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​Top 5 Healthy Pre-workout Supplements

​Top 5 Healthy Pre-workout Supplements

Posted by Leonard Shemtob on Nov 08, 2024

The right pre-workout supplement can give you the energy, focus, and endurance you need to perform at your best. But with so many options out there, finding a healthy choice can be a challenge.

In this article, we’ll explore the top five healthy pre-workout supplements that can help fuel your workouts. Let’s dive into some safe, natural ways to boost your exercise routine!

[Related Article] Best Non Stim Pre Workouts


Short Summary

  • Healthy pre-workout supplements offer a natural energy boost for workouts.
  • They can improve focus, endurance, and performance without harmful additives.
  • Easy on Your Body: Contains natural ingredients that are gentler on your system.
  • Key pre-workout ingredients to look for include caffeine from natural sources, BCAAs, and beta-alanine.
  • Variety of Choices: There are many different supplements available, so you can find one that fits your needs and preferences.
  • Check out our top healthy pre-workout supplement, SuperHuman Pump, which supports natural energy, muscle pumps, and enhances your performance during workouts.


First, What is a Pre-Workout?

A pre-workout is a type of supplement you take before exercising to help improve your performance. It’s designed to give you more energy, better focus, and increased endurance during your workout.

Pre-workouts come in many forms, like powders, drinks, or capsules, and usually contain ingredients like caffeine, amino acids, and vitamins that help fuel your body. Taking pre-workout supplements can help you feel more energized and ready to push yourself further in your exercise routine.


What is a Healthy Pre-Workout?

A healthy pre-workout is a supplement made with natural, safe ingredients designed to boost your energy, focus, and performance before exercise.

Unlike regular pre-workouts, which may contain artificial additives or high levels of stimulants, healthy pre-workouts focus on providing clean, effective nutrients to support your workout without harming your body.


Benefits of a Healthy Pre-Workout

A healthy pre-workout can offer several benefits to enhance your workout experience:

  • More Energy: They give you a natural boost of energy without the crash, helping you feel more awake and ready to exercise.
  • Better Focus: These supplements can help you stay focused, so you can work out harder and stay on track with your routine.
  • Increased Endurance: Healthy pre-workouts support longer, more intense workouts by helping your body perform at its best.
  • Gentler on the Body: With clean, natural ingredients, they are easier on your stomach and overall health compared to traditional pre-workouts that may have artificial additives.
  • Improved Recovery: Some healthy pre-workouts include ingredients that help reduce muscle soreness, so you can recover faster after exercise.
  • Enhanced Performance: Healthy pre-workouts support better strength, speed, and overall workout performance.
  • Improved Performance: By enhancing your strength and endurance, healthy pre workouts can help you push harder and achieve better results during your workouts.
  • Reduced Fatigue: Many healthy pre workouts help delay feelings of tiredness, so you can exercise longer without feeling worn out.
  • Muscle Growth: Promotes muscle growth and development when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.


Our List for the Best Healthy Pre-workouts

  1. Alpha Lion SuperHuman Pump – Our Top Choice for a Healthy Pre-workout + Best Overall
  2. Noxygen Preworkout by Purus Labs – Best Healthy Pre-workout for Pumps, Focus and Energy.
  3. Bucked Up Pre-Workout by Bucked Up – Best Healthy Pre-workout for Energy, Focus and Overall Performance.
  4. Gorilla Mode Nitric Pre-Workout by Gorilla Mind – Best Healthy Pre-workout for Nitric Oxide, Hydration and Performance.
  5. Edge Pump by Psycho Pharma – Best Healthy Pre-workout for Pump, Vascularity, and Endurance.


1- Alpha Lion SuperHuman Pump

Alpha Lion SuperHuman Pump

Superhuman Pump by Alpha Lion is a stimulant-free pre-workout designed to enhance muscle pumps and overall exercise performance without the need for stimulants. This pre-workout (42 servings) is formulated to increase vascularity, strength, and power output.

Superhuman Pump promotes lasting muscle fullness throughout your workout and noticeable vascularity after the first set. It also includes a nootropic blend aimed at enhancing the mind-muscle connection.

