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Home » Best Pre-Workout » Best Natural Pre-Workout Supplements of 2025, RDN Reviewed

Best Natural Pre-Workout Supplements of 2025, RDN Reviewed

Get the mental and physical boost you need without any artificial ingredients.

Written by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CSNC, CPS
Last updated on April 29th, 2025
Expert VerifiedMedically Reviewed By: Dr. Kimberly Langdon, M.D.
Expert VerifiedExpert Verified By: Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD
Expert VerifiedReviewed By: Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
Expert VerifiedFact Checked By: Lauren Keary

We receive free products and receive commissions through our links. See disclosures page.
  • Best Natural Pre-Workouts
  • |
  • How We Tested and Chose
  • |
  • Key Ingredients
  • |
  • Benefits
  • |
  • Cost
  • |
  • What To Consider
  • |
  • FAQs

The best pre-workout supplements can provide physical and cognitive benefits (1), but formulations tend to vary wildly, with many containing artificial sweeteners, colors, dyes, and additives that may blunt their overall impact. Since more and more athletes are looking for clean supplements, we tasked ourselves with curating a list of the best natural pre-workouts on the market. 

Over the years, our team of fitness professionals has tested over 65 pre-workouts, singling out their favorite formulations with naturally sourced ingredients. During testing, the certified personal trainers, weightlifting coaches, nutrition coaches, and CrossFit trainers at BarBend rated each pre-workout on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest), taking into account factors such as formulation, taste, side effects, and more. Furthermore, our picks have been verified by a registered dietitian to ensure each brand’s formulation is as natural as they claim. Here are our picks for the best natural pre-workouts.

10 Best Natural Pre-Workouts of 2025

  • Best Overall Natural Pre-Workout: Legion Athletics Pulse
  • Best Natural Pre-Workout for Focus: Onnit Alpha Brain
  • Best Natural Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs BULK
  • Best Natural Pre-Workout for a Pump: Naked Nutrition Pre-Workout
  • Best Non-Stim Natural Pre-Workout: Genius Pre
  • Best Budget Natural Pre-Workout: Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy + Focus
  • Best Organic Natural Pre-Workout: Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder
  • Best Natural Pre-Workout With BCAAs: Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout
  • Best Vegan Natural Pre-Workout: Vega Sport Energizer
  • Best Tasting Natural Pre-Workout: Transparent Labs BULK BLACK

Medical Disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.

Experts Who Contributed

  • Dr. Kimberly Langdon, MD
  • Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC
  • Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD
  • Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1

Best Overall Natural Pre-Workout: Legion Athletics Pulse 

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Legion Pulse Pre-Workout
Legion Pulse Pre-Workout
Legion Pulse Pre-Workout

This pre-workout supplement can come with or without caffeine and in 21 different flavors. Each serving provides 350 milligrams of L-theanine and eight grams of citrulline malate, which may facilitate better pumps. 

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $1.80
  • Servings Per Container: 20
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 350mg
  • Key Ingredients: L-citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, L-theanine, alpha-GPC, sodium, potassium, calcium
  • Flavors: Fruit Punch, Blue Raspberry, Green Apple, Tropical Punch, Peach Ring, Apple Cider, Arctic Blast, Blood Orange, Blueberry Lemonade, Cherry Limeade, Frosted Cranberry, Grape, Mojito, Pina Colada, Pink Lemonade, Rainbow Sherbet, Sour Candy, Strawberry Kiwi, Strawberry Margarita, Watermelon
  • Third-Party Testing: Labdoor Tested for Purity
Pros
Balanced, natural formulation promotes muscle endurance, power, and energy
The potassium, sodium, calcium can help boost hydration
Free from all artificial ingredients, including added sugars
Cons
350 milligrams of caffeine per serving may be too high for some
At $1.71 per serving is higher than average
Per our tester, the natural sweeteners produced slightly bitter taste

Why We Like It

We chose Legion Athletics Pulse Pre-Workout as our best overall natural pre-workout because of its balanced mix of all-natural ingredients in clinically effective doses. Its formula contains zero artificial sweeteners, food dyes, or flavors, and Legion cites 54 peer-reviewed scientific studies in support of the formula’s ingredient and dose combination. Pulse has also been independently third-party tested and certified for purity. 

Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois was impressed by the formula when reviewing it for BarBend. “I was impressed to see all the clinical research backing a natural pre-workout like this.” she says. “Having no artificial sweeteners or dyes also stood out to me.”

While its 350-milligram caffeine count is high compared to the average 250 milligrams, it is balanced with a 1:1 ratio of L-theanine for a smooth energy boost, followed by a gentle comedown. (2) “I’m a huge fan of the 1:1 ratio of L-theanine to caffeine,” says Bourgeois. BarBend editorial member Rosie Borchert agrees, “I sometimes experience anxiety from caffeine, so if I’m having a cup of coffee I like to pair it with L-theanine to help reduce jitters.”

“However, a cup of coffee contains about 95 milligrams of caffeine, so 350 milligrams per serving could be intolerable for some people,” says Bourgeois. The good news? Legion also has a caffeine-free option.

Pulse also contains 8 grams of L-citrulline malate, which — with its 2:1 ratio of L-citrulline to malate — is on the high end of the clinically effective dose. (3) Like the best nitric oxide supplements, this ingredient is common in pre-workouts because it is known to boost nitric oxide production, which promotes the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle. (4) That means more relaxed blood vessels, allowing for improved blood flow and prolonged muscle endurance. (5) 

Our tester holds a scoop of Legion Pulse Pre-Workout.
Front label on a container of Legion Pulse Pre-Workout
Our tester and a shaker cup with Legion Pulse.
Our tester holds a scoop of Legion Pulse Pre-Workout.
Front label on a container of Legion Pulse Pre-Workout
Our tester and a shaker cup with Legion Pulse.

Bourgeois rated the overall formulation 3.75 out of 5, saying, “I love that this product is tested by a third-party lab. That way, I can be sure that I’m getting exactly what’s advertised. There is also total transparency in the formula.” To promote hydration, it has electrolytes, calcium, potassium and sodium. That said, Bourgeois also notes, “I noticed the sodium content — 400 milligrams per serving — was not alarmingly high, still could be too much for some people.”

For taste, it uses three sweeteners: stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol. Our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, rates its taste a 4 out of 5, but notes that it might take some getting used to. They say, “I thought it tasted pretty sweet, but there was also a slightly bitter taste. Not terrible, just a little weird.”

Research suggests an effective daily dose of 4 to 6 grams of beta-alanine can delay muscle fatigue and help you pump out a few more reps. (6)(7) Although Pulse contains just under that range — 3.6 grams — Bourgeois notes that may help avoid the common skin-tingling sensation known as paresthesia. She says, “I was glad to see the 3.6 grams of beta-alanine. That amount has been proven to help increase exercise capacity without the itchy or tingling skin.”

