Simplemost is supported by our readers. When you purchase an item through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Pre-Workout Supplement

Last updated on March 15, 2024

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

Look for the Simplemost seal for products that are the best in a category.

Pre-workout supplements are designed to be taken before you begin exercising. The main goal of taking the supplements is to help you reach your goals by providing such benefits as a sharper mental focus, added strength and increased energy. Since not all supplements are created equal, there are a few things you’ll want to look for before you make a purchase.

Simplemost Media

Check to see whether the supplement has undergone any testing. For example, some supplements are third-party tested and confirmed not to include any ingredients that would get an athlete banned.

Look at the product label to make sure it meets your dietary needs. Some are listed as vegetarian while others are gluten-free. You’ll even find brands that are keto-friendly and free of GMOs.

Simplemost Media

Verify that the supplement has low to zero sugar, carbs and calories. This is especially important if you’re trying to lose weight. Nutritionists urge members of the public not to drink their calories, but to save them for mealtimes. Also, watch out for non-plant-based sugar substitutes, like aspartame. Stevia, Xylitol and Erythritol are a better choice, as they are all-natural.

Review the pre-workout supplement’s ingredients and associated benefits. If you’re looking for energy, you’ll need a supplement with caffeine. Should you desire to increase your strength, then you’ll want a formula like Six Star Explosion Powerful Intensity that utilizes creatine.

Simplemost Media

Finally, does the supplement taste good? You may be able to gulp down a shake that tastes like grass, but wouldn’t you rather enjoy the shake? The Optimum Nutrition STANDARD Pre Workout Creatine Beta Alanine is known for its delicious flavors, which include fruit punch, blueberry lemonade, watermelon, green apple, strawberry lime and pineapple.

Our Picks For The Top Pre-Workout Supplements

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
  Top Pick

Jacked Factory Caffeniated Dye-Free Pre-Workout Supplement

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Jacked Factory

Caffeniated Dye-Free Pre-Workout Supplement

Increase your energy and strength before exercising with this pre-workout supplement. The formula is backed by science and you'll receive a 30-day supply with each container. What you won't find in this supplement are dyes or artificial fillers that offer no benefit, so you can feel good about using it to get the most out of your workout.

Overall Take

Lots of Flavor OptionsWith 13 flavor options, such as cotton candy, blueberry lemonade and strawberry margarita, you're sure to find this pre-workout supplement tasty.

  Runner Up

Beyond Raw Energy Boosting Science-Based Pre-Workout Supplement

Beyond Raw

Energy Boosting Science-Based Pre-Workout Supplement

You won't have any trouble taking this pre-workout supplement, as it comes in six exciting flavors. Orange mango, gummy worm and blue raspberry are all delicious options. Of course, the energy, focus and nitric oxide support you get from the supplement make it the ideal choice.

Overall Take

No JittersWith this pre-workout supplement, you won't experience any jitters or mid-day crashes.

  We Also Like

Optimum Nutrition Energy Boosting Pre-Workout Supplement

Optimum Nutrition

Energy Boosting Pre-Workout Supplement

Enjoy this pre-workout supplement's delightful fruit punch flavor without any unpleasant artificial sweetener aftertaste. This supplement features ingredients that promote endurance and a clear mind and also provides extra energy. In our testing, we found that it smells and tastes like Hawaiian Punch — yum! It mixed well and the powder wasn't clu...

Overall Take

Tasty Mix-InA delicious flavor that provides extra energy during your workout.

  Strong Contender

RSP Nutrition AminoLean Gluten-Free Pre-Workout Supplement

RSP Nutrition

AminoLean Gluten-Free Pre-Workout Supplement

Free of sugar and gluten, this pre-workout supplement is perfect for both men and women. Each container provides 30 servings, which offer 5 grams of amino acids, ingredients that promote weight loss and caffeine for increased energy. Exercise enthusiasts will also love the refreshing fruit punch flavor.

Overall Take

Economical PickWhen shopping on a budget, this affordable pre-workout supplement is the way to go.

  Also Great

Vintage Blast GMP Certified Pre-Workout Supplement

Vintage Blast

GMP Certified Pre-Workout Supplement

This pre-workout supplement is the No. 1 pick for an energy boost that lasts through your entire workout. The formula is 100% vegetarian and safe for those who need to avoid gluten. There's also added sodium and magnesium to help your body stay hydrated while you exercise.

Overall Take

Energy BoostWith energy that last through your entire workout, this supplement is 100% vegetarian and OK for people who want to avoid gluten.

What to Look For

  • If you are trying a pre-workout supplement for the first time, look for a 100% satisfaction guarantee or your money back. That way, if you don’t get the promised results, you won’t be out any cash.
  • People with certain health conditions need to pay attention to the amount of caffeine in the supplement. High levels can cause jitters and a racing heart.
  • Always take the pre-workout supplement with you to your doctor appointment. Your physician can review the ingredients to make sure they are safe for your consumption and to verify that they do not interact with any of your current medications.
  • Supplements should be stored in a cool dry location. They should also be placed up high in homes where children and pets are present, even if the ingredients are all-natural. Even natural substances can be dangerous when taken in excess.
  • If you need to take your powdered supplement with you to consume later in the afternoon, or you need to pack a serving because you are going on an overnight business trip, use a formula dispenser designed for transporting baby formula. These cute containers are airtight and the perfect size for holding a serving of the supplement. This saves you from having to pack the entire container.
  • It is important to note that any health benefit claims made by the supplement companies have not been evaluated by the FDA.
  • When it comes to pre-workout supplements, price varies, but you should be able to find something that fits your budget and your needs.

More to explore