whey protein, oats, or something that isn’t going to upset your stomach.

“Can You Use Pre Workout in the Evening?”

You can, although be careful. These supplements can contain stimulants, meaning they may interfere with sleep.

Try to take at least five hours before retiring to bed.

“Can You Use Pre-Workout For Running?”

Many pre-workouts are productive for exercise, such as running. Caffeine, beta-alanine, and betaine are all excellent for increasing endurance, which is perfect for any cardio training.

“What Are the Most Dangerous Ingredients in Pre Workout Supplements?”

If you purchase a proven and effective pre-workout formulated by a respected manufacturer as listed above, they usually contain zero dangerous ingredients.

However, cheaper versions of these supplements may contain fillers that could be damaging to health.

“Is Pre Workout Bad for Kidneys?”

While not directly dangerous, they can have secondary effects.

Pre-workouts often contain creatine and caffeine, both of which are diuretics. This can lead to dehydration that can cause kidney damage. Hence, always ensure you drink plenty of water when using pre-workouts.

“What Is the Safest Pre Workout?”

The safest pre-workout is PreFIERCE. There are no hidden ingredients—and everything is quantified. Therefore, you know exactly what elements and in what dosages you are taking.

“How Does Pre Workout Work?”

The ingredients contained within the best pre-workout supplement 2021 help to increase mental focus, boost energy, alleviate muscle fatigue, burn fat, and improve recovery times. These pre-workout supplements use clinical studies to formulate their products.

You can see a cool graph on the best pre-workout ingredients and how they work on the trufierce blog.