The formula features 2.5 grams of betaine anhydrous, which has been shown to increase power output and force production in as little as 14 days. (8) It also includes 300 milligrams of alpha-GPC, a derivative of choline that acts as a nootropic. Research has shown that some possible benefits of nootropics — also known as “smart drugs” — include improved learning and memory in humans, especially in stressful situations, like during an intense workout. (9)

Legion Athletics Pulse Pre-Workout only comes with 20 servings per container, and our tester rated it just a 2 out of 5 for price per serving. The average price range for pre-workout is around $0.80 to $2 per serving, so while Pulse isn’t the most expensive pre-workout we have tested, it is on the pricier end. However, it was still our pick for best all natural pre-workout because we believe — even at $1.80 per serving — it gives you the best bang for your buck.

Read More

Read our full Legion Pulse Pre-Workout Review.

Best Natural Pre-Workout for Focus: Onnit Alpha Brain 

Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout
Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout
Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout

Onnit's pre-workout supplement offers focus-boosting ingredients, while giving your body a boost before you hit a tough training session. You can get this product in two unique flavors.

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $2.30
  • Servings Per Container: 20
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 200mg
  • Key Ingredients: Caffeine, L-citrulline, beta-alanine, ashwagandha extract, African palm oil
  • Flavors: Tiger’s Blood, Yuzu Peach
  • Third-Party Testing: N/A
Pros
225 milligrams of ashwagandha for mental clarity and focus
1:1 ratio of 2.4 grams of L-citrulline and 2.4 grams beta-alanine to generate muscle pumps
Completely sugar-free
Cons
$3.00 per serving is much higher than average
Contains three proprietary blends, so some ingredient dosages are unknown
Only available in two flavors

Why We Like It

The Onnit Alpha Brain formula may look somewhat familiar because it includes common well-researched ingredients like L-citrulline, beta-alanine, and caffeine. However, what makes it our pick for the best natural pre-workout for focus is the 225 milligrams of ashwagandha extract. Here, it comes in a trademarked form called Noogandha that, according to Onnit, “supports mental agility, concentration, and mental processing speed.”

While research on ashwagandha benefits is still relatively new, at least one study found it can improve physical performance. It can promote the mental clarity needed to power through tough workouts, and also act as an anti-stress agent. (10)) This aligns with the experience our testers reported. One of those testers — a USA Weightlifting L-2 coach — said, “I thought that Alpha Brain brought great focus and clarity to my workout. Several people on my weightlifting team tried it with me and we were all in the zone.”

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, also made note of the ashwagandha while reviewing it for BarBend. “Ashwagandha can help promote mental agility during stressful workouts, so I really like that this formula included it,” she says. While the 2.4 grams of L-citrulline is lower than the optimal research-backed level, Bourgeois points out, “If I was gearing up for an intense workout, the L-citrulline and beta-alanine combo would provide a great pump. Although, a lot of research indicates that you will see the most benefits from L-citrulline in doses of at least 3 grams.”

A person lifts out a scoop of Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout from the jug.
Onnit Alpha Brain pre-workout.
A person lifts out a scoop of Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout from the jug.
Onnit Alpha Brain pre-workout.

Our testers note the mental clarity along with that pump she describes. “I didn’t feel overly stimulated — just a feeling of being present and ready to get to work,” one tester reports. “I didn’t feel any tingling with Onnit Alpha Brain, but another tester and I both got a great pump.” 

This combination of muscle endurance and mental dexterity benefits may explain the high price point, which starts at $2.30 per serving. This is one of the most expensive pre-workouts we tested, but you can save up to 35% if you subscribe and buy in bulk. It was unsurprising that our tester rated the price a 1 out of 5, but the fact that its overall score was still 4 out 5 speaks to the high marks in the other categories. 

For taste — 4 out of 5 — our tester preferred the Tiger’s Blood flavor to Yuzu Peach, saying, “I thought the Tiger’s Blood flavor tasted like a coconut, watermelon, and strawberry mix. It was tropical.” We wish it came in more than two flavors, but for being a completely sugar-free pre-workout, we were pleasantly surprised by how much we liked the taste.

The formula earned a 3.25 out of 5 rating and the proprietary blends concerned Bourgeois. “I’m usually wary of supplements with proprietary blends, and Onnit Alpha Brain has three of them,” she explains. “Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so it gives me pause because, while we can see the ingredients in each blend, we don’t know the amount of each one.”

Alpha Brain’s inclusion of their trademarked form of ashwagandha extract — Noogandha — sets this healthy pre-workout apart because of the mental boost our testers experienced. It’s our top pick for focus because it also includes ingredients that promote blood flow and muscle endurance, like L-citrulline and beta-alanine. 

Our testers agreed with Bourgeois when she summed it up, saying, “I think the combination of the mental benefits of ashwagandha with these well-known ingredients bodes well for rocking some tough workouts.”

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Best Natural Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs BULK 

Transparent Labs BULK
Transparent Labs BULK
Transparent Labs BULK

Transparent Labs BULK contains all-natural ingredients and big doses of L-citrulline malate and beta-alanine to promote muscle gain for your next workout.

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $1.67
  • Servings Per Container: 30
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 200mg
  • Key Ingredients: Citrulline malate, beta-alanine, taurine, L-tyrosine, caffeine, alpha-GPC, betaine anhydrous, Bioperine 
  • Available Flavors: Cherry Kiwi, Blue Raspberry, Peach Mango, Sour Grape, Black Cherry, Strawberry Lemonade, Pina Colada. Strawberry Kiwi, Watermelon, Watermelon Peach, Cherry Splash, Orange, Blueberry Pomegranate, Tropical Punch
  • Third-Party Testing: Informed Choice Certified
Pros
2:1 ratio of L-citrulline malate and beta-alanine is known to promote muscle gain
L-theanine and L-tyrosine support focus
Vegan-friendly formula
Cons
Uses proprietary blends in the formula
180 milligrams of sodium per serving may be too high for some

Why We Like It

Transparent Labs BULK is a no-brainer pick for the best natural pre-workout for muscle gain because it can help you do just that — bulk up. Its formula is turbocharged with high doses of ingredients known to promote muscle gain. With 8 grams of L-citrulline malate per serving, it’s at the upper end of the clinically-backed range of 6 to 8 grams for improved exercise performance, strength and muscle recovery. (5)(3) Combine that with 4 grams of beta-alanine and you can expect a nice pump and prolonged endurance to support muscle gain.

BarBend tester, Nick English, notes the doses of key ingredients when he tried it out. “I’ve tried a ton of pre-workouts and BULK has extra strong doses of some of the best-researched ingredients available,” he said.

In addition to the L-citrulline malate and beta-alanine, Transparent Labs BULK offers an impressive lineup of nutrients. It has zinc, L-tyrosine, and vitamins B6 and B12, as well as 360 milligrams of L-theanine and 180 milligrams of caffeine — a 2 to 1 ratio that has been shown to promote increased energy and reaction time. (11) “Transparent Labs BULK contains a list of rockstar ingredients,” Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, pointed out when testing this product for BarBend. 

