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6 Safe Pre Workouts in 2024 [Safest & FDA Approved]

by Nader Qudimat
Updated December 21, 2023

When it comes to supplements, there's only one known fact... 

You can't trust any company or anyone for that matter.

You need to be skeptical.

You must ask questions. 

From ingredient labels to companies and marketing, you can never let your guard down. 

Once you understand this then let's get started...

Pre-workouts are one category that is consistently brought up in the news with plenty of controversies.  

I've personally spent more than 10 years researching and going through supplements like a mad scientist. 

This is where you'll learn about pre-workouts and what ones are generally safe to take.

You'll learn what ingredients are scientifically proven, what ingredients to avoid and what are the safest options.

MEGA DOSED
Pump Serum by Huge Nutrition

Pump Serum v2 is the latest formula from Huge Nutrition, packing lots of citrulline, nitric oxide boosters and more. This is 30% off at the moment, use discount code FITFREK to get an extra 10% off.

Highlights:
  • Strong long lasting pumps
  • Nootropics included for focus
  • Optimizes performance and reduces fatigue
Ingredients: 8g Citrulline, 3g Betaine Anhydrous, 3g GlycerPump, 2g Beet Root Extract, 1.5g Tyrosine, 1.5g Nitrosigine, 1.25g Agmatine, 1g Pomegranate, 254mg VasoDrive, 980mg Choline Bitartrate, 157mg Himalayan Salt, 20mg Huperzine, 5mg Bioperine
Discount code: FITFREK
CHECK IT OUT
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NATURALLY FLAVORED
PreSeries Bulk Pre-Workout by Transparent Labs

Containing over 20g per serving, Bulk contains complete doses of ergogenic aids and a range of nootropics and stimulants to help enhance energy.

Highlights:
  • Smooth energy and focus
  • No crash
  • Reliable and time-tested
Ingredients: 8g Citrulline Malate, 4g Beta-Alanine, 2.5g Betaine Anhydrous, 1.3g Taurine, 1g L-Tyrosine, 300mg AlphaSize, 180mg Sodium, 125mg Potassium, 50mg Senactiv, 10mg Zinc, 5mg Bioperine, 5mg Vitamin B6, 3mg Boron, 100mcg Vitamin B12
Stimulants: 200mg PurCaf, 200mg L-Theanine, 50mg Theobromine
CHECK IT OUT
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Why worry about pre-workouts?

They are just supplements after all... right?

Supplements, especially pre-workouts, have risks behind them. 

The reason why pre-workouts are more picked on is that it contains stimulants.

Stimulants can easily be abused or misused.

Caffeine, which is in coffee, can be lethal when overdosed (usually this happens beyond 1 gram or more).

This is why teens should also look out and choose pre-workouts like these to be safe. 

And make sure you're not taking a pre-workout that has gone bad

Safest Pre Workouts

BEST FOR GAINS

Bulk Pre Workout by Transparent Labs

NATURALLY FLAVORED
PreSeries Bulk Pre-Workout by Transparent Labs

Containing over 20g per serving, Bulk contains complete doses of ergogenic aids and a range of nootropics and stimulants to help enhance energy.

Highlights:
  • Smooth energy and focus
  • No crash
  • Reliable and time-tested
Ingredients: 8g Citrulline Malate, 4g Beta-Alanine, 2.5g Betaine Anhydrous, 1.3g Taurine, 1g L-Tyrosine, 300mg AlphaSize, 180mg Sodium, 125mg Potassium, 50mg Senactiv, 10mg Zinc, 5mg Bioperine, 5mg Vitamin B6, 3mg Boron, 100mcg Vitamin B12
Stimulants: 200mg PurCaf, 200mg L-Theanine, 50mg Theobromine
CHECK IT OUT
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With 210mg caffeine and 50mg theobromine, Bulk stands out by using a few different sources of stimulants.

There's 30mg coming from caffeine malate, a slow digesting caffeine source that will help prolong the energy.

And Bulk also contains Alpha GPC, a strong choline source for focus and mental energy. 

This is probably rare to see but there's 360mg theanine included, which is nearly double of what caffeine is dosed that. 

Caffeine combined with theanine results in some great synergy as theanine can help smooth out the energy and reduce jitters.

Also included are BCAA's, tyrosine and beta alanine. 