The formula features clinically dosed ingredients like Citrulline Malate, Beta-Alanine, and Glycerpump (Glycerol) to support muscle pump and endurance. It also includes Organic Lion's Mane, Alphasize (Alpha GPC), and Pink Himalayan Sea Salt for improved focus and hydration.

Superhuman Pump is suitable for those sensitive to stimulants, night athletes, or anyone looking to take a break from caffeine.

Key Ingredients of Alpha Lion SuperHuman Pump

8000 mg of L-Citrulline Malate: L-Citrulline is an amino acid that supports various training and recovery needs. It helps improve blood flow to muscles and enhances oxygen utilization during workouts. Additionally, L-Citrulline contributes to muscular energy, leading to better strength, performance, endurance, and recovery. It also promotes increased nitric oxide (N.O.) production, which can enhance muscle fullness and vascularity.

150 mg of S7: A potent blend of plant-based ingredients that can improve nitric oxide levels by up to 230%, promoting muscle pumps and vascularity.

3000 mg of HydroPrime: HydroPrime is similar to Glycerol but offers a stronger pump effect without the clumping often associated with other forms.

3500 mg of Beta-Alanine: It is a non-essential amino acid that helps increase muscle carnosine levels. This increase can reduce muscle fatigue, allowing for more work at high intensities.

600 mg of Organic Lion's Mane: This ingredient acts as a cognitive enhancer, helping you maintain focus and stay engaged during your workouts, while also contributing to better recovery.

300 mg of AlphaSize: AlphaSize (Alpha GPC) is a growth hormone potentiator shown to sharpen mental focus, supporting concentration and "in-the-zone" focus throughout the workout.

Key Benefits of Alpha Lion SuperHuman Pump

  • It enhances your pumps and vascularity.
  • It helps hydrate your muscles.
  • It improves your focus.
  • It boosts your strength and overall power output.
  • It accelerates your workout recovery.


2- Noxygen Pre-workout by Purus Labs

Noxygen Preworkout by Purus Labs

NOXygen® Pre-Workout combines the original stimulant-free NOXygen formula with a blend of ingredients formulated to enhance energy and focus. This product is ideal for those who enjoyed the original NOXygen and often combined it with their preferred pre-workout.

This pre-workout powder is designed to provide intense energy, improved focus, and significant muscle pumps, making it suitable for individuals looking to elevate their workouts. The formula features a combination of NO3-T® Citrulline Nitrate and HydroMax® Glycerol, along with beta-alanine, VitaCholine®, and extended-release caffeine. 

These ingredients work together to support clean, sustained energy and hydration without restricting blood flow.

Key Ingredients of Noxygen Pre-workout by Purus Labs

Beta-Alanine (3200 mg): Helps buffer lactic acid buildup, potentially leading to improved performance.

Glycerol Powder (50% Glycerol, as HydroMax EZ Flow) (1500 mg): May aid in muscle cell hydration, enhancing endurance and muscle pumps.

Citrulline Nitrate (as NO3-T) (1000 mg): Supports nitric oxide production, contributing to better muscle pumps.

Betaine Nitrate (as NO3-T) (1000 mg): Increases nitric oxide levels, promoting vasodilation for improved circulation.

Choline Bitartrate (as VitaCholine) (750 mg): May boost athletic endurance and assist in muscle recovery.

L-Tyrosine (500 mg): Supports mental alertness.

Caffeine Anhydrous (200 mg): Enhances energy and focus.

zumXR Extended Release Caffeine (67 mg): Provides sustained energy release throughout the workout.

Huperzia Serrata Extract (1% Huperzine A) (10 mg): Supports focus and cognitive function.

Key Benefits of Noxygen Pre-workout by Purus Labs

  • This pre workout improves your focus.
  • It increases your energy levels.
  • It boosts your muscle pumps.
  • It improves your lean muscle mass.
  • It enhances your alertness.
  • It helps improve your cognitive functions.
  • It increases your overall workout endurance.