After using it for three workouts, our tester rates Transparent Labs BULK a 4 out of 5 overall, saying simply, “The pump was pumping.” The 4 grams of beta-alanine may cause a common pre-workout side effect: a skin-tingling sensation known as paresthesia. Still, while each serving provides 4 grams of beta-alanine, it’s at the low-end of the research-backed daily range of 4 to 6 grams. (12) You may feel some tingling like our tester did. They say, “With other pre-workouts I’ve used, the tingles felt like I was burning on the inside, but not with BULK.”

Our tester with a fresh shaker glass of Transparent Labs Bulk Pre-Workout.
Our tester with a scoop of Transparent Labs Bulk
Our tester is shown lifting a scoop of Transparent Labs Bulk out of the container.
Our tester with a fresh shaker glass of Transparent Labs Bulk Pre-Workout.
Our tester with a scoop of Transparent Labs Bulk
Our tester is shown lifting a scoop of Transparent Labs Bulk out of the container.

There was some disagreement among our testers about the flavors and they rated the two they tried a 3.5 out of 5. One says, “There is a tame sweetness to the flavor, but I don’t really think it tastes like Strawberry Lemonade.” The other tried Blue Raspberry, saying, “I tried the Blue Raspberry it was spot on — delicious.”

Transparent Labs BULK is slightly high in sodium — 180 milligrams per scoop — compared to the daily recommended amount, but Bourgeois explained, “That much sodium isn’t a ton, but for anyone on a low-sodium diet, I think it’s something to be aware of.” For reference, 180 milligrams of sodium is about 8% of the recommended daily total.

It’s common for pre-workouts to use proprietary blends of ingredients, but, as Bourgeois says, “Proprietary blends always give me a little pause because you don’t know exactly how much of each ingredient is in there.” One of those blends contains caffeine and L-theanine — a combination shown to promote an increase in energy and reaction time. (11) 

That blend also includes tyrosine and alpha-GPC to help promote mental focus. While more research is needed on tyrosine, it has been suggested that it may slow the depletion of adrenaline and dopamine during physical stress — like intense exercise. (13) Alpha-GPC has been shown to have cognitive benefits for exercise. One study suggests that in addition to increasing alertness, it may have a positive effect on motivation in humans. (14)

The $1.67 price per serving is on the high end in the average range of $0.80 to $2.00, but we think it’s a great value. “Of all the pre-workouts I’ve used, this is my favorite so far,” our tester raves. “The focus was extreme, the tingles were minimal, and the flavor was good, too. I’ll definitely continue using it to push my workouts to the next level.”

Read More

Read our full Transparent Labs BULK Review.

Best Natural Pre-Workout for a Pump: Naked Nutrition Pre-Workout 

Naked Nutrition Naked Energy
Naked Nutrition Naked Energy
Naked Nutrition Naked Energy

Naked Nutrition Naked Energy is a simple, powerful formula that is vegan-friendly. It comes in several flavors as well as options for a non-stimulant version. 

Shop Naked Nutrition

Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $0.89
  • Servings Per Container: 50
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 200 mg
  • Key Ingredients: Creatine monohydrate, beta-alanine, L-arginine, vitamin C, vitamin B complex, calcium
  • Available Flavors: Plain, Fruit Punch, Citrus
  • Third-Party Testing: Independent third-party tested
Pros
Includes creatine, beta-alanine, and L-arginine to promote muscle pumps
Contains just ten GMO-free and vegan-friendly ingredients
Budget-friendly cost per serving
Cons
Third-party tested, but only for heavy metals
Available in just three flavors

Why We Like It

Even among natural pre-workouts, Naked Nutrition is renowned for its trim list of all-natural ingredients. Despite containing just ten ingredients, the trifecta of beta-alanine (2 grams), L-arginine (1 gram), and creatine (1 gram) combine to make this pre-workout our pick for the best natural pre-workout for a pump. 

The 1 gram dose of L-arginine in the formula can be a boost to what your body gets naturally from protein-rich foods — like meat, dairy, or nuts. The average daily intake from food is around 4 to 6 grams. (15) While creatine can be most effective when taken consistently over time, beta-alanine and arginine are well-known pre-workout ingredients for a pump because they promote increased blood flow. (16)

What is a pump? Well, in response to your muscles contracting, your heart begins to pump more blood to them to provide more oxygen and nutrients. Lactic acid also starts to build up in those working muscles, drawing water into them. The rush of fluids causes your muscles to look and feel “full.”

Our tester holding a scoop of Naked Pre.
Our tester dumps a scoop of Naked Pre.
Front label on a container of Naked Pre.
Our tester holding a scoop of Naked Pre.
Our tester dumps a scoop of Naked Pre.
Front label on a container of Naked Pre.

It packs a decent energy boost with 200 milligrams of natural caffeine anhydrous. Our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — says, “I got a nice pick me up! It felt like drinking a large cup of coffee.” Outside of the caffeine, its bounty of vitamins can help ward off the crash when the effects of the caffeine start to wear off. 

B vitamins have also been shown to play an important role in optimal physiological and neurological function, and this formula includes vitamins B3, B6, B12. (17) When reviewing the product for BarBend, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, highlighted the overall formula, saying, “All ten ingredients — with no sugar or carbs — are vegan-friendly and gluten-, GMO-, dairy-, and soy-free. I also loved the hefty dose of vitamin C and the 200 milligrams of caffeine.”

Even though it contains all-natural ingredients and was third-party tested for heavy metals, Bourgeois said, “In order to verify potency and ensure safety, I would love to see some more extensive testing.”

Of all 66 pre-workouts our team has personally tested, this is one of the most affordable pre-workouts we found. In fact, our tester rated it a perfect 5 out of 5 for that reason. You can expect to pay anywhere from $0.80 to $3 per serving for a pre-workout, so $0.90 per serving is very reasonable considering the pump you can get. One container also includes a whopping 50 servings — 20 more than what you’ll find in many pre-workouts.

Another area our testers rated Naked Energy Pre-Workout a 5 out of 5 was taste. One tester tried the Citrus flavor and notes, “I did enjoy the flavor. It wasn’t too sweet, either.” Another tester mixed the Plain flavor with water and reports, “I think it would taste a little better mixed with a sports drink or something. With just water, I thought it tasted slightly bitter, but it was still good.” Unfortunately, though, it’s only available in three flavors: Fruit Punch, Citrus, and Plain. 

Overall, Bourgeois rated the formula a 3.75 out of 5, saying, “I wasn’t too impressed with the low dose of L-arginine.” The three major ingredients for a pump — L-arginine, beta-alanine, and creatine — are lower than other pre-workouts we have tested. “I saw that they included a small dose of creatine, which was good. That will boost exercise performance even more,” she added. Considering this is one of the cleanest pre-workouts, we picked Naked Energy Pre-Workout as the best natural pre-workout for a pump.

