As a dedicated fitness enthusiast since 2004 and a pre-workout specialist since 2013, I'm here to guide you through the world of intense, high-stimulant pre-workouts.

This guide is crafted for the seasoned and the serious, delivering expert insights and top picks to elevate your workout game.

Peak Intensity Unleashed: Explore our top pre-workouts, each boasting over 300mg of caffeine and elite stimulants, crafted for those seeking extraordinary energy and performance.

Beyond the Ordinary: Looking for something different from these high-energy options? Discover our diverse range of pre-workout formulas here.

Pro Tip: If your pre-workout isn't hitting as hard as it used to, consider adding magnesium to your routine.

New to Pre-Workouts? Start your journey with our beginner-friendly selections.

Enhance your performance by combining these pre-workouts with our top non-stim nitric oxide boosters.

Looking for the quick list of hardest hitting pre-workouts? 

Then here’s a list of the most potent options to date...

The above list shows you the best pre-workouts this month, while the list below will show you the detailed list.

I tested hundreds of pre-workouts and have researched for months on the lookout for the best.

We've listed our top 6+ picks for the strongest pre-workouts on YouTube. 

If you'd rather just get the answer to which pre-workout you should get, then try our pre-workout finder.

Maximize Your Workout Results: For those aiming to go the extra mile, stack these pre-workouts with our handpicked anabolic supplements or muscle-building stacks for an ultimate fitness experience.

Crack OG by Dark Labs has quickly become one of my top pre-workout choices this year.

The real game-changer in Crack OG is its stimulant blend.

It's the combination of caffeine, DMHA, Eria Jarensis, and Alpha Yohimbine that delivers that high-energy kick I need for my workouts.

I don't know what it is, but it seems to be one of the highest quality, hardest hitting formula's I've had so far. 

This isn't just a burst of energy; it's sustained and focused, but yet super intense. Perfect for those long, intense sessions.

The nitric oxide boosters like L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, Agmatine, and Arginine HCL complement the stimulants well.

They don't directly contribute to the energy surge, but they enhance my overall workout performance.

This synergy between the stimulants and nitric oxide boosters makes Crack OG stand out.

Training on an empty stomach can be tough, but Crack OG has changed that for me.

It's my go-to, especially for fasted training.

The energy it provides makes these sessions feel less daunting and more productive.

I can push harder and get the most out of every workout.

The mental focus that comes with Crack OG is another major plus.

It's not just about being alert; it's about being completely in tune with my workout.

This concentration level helps me maximize my intensity and efforts. 

But what makes Crack OG a favorite is the euphoria.

It's an incredible feeling that turns every workout into an enjoyable experience.

Crack OG by Dark Labs is more than just a pre-workout.

It's a powerful tool that enhances both my physical performance and mental focus.

It's particularly effective for those challenging fasted workouts.

Crack OG is worth a try for anyone looking to take their training to the next level.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 30 minutes before your workout. Do not exceed 2 scoops per day.

Safety Information:

Safety: Due to its high stimulant content, it is recommended for experienced users. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Additional Resources:

Use discount code FITFREK to save on your purchase. 

You can view my video review here and read the full article breakdown on Crack OG.

Hypermaxed Out by Performax Labs is a standout pre-workout blend that offers a unique combination of Kanna and Yohimbine, addressing common issues like cold sweats often associated with Yohimbine, resulting in a more enjoyable experience.

It delivers relentless energy, notable for its sustained intensity throughout workouts, and even hours afterward.

The formula, rich in scientifically-backed ingredients, offers enhanced focus and impressive pumps, making it suitable for high-intensity training sessions.

Key ingredients include 8g of L-Citrulline and 3.2g of Beta-Alanine for muscle endurance and pumps, and a robust energy blend with 400mg of Caffeine Anhydrous and 100mg of Infinergy® for sustained energy boost.

Adaptogens like RhodiolaPrime are included to manage stress and maintain focus, making this pre-workout a comprehensive choice for those looking to elevate their workout intensity.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. Start with half a scoop to assess tolerance if you are new to high-stimulant pre-workouts. Do not exceed 2 scoops.

Safety Information:

Safety: Due to its potent stimulant content, Hypermax'd Out is best suited for experienced users. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and potential difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Struggling to find a pre-workout that really fires you up? Meet Wild Fire by SoCal Supplements. This powerful blend is designed for experienced users seeking euphoric highs and intense energy. Made with a potent mix of DMAA and DMHA, it provides a clean, high-energy feel that’s hard to beat.

