Tag: Reviews
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps Review
These lifting straps are a great option for strength athletes everywhere for enhanced grip.
Product Overview
Lifting straps and other lifting accessories are perfect ways to ensure our grip strength remains strong and stable so we can build that desired muscle as best we can. For those looking to lift big and start to see some serious size, having a good pair of lifting straps is essential in promoting comfort and assistance to boost your lifts. On top of that, any hesitancy you have about lifting such big weight will subside and you can tackle these grueling workouts much better. Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps are perfect for strength athletes everywhere to assist in max reps and hard-earned PRs.
A good lifting strap provides for a host of benefits to your lifts and won’t disappoint when it comes to results. By working to enhance your grip, you offer a comfortable and versatile hold for less slippage and a snug feel to tackle any big lift. For those heavier lifts, that assistance can lead to desired muscle growth and reduced pain and injury, thus giving you support to work past any soreness with ease and see gains happen (1,2). Serious Steel has designed these figure 8 lifting straps to do that and more on your quest of weightlifting gains.
Shop at Serious Steel
Serious Steel is an amazing company based out of Roanoke, Virginia with the goal of creating the best and highest quality fitness equipment at the right prices and with great customer service. With a passion for exercise and fitness, Serious Steel seeks to boost the lives of their customers by giving them top tier products to enhance all of their gains. Everything can be used by bodybuilders, strongmen, powerlifters, and anyone serious about lifting, fitness, and working out to better themselves every day.
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps Highlights
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps are the top choice in strap from serious strength sports athletes and competitors. Made to withstand serious abuse from those monster lifts, these straps are not cheap or flimsy and can really boost your PRs. Made from heavy duty webbed cotton, extra stitching offers great seam reinforcement to add to the durability of these straps. With three size variations, you have the luxury to find a strap that is right for you and a one year warranty is the right amount of time to try these out and make sure they work for you. A great look and an even better design, these lifting straps are what you need to see some serious gains.
Key Aspects Of These Lifting Straps
Three Strap Sizes
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps come in three sizes so everyone can find a size that works for them. The 10’’ strap is great for those with a wrist size of up to 6.75’’ while the 12’’ is for those with a wrist size of 6.75’’ or higher. For fatter bars and axle bars, the 14’’ axle straps will help take care of all your lifting needs when it comes to a larger, more challenging bars to grip.
Material & Quality
These figure 8 lifting straps are built to last and can stand against any abuse put on by any of your workouts. Made from heavy duty webbed cotton, you get some assistance from a strong material that still allows for versatility and solid movement. Double stitched at the connecting end and cross stitched throughout offers seam reinforcement so these straps stay in place and stay in good shape.
How To Use
These straps are easy to use and not cumbersome to have to take on and off during your workout. Put one hand through the back of the strap and then loop the other end of the band under the bar. Next, put your other hand through the strap and grab the bar. It’s as simple as that and you’re ready to lift.
For some lifters, they prefer the straps completely outside the bar and others want a more snug fit with the strap under their index or pinky finger but the choice is up to personal preference.
Price & Effectiveness
Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps are the perfect lifting accessory to help you tackle any big lift or weighted challenge that may arise.
Pros
Three sizes at the same price
Durable and made from quality material
Easy to use and effective
From a reputable company
Cons
Sizing may be slightly off
The overlap of the straps can be a bit uncomfortable
Price: $23.90
Check out our list of the Best Lifting Straps for more great products!
Wrap Up
Having a good pair of lifting straps is exactly what you need to tackle any big lift or challenge that comes your way. With Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps, you get the most bang for your buck with a durable and high-quality lifting strap. Designed for comfort, versatility, and to withstand any abuse, these straps will work to assist with any lift that comes your way. Serious Steel knows the needs of athletes and seeks to bring the best products to the table. What you are really getting is a great pair of lifting straps with variety, a great price, and an honest company backing them. Check out Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps today and see what these can do for all of your lifting goals.
Try Serious Steel Figure 8 Lifting Straps Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Serious Steel
References
Hori, Naruhiro; Kawamori, Naoki; Chiu, Loren Z. F. (2009). “Pulling movement in weightlifting exercises from a biomechanical standpoint”. (source)
Weiss, A. K.; Tsai, H. H.; Puffer, J. C. (2002). “Bilateral Wrist Pain- Weightlifter”. (source)
Unbound Unload Beyond Pre-Workout Review
This pre-workout is powdered jet fuel to take your training and performance to new heights.
Product Overview
Many of us know that pre-workout is incredibly popular in the fitness community. Out of all the supplements to choose from, along with a protein supplement, a pre-workout is up there in the top choices for us. With so many on the market, it can be challenging to choose which pre-workout supplement will work best for our gains. Thankfully, companies like Unbound have set themselves apart and have designed and created some seriously effective and awesome supplements. Unbound Unload is a high-stimulant nootropic pre-workout meant to be stacked with the rest of Unbound’s hardcore lineup to deliver serious gains.
Any good pre-workout can work to increase energy and focus so you have more intense workouts with the ability for more muscle growth. During those grueling workouts, it can be easy to fall victim to fatigue, but a pre-workout worth its salt will help to reduce that fatigue and unwanted muscle soreness for better performance while also leading to more enhanced recovery so you bounce back much faster. Unbound Unload can do this and much more as you seek the best for your training and performance gains.
Shop at Unload
Unbound is on a mission to help those self-starters get the gains they want most. They seek those who set the highest standards, not follow them, and whose demand for greatness is unparalleled by others. Unbound wants their athletes to be unequaled in a world of mediocrity and by designing and creating high quality supplements, they understand that those seeking to be the best, need the best when it comes to fueling their bodies and driving towards the top. A sister company to the amazing and top tier company NutraBio, their honesty and transparency shows through with every product.