Read More

Read our full Naked Nutrition Naked Energy Review.

Best Non-Stim Natural Pre-Workout: Genius Pre 

Genius Pre Workout
Genius Pre Workout
Genius Pre Workout

Genius Pre Workout uses all-natural ingredients to deliver a boost of mental and physical energy, pump, and endurance.

 
Shop Amazon

Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $1.89 for a one-time purchase
  • Servings Per Container: 20
  • Caffeine Per Serving: None
  • Key Ingredients: L-citrulline malate, betaine anhydrous, CarnoSyn beta-alanine, AstraGin, ElevATP, L-tyrosine, L-arginine, taurine, AlphaSize, Rhodiola rosea, theobromine, HICA, Huperzine A
  • Available Flavors: Grape Limeade, Sour Apple, Blue Raspberry, Sour Cherry
  • Third-Party Testing: Third-party lab tested
Pros
Completely stimulant-free formula
Contains Huperzia serrata and Rhodiola rosea to support focus and cognition
Large dose of L-citrulline malate to promote increased blood flow
Cons
Some users may experience some skin tingling
Dosages of ingredients in the proprietary blends are unknown

Why We Like It

Stimulants like caffeine can help promote mental clarity, but they may also result in anxiety or jitters. Genius PRE’s formula eschews stimulants entirely, relying instead on nootropic ingredients — huperzine A and Rhodiola rosea — that research has suggested may help to improve focus and mental agility. (18)(19) Muscle endurance, meanwhile, comes via solid doses of other important ingredients, including L-citrulline malate and betaine anhydrous. 

In fact, our tester rates the overall formula a 4 out of 5 and raves about how they felt during their workouts. “I would honestly describe the effects as euphoric, like I took a mood stabilizer,” they say. “Since there’s no caffeine, I felt relaxed instead of stimulated.” Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, also praises Genius PRE’s formulation when reviewing it for BarBend. “I think it’s a great stimulant-free option. For those sensitive to caffeine, you can avoid the jitters during your workout and recovery.”

The lineup of ingredients in its formula makes it one of the best non-stim pre-workouts we’ve tested. In addition to the ingredients that promote focus and mental clarity, its 6 grams of L-citrulline malate is in line with the optimum research-backed amounts. The 2 grams of beta-alanine is at the lower end of the recommended 2 to 5 gram range, but, as our tester notes, “I liked that it was a small dose because the tingling was minimal.” (7)

Our tester drinking Genius Pre-Workout.
Genius Pre-Workout
Our tester mixing Genius Pre
Our tester drinking Genius Pre-Workout.
Genius Pre-Workout
Our tester mixing Genius Pre

This lower dose of beta-alanine also plays a role in the pump you can get from Genius PRE. “My shoulders were pumped from it and I did a lot of upper back work. The pump didn’t last very long, but it was really good,” our tester notes. “The pump was fading right as I was finishing up lifting.” 

Bourgeois attributed this to one specific ingredient. “I like that Genius prioritizes L-citrulline malate in this pre-workout. The 6 grams in each serving is at the upper end of what research has found to be beneficial.”

When it comes to taste, there are four flavor options — Grape Limeade, Sour Apple, Blue Raspberry, and Sour Cherry — and our tester scored it a perfect 5 out of 5. “I tried that Blue Raspberry and it was like a blue Icee. I absolutely loved it,”  he says. “I’ve tried at least 50 different pre-workouts and this is one of the best in terms of taste.” Another tester points out, “I think it’s not bitter or anything because it’s naturally-sweetened. It just has a nice, mild flavor.”

Our tester rated Genius PRE just 2 out of 5 for price and servings per container. A typical pre-workout will include around 30 servings — about a month’s supply — so with just 20 servings, you’ll be reupping more frequently. At $1.89 per serving, it’s also on the higher end of the average range for a pre-workout, which is around $0.80 to $2.00. There is, however, a subscribe-and-save option that lowers the per serving cost.

We did see some proprietary blends in the ingredients and Bourgeois calls those out. “I know that a bunch of the proprietary blends in Genius PRE are common in pre-workouts,” she explained, “but I still prefer to know exactly what’s in any supplement I’m taking.” 

She rates the overall formulation 4 out of 5, singling out the L-citrulline malate. “Genius PRE is marketed as a super-charged natural pre-workout and, with a whopping 6 grams of L-citrulline malate per serving, I’d definitely agree.”

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Read our full Genius Pre Review.

Best Budget Natural Pre-Workout: Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy + Focus 

Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy + Focus
Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy + Focus
Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy + Focus

Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy + Focus is an all-natural pre-workout supplement to help sharpen your mental focus ahead of a workout. The caffeine and unique nitric oxide blend consisting of organic ingredients can provide the quick energy boost you need.

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $0.99
  • Servings Per Container: 30
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 85mg
  • Key Ingredients: Plant-based antioxidant blend and nitrate blend
  • Flavors: Blackberry, Blackberry-Cherry
  • Third-Party Testing: N/A
Pros
Below average cost of $1.14 per serving
Plant-based formula contains micronutrients, like vitamins C and B12
Naturally-sourced caffeine
Cons
Lacks common pre-workout ingredients like L-citrulline malate, creatine, or beta-alanine
Can boost energy, but not intended for intense workouts
Just 1 gram of organic nitric oxide blend

Why We Like It

If you’re looking to save a few bucks and still boost your workout, Garden of Life Sport Organic Energy + Focus may be a good option. It’s our choice for the best budget natural pre-workout because its $0.99 per serving cost is between $0.50 and $1.75 cheaper than pre-workouts from brands like Onnit, Genius, or Transparent Labs. 

We also like its formulation, which consists of plant-based ingredients, hefty doses of vitamins C and B12, and about the same caffeine content as a cup of coffee — around 85 milligrams. Mix up a serving before a workout and you can expect a quick burst of energy and improved focus.

While it doesn’t include common nitric oxide boosters like L-citrulline or L-arginine, it does include an organic nitric oxide blend of beetroot, spinach, and kale. You won’t feel a big pump, but if affordable and plant-based are your main criteria, look no further. Our tester commented, “I don’t think this is really a gymgoers’ pre-workout. If you need to shake out the cobwebs or have a cardio session on tap, it’s fine. It won’t push you to a PR or anything, though.”

When reviewing the product for BarBend, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN said, “I loved the lineup of vitamins and nutrients, which will support the energy and focus needed to rock a great workout. It’s also vegan-friendly and Informed Choice Certified.” 

The organic antioxidant energy blend contains cane sugar, baobab fruit, coffeeberry, whole coffee fruit extract, and emblic fruit extract. Bourgeois also said, “The ingredients in the blends are impressive, but I just don’t like that the amounts are not disclosed.”