The tingles you will likely feel from the big 4g dose, which is normal and it will subside as you continue taking it.

Similar to creatine, beta alanine takes time to be saturated in your body. 

There are also vitamins to help with the basics. 

Bulk is also a vegan pre-workout.

Use discount code FITFREK. 

Multiple sources of energy
No crash
Completely transparent label
Big 360mg dose of theanine may be too sedating for some
CHECK IT OUT
LOW CAFFEINE

Pre Lab Pro

Pre Lab Pro Pre Workout

Pre Lab Pro has a simple but usable formula as it has less than 100mg caffeine along with other ingredients to help improve performance.

Highlights:
  • Good for some pumps
  • Unique formula
Ingredients: Vitamin D3, B6, Folate, b12, iron, 160mg theanine, 400mg tyrosine, 2.2g Citrulline, 1.5g Red beet powder
Stimulants: 80mg Natural Caffeine
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Pre Lab Pro is a vegan-friendly pre-workout supplement that is gaining popularity due to its clean formulation and benefits.

It's a product from Opti-Nutra, a UK-based company known for its cleanly-formulated, vegan-friendly supplements.

Pre Lab Pro is a low-caffeine pre-workout supplement that supports your workouts.

It contains less than 100mg of caffeine and other ingredients to help improve performance.

The supplement is designed to provide smooth energy and intense focus during workouts, achieved through natural caffeine and L-Theanine, which enhance cognitive performance and alertness.

However, it's important to note that while Pre Lab Pro is packed with vital nutrients, certain ingredients may not be in sufficient quantities to provide their intended benefits.

For instance, it contains L-Citrulline, a nonessential amino acid that can increase muscle, reduce fatigue, and improve endurance in aerobic and anaerobic exercises.

However, the dosage in Pre Lab Pro might be lower than what's typically required to provide these benefits effectively.

The supplement also contains Red Beet Powder, rich in valuable vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

It's known to improve muscle efficiency and endurance, making it a valuable addition to this pre-workout supplement.

Pre Lab Pro is a decent choice if you're looking for a clean, safe, and vegan-friendly pre-workout supplement.

However, it's not as potent as some other pre-workouts on the market, making it a good option for beginners or those who prefer a milder pre-workout experience.

In terms of safety, Pre Lab Pro is a good fit for the list of safest pre-workouts.

Its low caffeine content and the use of natural ingredients make it a safe choice for most individuals. However, as with any supplement, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

LOADED PWO

Pre Kaged by Kaged Muscle

Ingredients: 

6.5g Citrulline, 3.5g BCAA, 3g Leucine, 2.5g BetaPower, 2g Taurine, 1g N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, 1.6g Beta Alanine, 1.5g Creatine HCl, 850mg Tyrosine, 500mg Coconut Water, 274mg Organic Caffeine

If 200mg of caffeine isn't enough for you then check out pre kaged. 

Pre Kaged contains 275mg organic caffeine, along with other ingredients like 6.5g L-Citrulline, a hydration matrix and more. 

This pre workout is an attractive one for those on a vegan diet, because the ingredients are vegan friendly

And the scoops are huge.

You'd think you're scooping out a protein powder because of the size of it. 

Every serving contains 28g, making it one of the biggest we've seen so far. 

With BCAA's, caffeine, taurine, tyrosine, carbs and vitamins, you'll have every advantage to perform at your best. 

Pre Kaged started off with only 1 or 2 flavors but now they have many. 

The flavor we recommend is Cherry Bomb or Apple Krisp. 

Decent amount of caffeine 
Enhances focus and energy 
Big servings of ingredients to support performance
None
CHECK IT OUT
NATURALLY FLAVORED

Stim-Booster by Transparent Labs

CLEAN OPTION
STIM-BOOSTER Pre-Workout by Transparent Labs

Transparent Labs Stim-Booster is a potent pre-workout supplement designed to supercharge your workouts with increased energy, focus, and endurance. Its scientifically-backed blend makes it a reliable choice for those seeking an extra performance edge.

Highlights:
  • Stackable with other pre-workouts
  • Added nootropics and mental enhancers
  • Increases focus and concentration
Ingredients: 1g Tyrosine, 800mg nooLVL, 500mg Taurine, 300mg Alpha GPC
Stimulants: 100mg Caffeine
Discount code: FITFREK
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Transparent Labs Stim Booster is a dietary supplement that enhances your workout performance.