Unbound Unload Highlights
Unbound Unload is that unique pre-workout you need most as you seek to never settle for less. Unbound was formulated with top of the line, premium ingredients and is meant for hardcore athletes willing to push themselves to the absolute max. With an experience unlike any other, Unload seeks to support increased power, energy, and focus, while also fueling a feeling of euphoria. It will also aid in endurance and the effects last throughout the entire training session, making the Unload experience impossible to beat.
With 13 effective ingredients and three amazing flavors, Unload is that pre-workout to keep you going day in and day out. The flavors are unique when compared to other basic pre-workouts flavors. Grape Lychee is sweet and refreshing, Melon Spice has a pleasant kick, and Tangelo is a bright citrus flavor.
Unload is meant to be stacked with other Unbound products for it will enhance all areas of your training and performance when paired with these stellar supplements. For those looking to beef up their resistance training, stack this with their pump product, Unbent. If you are someone looking to really boost your cardio, stacking the fat burner Unlock is the product for you.
Ingredients
NOOLVL: A patented, non-stimulant nootropic, it supports increased nitric oxide production with greater oxygen and nutrient delivery. It will promote better focus and cognitive function.
Alpha GPC: A premium form of choline, it is highly bioavailable and facilitates better concentration and mind-muscle connection (1).
Zynamite: Works similar to caffeine and supports better energy, mood, and motivation without the need for additional caffeine.
RhodioPrime: A high-quality form of rhodiola crenulate with anti-stress and anti-fatigue benefits while also supporting longer lasting elevations in mood, motivation, and focus (2).
EnXtra: Shown to improve alertness without impacting sleep quality and cardiovascular parameters.
Mucuna Pruriens: Works to increase dopamine levels to help people feel more motivated and energetic, thus pushing them harder in the gym.
Zum XR: Provides for better energy, focus, and motivation with longer lasting effects.
L-Tyrosine: Enhance mental and physical performance while reducing stress and improving cognitive flexibility (3).
Caffeine Anhydrous: Works to improve reaction time and attention, delay onset of fatigue, reduce poor training performance due to sleep deprivation, and boost power output, strength, and muscular endurance (4).
Rauwolscine: A powerful CNS stimulant for its effects on adrenaline and serotonin receptors.
Yohimbine: Has intense stimulatory properties and pro-fat burning effects (5).
Huperzine A: Helps to ensure stronger and more sustained focus and concentration while working on mind-muscle connection.
AstraGin: Increase bioavailability and absorption while also supporting better muscle recovery and growth.
Other Ingredients
Citric Acid, Natural Flavors, Malic Acid, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Anti-Foam (maltodextrin, canola oil, silicon dioxide)
Stim Or Non-Stim
Stim
Calories
10
Carbs
1g
Servings Per Container
20
Serving Size
2 Scoops
Flavors
Grape Lychee, Melon Spice, Tangelo
Best Way To Take
Take 2 scoops with 12-16 oz. of water 15-20 minutes before your workout.
Price, Flavors & Effectiveness
Unbound Unload is that jet fuel pre-workout you absolutely need to boost all areas of your training and performance as you seek those massive gains. With 20 servings per container, 2 scoops of this powerful pre-workout will take your workouts to new heights and give you the most out of each and every training session. With three great flavors in Grape Lychee, Melon Spice, and Tangelo, you’ll never grow bored with the taste.
Pros
Powerful and effective ingredients
Transparent and honest label
Great benefits to improve training and performance
Awesome and interesting flavors
Cons
Does contain artificial flavoring for those seeking a more natural approach
Not available for online purchase
Price: Unload retails for $50.00 but it is not available to purchase online. The entire Unbound lineup is currently exclusive to brick and mortar retailers. If interested in where to buy Unload or other Unbound products, check out this Where To Score store locator and find the nearest location to you!
Featured Unbound Athlete
Erik Ramirez
Erik Ramirez is an IFBB pro bodybuilder and Unbound athlete who uses their supplements to enhance his absolutely shredded aesthetic. Among many competitions, he was crowned the 2015 North American Overall Champion and has competed in other events including the New York Pro, Toronto Pro, Tampa Pro 212, and the 2020 Chicago Pro Men’s Bodybuilding contest. Working with Unbound, Ramirez only uses high quality supplements to fuel his workouts and recovery and is comfortable with Unbound given their innovative formulas, clean ingredients, and advanced results for maximum gains.
Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements for other awesome pre-workouts!
Overall Value
Unbound Unload is that jet fuel pre-workout you’ve been waiting for to take your gains to the next level. By promoting power, focus, and energy, you never have to settle for anything less than great with this amazing pre-workout. Unbound knows the needs of athletes and seek to bring the best supplements to those who set the standards and who stand out from the pack when it comes to hitting their goals. What you are really getting is a high-quality pre-workout with amazing ingredients and great flavors from a company who understands the dedication it takes to produce great supplements. Check out Unbound Unload today and watch your gains take off.
Try Unbound Unload Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Unbound, Erik Ramirez Instagram and Envato
References
Parker, Adam G.; Byars, Allyn; Purpura, Martin; Jager, Ralf (2015). “The effects of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, caffeine or placebo on markers of mood, cognitive function, power, speed, and agility”. (source)
Lee, Jae-Woong; Kim, Yon-Suk; Dong, Xin; Park, Jin-Su; et al. (2020). “Anti-inflammatory effect of Rhodiola crenulate extracts through the down-regulation of MyD88 dependent pathway and induction of autophagy”. (source)
Coull, Nicole; Chrismas, Bryna; Watson, Phillip; Horsfall, Rachel; Taylor, Lee (2016). “Tyrosine Ingestion and Its Effects of Cognitive and Physical Performance in the Heat”. (source)
Trexler, Eric T.; Smith-Ryan, Abbie E.; Roelofs, Erica J.; Hirsch, Katie R.; Mock, Meredith G. (2016). “Effects of coffee and caffeine anhydrous on strength and sprint performance”. (source)
Ostojic, Sergej M. (2006). “Yohimbine: the effects on body composition and exercise performance in soccer players”. (source)
Best Women’s Pre-Workout For Feminine Energy, Focus & Vitality 2021
These pre-workouts will work to boost feminine energy, focus, vitality, and weight loss during high-intensity training.