She also mentioned that, while it’s good for avoiding the jitters and a crash, it may feel similar to drinking a cup of coffee before a workout. “I’m not sure that 85 milligrams of caffeine would be enough for most people taking a pre-workout.” Compared to the average caffeine content in pre-workouts — around 250 milligrams — this is low, but that may be preferable for those with caffeine sensitivities. (20)

While our tester rated the taste a 4 out of 5, they thought the Blackberry flavor was a little too close to candy. They said, “I thought it tasted a little like candy. I didn’t hate that, but it was definitely my first thought.” It did mix very well — 5 out of 5 for solubility — but Bourgeois also remarked, “I wish there were more than just two flavors.”

Bourgeois rated the formulation a 3.5 out of 5, saying, “I don’t see anything alarming to call out in this pre-workout.” The lineup of vitamins, natural caffeine, and plant-based ingredients are just enough for a good focus and energy boost. Garden of Life Sport Organic Energy + Focus may not be ideal for competitive weightlifters, but at a very affordable $0.99 per serving, we think it’s the best budget natural pre-workout. 

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Best Organic Natural Pre-Workout: Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder

Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder
Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder
Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder

Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder provides an energy boost using organic and whole-food ingredients. You'll find no artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors.

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $2.14
  • Servings Per Container: 20
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 90mg
  • Key Ingredients: Ashwagandha, rhodiola root, maca, pomegranate juice powder, beetroot powder, calcium, sodium, potassium, yerba mate, matcha
  • Available Flavors: Raspberry Lemonade, Beet Pomegranate, Ceremonial Matcha
  • Third-Party Testing: Third-party tested for purity and safety
Pros
Contains organic and whole-food ingredients
Vegan-friendly, non-GMO, and dairy-, gluten-, and soy-free
Third-party tested for purity and safety
Cons
Doesn’t provide much of a pump
Amounts of ingredients in proprietary blends not disclosed

Why We Like It

For people who need a boost, but only want organic ingredients with no added sugars, we picked Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder. It’s the best organic natural pre-workout because all of the ingredients used are USDA certified organic, which means its formula is made of whole foods and zero artificial ingredients. While it doesn’t contain some classic pre-workout ingredients — L-citrulline, beta-alanine, or L-arginine — its organic nitric oxide blend can help promote blood flow and muscle endurance.

Our tester, who is certified as both a nutrition coach and personal trainer, appreciated the whole food ingredients. However, the total amount of the organic nitric oxide blend wasn’t quite enough for a sizable boost for an intense workout. They said, “I don’t see any typical pre-workout ingredients except caffeine. In the nitric oxide blend, it has beetroot powder extract, but I didn’t really feel a muscle pump since there was so little of it.” 

Another of its blends — Organic Focus and Endurance Adaptogens — is a cocktail of completely organic ingredients intended to keep you focused during your workout. In this blend you’ll find well-researched ingredients that support cognition — ashwagandha, rhodiola root, ginseng, maca root, cordyceps mushroom, and eleuthero root. These natural ingredients promote mental clarity, memory, and have shown neuroprotective properties. Some studies have even shown these ingredients to ease pain and muscle damage after exercise. (10)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25)(26)

Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder is going to be for those who want to increase their focus and get a quick energy boost from the 90 milligrams of caffeine. As Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, summed it up for BarBend, “I think with the power of these whole-food ingredients, this formula should provide a moderate energy boost. The amount of caffeine is about as much as a cup of coffee, so that can help improve athletic performance without the jitters.”

Since all its ingredients are certified organic, it’s perfect for athletes who need vegan and non-GMO products. It’s also dairy-, gluten-, and soy-free for anyone with those sensitivities.

Bourgeois says, “I love that the Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder formula has a small amount of carbohydrates [for energy] without any added sugar. The fact that it’s third-party tested for purity and safety is also a huge plus.”

Our tester only rated the taste a 2 out of 5, saying, “I tried the Raspberry Lemonade and it certainly tasted ‘natural’ and very earthy. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but the aftertaste was not good at all.” It comes in three flavors — Raspberry Lemonade, Beet Pomegranate, and Ceremonial Matcha. She also rated the solubility a 3 out of 5, and said, “I thought it mixed up just OK — not super grainy, but not super smooth.”

Bourgeois’s final word on Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder was that, while she was happy to see its organic blends contain all-natural ingredients, the fact that they are proprietary blends means we don’t know exactly how much of each is in it. “While Ora Organic is transparent about the ingredients in each blend, since it’s a proprietary blend, I still can’t be 100% sure about the amounts,” she said.

Ora Organic Pre-Workout Powder is our top pick for best organic pre-workout because its target demographic will find a natural boost for moderate-to-low-intensity workouts. It is a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions like gluten or soy, or anyone committed to eating whole food ingredients. While we don’t think you’ll see it floating around powerlifting gyms, Bourgeois rated its formula 3.75 out of 5 because, as she said, “I’m fully confident that the whole foods and natural ingredients can help improve your performance.”

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Best Natural Pre-Workout With BCAAs: Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout 

Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout
Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout
Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout

Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout contains all-natural ingredients, including a BCAA combination of L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine, which can promote muscle growth and prevent muscle fatigue.

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $1.52
  • Servings Per Container: 25
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 150mg
  • Key Ingredients: BioPerine, elevATP, quercetin, NeuroFactor, L-tyrosine, coconut water powder, whole tart cherry
  • Available Flavors: Lemonade, Orange Tangerine, Fruit Punch
  • Third-Party Testing: Third-party lab tested for potency and purity
Pros
Contains 1-gram of BCAAs in clincally-dosed 2:1:1 ratio
No synthetic flavors, dyes, or sweeteners
Hydration-supporting ingredients
Cons
Lacks common ingredients that promote muscle endurance
Mixed reviews on taste

Why We Like It

The best BCAA supplements contain L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine, three amino acids that are essential for those looking to build muscle. Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout is our pick for best natural pre-workout with BCAAs because its formula includes those three essential amino acids in the optimal clinically-indicated 2:1:1 ratio. Despite the need for more research in this area, one meta-analysis BCAA supplementation can reduce exercise induced muscle damage and improve recovery time after exercise. (27)

“Overall, BCAAs reduced the level of muscle damage biomarkers and muscle soreness following muscle-damaging exercises,” per one meta-analysis. (28) As far as recovery goes, BCAAs are indicated to lessen the muscle damage symptoms that slow recovery. Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN singled out the BCAAs in her BarBend assessment, saying, “I’d give Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout high marks for including BCAAs in its formulation.”

While you won’t find L-citrulline, beta-alanine, or other ingredients that promote muscle endurance, our tester, a competitive weightlifter, rated its formula a 4 out 5. “Since there is no beta-alanine, I didn’t have any tingles like I might feel with other pre-workouts,” they said. “I definitely felt a good energy boost, though.” The 150 milligrams of caffeine is at the low end of the average 250 milligrams — but may be plenty to feel the same boost our tester did, depending on your caffeine sensitvity.