It's a unique blend of five key ingredients, each with benefits.

This supplement is designed to be added to existing pre-workout formulas for an additional boost in energy.

The Stim Booster contains 1g of Tyrosine, an amino acid that plays a crucial role in producing neurotransmitters vital for brain function.

It's known to improve cognitive performance, particularly in stressful situations. However, the effects are not intense, providing a moderate boost in focus and attention.

The supplement also includes 800mg of Noolvl, a patented ingredient designed to boost cognitive functions and energy levels. It's beneficial for those who engage in activities that require a high level of mental acuity, such as intense workouts. However, it's not a game-changer and provides a modest boost in energy levels.

Taurine, another ingredient in the Stim Booster, is an amino acid in many body tissues.

It plays several important roles in the body, including maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte balance in cells.

The 500mg dose of Taurine in Stim Booster is a reasonable amount that should provide these benefits without causing side effects.

Alpha-GPC, a compound found naturally in the brain, is also included in the Stim Booster.

It's used for its cognitive-promoting properties and to enhance power output in athletes.

The 300mg dosage in Stim Booster will likely provide the desired benefits without causing unwanted side effects.

Lastly, the Stim Booster contains 100mg of PurCaf, a form of organic caffeine derived from green coffee beans.

It's a natural stimulant often used in supplements for its energy-boosting properties.

The 100mg dosage of PurCaf in Stim Booster is a moderate amount designed to provide a noticeable increase in energy and focus without causing the jitters or other negative side effects associated with higher doses of caffeine.

Read more about Stim-Booster here

It's particularly beneficial for beginners or those who prefer a less intense pre-workout experience.

However, other options may be more suitable for those seeking a more potent boost.

GOOD CHOICE

Intensive Pre-Train by Crazy Nutrition

BEGINNERS PRE
Intensive Pre-Train by Crazy Nutrition

Crazy Nutrition is a fairly new company but they seem to be off to a decent start with their Pre-Workout and other products.

Highlights:
  • Fully disclosed label
  • 200mg of caffeine and more
  • Perfect for beginners
Ingredients: 7g Citrulliine Malate, 2.5g Beta Alanine, 1g Glycerol Monostearate, 1g Arginine AKG, 1g Tyrosine, 1g Taurine, 400mg Glucuonolactone, 300mg KSM-66, 5mg Bioperine
Stimulants: 400mg Phenylalanine, 200mg Caffeine, 100mg En-Xtra
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Crazy Nutritions Pre-Workout is also a good choice and a very safe one. 

With 200mg of caffeine and another stimulant, this is one that you'll enjoy using without feeling overly jittery or anxious. 

It wouldn't have any side effects with its safe label of ingredients. 

Although it's a new brand, it's off to a good start with many reviewers liking this pre-workout. 

Read more about Intensive Pre-Train here

Other Pre-Workouts: Are They Safe?

Safety of Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre Workout

Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard Pre-Workout is a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts.

It's known for its clean formula that includes ingredients like creatine, beta-alanine, and caffeine.

The company is transparent about the dosages, which fall within safe and effective ranges.

Safety of Legion Pulse Pre Workout

Legion Pulse Pre Workout is another well-regarded supplement in the fitness community.

It boasts a transparent label and a formula free from harmful substances.

The caffeine content is on the higher side, so those sensitive to stimulants should start with a half serving to assess tolerance.

Safety of Cellucor C4 Pre Workout

Cellucor's C4 Pre Workout is one of the most recognized pre-workouts on the market.

It contains a blend of ingredients designed to enhance energy, focus, and performance. While it does contain a proprietary blend, the key ingredients are disclosed with their dosages.

Safety of Gorilla Mode Nitric

Gorilla Mode Nitric is a stimulant-free pre-workout that focuses on enhancing pump and performance.

It contains well-studied ingredients like citrulline and glycerol, and the company is transparent about the dosages. As a stimulant-free product, it's a good option for those sensitive to caffeine or who prefer to avoid stimulants.

Safety Of Beyond Raw Lit Pre Workout

Beyond Raw Lit Pre Workout is a product that prides itself on its clinical dosages and transparent labeling.