Pre-workout is incredibly popular workout supplement for women to boost feminine vitality, focus, energy, and weight loss while increasing blood flow to provide for some serious muscle pumps during high-intensity training. While we all work out and seek a great physique, having supplements to assist us can prove to be worth our while in the long run. As a great source of fuel for all your pre-workout needs, it is no wonder why so many athletes and gym-goers have gravitated towards high-quality pre-workout supplements.
For female athletes and bodybuilders, it is important to find the right supplement to enhance all gains to burn fat and allow for an awesome workout to boost both training and performance, as well as feminine vitality and muscle growth for the best pumps.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Women’s Pre-Workout Supplements so female bodybuilders, athletes, and gym folks can all benefit from these great products. Once you start using one of these, you won’t be disappointed by the results.
Best Women’s Pre-Workout Supplements For 2021
Best Pre-Workout For Women Overall: Cira Nutrition Pre-Game
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Peach Bellini, Pink Candy
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 6-8 fl. oz. of water 30-40 minutes before your workout.
Cira Nutrition Pre-Game is that pre-workout you need to give you more energy to perform harder, better, and faster while promoting feminine vitality for the best pumps. With great ingredients to increase energy, endurance, focus, burn fat and weight loss, and muscle growth and strength, this pre-workout has you covered with whatever your needs may be, even if its avoiding water weight. Packed with all the essential ingredients to stand out as a top pre-workout for women, this supplement is what you want most for your pre-workout routine to boost feminine energy. With great flavors at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong with Pre-Game.
Pros
Packed with essential pre-workout ingredients
Fully disclosed label
Great flavors and price
Cons
Does contain caffeine for those sensitive
Only available directly from their website
Price: $39.99
Click here for the best price
Best For Strength: Performance Lab Sport Pre
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
N/A
Best Way To Take
Take up to 6 capsules 30-45 minutes before your workout. Take on an empty stomach with 16-32 oz. of water
Performance Lab Sport Pre is another high quality pre-workout supplement available to the public at a great price point to promote feminine vitality and promote the best pumps. Performance Lab Sport is one of the most rigorously and scientifically vetted brands and all of their pre-workout products are free of synthetic additives (which might dehydrate the muscles), non-GMO, and vegan friendly. Sport Pre increases nitric oxide in the blood to support the oxygenation of muscles during workouts, improves endurance by hydrating the muscles, and enhances both anaerobic and aerobic exercise by increasing ATP reductase for the best benefits out of strength and high-intensity training, weight loss, to burn fat, and muscle growth.
Pros
Vegan friendly
Capsules are easy to take
Will help with strength and endurance
Caffeine free for those looking for no caffeine
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available through their site
Price: $39.00
Click here for the best price
Best For Weight Loss: Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting and providing some of the best pumps, Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN is great for those looking to target stubborn fat while keeping on that lean muscle with a focus on feminine vitality. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to burn fat and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine to boost muscle growth.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Best Pre-Workout Without Creatine: Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged Sport
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
10
Carbs
2g
Sugar
1g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
Glacier Grape, Mango Lime
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 8-12 ounces of water, 20-30 minutes before your workout.
Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged Sport is that perfect pre-workout for anyone looking to enhance athletic performance with the perfect balance of feminine energy, endurance, focus, and hydration for feminine vitality and the best pumps. This stellar pre-workout delivers sooth, clean energy to provide for a host of great benefits to your high-intensity training and muscle growth while still being free of creatine. With no artificial flavors or colors, this is a clean pre-workout to still offer amazing results. This finely tuned blend of ingredients is the perfect ratio for hard-training athletes and high-intensity lifters to power performance and muscle growth to the next level.
Pros
No creatine for those looking for none
Clean, smooth energy
Great for high-intensity training
Good flavors
Cons
No creatine for those looking for it
Does contain sucralose
Price: $19.99
Click here for the best price
Use code GENIRON10 to save 10%!
Best Clean Ingredients: Cira Nutrition Pre-Game
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Peach Bellini, Pink Candy
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 6-8 fl. oz. of water 30-40 minutes before your workout.
Cira Nutrition Pre-Game is that pre-workout you need to give you more energy to perform harder, better, and faster with a focus on feminine vitality and muscle growth. With great ingredients to increase feminine energy, endurance, focus, weight loss, burn fat, and muscle strength, this pre-workout has you covered with whatever your needs may be, like avoiding water weight. Packed with all the essential ingredients to stand out as a top pre-workout for women, this supplement is what you want most for your pre-workout routine. With great flavors at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong with Pre-Game.
Pros
Packed with essential pre-workout ingredients
Fully disclosed label
Great flavors and price
Cons
Does contain caffeine for those sensitive
Only available directly from their website
Price: $39.99
Click here for the best price
Best Stim-Free Without Caffeine: Transparent Labs PreSeries Stim-Free
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Strawberry Lemonade, Tropical Punch, Orange, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Green Apple
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
Transparent Labs Stim-Free is an amazing option for those looking for stimulant free supplements for strength and high-intensity training, weight loss, and to improve performance and feminine vitality while still getting the best pumps. Containing key ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine, all of these ingredients are clinically dosed and effective for providing great gains. With a 100% transparent formula, this product is great for those who are intolerant to caffeine or other stimulants, or for those looking to cycle off of them. With 13 active ingredients all designed for enhanced feminine energy, focus and increasing lean muscle growth, you cannot go wrong with this great stim-free, non-caffeine option that will still enhance energy like other products.