From the euphoric rush of DMAA and DMHA to the steady energy from caffeine, it's a ride you won’t forget. While not quite as intense as other pre-workouts, its clean, high-energy feel is something to be reckoned with. It doesn’t even feel like your typical DMAA pre-workout; it’s a very clean feeling experience.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

There are doubts about the presence of DMAA in Wild Fire, despite what the label might lead you to believe.

And the taste?

It tastes good.

So, is Wild Fire worth it?

It’s a solid choice if you’re after a high-energy, focus-enhancing experience. But remember, it’s not for beginners.

Even for advanced users, Wild Fire packs a serious punch. In the end, the best pre-workout is the one that fits your needs and lifestyle.

And if you’re ready to take your workouts to the next level, Wild Fire might just be the fuel you need.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. Due to its potent stimulant content, start with half a scoop to assess tolerance.

Safety Information:

Safety: Wild Fire contains DMAA, which is a powerful stimulant. It is recommended for experienced users. Potential side effects include increased heart rate, jitters, and possible difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Juiced by Quality Vitamins delivers a powerful combination of stimulants for intense energy and focus.

With 400mg of caffeine and 200mg of DMHA, it’s designed to push your limits and elevate your performance.

This pre-workout is noted for its "lit" feel, reminiscent of the powerful pre-workouts like Craze, but with a unique, clean energy boost.

The inclusion of L-Dopa helps with mood elevation, making each workout feel more enjoyable and motivated.

However, this intensity means it's not suitable for beginners or regular use, as it can disrupt sleep patterns and should be used sparingly, ideally once or twice a week.

Users often report an elevated mood and motivation, but it’s important to be mindful of the strength and potential side effects.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. If you are new to high-stimulant pre-workouts, start with half a scoop to assess tolerance.

Safety Information:

Safety: Juiced by Quality Vitamins is best suited for experienced users due to its high stimulant content. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Zeus Pre Workout is known for its potent formula designed to deliver intense energy and euphoric feelings.

It's made for those looking for a strong but euphoric workout experience.

Key Features

• Euphoric Energy: Induces a state of euphoria, enhancing mood and motivation, making workouts more enjoyable and productive.
• Intense Focus: Sharpens focus, helping me stay locked in on routines and achieve better results.
• Long-Lasting Performance: Provides sustained energy, keeping me energized and productive throughout my workout and beyond without causing a crash.

My Experience

From the first scoop, Zeus delivers a rush of energy that peaks within 20 minutes.

I feel an urgent sense of motivation and a lasting mood boost, making it my go-to for tough training sessions. The blend of ingredients keeps this elevated state, helping me feel ready to conquer my fitness goals.

Conclusion

Zeus Pre Workout offers a potent mix of euphoria, focus, and sustained energy.

Its ability to enhance mood and motivation sets it apart, making it an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their fitness experience.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. If you are new to high-stimulant pre-workouts, start with half a scoop to assess tolerance.

Safety Information:

Safety: Due to its high stimulant content, Zeus is best suited for experienced users. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Chaotic Rage by Madhouse Supplements is a powerhouse in the world of pre-workouts.

From the moment it kicks in, I experience a surge of clean, jitter-free energy that propels me through even the most intense workouts.

The high caffeine and DMHA blend ensures sustained power, keeping me focused and driven without the dreaded crash.

I notice enhanced mental clarity, which helps maintain concentration throughout the session, making it ideal for both strength training and endurance workouts.

This pre-workout is perfect for those seeking an intense yet smooth performance boost, enabling me to push harder and achieve more in my fitness regimen.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. Start with half a scoop to assess tolerance if you are sensitive to stimulants.

Safety Information:

Safety: Chaotic Rage is best suited for experienced users due to its high stimulant content. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Legit Pre is for those who need a high-energy pre-workout that doesn’t mess around.

It’s got a dirty energy feel due to the combination of DMAA and Yohimbine, but the energy is constant and high.

It feels intense and slightly gritty, making it perfect for stim junkies.

This pre-workout is all about providing sustained, hardcore energy that can push you through the most intense workouts.

The combination of ingredients in Legit Pre delivers a solid balance of focus and energy without the usual crash.

It’s made for those who want to feel that hardcore kick, with the energy almost feeling “dirty” because of the Yohimbine.

If you’re someone who enjoys a pre-workout that feels like it has DMAA, this one will not disappoint.

The energy is high, constant, and perfect for those long, grueling training sessions.

Legit Pre is definitely not for beginners. It’s designed for seasoned gym-goers who are used to high-stimulant pre-workouts. With its hardcore formula, this pre-workout provides a unique experience that stands out in the market.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. If you are new to high-stimulant pre-workouts, start with half a scoop to assess tolerance.