It contains a blend of ingredients designed to enhance energy, focus, and pump.

As with any pre-workout, it's important to follow the recommended usage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Safety of Bucked Up Pre Workout

Bucked Up Pre Workout is a supplement that contains a blend of ingredients designed to enhance energy, focus, and endurance.

They are transparent about the dosages, which fall within safe and effective ranges. 

Safety of Dark Labs Pre Workouts

Dark Labs is known for its potent pre-workouts. While they can provide a significant energy boost, they also contain powerful stimulants that may not be suitable for everyone. 

Safety of GAT Nitraflex Pre Workout

GAT Nitraflex is a pre-workout supplement that includes ingredients for energy, focus, and testosterone boosting.

While it does contain a proprietary blend, the key ingredients are disclosed with their dosages. 

Safety of The Curse Pre Workout

The Curse Pre Workout is a supplement that contains a blend of ingredients designed to enhance energy, focus, and pump.

The company is transparent about the dosages, which fall within safe and effective ranges. 

Safety of Mr. Hyde Pre Workout

Mr. Hyde Pre Workout is known for its high stimulant content, providing a significant energy boost. 

Safety of NO Explode Pre Workout

NO Explode Pre Workout is a supplement that contains a blend of ingredients designed to enhanceenergy, focus, and pump.

The company is transparent about the dosages, which fall within safe and effective ranges. 

Safety of NitroSurge Pre Workout

NitroSurge Pre Workout is a supplement that prides itself on its clean, science-backed formula.

It contains well-studied ingredients like citrulline, beta-alanine, and caffeine, and the company is transparent about the dosages. 

Safety of Ghost Pre Workout

Ghost Pre Workout is a popular supplement known for its unique branding and effective formula.

It contains a blend of ingredients designed to enhance energy, focus, and pump.

The company is transparent about the dosages, which fall within safe and effective ranges.

However, it does contain a relatively high dose of caffeine, so those sensitive to stimulants should start with a half serving to assess tolerance.

Safe Pre Workouts Guide

When considering a pre workout, there's two things you should look at:

The company, and the ingredients.

Most pre-workouts will try to go to above and beyond for energy and focus.

Recommended reading: Comprehensive Guide on Pre-Workouts

But soon it was used in supplements and the FDA would soon ban ephedrine as it caused side effects.

While ephedrine works well for appetite reduction and focus, the side effects can be equally as strong. You can experience anything from anxiety to trouble sleeping.

Usually ephedrine is stacked with caffeine and aspirin, which is known as the ECA stack.

Risky Stimulant #4: DMBA

DMBA is another stimulant that's advertised to be a replacement for DMAA.

It's also known as 1,3 DMBA or 1,3-dimethylbutylamine, but because it's not WADA complaint, it's usually avoided to prevent issues in competitive sports.

While it's not meant for human consumption, you'll still find this stimulant in pre workouts and can be bought in bulk.

Yohimbine.

Yohimbine is a stimulant that can cause anxiety and jitters, especially when combined with high amounts of caffeine.

While it's typically used for fat burning, it can cause more side effects than good effects for most people.

Here's a list of ingredients that the U.S. Department of Defense has published to be aware of:

Operation Supplement Safety List

Safest Ingredients

Now that we've gone over the sketchy and gray area ingredients, we'll now jump to the safest ingredients.

While these are generally considered to be safe, it's still possible to make it dangerous by taking a lethal dose.

What is considered to be a lethal dose depends on the ingredient, but with caffeine it gets dangerous once it's dosed at 2 grams or more.

Pre workouts usually stay under 400mg, but once it goes higher than that then side effects are more pronounced.

For any ingredient below, to be 100% safe you should ask your doctor for approval before using anything.

Generally, if you have a history of heart issues then it's best to avoid stimulants like caffeine or ask your doctor for approval.

You'll find the recommended dosing in brackets.

For caffeine it's possible to benefit from smaller dosages than the recommended dosing.

Caffeine (150mg - 300mg)

Caffeine is almost always the main stimulant in pre workout.

It's no wonder it's popular because of the number of studies that show it can increase physical and mental performance.

There are a number of forms but as long as the ingredient says caffeine, it's ok to consume.

