Pre-workout can help boost your physical ability to perform in the gym, elongate stamina for workouts, and shorten recovery time. Ingredients can range from citrulline (which can help with blood flow) to caffeine (which can help with energy) to tyrosine (which can help you remain focused throughout the duration of your workout).
Cira Pre-Game pre-workout is a strategically branded product marketed towards women, though it is still a top product across the market in general. Cira’s clean (yet undeniably noticeable pink and teal) packaging lists the product’s ingredients, which include l-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, l-tyrosine, caffeine, l-theanine, theobromine, and AstraGin. Though Pre-Game is marketed as a women’s supplement, the solid dosages, effective ingredients, and reasonable price point make it a top notch pre-workout across the board.
Main Takeaways
- Cira’s pre-workout may cause less bloating than some other pre-workouts as included ingredients like AstraGin can help with absorption.
- With the added 200 milligrams of caffeine, you end up with all the energy, but none of the jitters — this dosage is effective, but not over-the-top. 200mg is just a little over the amount you would find in your average cup of joe.
- This product contains 6,000mg of citrulline, a solid dosage that can help with blood flow during your workout.
Cira’s pre-workout formula contains eight primary ingredients: l-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, l-tyrosine, 200mg of caffeine anhydrous, l-theanine, theobromine, and AstraGin, a proprietary blend of roots and herbs that promotes optimal absorption.
Cira Pre-Game Pre-Workout Highlights
This product is made up of highly-researched and popular pre-workout ingredients, like beta-alanine and betaine anhydrous that can help with endurance and power output. In just one serving — a single scoop of powder — you’ll find six grams of l-citrulline versus the normal three to four grams per serving you may find with other brands, as well as AstraGin that may provide better digestion.
The additional vitamin A in their popular Peach Bellini flavor provides a daily vitamin boost for potential help with immunity, but be watchful of the added caffeine if you’re sensitive — while 200mg is not a ton of caffeine, it may be more than some are interested in having in their pre-workout.
Who Should Buy Cira Pre-Game Pre-Workout
- Women looking for a pre-workout with high-quality ingredients that’s specifically marketed to them will like this product.
- Anyone watchful of their gut health — this pre-workout is rounded out by AstraGin, which can help your body easily digest and utilize all the other ingredients in the pre-workout.
- Those who want a pre-workout with a solid dose of citrulline will appreciate that this product contains 6,000mg of it.
Who Shouldn’t Buy Cira Pre-Game Pre-Workout
- Men who want a pre-workout supplement marketed more towards or specifically for men.
- Anyone looking for a pre-workout with creatine will want to look elsewhere as this product doesn’t contain any.
- People who prefer a more basic flavor variety in their pre-workouts — Cira keeps it unique with their Peach Bellini, Glow-Jito, and Pink Candy flavor options.
Price and Buying Options
Cira’s pre-workout contains 30 servings in each container, which comes out to around 411 grams total, and generally costs $39.99, though sometimes they offer sales and discounts for new buyers.
Costing only $1 to $2 per serving (depending on the sale/discount), Cira is about average when it comes to pricing — some pre-workouts can cost up to $2.50 per serving, but most are in the $1 to $2 range.
Cira Pre-Game Pre-Workout Overall
Cira keeps their ingredient list fairly short with only eight main ingredients. The relatively affordable price point may make this a good option for beginners and advanced users alike, who don’t want to spend too much out of pocket on their pre-workout. Plus, it comes in three unique flavors — Peach Bellini, Pink Candy, and Glow-Jito.