Customer Reviews: Noxygen Pre-workout by Purus Labs

 Noxygen Preworkout

“This mixes well with my other powdered supplements and tastes great. No complaints.”

-Pre-workout a.


3- Bucked Up Pre-Workout by Bucked Up

Bucked Up Pre-Workout by Bucked Up

Bucked Up Pre Workout is formulated to provide a boost of energy, enhanced focus, and improved endurance. This pre-workout powder features scientifically supported ingredients like Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, and Alphasize, which work together to increase nitric oxide production, reduce muscle fatigue, and improve mental clarity. These benefits contribute to better blood flow, enhanced muscle pumps, and a stronger mind-muscle connection during your workout.

Natural ingredients such as Deer Antler Velvet Extract and Astragin are added to support overall performance and nutrient absorption. This blend makes Bucked Up Pre Workout a perfect choice for those looking for an effective pre-workout experience.

Key Ingredients of Bucked Up Pre-Workout by Bucked Up

AlphaSize (Alpha GPC): This ingredient is known to enhance growth hormone levels and has been clinically shown to sharpen mental focus, helping you stay in the zone during workouts.

Actigin: A natural compound that increases VO2 max and athletic performance. It extends exercise duration, reduces inflammation during workouts, and supports the replenishment of aged muscle cells with new, healthy ones.

Deer Antler Velvet: This ingredient has been shown to improve muscle growth, recovery, and overall performance.

Citrulline (6g): This amino acid helps improve blood flow to the muscles, contributing to better muscle pumps. It also supports heart and blood vessel health and may strengthen the immune system.

Astragin: This ingredient has been clinically shown to enhance the absorption of Citrulline, maximizing blood flow and muscle pumps during training.

Taurine: This amino acid has antioxidant properties and may improve exercise capacity. Research also suggests that Taurine, when combined with caffeine, may help enhance mental performance.

Key Benefits of Bucked Up Pre-Workout

  • This pre-workout increases your energy levels.
  • It improves your focus.
  • It accelerates your muscle recovery.
  • It boosts your pumps.
  • It helps increase your endurance.
  • It enhances your overall athletic performance.
  • It speeds up your muscle recovery.

Customer Reviews: Bucked Up Pre-Workout

 great stuff

“worked out like an animal only one problem a raging woody that wouldn't quit never tried vagra but this is what it must be like”

-rick


 Felt this one

“I felt this one from like 20 or so min after I took it. Taste is good and mixxes well. Feel like i have so much energy when I use it. Workout was solid and felt focused too.”

-David P.


4- Gorilla Mode Nitric Stimulant Free Pre-Workout by Gorilla Mind

Gorilla Mode Nitric Stimulant Free Pre-Workout by Gorilla Mind

Gorilla Mind Nitric Stimulant-Free Pre-Workout is formulated to boost nitric oxide levels, enhancing endurance, strength, and muscle pumps. This non-stimulant formula also provides intramuscular hydration to support better performance.

Designed to improve muscle strength and endurance, it is a great choice for those looking for a stimulant-free pre-workout that delivers powerful results.

Key Ingredients of Gorilla Mode Nitric

10,000 mg Pure L-Citrulline: L-Citrulline is known for boosting nitric oxide levels, improving blood flow, and enhancing muscle pumps. This formulation uses pure L-Citrulline, without the addition of Malic Acid, for maximum potency. The result is better nutrient delivery, increased endurance, and reduced muscle soreness post-training.

5000 mg Creatine Monohydrate, 4000 mg Glycerpump, 4000 mg Betaine Anhydrous: A combination of powerful ingredients designed to enhance muscle strength, size, and power. Creatine supports strength and muscle growth, while Glycerpump and Betaine provide hydration, muscle pumps, and improved endurance.

1500 mg Nitrosigine, 1500 mg Agmatine Sulfate: These ingredients help boost nitric oxide production. Agmatine Sulfate supports blood flow by enhancing eNOS expression, while Nitrosigine further enhances nitric oxide pathways, promoting stronger performance during workouts.