Pros
Great advantages while being stim-free
Perfect for those insensitive or looking to get off caffeine
Clean ingredients and advanced formula
Provides for energy and focus while decreasing muscle fatigue
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly through their site
Does not have caffeine or other stimulants for those looking
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Also, check out our individual review here!
Best For Energy: Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
15
Carbs
2g
Sugar
1g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
Berry Blast, Fruit Punch, Grape, Krisp Apple, Orange Kush, Pink Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Take one scoop with water before your workout.
Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged is unmatched in terms of ingredient quality and synthesis of the blend of proteins for high-intensity training and feminine vitality with some of the best pumps. Kaged Muscle lab tests every batch to make sure each is fully loaded as advertised — 274 mg pure caffeine, 2 g taurine, 6.5 g fermented BCAAs, 6.5 g pure l-citrulline, and 2 g of their patented betapower blend. It’s an unbeatable combination that is guaranteed to supercharge any workout with great pre-workout ingredients from supplements to increase muscle and promote weight loss and burn fat.
Pros
Contains BCAAs and has well-dosed ingredients
No artificial colors or flavors
Great taste
Cons
A bit expensive
Does contains sucralose, which is an artificial sweetener
Caffeine content may be high for those sensitive
Price: $39.99
Click here for the best price
Use code GENIRON10 to save 10%! Check out our individual review for Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged here!
Best For Cutting & Toning: Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting, Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN is great for those looking to burn fat while keeping on that lean muscle growth, as well as enhancing feminine vitality. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to slim down and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Benefits Of Pre-Workout For Women
The benefits of pre-workout go far beyond what could happen without using it for exercise performance and feminine vitality, but also for things like avoiding water weight. For female bodybuilders and athletes, having a great pre-workout can be a game-changer when it comes to boosting all your goals like feminine energy and strength. Such benefits include:
Increased energy: That much desired energy boost will work to get you going so your workouts can go for longer with more intensity and you won’t feel drained half-way through (1).
Promote blood flow & muscle pumps: With increased flow to your muscles, you will give them the chance to grow so you see worthwhile muscle growth along with a protein product for the best pumps. This will certainly unveil the results you want most (2).
Raise heart rate: By increasing your heart, you build that endurance capacity as well as start to burn fat and get your metabolism going for changes in body composition and muscle growth, something we all want.
Enhance focus: Be alert and focused for whatever workout comes your way no matter the intensity and work to stay locked in to every exercise.
Important Ingredients To Look For In Pre-Workout For Women
Caffeine: Energy Boosts
One of the natural ingredients and stimulants, caffeine is an essential ingredient in most pre-workout products. It will enhance focus and start to raise alertness so you are always locked in. Caffeine will also increase your heart rate for your desired amount of energy levels to aid in high intensity workouts (3).
Creatine: Strength & Power
Known to increase mass and power, creatine is a great ingredient in pre-workout, or as a stand alone supplement. As an important part of energy production in your cells, creatine is safe, well researched, and a highly effective supplement per serving to increase muscle mass and muscle growth enhancing exercise to boost all areas of your fitness goals and provide for the best pumps (4).
Beta Alanine: Fight Fatigue
An amino acid, this works to improve performance and increase energy while pushing off any fatigue. It will keep you pushing harder for longer, more intense workouts, and allow for better motivation and increased feminine vitality (5).
Nitrosigine: Optimal Delivery
Increasing blood flow by stimulating nitric oxide and allowing for greater oxygen and nutrient delivery during exercise for the best gains in strength, recovery, and essential nutrition while also promoting the best pumps. Making sure all of the ingredients and nutrients get to your body fully is important for that desired growth.
Teacrine: Mental Clarity
Works to increase mental clarity, boost energy, and increase mood and motivation. This will give you a sense of purpose in the gym so your workouts are structured and your mission for gains is clear, thus boosting your confidence (6).
Adaptogens: Help With Stress
Plant based compounds, they will help adapt your body to stress so you don’t feel fatigue or the strain of your workouts. Working to improve cognition as well, your focus and energy will be there to support any workout slump and that unwanted fatigue and soreness will be kicked to the curb.
Who Should Use Pre-Workout?
Pre-workout is great for any female bodybuilder, athlete, for gym-goer looking to take their workouts to the next level and improve feminine vitality. From beginners to those more advanced, this supplement can provide energy, increase muscle pumps, eliminate fatigue, and work for that shredded aesthetic others will envy. Pre-workout is perfect for those with busy schedules who just need that extra boost when working hard in the gym and who want the best pumps for serious growth while avoiding water weight.
When Should You Take It?
It is best to always read the label of each product before diving right into pre-workout. Ideally, you will consume this 20-30 minutes before a workout to give you all the ingredients time to hit your body effectively. The label will tell you how much to take and when to take it so definitely check that out!
How We Choose
When it comes to making this list, we look at many factors because you deserve to have the best pre-workout supplement on your shelf to boost feminine vitality, focus, high-intensity training, and weight loss. Looking at the brand and the reputation of the company is very important because you deserve to have a company working for you. Top tier companies will be honest and transparent with their labels so you know exactly what you are putting in your body, especially those with natural ingredients. We look at the effectiveness because a pre-workout should work with your body, not against it, as well as taste because you should also enjoy this supplement for what it can do. We know that supplements can get expensive and we work to find the best products that are still at an affordable price so you don’t break the bank but still get a high-quality supplement.
FAQ Section
What is the best pre-workout for women?
Cira Nutrition Pre-Game. This pre-workout will give you more energy to perform harder, better, and faster while promoting feminine vitality. With great ingredients to increase energy, endurance, focus, weight loss, and muscle growth, this pre-workout has you covered with whatever your needs may be for high-intensity training.
Do stimulant-free pre-workouts exist?