Formulation
Cira’s patented blend and scientifically-researched formula contains eight vital ingredients that may provide your body the stamina and focus to begin and finish your workout strong. Here’s what you’ll find in each scoop. (1)
L-Citrulline
This naturally occurring amino acid found in your body can help blood vessels expand for oxygenated blood to flow during physical exercise, which can help increase endurance. Cira’s blend contains 6,000mg of l-citrulline, which is an average dose for most pre-workout blends on the market — the dosage generally ranges anywhere from three to five milligrams for general health, and six to eight milligrams for workout performance enhancement. (2)
Beta-Alanine
Another popular ingredient for pre-workouts is this bodily amino acid that can help increase exercise capacity during activity and decrease muscle fatigue when resting. There is 1,600mg of beta-alanine in Cira’s formula, which is a standard amount compared across the market. Though, some studies have shown results relating to physical activity with dosages upwards of 4,000mg to 6,000mg. (3)
Betaine Anhydrous
With 1,250mg of betaine anhydrous included, this amino acid compound can help your cells stay hydrated, is closely tied to keeping your body going for longer, potentially improves resistance training, and may help you gain muscle mass. The recommended amount can vary between 1,250mg to 1,500mg, once to twice daily, depending on usage, body type, and specific physical performance needs. (4)
L-Tyrosine
L-tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that can help promote weight loss, focus, and even mood during physical exercise. A typical dose is about 150mg for daily use, and this pre-workout contains 500mg of this amino acid, which is common across the pre-workout market that typically ranges between 200mg to 5,000mg per serving. (5)
Caffeine Anhydrous
Pre-Game contains 200mg of caffeine, which can help with energy, alertness, and attention. While many pre-workouts contain almost double this amount of caffeine, Cira sticks to around the equivalent of one cup of coffee so as not to overwhelm the body, causing fewer jitters. (6)
L-Theanine
This amino acid that is found in tea leaves and mushrooms may help provide relief from stress, ease anxiety, and reduce insomnia making it great for those seeking a cognitive boost. With only 100mg, this pre-workout falls on the lower end of the spectrum, though — a common dose is typically about 200mg to 400mg. (7)
Theobromine
Like caffeine, theobromine is a mild stimulant and is found naturally in substances like cacao (chocolate). Since Cira already contains a normal amount of caffeine per serving, this small dose of 50mg of theobromine can complement the caffeine to help enhance energy while also potentially increasing air flow to the lungs and boosting blood flow. Since the average dose is 250 to 500mg, this 50mg dose likely won’t do anything drastic within this formula. (8)
AstraGin — Astragalus Membranaceus Extract (root) and Panax Notoginseng Extract (root)
The 25mg of AstraGin in this formula can help break down amino acids, increase absorption, and digest ingredients. AstraGin is an herb extract that is registered as safe by the FDA, and the suggested intake is 50mg or less a day. (9) In this formula, it’s key for making sure your body properly utilizes and absorbs all of the other pre-workout ingredients.
Flavors
Cira Pre-Game comes in three flavors, all with the same base blend of ingredients, but each with their own flare. Peach Bellini is a twist on the classic flavor of a mimosa with a side of peach. Glow-Jito mimics a refreshing mojito, and Pink Candy compares to a bite of cotton candy. All of these do contain an artificial sweetener, sucralose, which gives them their taste without the added calories.
Other Ingredients
The Peach Bellini flavor contains sodium bicarbonate and beta carotene (vitamin A). At 1,000mcg and 82mg respectively, these ingredients aren’t going to have a huge impact, but they could potentially provide additional digestive/acid relief and immune support.
What To Consider Before Buying Cira Pre-Game
Cira’s pre-workout contains a lot of the same ingredients you’ll see in pre-workouts across the market, but it stands out in one major way: It’s marketed specifically toward women. Here are a few tips from us on how to decide what you need from a pre-workout supplement before making your purchase.
Ingredients
Cira’s ingredient list contains only eight major ingredients — l-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, l-tyrosine, caffeine, l-theanine, theobromine, and AstraGin. Cira does include vitamin A and sodium bicarbonate in their Peach Bellini flavor, which can boost immunity and may contribute to relieving stomach acid.
However, Pre-Game does not contain creatine, l-glutamine, or vitamin B, which are all common pre-workout ingredients some customers may be after. On the other hand, some customers may want a pre-workout that does not contain caffeine, which would nix Pre-Game from their options, as well. Before you add to cart, just make sure Cira’s ingredients line up with your priority ingredients.
Branding
While this is a high-quality pre-workout that anyone can take, it’s important to note that it is marketed toward females. Their formula makeup is similar to many pre-workouts, but their packaging and cite is meant to target females. This branding may push out some of the male intrigue — if you like the ingredients list on Pre-Game, but would prefer a pre that’s marketed more toward men, you can find similar options out there. However, if you’re a male and this branding doesn’t bother you, Cira’s ingredients can be just as effective for you as they are for women.