1500 mg Sodium Nitrate, 254 mg VasoDrive-AP: These ingredients support vasodilation from different angles. Sodium Nitrate focuses on the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway, while VasoDrive-AP optimizes nutrient and oxygen delivery to muscles, helping to improve endurance and overall performance.

Key Benefits of Gorilla Mode Nitric by Gorilla Mind

  • It increases nitric oxide.
  • It improves your pumps and muscle volume.
  • It boosts nutrient delivery to your muscles.
  • It helps reduce muscle soreness.

Customer Reviews: Gorilla Mode Nitric by Gorilla Mind

 good one

“Hard to find a good non stim pre workout - this one delivers. Good pumps and help me to be less sore.”

-T.L.


5- Edge Pump by Psycho Pharma

Edge Pump by Psycho Pharma

Psycho Pharma Edge Pump is a supplement designed to enhance blood flow and deliver intense muscle pumps. It supports maximum hydration and performance without the use of stimulants, making it ideal for nighttime workouts. Additionally, this supplement helps improve muscle development and nutrient absorption.

Key Ingredients of Edge Pump by Psycho Pharma

L-Citrulline Malate: Boosts nitric oxide production in the body, improving blood flow and enhancing muscle fullness and pumps.

HydroPrime Glycerol Powder (65%): Pulls more water into your blood, resulting in significant muscle pumps.

L-Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate 2:1 (AAKG): Increases muscle hyperemia or "pump" significantly after exercise.

AstraGin: Improves the absorption of amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and phytonutrients, supporting better nutrient uptake.

Pink Himalayan Salt: Supports electrolyte balance, hydration, and delivers powerful muscle pumps.

Key Benefits of Edge Pump by Psycho Pharma

  • This pre-workout enhances your muscle pumps.
  • It boosts your vascularity.
  • It helps improve your cell volumization.
  • It boosts muscle fullness.
  • It helps improve your endurance.
  • It enhances hydration.
  • It supports your overall performance.

Customer Reviews: Edge Pump by Psycho Pharma

 Pumps for Days

“Best pump product I have ever taken - I take this when I train at night or add it to my daily PWO. Stuff is LEGIT”

-Saul


Key Ingredients in Healthy Pre-Workouts

Healthy pre workouts often contain specific ingredients that help improve your energy, focus, and performance during exercise. 

Here are some common key ingredients you might find:

Citrulline

This amino acid helps increase blood flow to your muscles, which can lead to better pumps and improved endurance.

Beta-Alanine

This ingredient helps reduce muscle fatigue, allowing you to work out longer and harder.

Natural Caffeine

Provides an energy boost and focus without overstimulating. Many healthy pre-workouts use lower doses or slow-release forms to avoid jitters.

Creatine

Enhances strength and power, which can help build muscle and improve workout performance.

Electrolytes (e.g., Sodium, Potassium)

Essential for hydration, these minerals help maintain muscle function and prevent cramps.

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)

Supports muscle recovery, reduces soreness, and helps maintain muscle during intense workouts.


How We Chose These Healthy Pre-Workout Supplements

When selecting these best pre-workout supplements, we considered the following factors:

Clean Ingredients: We prioritized supplements with natural, high-quality ingredients that support energy, focus, and endurance without excessive stimulants.

Science-Backed Formulas: Each ingredient is included based on scientific research showing its benefits for workout performance, like improved blood flow, strength, and recovery.

No Harmful Additives: We avoided supplements with artificial fillers, sugars, or unnecessary additives that might affect your health.

Good Customer Reviews: We considered feedback from users who experienced positive results, ensuring that the products are well-regarded and reliable.

Safety Standards: We ensured that the supplements are manufactured in facilities that adhere to strict safety and quality guidelines.

No Stimulants or Low Stimulant Levels: Many of these options avoid high levels of stimulants, which can cause jitters or crashes, especially for people sensitive to caffeine.

Muscle Support: Each supplement contains ingredients that enhance blood flow, muscle pumps, and recovery, helping you get the most from your workout.

Hydration and Nutrient Absorption: We included supplements with electrolytes, hydration aids, and ingredients that improve nutrient absorption to keep your body well-supported during exercise.