Stimulant-free pre-workouts do exist and they can offer the same benefits as those with stimulants for high-intensity training and muscle growth. For those sensitive to caffeine, or for those who just don’t want it, companies have started making stim-free products so you never have to worry and the best part is, they still contain natural ingredients.
How safe is pre-workout?
Although pre-workout supplements are not monitored by the FDA, they are safe to use and do contain natural ingredients. It is important to read the label of each respective pre-workout so you know exactly what you are putting in your body to enhance the benefits like feminine energy. Some potential side effects include dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and high blood pressure and some of this comes from the stimulants included.
What are the differences between pre-workouts for women and men?
The main differences between those for women and those for men are the ingredients and dosing. Since men and women have different respective needs, those supplements reflect that. Many pre-workouts can be used by both men and women but always read the label to make sure you’re comfortable with your pre-workout and that they contain natural ingredients.
Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Muscle Building for more great pre-workout products!
Wrap Up
A high-quality and effective pre-workout for women can be a game changer for training and performance as you seek the best for your goals with enhanced muscle growth and feminine energy. Having a well-rounded supplementation routine is important and pre-workout can fit nicely for any pre-workout needs while providing for the best pumps. From feminine vitality, focus, energy, muscle pumps, reduced fatigue, and weight loss, a good pre-workout can boost your gains to new heights and enhance high-intensity training. Check out this list of the Best Pre-Workouts for Women and work to boost all of your strength and high-intensity training goals today!
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
Ellerbroek, Anya C.; Antonio, Jose (2019). “Effects of Pre-Workout Supplements on Strength, Endurance, and Mood”. (source)
Kedia, A. W.; Hofheins, Jennifer E.; Habowski, Scott M.; Ferrando, Arny A.; et al. (2014). “Effects of a Pre-workout Supplement on Lean Mass, Muscular Performance, Subjective Workout Experience and Biomarkers of Safety”. (source)
McLellan, Tom M.; Caldwell, John A.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2016). “A review of caffeine’s effects on cognitive, physical and occupational performance”. (source)
Kreider, Richard B. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Artioli, Guilherme G.; Gualano, Bruno; Smith, Abbie; Stout, Jeffrey; et al. (2010). “Role of beta-alanine supplementation on muscle carnosine and exercise performance”. (source)
Bello, Marissa L.; Walker, Alan J.; McFadden, Bridget A.; Sanders, David J.; et al. (2019). “The effects of TeaCrine and caffeine on endurance and cognitive performance during a simulated match in high-level soccer players”. (source)
Just Live Broad Spectrum 1,500mg CBD Mint Drops Review
This CBD tincture is perfect for tackling all of your recovery and relaxation needs.
Product Overview
We all know we need an effective supplement to help with repair and recovery and finding that can be challenging. However, CBD has grown in immense popularity over the years and is a seriously effective supplement for making or breaking our gains. The CBD industry is hot right now and with its great benefits towards pain relief and recovery, it is no wonder why athletes have flocked to this supplement for all of their training, performance, health, and wellness goals. Just Live Broad Spectrum CBD Mint Drops are the supplement you need right now in order to boost all areas of recovery and relaxation so you prioritize what matters most to you, being your goals.
No matter the form you prefer, CBD comes in a variety of ways to take from tinctures, topicals, gummies, vapes, and a host of others. While this industry is hot and the market is becoming more and more saturated with products, it can be hard to determine who is full of it and who is producing the top supplements. Just Live knows that athletes deserve the best and seeks to bring the best when it comes to recovery, relaxation, and relief. This mint drops tincture is a perfect product for you to help get you to where you want to be.
Shop at Just Live
Just Live is on a mission to design and produce the best CBD supplements around so everyone can benefit from a high quality product for whatever their intended goals may be. By partnering with the industry’s most reputable and reliable CBD partners, Just Live does its diligence to ensure all ingredients and processing practices meet the standards that athletes everywhere deserve. Organic growing means every seed is hand-planted and carefully grown with no use of pesticides, additives, or artificial lighting and that the extraction process allows for different techniques to be used to ensure potency and purity. Just Live understands what it takes for people to succeed and having an amazing supplement by your side is one step closer to that success.
Just Live Broad Spectrum 1,500mg CBD Mint Drops Highlights
Just Live Broad Spectrum CBD Mint Drops are a fresh way to consume a high strength tincture designed to help with all recovery and relaxation needs after daily exercise or activity. With a 1,500mg Broad Spectrum blend of active cannabinoids, this concentrated, all natural tincture contains zero THC and can work to promote a sense of calm, enhance physical and mental wellbeing, provide relief associated with normal exercise and daily activity, offer a beneficial sense of rest and relaxation, and enhance everyday wellness. Combined with MCT oil, this will help your body metabolize the cannabinoids and allow these powerful ingredients to hit your body faster and harder for optimal results (1). With a great mint flavor and a strong dose of CBD, you can’t go wrong with this CBD tincture.
Ingredients
THC-Free Cannabidiol
This CBD is all-natural with no genetically modified organisms or THC to ruin this great product. Being traceable from seed to sell and third party tested ensures you know exactly where this sole ingredient is coming from.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 113 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and all Just Live products are made from CBD from hemp, which has a much higher percentage of CBD. It can help promote calm, enhance physical and mental wellbeing, aid in relief and recovery from exercise, and enhance rest and relaxation (2,3).
Type Of Application
Tincture
CBD Dosage
1,500mg
Best Way To Take/Use
Take 1 full dropper every six hours as needed. Place under tongue and swallow.
Price, Flavors & Effectiveness
Just Live Broad Spectrum 1,500mg CBD Mint Drops are perfect for all of your recovery and relief goals no matter the level of activity. This 30mL bottle holds 30 servings with a serving size being 1mL, or one full dropper. A great mint flavor offers a refreshing taste that all will love.