Safety Information:

Safety: Due to its high stimulant content, Legit Pre is best suited for experienced users. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Transparent Labs Bulk Black: A Game-Changer in Pre-Workouts

When I first tried Transparent Labs Bulk Black, I was immediately impressed by the smooth yet powerful energy it delivered.

This pre-workout is designed for those who want a clean, sustained energy boost, perfect for enhancing performance without the jittery side effects.

Enhanced Focus and Motivation

From the moment it kicked in, I felt a heightened sense of motivation and concentration.

This pre-workout helps maintain mental clarity and focus, which is crucial for powering through challenging workouts.

The blend of ingredients not only supports energy levels but also aids in muscle pumps and endurance, making Bulk Black a well-rounded addition to any fitness regimen.

Long-Lasting Energy Without the Crash

One of the standout features of Bulk Black is its ability to provide lasting energy.

Unlike other pre-workouts that lead to a crash, Bulk Black maintains a steady level of energy, ensuring I stay productive throughout my workout and beyond.

This sustained performance makes it an excellent choice for achieving fitness goals with consistent energy and focus.

Clean, Natural Sweetness

What sets Bulk Black apart is its clean, natural sweetness.

Unlike typical pre-workouts, it feels refreshing and guilt-free.

It's like sipping on a refreshing drink that also supercharges your workout.

The clean ingredients and potent performance make Bulk Black a staple in my pre-workout routine.

Conclusion

Transparent Labs Bulk Black offers a potent mix of energy, focus, and endurance.

Its ability to provide clean, sustained energy without the crash sets it apart, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their fitness experience.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Safety Information:

Safety: Bulk Black is suitable for most users, but due to its high caffeine content, those sensitive to stimulants should start with a lower dose to assess tolerance. Potential side effects include jitters and increased heart rate.

El Jefe by Xtremis Cartel is not just another face in the crowd; it's a pre-workout that commands respect, especially among those seeking high-stimulant options.

What sets it apart is its absence of exotic stimulants, a common feature in many "strongest" pre-workouts.

Instead, El Jefe relies on a scientifically backed blend of stimulants like Eria Jarensis, Theobromine, and various forms of Caffeine to deliver an experience that can only be described as hard-hitting.

Check out this comprehensive El Jefe review for a more in-depth look at this powerhouse.

The potency of this pre-workout is such that even seasoned gym-goers might want to think twice before going for a full serving.

It's not just about the stimulant kick; the formula also includes a generous 8g of Citrulline and 4g of Beta-Alanine, aimed at enhancing blood flow and buffering muscle fatigue, respectively.

El Jefe offers more than just a stimulant rush; it provides a comprehensive workout experience.

From sustained energy levels to enhanced mental focus courtesy of nootropics like Choline L-Bitartrate and DL-DMAE Bitartrate, this pre-workout ensures you're dialed in from start to finish.

In a market saturated with pre-workouts that often rely on flashy marketing and unproven ingredients, El Jefe stands as a beacon of effectiveness and quality.

It's a pre-workout that delivers high stimulant levels without resorting to exotic or potentially risky ingredients.

El Jefe is a reliable choice worth considering if you're looking to push your limits in the gym without compromising on quality.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. Advanced users can increase to two scoops if tolerated.

Safety Information:

Safety: El Jefe is best suited for experienced users due to its high stimulant content. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Hemo Shock is a powerhouse pre-workout that stands out for its potent energy blend and endurance-enhancing ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Power/Endurance Complex (5200mg):

  • Creatine Dimalate: Enhances strength and power output, supporting high-intensity training.
  • Beta Alanine: Delays muscle fatigue, allowing longer and more intense workouts.

• Transport Complex (1500mg):

  • Agmatine Sulfate: Promotes nitric oxide production for improved blood flow and muscle pumps.
  • N-Carbamylglutamate (NCG): Enhances the effectiveness of arginine, supporting better performance.

• Energy/Focus Matrix (615mg):

  • 2-Aminoisoheptane: A potent stimulant that provides a quick and sustained energy boost.
  • Caffeine Anhydrous: Delivers rapid and strong energy, improving focus and alertness.
  • Synephrine: Enhances metabolic rate and fat burning, adding to the overall stimulant effect.

• Electrolyte Complex (200mg):

  • Calcium Citrate, Magnesium Malate, Disodium Phosphate: These electrolytes help maintain hydration and muscle function, preventing cramps and supporting overall performance.

Personal Experience:

From the first scoop, Hemo Shock delivers a rush of energy that peaks within minutes.

On days when I needed an extra boost, I found taking a second scoop after an hour significantly intensified the effects.