What to Consider When Buying a Healthy Pre-Workout

When choosing a pre-workout supplement, consider the following factors:

Ingredients: Look for natural, science-backed ingredients that support energy, focus, and endurance. Avoid products with too many stimulants, artificial additives, or fillers.

Caffeine Content: If you prefer a stimulant-free option or work out at night, check the caffeine levels. Some pre-workouts offer energy boosts without caffeine for those sensitive to it.

Product Reviews: Reading user feedback can give insight into how well a product works, so you can decide if it’s a good match for your goals.

Brand Reputation: Select products from reputable brands known for quality and transparency.

Price and Value: Consider the cost per serving and the overall value of the product.


Potential Side Effects of Healthy Pre-Workouts

While healthy pre-workouts are generally safer and have fewer artificial ingredients, some people may still experience side effects. 

Here are a few possible ones to be aware of:

Tingling Sensation: Ingredients like beta-alanine can cause a temporary tingling feeling in the skin, which is harmless but can feel strange.

Digestive Discomfort: Some people may experience mild stomach issues, especially if taking a pre-workout on an empty stomach.

Increased Heart Rate: Caffeine or other stimulants in pre-workouts can cause a faster heartbeat, so it’s good to monitor your intake if you’re sensitive to stimulants.

Trouble Sleeping: If you take a pre-workout too late in the day, caffeine or other energy-boosting ingredients can interfere with sleep.

Mild Dehydration: Many Pre-workout supplements that enhance pumps or hydration can sometimes pull water into muscles, so it’s important to stay hydrated during and after your workout.


FAQs: Healthy Pre-workout

Q: Can I take a pre-workout every day?

A: It's okay to take a pre-workout every day, but it's important to avoid overuse. If your pre-workout contains stimulants, it’s a good idea to cycle off them occasionally to avoid building a tolerance.

Q: How do I know if a pre-workout is healthy?

A: Look for pre-workouts with clean, natural ingredients, minimal artificial additives, and transparent labeling. Avoid products with excessive stimulants and ensure they support hydration and muscle recovery.

Q: Are healthy pre-workouts safe?

A: Most healthy pre-workouts are safe when taken as directed. However, it's essential to check the ingredient list for any potential allergens or substances you may be sensitive to.

Q: What is the best time to take a pre-workout?

A: Take your pre-workout about 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Q: Can I take a healthy pre-workout before a nighttime workout?

A: Yes, if you choose a stimulant-free or low-stimulant pre-workout, you can take it before evening workouts without affecting your sleep.

Q: Can I take a pre-workout on an empty stomach?

A: It’s generally safe to take a pre-workout on an empty stomach, but some people may experience digestive discomfort. If this happens, consider having a light snack before taking your pre-workout.


Conclusion

Healthy pre-workouts can be a great way to support your fitness goals by boosting energy, focus, and endurance during your workouts. By choosing products with natural, safe ingredients, you can enjoy the benefits of improved performance without harmful side effects.

When selecting a pre-workout, it’s important to consider factors like ingredient quality, stimulant content, and hydration support.

Always remember to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional or your certified personal trainer if you have any concerns.


Sources:

https://fortune.com/recommends/health/best-pre-workout

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-pre-workouts

https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-nutrition/best-pre-workout

https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/superhuman-pump-by-alpha-lion

https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/noxygen-preworkout-by-purus-labs

https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/bucked-up-by-bucked-up

https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/gorilla-mode-nitric-stimulant-free-pre-workout-by-gorilla-mind

https://www.strongsupplementshop.com/edge-pump-by-psycho-pharma

Written and Sponsored by Leonard Shemtob

Leonard Shemtob is President of Strong Supplements and a published author. Leonard has been in the supplement space for over 20 years, specializing in fitness supplements and nutrition. Leonard appears on many podcasts, written over 100 articles about supplements and has studied nutrition, supplementation and bodybuilding. 

Leonard's articles have been published in many top publications around the web. Leonard enjoys weight training, playing basketball and yoga, and also enjoys hiking. In his free time he studies and works on improving himself. For more detailed information, visit his official blog.