Pros
Concentrated, all-natural, and non-THC
Great benefit for recovery, relaxation, and a host of others
Traceable ingredients and third party tested
Great mint flavor
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their website
Price: $99.99
Just Live also offers a few other selections of Broad Spectrum Mint Drops with dosages being 300mg, 750mg, and 3,000mg with prices ranging from $29.99 to $149.99. Check them out here!
Featured Just Live Athlete
Travis Pastrana
Travis Pastrana is a Just Live ambassador and seriously accomplished athlete, constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to anything with wheels. He has multiple Motocross championship wins, a number of gold medals at the X Games and similar events, and has done incredible stunts that should defy what is humanly possible. Pastrana uses Just Live products because they work for all his muscle aches and pains and provide a sense of recovery and relaxation that he needs, especially with such a crazy lifestyle.
Check out our list of the Best CBD Supplements for more awesome CBD products!
Overall Value
Just Live Broad Spectrum 1,500mg CBD Mint Drops are exactly what you need for all your recovery, pain relief, and relaxation goals. When it comes to CBD, you need to have a great supplement backing you and Just Live produces only the best supplements to help athletes power through. What you are really getting is a clean and effective CBD product with traceable ingredients and a great flavor from a company who prides themselves on producing only the best. Check out Just Live Broad Spectrum 1,500mg CBD Mint Drops today and work on getting your recovery and relief back on track.
Try Just Live Broad Spectrum 1,500mg CBD Mint Drops Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Just Live, Travis Pastrana Instagram and Envato
References
Izgelov, Dvora; Shmoeli, Eliyahu; Domb, Abraham J.; Hoffman, Amnon (2020). “The effect of medium chain and long chain triglycerides incorporated in self-nano emulsifying drug delivery systems on oral absorption of cannabinoids in rats”. (source)
Boyaji, Shafik; Merkow, Justin; Elman, R. N. M.; Kaye, Alan D.; Yong, R. J.; Urman, Richard D. (2020). “The Role of Cannabidiol (CBD) in Chronic Pain Management: An Assessment of Current Evidence”. (source)
Grinspoon, Peter MD (2018). “Cannabidiol (CBD)- what we know and what we don’t”. (source)
Enhanced Labs Big Ramy Branded Whey Protein Isolate Review
Enhanced Labs drops this Ramy-branded isolate for all your gains and recovery needs.
Product Overview
Enhanced Labs and their new captain Mr. Olympia Champ Big Ramy recently jumped into the whey protein category. The brand is taking on the market with a product named Enhanced Whey Isolate which features 100% pure whey isolate, natural flavors, and a patented digestive enzyme blend.
To cut costs and make their protein powders more affordable, most supplement companies use questionable protein suppliers. Sure, they pay much less for the raw protein, which saves you a ton of cash when you buy their jug of protein powder, but the problem is that protein powder likely contains far less protein and far more carbs and fat than claimed on the label.
Shop at Enhanced Labs
Use code GENIRON for 15% off!
Enhanced Labs are a team of bodybuilders, chemists, and innovators who joined together to disrupt a chaotic industry by doing absolutely whatever it takes to come out with the most effective hardcore supplements line on the market. By always staying on the cutting-edge advancements in technology and chemistry, Enhanced Labs gives their customers the continuous edge they desire most.
Enhanced Labs has been massively disrupting the industry by released products and a fast pace and having a stable of top line athletes including bodybuilding royalty Dennis James, the 2020 Mr. Olympia Champ Big Ramy, Craig Golias, Tony Huge, and over 2 dozen other pros.
Enhanced Whey Protein Isolate Review
Enhanced Labs starts by selecting the highest quality whey proteins which undergo a series of sophisticated filtration processes to ‘isolate’ out excess fat and sugar. The final product is a complete protein containing no lactose and over 90% of pure protein per serving. Enhanced Whey is then fortified with the trademarked DigeSEB digestive enzyme blend for better protein utilization within the body.
Enhanced Whey isolate has been getting a lot of attention with verified buyers stating that Enhanced Labs has perfected the whey protein supplement category. With 25g of protein at just 110 calories, this high quality whey is perfect for your muscle building and recovery goals. Working out like Olympia champ Big Ramy just got a little easier with this top tier whey protein isolate.
Ingredients
100% Pure Whey Isolate
Whey protein is the fast-digesting part of dairy protein. The liquid can be dried to form whey concentrate powder that consists of 70-80% protein by weight. The remaining 20-30% of the whey concentrate powder contains carbohydrates, sugars and fats. However, if more sophisticated processing steps are used, a whey isolate powder containing over 90% of pure protein by weight can be produced.
In addition to having lower total carbohydrate content, whey isolate also has the lactose removed. This makes it a better choice for those who are lactose intolerant. In addition to their nutritional differences, there are cost differences between these two types of whey. Whey isolate is much more expensive than whey concentrate. That’s why most supplement companies use a whey concentrate or a whey concentrate/isolate blend instead of a pure whey isolate. A good whey isolate can work for a clean source of protein, great gains to muscle growth and recovery, and changes to body composition to aid in weight loss as well (1,2).
DigeSEB Digestive Enzyme Blend
DigeSEB is a patented blend of digestive enzymes that help break down proteins in the stomach. One of the biggest problems with protein is the issue of digestibility (3). Looking at the structure of proteins on a molecular level, they are comprised of long-chain amino acids. The strength and structure of proteins make them very useful in the body. The downside of course is that this same strength and size make them difficult to digest.
Adding DigeSEB into Enhanced Whey Isolate helps the body break down the protein so that you can get all of the muscle building benefits of the whey protein you’re consuming.
Calories
110
Protein
25g
Carbs
2g
Fat
1g
Sugar
1g
Flavors
Chocolate Brownie
Number Of Servings
44
Price, Flavors & Effectiveness
Enhanced Whey Isolate is a high-quality whey protein designed to tackle any and all of your protein needs. With 44 servings per container, one scoop will pump you full of everything you need to succeed. A great tasting flavor in Chocolate Brownie is sure to please all.