Its plant-based ingredients are all vegan-friendly and non-GMO, and there are no synthetic flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Bourgeois also highlighted the ingredients that support hydration. “I was glad they included components like coconut water powder, Himalayan salt, and potassium because these will all support hydration,” she noted. “I was honestly impressed to see BioPerine. It helps your body absorb nutrients better.”

It comes in three flavors — Lemonade, Orange Tangerine, and Fruit Punch — and our tester rated the taste 4 out 5. She tried the Lemonade flavor and pointed out, “For me, it was a little sour, but it tasted just like lemonade.” She also rated the solubility a 5 out of 5 and mentioned, “I was able to get it to completely dissolve in 16 oz. of water.” The taste seemed to be an issue in the customer reviews, but Truth offers a 30-day money back or exchange guarantee, so you could swap it out after you try it.

The price tag of $1.52 per serving is around the average for a pre-workout, so if you like the ingredients and need a plant-based boost with BCAAs, we think Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout is the best natural pre-workout with BCAAs. You can also subscribe for recurring orders and get a 15% discount on your first order, then 20% off any subsequent orders.

Bourgeois was impressed with the overall formula, rating it 4 out of 5. “Many of the factors that I know make a good pre-workout are addressed in the formula by the plant-based ingredients,” she said. Like many natural pre-workouts that use plant-based or organic ingredients, it will be difficult to get a muscle pump for an intense workout. 

However, Bourgeois pointed out other benefits of its formula, saying, “In my opinion, with this dose of caffeine, mix of electrolytes and its nutrient-dense ingredients, you can get a good boost with Truth Nutrition Pre-Workout.”

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Best Vegan Natural Pre-Workout: Vega Sport Energizer

Vega Sport Pre-Workout
Vega Sport Pre-Workout
Vega Sport Pre-Workout

Vega Sport Pre-Workout's all-natural ingredients and sugar-free formula can provide the boost you need for your workout with no artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors.

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $1.34
  • Servings Per Container: 35
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 100mg
  • Key Ingredients: Coffee berry, green tea, Rhodiola rosea extract, calcium chloride, sodium chloride, potassium chloride
  • Available Flavors: Berry, Strawberry Lemonade
  • Third-Party Testing: N/A
Pros
Plant-based energy and focus blend
Moderate dose of caffeine
50% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin B12
Cons
Per our tester, it’s better suited for a run, as opposed to an intense workout
15 grams of added sugar
No L-citrulline or beta-alanine to promote muscle endurance

Why We Like It

With its plant-based and certified vegan formulation, Vega Sport Energizer was an easy choice for best vegan natural pre-workout. Assessing the product for BarBend, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN pointed out, “While it’s not a typical pre-workout formula, I see lots of ingredients that support mental focus and hydration.” The 100 milligrams of caffeine from natural sources like coffee fruit and green tea will give you an energy boost for your workout. Considering the average cup of coffee contains around 95 milligrams of caffeine, this amount is unlikely to produce many jitters.

Another element of the formulation Bourgeois liked was the amount of vitamin B12. “You’ll get around 50% of your B12 daily recommended value in every serving, and I’ve always thought B12 was underrated in supplements like these,” she highlighted. “The role B12 plays in red blood cell formation is just one of its essential roles.” 

The formula also includes 69% of your daily value for vitamin C — 62 milligrams — which is sourced from an ingredient we loved seeing: acerola cherry extract. This powerful antioxidant has been shown to reduce muscle damage, oxidative stress/inflammation, and muscle soreness in athletes, though more research is needed to confirm its effects. (29)

Even though our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — decided they wouldn’t use it for an intense workout in the gym, they said, “I would take this if I had a run or even for yoga. But for weights? Probably not.” Since it is lacking some of the widely-used components for muscle endurance or a pump — L-citrulline, beta-alanine, or L-arginine — we would recommend it for light day in the weight room or cardio workouts at home. 

The 15 grams of added sugar may be a bit much. Bourgeois commented, “I’m not totally anti-sugar, but before a workout, I would probably just grab a banana for a more cost-effective way to get some carbs in.” 

The added sugar was part of the reason our tester said the flavor had a unique profile. “I had the Berry flavor and it reminded me of cotton candy. It was as if someone mixed cotton candy powder with water,” he described. “That was not a bad thing, but it’s just a flavor I’ve never come across in a pre-workout.” The taste and solubility both earned a 4 out 5 rating, although we didn’t get a chance to try the Strawberry Lemonade flavor.

For all its premium ingredients, Vega Sport Energizer costs just $1.34 per serving, which is around the middle of the $0.80 to $2 average for pre-workouts. If you’re in the market for a vegan-friendly boost for a run or elliptical session, this pre-workout may hit the spot. Those looking to pump iron, however, will probably want a pre-workout with ingredients like citrulline and beta-alanine.

Our tester and Bourgeois both rated the overall formulation a 4 out 5 because, for the athlete looking for all-natural, plant-based ingredients, this pre-workout gets the job done. “With its moderate dose of caffeine and lineup of vitamins, I’d give Vega Sport Energizer’s formulation a 4 out of 5,” she said.

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Best Tasting Natural Pre-Workout: Transparent Labs BULK BLACK

Transparent Labs BULK Black
Transparent Labs BULK Black
Transparent Labs BULK Black

Transparent Labs BULK Black is one of the strongest pre-workout supplements on the market. This product comes in five delicious flavors and has high levels of must-have pre-workout ingredients including caffeine, citrulline, and beta-alanine.

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Specs

  • Price Per Serving: $1.83
  • Servings Per Container: 30
  • Caffeine Per Serving: 275mg
  • Key Ingredients: Citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, taurine, L-tyrosine, alpha-GPC, natural caffeine, L-theanine, theobromine
  • Available Flavors: Cherry Kiwi, Blue Raspberry, Peach Mango, Sour Gummy, Black Cherry, Watermelon Peach
  • Third-Party Testing: Informed Choice Certified
Pros
Comes in six delicious flavors
8 grams of L-citrulline malate and 4 grams of beta-alanine to support muscle endurance
Heavy 275-milligram dose of caffeine
Cons
Large beta-alanine dosage may cause tingling
Not intended for casual lifters

Why We Like It

Transparent Labs BULK BLACK is one of our highest-rated pre-workouts. One reason our testing team loves it? The taste. The 5 out of 5 flavor rating and five delicious options made it a no-brainer for our best-tasting natural pre-workout. “The Peach Mango made me feel like I was sipping a tropical drink on the beach — just from my shaker bottle,” our tester raved, “It was totally unlike other pre-workouts I’ve had to just gulp down.”