Creatine (5g)

Creatine works wonders for strength and energy but basically it can increase ATP production and help with muscle gains. If the form is creatine HCL then 1.5g is ok.

Beta Alanine (1.6g - 3.2g)

Whenever you feel tingles from a pre workout, this is what it's coming from. Generally, the more frequently you take beta alanine, the less likely you'll feel the tingles as your body becomes saturated with it.

Betaine (1.25g - 2.5g)

A great muscle volumizer and strength booster.

Tyrosine (500mg - 2g)

Helps increase dopamine production and works in synergy with caffeine.

Theanine (100mg - 500mg)

Reduces jitters and helps you establish a mind-to-muscle connection.

What Are The Safest Pre Workouts?

The list above is a great example of what a safe pre workout should look like.

Here's a summary of that list:

These pre workouts are the best choices when it comes to safety.

They contain ingredients that are generally considered to be safe.

But remember to check the instructions, never exceed recommended dosing and don't consume other sources of caffeine in the same day.

Any other pre workout with more ingredients than these should be researched before using to reduce risks.

FAQ's

Are Pre Workouts Safe?

Yes, generally, they are.

But you should look at the label and make sure there isn't anything that you can have a negative reaction to.

And also there are strong pre-workouts that are made with high amounts of stimulants which you should avoid if you're looking for a safe pre workout.

Of course you should not consume other sources of caffeine or stimulants on the same day as when you use a pre workout.

How to Ensure A Pre Workout Is Safe

The supplement industry is almost completely self-regulated.

You need to do your research.

This means looking up reviews from other people on social media, forums and sources that you can trust.

Most of the time, it's easy to tell if a pre-workout is safe by looking at the label and the dosages, but sometimes there can be manufacturing errors or simply an ingredient generally recognized as unsafe.

This is why it's advisable to look up reviews and find a common theme people liked or disliked about the pre-workout.

With this in mind, you can also make your own pre-workout using bulk ingredients.

Also, try to avoid proprietary blends because you don't know how much of each ingredient you're getting.

There's no secret when it comes to dosing as dosages are proven by research and anecdotal reports.

Are pre-workout supplements safe?

Generally, pre-workout supplements are safe for healthy adults when used as directed. However, they can contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulants, so starting with a lower dose is important to assess your tolerance. With the list of safe ingredients listed above, you should use this information to look for pre-workouts with these ingredients.

What are the benefits of pre-workout supplements?

Pre-workout supplements can enhance energy, focus, endurance, and muscle pump, helping you get the most out of your workouts.

Can I take a pre-workout supplement every day?

Taking a pre-workout supplement every day is generally safe, but it's a good idea to cycle off every few weeks to prevent tolerance build-up, especially to caffeine.

What are the side effects of pre-workout supplements?

Side effects can include jitters, insomnia, increased heart rate, and stomach upset. These are often due to high levels of caffeine and other stimulants.

What time should I take my pre-workout supplement?

It's best to take your pre-workout supplement 20-30 minutes before your workout to allow the ingredients to take effect.

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

Yes, but this can increase the chance of side effects like stomach upset. If you have a sensitive stomach, taking your pre-workout with a small snack is a good idea.

What should I look for in a pre-workout supplement?

Look for a supplement with a transparent label (no proprietary blends), effective doses of key ingredients, and positive customer reviews. Avoid products with ingredients you're sensitive to.

Can I take a pre-workout supplement if I'm sensitive to caffeine?

Yes, there are stimulant-free pre-workout supplements available. These products can still enhance your workout without the jitters or crash associated with caffeine.

Do pre-workout supplements expire?

Yes, like all supplements, pre-workouts do have an expiration date. Using them before this date is best for maximum potency and safety. Read more about if pre-workouts can go bad.

Can pre-workout supplements cause a failed drug test?

Most pre-workout supplements won't cause a failed drug test. However, some may contain ingredients banned by certain sports organizations. Always check the label if you're a competitive athlete.

by Nader Qudimat

Forged by iron and cold steel, I'm Nader, a mid-30s natural bodybuilder. Once a 100lb skinny guy, I've transformed into a 200lb muscular athlete with over 15 years of lifting experience. Today, I leverage my transformation and extensive experience to guide countless individuals on their fitness journeys.

Click here to check out my 12 year transformation: Natural 12 Year Transformation

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