Pros
No fillers or artificial flavors
Massive 3-pound container
Fully disclosed supplement facts panel
100% whey isolate
Added digestive enzymes
Cons
Premium priced product
Only one flavor option
Price: $64.99
Enhanced Whey Isolate is offered directly from Enhanced Labs for $64.99, which has 44 servings. Enhanced Labs offers Free shipping ANYWHERE in the world. If you live in the United States, your order ships FREE no matter what you buy. If you live outside the US, your order ships for free when it’s over $169.
How Much Should I Take?
Mix 1-2 level scoops in 6-12 oz (180-360mL) of cold water, milk or almond milk.
Best Time To Take Enhanced Whey
Enhanced Whey is best enjoyed first thing in the morning, just before training and/or immediately after training.
Check out our list of the Best Protein Powders for more awesome protein supplements!
Overall Value
Enhanced Whey Isolate is a great protein supplement mixed with digestive enzymes to ensure all these nutrients hit you as effectively as possible. The team of engineers at Enhanced Labs were given the formative task to formulate the perfect whey protein supplement. Enhanced Whey Isolate features 100% pure whey isolate, natural flavors, and a patented digestive enzyme blend. What you are really getting is a great protein product with great ingredients and taste from a company who knows the needs of athletes. Check out Enhanced Whey Isolate today and see what this can do for all your muscle building and recovery goals.
Try Enhanced Whey Isolate Today
Use code GENIRON for 15% off!
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Enhanced Labs and Envato
References
Devries, Michaela C.; Phillips, Stuart M. (2015). “Supplemental protein in support of muscle mass and health: advantage whey”. (source)
Pal, Sebely; Ellis, Vanessa; Dhaliwal, Satvinder (2010). “Effects of whey protein isolate on body composition, lipids, insulin and glucose in overweight and obese individuals”. (source)
Goodman, Barbara E. (2010). “Insights into digestion and absorption of major nutrients in humans”. (source)
Best Protein Bars For Bodybuilding Growth & Performance (Updated 2021)
These protein bars are sure to keep you full and aid in your bodybuilding goals by pumping you with protein and other nutrients that are vital for maximum growth.
Protein bars are designed to serve as a convenient source of nutrition for athletes, gym-goers, and everyday people to keep nutrition at the top of the list for priority. If you’ve ever walked through the isle at a store, boxes upon boxes of protein bars line the shelves and the choices become so overwhelming, you just give up. And we don’t blame you. That’s why we provided this list of the best protein bars for your bodybuilding goals for 2021.
Don’t let an overly saturated market keep you from seeing great gains and while many companies claim their protein bars can serve as solid meal replacements, it is important to remember that many bars are loaded with sugar and other additives that you just don’t need from a bar. This list has some of the best bars on the market today to make your life a little easier when it comes to choosing the right protein bar.
Check out our list of the Best Protein Bars as you aim to continue your health hunt to aid in your overall growth, performance, and wellness for the best protein bar. We seek to make your life easier by providing you with a solid list to start to narrow down your search as you look for nothing but the best for your fitness, health, and wellness goals.
Best Protein Bar For 2021
Best Protein Bar Overall: Jacked Factory Authentic Bar
Calories
280
Protein
15g
Carbs
27g
Fat
14g
Sugar
20g
Flavors
Birthday Cake, Peanut Butter Candy, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Coconut Cashew, Kitchen Sink, Mint Chocolate Chip
Jacked Factory Authentic Bar is a great protein bar with authentic ingredients, taste, and results. This decadent high protein bar is made with real ingredients and whey protein isolate for that clean, filtered protein to help with muscle growth and recovery. With no artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, this protein bar is exactly what you need to round out a great dietary routine. No gut wrenching fibers and awesome flavors are matched by honesty and transparency with this amazing protein bar.
Pros
High in protein and uses whey isolate
No artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols
Made with real ingredients
Great flavors
Cons
Comparable to less expensive bars
Price: $24.99 for 12-pack
Click here for the best price
Best For Strength & Performance: Swiss Natural Foods T Bar
Calories
240
Protein
16g
Carbs
19g
Fat
12g
Sugar
15g
Flavors
Honey & Salt, Peanut Chocolate
Swiss Natural Foods T Bar is a fully natural protein bar with a twist. They have added a few extra ingredients to ensure your health takes priority. Powerful plant extracts mixed with the right vitamins and minerals for optimal hormonal balance, this bar is the best Mother Nature can offer with great potential for your power, performance, but more importantly, health. With 16g of protein, a good ratio with the other macronutrients, and only 250 calories, this protein bar does its job, and it does it well.
Pros
Packed with whey protein and other powerful ingredients
Natural and effective
Innovative approach to protein bars
Cons
Taste is hard to swallow
Usual chalky texture from protein bars
Price: $29.99
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for Swiss Natural Foods T Bar here!
Best For Energy & Metabolism Support: GNC Total Lean Layered Protein Bar
Calories
190
Protein
16g
Carbs
14g
Fat
8g
Sugar
5g
Flavors
Whipped Chocolate Mousse, Girl Scouts Coconut Caramel
GNC Total Lean Layered Protein Bar is a great protein bar to satisfy hunger and provide for lean, high quality protein support. Being gluten-free, and with great flavors, you can enjoy this bar and get all of the benefits without the guilt. At 190 calories per bar and with 16g protein, 8g fat, and 14g carbs, this provides a perfect ratio for all of these macronutrients for your diet. Made with a protein blend of whey concentrate and isolate, as well as other ingredients to fuel muscle growth, repair damaged muscle, and aid in other bodily functions, this meal replacement bar is perfect for a pre-workout boost or a post-workout recovery protein packed snack while also being great tasting to boost your protein intake and help lose weight.