They’ve tested 18 pre-workouts for us and this is their highest-rated for taste. Between Cherry Kiwi, Blue Raspberry, Peach Mango, Sour Gummy, and Black Cherry, we feel most people can find a flavor they love, too. It also earned a 5 out of 5 for solubility and had our tester saying, “I got it blended right up — easy like Sunday morning.” 

The good times won’t stop after your first sip, either. Its formula is loaded with research-backed effective doses for important ingredients that promote muscle endurance and performance: 8 grams of citrulline malate, 4 grams of beta-alanine, 2.5 grams of betaine anhydrous, and 1.3 grams of taurine. (5)(7)(30) 

Our tester scoops up some Transparent Labs BULK Black Pre.
A woman stands behind a shaker glass and container of Transparent Labs Bulk Black Pre.
Label on Transparent Labs Bulk Black
Our tester scoops up some Transparent Labs BULK Black Pre.
A woman stands behind a shaker glass and container of Transparent Labs Bulk Black Pre.
Label on Transparent Labs Bulk Black

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN called out two features of the formula when reviewing the product for BarBend. “Since BULK BLACK is a fairly high stimulant pre-workout formula, I love that it is third-party tested,” she explained. An average cup of coffee contains around 95 milligrams of caffeine, so the 275-milligram dose of caffeine in Transparent Labs BULK BLACK certainly qualifies as high-stim. “I’d also give a gold star for that whopping dose of 8 grams of L-citrulline malate,” she raved. “That’s at the high end of the range proven to promote improved strength, muscle endurance, and aerobic performance.”

Another thoughtful inclusion she noted was the taurine to offset the big dose of beta-alanine. “When I saw the 4 grams of beta-alanine, I immediately looked for the taurine content,” she said. “I was glad to see that Transparent Labs included 1.3 grams of taurine per serving to help stave off taurine deficiency from the high dose of beta-alanine.” Doses of beta-alanine this high can result in some skin tingling, but our tester noted, “For me, the face tingles were very minimal. What was noticeable were the strength gains.”

With the combination of citrulline malate, beta-alanine, and betaine anhydrous, you may have some big pumps coming your way. That was the case for our tester. “On my first day using Transparent Labs BULK BLACK, I hit personal records on two lifts. I felt so ‘locked-in,’” he said.

At $1.83 per serving, Transparent Labs BULK BLACK is on the higher end of the average for pre-workouts — around $0.80 to $2.00 — but our tester was adamant that it is worth it. “I know the elephant in the room is the price, but this is 100% worth it,” he said. “I honestly felt so focused. All I could think about was crushing my next set.”

Bourgeois emphasized that this pre-workout is not for those just starting a beginner workout plan. “I think this would be geared towards avid lifters and athletes who are used to the effects of these ingredients,” she said. She was encouraged by the fact that Transparent Labs is exactly that — transparent — about its ingredients, as well as being third-party tested. 

However, she did bring her overall rating — 4.25 out of 5 — down because we don’t know for sure how much of each ingredient is in its proprietary blends. “At least for me, I like to know exactly what I’m putting in my body.”

Read More

Read our full Transparent Labs BULK Black Review. 

How We Tested and Chose the Best Natural Pre-Workouts

Our testing team consists of competitive weightlifters, nutrition coaches, certified personal trainers, CrossFit trainers, endurance athletes, and weightlifting coaches. Using our supplement testing methodology, we have tested over 65 pre-workouts across several years, researching the ingredients and consulting registered dietitians.

BarBend tester tries out Legion Recharge sour candy flavored post-workout.
BarBend tester tries out Legion Recharge sour candy flavored pre-workout.

To help convey the benefits and drawbacks of each product, we’ve developed a rating methodology that takes into account factors such as value, formulation, taste, third-party testing, solubility, side effects, and even a brand’s customer service. 

  • Cost: Pre-workouts typically range from about $1 to $3 per serving. We tried to include products throughout that entire range and ensured that each of the picks we made offered great value. 
  • Ingredients: Pre-workouts are one of the most robust supplements on the market, generally boasting a variety of ingredients — citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine, and even creatine. We chose products that are packed to the brim with effective pre-workout ingredients, as well as simpler products that only include the basics for beginners. Within that, we only included formulas with doses we deemed effective. 
  • Flavor: Taste is subjective, but when we could, we tried to include products that offered a variety of flavors to choose from. If you see a product on this list that lacks flavor variety, it’s because our testers really loved the flavor (or couple flavors) offered.  
  • Third-Party Testing: We always prefer products that are third-party tested, and that’s reflected in this list as most of the products featured are third-party tested. We only include products that aren’t third-party tested from reputable brands with transparent labels and websites. 

Key Ingredients in the Best Natural Pre-Workouts

What makes any pre-workout effective is the ingredients. There are well-researched, go-to ingredients that many pre-workouts contain, like caffeine, citrulline, beta-alanine, and betaine anhydrous. Also, in a natural pre-workout, you should not see artificial sweeteners, flavors, or dyes. Knowing what to expect from each ingredient is vital to making the right choice for you.

Caffeine

One of the most common stimulants in pre-workouts — and on Earth, actually — is caffeine. A typical cup of coffee has about 95 milligrams of caffeine. The average range for caffeine content in available pre-workouts is around 250 milligrams. Caffeine can cause unpleasant symptoms if you consume too much, so it’s important to know how your body reacts to it and your tolerance for it.

Citrulline

Citrulline and citrulline malate — citrulline combined with malic acid — are amino acids that are nitric oxide precursors. Nitric oxide promotes the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle, which leads to increased blood flow during workouts. (4) What does that mean? Increased blood flow can increase muscular endurance to help you get those last few reps in or hit one more set. 

Side label on a tub of Naked Pre-Workout
Side label on a tub of Naked Pre-Workout

While assessing pre-workouts for BarBend, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN pointed out, “Most of the research I’ve seen points to training benefits in doses of at least 3 grams.” Depending on your needs, look for amounts around the average of 4 to 6 grams per serving for citrulline and 6 to 8 grams for citrulline malate. (3)

Beta-alanine

Another common ingredient you’ll see in pre-workout supplements is beta-alanine, which is also linked to improved muscular endurance. (7) Because of that, using it in a pre-workout helps promote hypertrophy. This amino acid can also cause a common tingling sensation known as paresthesia. You’ll see doses in our picks up to 6 grams per serving, as well as some with no beta-alanine at all. 

Betaine Anhydrous

With its link to improved power output, blood flow and muscular endurance, betaine anhydrous is common on our list of the best natural pre-workouts because it is found in beets and leafy greens. It has also been linked to a possible decrease in post-exercise cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. An effective dose is around 2.5 grams per day. (8)

Natural Sweeteners

With so many artificial sweeteners in common foods and beverages, it’s important to know how to spot them on a label. When searching for a natural pre-workout supplement, look for natural sweeteners like stevia, erythritol (a sugar alcohol), organic cane sugar, monk fruit, and other fruit-derived sweeteners.