The energy boost was impressive, even while working out in a warm environment without air conditioning. This led to highly productive workout sessions with sustained energy throughout.

During an upper body workout, Hemo Shock provided excellent focus, even while working at my computer.

The workout was intense, and I felt an unstoppable urge to keep moving.

However, recovery became challenging after an hour of compound lifts, highlighting the potent endurance capabilities of this pre-workout.

Overall Effects:

Hemo Shock is designed to deliver powerful energy and focus, making it ideal for intense workout sessions.

The combination of stimulants and endurance enhancers ensures that users can push through their limits without experiencing a crash.

However, due to its potency, managing recovery is essential, especially after prolonged use.

Conclusion:

Hemo Shock stands out as a powerful pre-workout that provides high energy and focus.

Its well-balanced formula supports intense and prolonged workouts, making it a great choice for those looking to elevate their performance.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. Advanced users can increase to two scoops if tolerated.

Safety Information:

Safety: Hemo Shock is best suited for experienced users due to its high stimulant content. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Crack Barbarian, another potent pre-workout from Dark Labs, stands out as one of the stronger variants in the Crack series. Dark Labs' hardcore branding is evident in this product, reinforcing their reputation for high-intensity supplements.

Having tried numerous Crack versions, I rank Barbarian as one of Dark Labs' most potent offerings.

It's incredibly energizing, providing a powerful stimulant jolt without being overwhelming.

This pre-workout isn't just a journey; it's a wild ride, delivering a surge of energy that builds up and sustains through even the most intense workouts.

However, it's not for the faint-hearted and is best suited for advanced users.

Crack Primal by Dark Labs is a pre-workout powerhouse, delivering a sustained energy boost and laser-sharp focus.

It's a hard-hitting, long-lasting pre-workout that takes you into a unique "bubble" of intense motivation, thanks to the inclusion of Noopept.

Crack Primal not only provides strong energy and focus but also curbs appetite post-workout.

While it is on the expensive side, the potent effects justify the price for those seeking a high-quality pre-workout experience.

With its blend of 10 stimulants, Crack Primal sets a new standard for intensity in the Dark Labs lineup.

Crack Gold by Dark Labs has been making a name for itself as one of the most sought-after, potent pre-workouts on the market.

It has become a hot commodity, often selling out as soon as it's restocked.

What sets it apart is its unique combination of DMAA and DMHA, making it a tried and true favorite among those who prefer pre-workouts with exotic stimulants. Designed with advanced users in mind, even they find it quite intense.

Don't forget to use the discount code FITFREK for some savings.

Update November 2021 - feb 2023: It's been nearly a year since Excelsior hasn't been available in the U.S.  It's time to consider the alternatives. Check out Gulag, a mood enhancing pre workout. 

I can also recommend Wild Fire instead as it feels very strong but still very clean.

Or check out the list of where to buy banned pre-workouts. 

But meanwhile, we have found something comparable, and maybe even better because it's half the price of Excelsior: check out Phenta Plex.

With Phenta Plex, you'll get crazy strong energy and focus for more than 10 hours at a time. 

Or check out Power by Badass Labz, which feels much stronger than an actual pre-workout with DMHA and caffeine. 

Excelsior can also be found in the UK but it's nearly $100...

Back to Excelsior...

This along with Craze (from Driven Sports) will go down as some of the most controversial pre-workouts to exist.

Excelsior has the same focus and energy that the original Craze had.

No, we're not referring to the reformulated versions like Craze V2, or CRZ OG.

We're talking about the original Craze from 2010. The OG.

Excelsior has a similar euphoric feel as the original Craze once had.

The same build-up of energy, the same happy “feels” and you won't want to leave the gym.

The energy lasts for hours.

People report they can't sleep if they take it after 3 pm (again similar to what Craze users reported).

I personally can't sleep until 3 am if I take it after 12 pm.

While it has DMHA and a few other ingredients, it is nothing like any other product that has similar ingredients.

And the appetite suppression is incredibly strong.

Pizza will no longer be appealing, and forget the craving for junk food.

You'll probably forget to eat.

There's definitely something more than the ingredient label shows. 

The feeling is sort of like an amphetamine type feel, with a ton of focus and a speedy feeling to it. 

There's a bit of a mood uplift, but there's also a crash after a few hours.

I wouldn't take this more than once a month because honestly it's strong in effects and I don't think it's worth risking my well-being

Expect to pay around 50 (or about 60-70 if you're outside the US)

That's around $1.5 per serving.

It's worth it for some feel-good energy and motivation.

But if you're prone to depression, you may want to look for another pre-workout because once you've used a lot of Excelsior, you'll be going through some nasty withdrawals.