Flavor
The three flavors Cira offers for this pre-workout are unique, and even the names themselves might idealize that drinking their pre-workout can be fun, fruity, and sweet. Some, though, may enjoy sticking to a simple flavor palette for pre-workouts such as strawberry, mixed berry, or even no flavor at all. Those who like to stick to classic flavors might want to look for other pre-workout options.
Caffeine
Since Cira does contain caffeine, this product may not be ideal for those looking for a pre-workout that excludes this stimulant. While the dosage is about equivalent to the amount of caffeine you’d find in just a single cup of coffee, overuse or additional caffeine intake outside of this product may cause unwanted side effects for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
Final Word
From the boost of caffeine and AtraGin that can help aid in digestion, to the unique flavors and solid dose of citrulline, this pre-workout is a well-rounded supplement across the board — though it is specifically marketed to women, which may turn away some male customers. Cira packs most of your common pre-workout ingredients at solid dosages, and doesn’t overdo it on the stimulants. So long as you aren’t on the hunt for a pre that specifically contains creatine, glutamine, or vitamin B, Cira’s blend offers high-quality ingredients that can pack a punch no matter if you’re male or female.
FAQs
Is Cira‘s pre-workout safe?
Overall, Cira Pre-Game is generally safe, though there are a few things to note. The beta-alanine may cause tingling sensations and caffeine may cause jitters if you’re particularly sensitive. If you’re worried about any ingredient in particular — or you’re new to supplements in general — it’s always wise to speak with a medical professional first and foremost.
How many times a day can I take Cira Pre-Game?
The FDA states that 400mg of caffeine per day is safe for most people, so taking this pre-workout more than once per day may be too much for the body to handle. It’s best to stick to taking Pre-Game just once before your workout each day.
Can I switch between Cira and another pre-workout throughout the week?
Since Cira’s ingredients are a blend of natural substances, there is no research showing that you cannot take alternative pre-workouts while using Pre-Game. If you’re concerned that different ingredients may not mesh well, talk to a medical professional before implementing any supplement into your regimen.
References
- Martinez, N., Campbell, B., Franek, M., Buchanan, L., & Colquhoun, R. (2016). The effect of acute pre-workout supplementation on power and strength performance. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 13, 29. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-016-0138-7
- Gonzalez AM, Trexler ET. Effects of Citrulline Supplementation on Exercise Performance in Humans: A Review of the Current Literature. J Strength Cond Res. 2020 May;34(5):1480-1495. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000003426. PMID: 31977835.
- Trekler, E. T., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Stout, J. R., Hoffman, J. R., Wilburn, C. D., Sale, C., Kreider, R. B., Jager, R., Earnest, C. P., Bannock, L., Campbell, B., Kalman, D., Ziegenfuss, T. N., & Antonio, J. (2015, July). International society of sports nutrition position stand: Beta-Alanine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Retrieved January 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4501114
- Arumugam MK, Paal MC, Donohue TM Jr, Ganesan M, Osna NA, Kharbanda KK. Beneficial Effects of Betaine: A Comprehensive Review. Biology (Basel). 2021 May 22;10(6):456. doi: 10.3390/biology10060456. PMID: 34067313; PMCID: PMC8224793.
- Patel, K. (2021, September 13). Summary of L-Tyrosine. Examine. Retrieved January 2022, from https://examine.com/supplements/l-tyrosine/
- Trexler ET, Smith-Ryan AE, Roelofs EJ, Hirsch KR, Mock MG. Effects of coffee and caffeine anhydrous on strength and sprint performance. Eur J Sport Sci. 2016 Sep;16(6):702-10. doi: 10.1080/17461391.2015.1085097. Epub 2015 Sep 22. PMID: 26394649; PMCID: PMC4803635.
- Nobre AC, Rao A, Owen GN. L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:167-8. PMID: 18296328.
- Martínez-Pinilla E, Oñatibia-Astibia A, Franco R. The relevance of theobromine for the beneficial effects of cocoa consumption. Front Pharmacol. 2015 Feb 20;6:30. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00030. PMID: 25750625; PMCID: PMC4335269.
- Glavatis, R., Endres, J. R., Hikara, G., Vertesi, A., Beres, E., Szakonyine, I. P., & Hsue, Y. C. (2019, July 1). Toxicological Evaluation of a Mixture of Astragalus membranaceus and Panax notoginseng Root Extracts. Hindawi: Journal of Toxicology. Retrieved January 2022, from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jt/2019/5723851/