Benefits of Natural Pre-Workouts

Pre-workouts can give you a boost for grueling powerlifting sets, or simply increase your focus for a long run. Whatever the reason you are considering a pre-workout, it’s important to know as much as possible about the ingredients. The best natural pre-workouts will avoid using artificial sweeteners, flavors, or dyes, while still helping you hit your goals for individual workouts. 

  • Increased Muscle Endurance and Focus: Depending on the formula, natural pre-workouts can provide the same benefits as other pre-workouts — increased endurance, focus, performance, and energy levels. The best natural pre-workouts often contain the same crucial ingredients for muscle endurance — citrulline, beta-alanine, arginine, or creatine. Beta-alanine may also help reduce lactate concentrations, which may also improve performance. (31)
  • No Artificial Sweeteners: Like many accessible foods and beverages, pre-workouts can contain added sugars and artificial sweeteners, like sucralose, aspartame, or acesulfame-K. Natural sweeteners — monk fruit, stevia, or erythritol — are derived from natural sources like stevia or fruit. 
  • Increased Energy: Caffeine has been linked to increased power, perceived exertion, and endurance for athletes.(32) The amount of caffeine in natural pre-workouts can vary wildly — an average cup of coffee will contain around 95 milligrams, but a serving of a highly caffeinated pre-workout can contain up to 350 milligrams.

How Much Do the Best Natural Pre-Workouts Cost?

With such a wide range of prices, stacking up each natural pre-workout can help compare the cost per serving. Take a look at what you can expect to spend on each of these supplements below.

Best Overall Natural Pre-WorkoutLegion Athletics Pulse$1.69 per serving
Best Natural Pre-Workout for FocusOnnit Alpha Brain$3 per serving
Best Natural Pre-Workout for Muscle GainTransparent Labs BULK$1.67 per serving
Best Natural Pre-Workout for a PumpNaked Nutrition Pre-Workout$0.90 per serving
Best Non-Stim Natural Pre-WorkoutGenius PreStarting at $1.52 per serving
Best Budget Natural Pre-WorkoutGarden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy + Focus$1.14 per serving
Best Organic Natural Pre-WorkoutOra Organic Pre-Workout Powder$1.84 per serving
Best Natural Pre-Workout With BCAAsTruth Nutrition Pre-Workout$1.52 per serving
Best Vegan Natural Pre-WorkoutVega Sport Energizer$1.21 per serving
Best Tasting Natural Pre-WorkoutTransparent Labs BULK BLACK$1.83 per serving

What To Consider Before Buying a Natural Pre-Workout 

With so many ingredients and doses, trying to make the connection between pre-workout and intended effect can be confusing. That’s where we come in. Here are some considerations for choosing which natural pre-workout can help you reach your goals.

Dietary Needs

Natural pre-workouts are free from artificial ingredients, so they can be ideal for those who adopt plant-based or vegan diets. However, some of these ingredients can have acute effects that you need to consider. For instance, If you have tried a pre-workout with beta-alanine and you didn’t like the tingling sensation it caused, look for a formula with a lower dose or that excludes it completely.

Our tester scoops up some Gainful Pre-Workout.
Our tester scoops up some Gainful Pre-Workout.

One of the benefits of natural pre-workouts is that they’re more likely to be free of common allergens, but those with soy, gluten, or lactose sensitivities will still want to scan the label before purchasing. The same goes for those with caffeine sensitivities. Even natural options tend to contain around 150 milligrams to 300 milligrams of caffeine, so those prone to jitters may want to seek out non-stim or low-dose options. 

Fitness Goals

Keep in mind that the natural pre-workout you choose should have one purpose: supporting your personal fitness goals. Depending on what your goals are, you may need a pre-workout with specific ingredients to get you there. 

For example, if your primary concern is how to build muscle, it might be best to search for ingredients like citrulline that promote muscle endurance to allow you to get in a few more reps. If you are just looking for a quick energy boost for your daily run, focus on the caffeine content.

Price

When you’re considering which natural pre-workout to invest your money in, it’s important to first establish your own budget. Many products on the market are similar, so remember to compare the price per serving to the amount of servings in each container. One serving is typically the amount you’ll use for one workout, so if you are completing four workouts per week, calculate how much four servings would cost to start to plan which pre-workout is best suited to your budget. 

Ingredients

Since there are a wide variety of ingredients in most pre-workouts — including citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine, theanine, and caffeine — if you’re looking for (or not looking for) a specific ingredient, it’s important you set those expectations ahead of your search. For example, some may seek out a pre-workout with creatine. Not all pre-workouts offer this ingredient, so that may kick half of these picks off your personal list of options. Those who want to avoid caffeine will also need to look for a non-stim pre-workout, another scenario that may limit your choices a bit. But as long as you set these priorities ahead of time, this list should still act as a great tool to guide you in your pre-workout search. 

Third-Party Testing

We favor products that are third-party tested, but not every product on this list is. While there are still great products from reputable brands that aren’t third-party tested, if third-party testing is something that is a priority to you (like it is to us), you’ll want to decide that prior to your search. We call out whether or not each product on this list is third-party tested, so you can use the specs charts here to help guide you to the right option. 

Best Natural Pre-Workout FAQs

What is the best natural pre-workout?

Our pick for the best overall natural pre-workout is Legion Athletics Pulse because it remains all natural while providing the perfect doses of everything you’d want in a well-rounded natural pre-workout: citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous for a pump; sodium, potassium, calcium to support hydration; and 350 milligrams of caffeine to help get you in the zone. Our registered dietician and testers agreed that it was the most balanced formula of the natural pre-workouts we tested.

What makes a pre-workout “natural”?

A natural pre-workout will include a lot of the same ingredients that regular pre-workouts do. You’ll see caffeine, citrulline, beta-alanine, and maybe even creatine or arginine. The difference is the extra stuff. In a natural pre-workout, you won’t see any dyes, artificial flavors, or artificial sweeteners — like sucralose or aspartame — on the label.

Which pre-workout has the most natural ingredients?

The most natural ingredient formula in our list belongs to Ora Organic. It uses only whole foods, contains USDA certified organic ingredients, and nothing artificial. The downside is that it doesn’t contain typical pre-workout ingredients you might see for muscle endurance, but its nitric oxide blend can still promote the blood flow necessary to pound out an extra rep or two. Add in the 95 milligrams of caffeine and this all-natural pre-workout can still provide the boost you need.

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About Amanda Capritto, CPT, CSNC, CPS

Amanda is a content writer and journalist in the outdoors, fitness, and wellness niches. She is a certified personal trainer and sports nutrition coach who helps people reach their most exciting outdoor adventure goals. She is the coach who can help you prepare to climb Half Dome or kayak the Wilderness Waterway in the Florida Everglades.

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