This is why you should limit usage or not use it at all if you know you can't help it. 

It's available worldwide, throughout the UK and the US.

Try Excelsior and look no further, before you find this Craze replacement gone.

(If you're from the UK or live near it, check it out in this UK store)

If you're prone to depression, I recommend trying something else as this may have a strong crash after a few hours.

This is only for experienced users who know what they are doing.

If you're ordering this in April 2021 and beyond, you're getting a fresh batch.

It may be the same exact feeling or it may be altered in a way. 

To recap, here are the strongest pre-workouts we've reviewed:

1. Crack OG by Dark Labs
2. Hypermax'd Out by Performax Labs
3. Wild Fire by SoCal Supplements
4. Zeus by God Status Labs
5. Chaotic Rage by Madhouse Supplements
6. Juiced by Quality Vitamins
7. Legit Pre by Legit Pharm
8. Bulk Black by Transparent Labs
9. El Jefe by ASC Supplements
10. Hemo Shock by Genetech

These pre-workouts contain above-average levels of stimulants, delivering high energy and powerful performance boosts.

If you're looking for pre-workouts for sustainable, daily use, then check out this list. 

A strong pre-workout isn't always ideal. Bodybuilders often prefer stim-free options to avoid crashes and blood constriction caused by stimulants. Here's what you need to know:

Stimulant Cycling:

• Cycling pre-workouts is essential to prevent tolerance build-up.
• Avoid daily use for extended periods. Take breaks to maintain effectiveness.

Basic Supplements:

• Enhance pre-workout benefits with supplements like ZMA and creatine.
• Magnesium can potentiate caffeine effects, improving performance.

These are the most important ingredients in strong pre-workouts that support mood, motivation, and energy. 

Caffeine:

• The most researched stimulant, enhancing energy, focus, and fat loss.
• Dosages range from 40 to 300mg for mental and physical performance.
• Different forms (citrate, malate) offer varied digestion speeds.

DMAA:

• Potent stimulant known for energy and focus enhancement.
• Works by mimicking adrenaline and increasing dopamine production.
• Often included in strong pre-workouts but can be controversial.

DMHA:

• Similar to DMAA, providing euphoria and aggressive energy.
• Dosages range from 100-300mg depending on the formula.

Eria Jarensis:

• A PEA-based ingredient enhancing mood and focus.
• Doses vary from 150 to 500mg, with strong euphoria effects.

Tyrosine:

• Precursor to key neurotransmitters (dopamine, epinephrine).
• Alleviates stress and improves mental performance, often paired with caffeine.

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

• Ingredients supporting your fitness goals (e.g., Citrulline for muscle, beta-alanine for endurance).

Are pre-workout supplements safe?

• Generally safe but always start with a lower dose to assess tolerance.

Should I cycle off pre-workout supplements?

• Yes, cycle off every 6-8 weeks to prevent tolerance and maintain effectiveness.

Can I take pre-workout on an empty stomach?

• Yes, but it may cause nausea for some. Try a small snack if you have a sensitive stomach.

When should I take my pre-workout supplement?

• 15-30 minutes before your workout for optimal results.

Are there pre-workouts for women?

• No gender-specific pre-workouts; women can use any pre-workout as long as they start with a lower dose to assess tolerance.

Should you cycle stimulants?

• Absolutely. Taking breaks ensures that your body doesn't build up a tolerance, keeping the pre-workouts effective.

Can I stack pre-workouts?

• Yes, but only with stimulant-free nitric oxide supplements to avoid excessive stimulant intake.

What about pre-workouts for cardio?

• Use lower stimulant pre-workouts to avoid excessive heart rate increases before cardio sessions.

Are the strongest pre-workouts optimal?

• Not always. High stimulant content might not be suitable for everyone. Start with lower doses to find what works best for you.

Should you take pre-workout on a full stomach?

• No, it's best absorbed on an empty stomach.

What pre-workout has the highest caffeine?

• Hooligan, with 650mg of caffeine, no exotic stimulants.

Should you cycle pre-workouts?

• Yes, take 1-2 weeks off after 6-8 weeks of continuous use to reset tolerance.

What about pre-workouts for women?

• Women can use any pre-workout listed here; just start with lower doses to assess tolerance.

Can I stack pre-workouts?

• Stack only with stimulant-free nitric oxide supplements to avoid excessive stimulant intake.

The strongest pre-workouts provide exceptional energy and focus but should be used wisely to avoid tolerance and side effects.

Remember to cycle stimulants, consider basic supplements, and adjust dosages to your tolerance and needs.

Leave a comment below with your experiences or any pre-workouts you think should be added to the list!