Pros
Great ingredients
190 calories and 16 grams of protein
Delicious flavors
Cons
It does contain sucralose and maltodextrin
High amount of sugar adds to the taste but may not be compatible with certain diets
Price: $9.99/ 5 bars
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for GNC Total Lean Layered Protein Bar here!
Best For Recovery: Optimum Nutrition Opti-Bar
Calories
250
Protein
20g
Carbs
20g
Fat
9g
Sugar
1g
Flavors
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Chocolate Brownie, Cookies ‘N Creme
Optimum Nutrition Opti-Bar is a high quality and very convenient protein bar designed for on-the-go muscle support to assist muscle recovery and muscle growth in efforts to get you primed for that next workout. As a leader in sports nutrition and a reputable brand you can trust, Optimum Nutrition seeks top-tier products with innovative technology to really get consumers to where they need to be with their diet, like with this meal replacement bar. With 20g of protein per bar, up to 10g of fiber per bar, and less than 5g of sugar, your recovery goals are surely on their way. Three great flavors in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Chocolate Brownie, and Cookies ‘N Crème make this bar a delicious option for your on-the-go needs as one of the best bars on the market to build muscle.
Pros
High protein, low carb, and very little sugar
From a reputable company
Great flavors and taste
Cons
Little sugar is very healthy
Some may not enjoy the texture
Price: $29.95/ 12 bars
Click here for the best price
Best For Tackling Cravings: Quest Nutrition Protein Bar
Calories
210
Protein
20g
Carbs
22g
Fat
10g
Sugar
1g
Flavors
Birthday Cake, Blueberry Muffin, Caramel Chocolate Chunk, Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Chocolate Hazelnut, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Sprinkled Doughnut, Cinnamon Roll, Cookies & Cream, Double Chocolate Chunk, Lemon Cake, Maple Waffle Protein, Mint Chocolate Chunk, Mocha Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Brownie Smash, S’mores, White Chocolate Raspberry
Quest Nutrition protein bars are made with complete, dairy-based proteins to provide your body with 9 essential amino acids. With a lot of flavors to choose from, each bar is a sweet treat with less than 2g of sugar in each bar to satisfy cravings to keep you full longer. With up to 21g of protein and 16g of fiber per bar, net carbs round out to 4-6g giving you a really great ratio of all of those macronutrients you need for fuel, growth, and recovery along with your diet needs. With a solid protein blend and not a lot of ingredients, this bar comes out to be a great option for those looking to satisfy cravings while also seeing gains from a protein packed snack with clean ingredients to provide energy and build muscle.
Pros
There are a multitude of flavors to choose from
Ratio of macronutrients is perfect
High in protein and one of the best tasting bars
Little sugar
Cons
May be hard to digest for some
Does contain sucralose as well
Price: $22.22/ 12 bars
Click here for the best price
Importance Of Protein For Growth
Protein is a macronutrient vital for many functions in the human body. Since the body cannot produce protein, we must obtain this vital nutrient from foods. Once digested, amino acids are produced which are the building blocks of protein the body then uses to build and maintain muscle (1), produce blood and connective tissue, and work to keep your body primed for whatever comes its way.
While it is easy to obtain protein from a great whey powder, whether that be a concentrate or an isolate, sometimes we need to get protein from other sources, those sources preferably being whole foods. Yet even still it can be hard for us to make a home cooked meal with our busy schedules and this is where protein bars come into play to really advance our goals and give us all of that protein for serious growth (2). As a vital component for muscle growth and muscle maintenance, protein in whatever form should never be overlooked, especially for workout recovery and a protein bar is a great way to get that nutrition.
Benefits Of Protein Bars
Protein bars have great benefits to your growth and recovery while also aiming to keep you full (3). Benefits of protein bars include:
Packed with protein: Provide enough protein content to offer growth and keep you full while still allowing for proper digestion. This will also aid in muscle building and maintenance and workout recovery.
Full of fiber: Keep you full longer and moving regularly which is an important piece for your body to properly function and keep weight off.
Short on sugar (if any at all): Be careful of added sugar and other sweeteners that ruin the health benefits of a good bar and ruin all of your dietary work thus far.
Inexpensive and convenient: Don’t break the bank for a protein bar that will only provide some benefits and really look for one that will give you everything you need (and deserve) from a bar.
Why You Should Eat Protein Bars For Performance?
Protein bars are simple, tasty, and convenient snacks to enjoy while also adding protein and other nutrients quickly into the body for any lifestyle. It is important to not fall victim to the best looking box or advertisement because its all about ingredients. You need to find the right bar for you as many are flooded with sugar and other ingredients that can really hurt your gains (4).
While this may seem like a daunting task, trust us, we get it. We’ve all spent time wandering the isles in the supermarket or health store, or browsing endless pages online searching for the next best thing to elevate our health and fitness. Sometimes there is a diamond in the rough and once we find it, it is game over. But sometimes it takes more diligence than we want, or have time for, and that can really hurt our chances of finding a really great supplement or health food product.
What To Look For In A Good Protein Bar
A good protein will have:
Minimal calories: Be sure to look for a lower calorie bar that also has plenty of benefits. They do exist.
A quality fat content: Depending on your goals, knowing the fat content can be extremely important. Also, make sure it is conducive to whatever diet you may be on.
Clean ingredients: Be sure to look for any harmful additives or just extra junk that you do not want in your protein bar snack.
At the end of the day, choosing the best bar for you all comes down to preference. What you desire in taste, what you want in texture, and what you seek for your bodybuilding goals. The best part is, you can always mix and match bars and are not tied down to one in particular. Many companies offer a variety of bars for various occasions while you can work to create your own group of different bars to really diversify your palate and your goals (5). Don’t get hung up on trying to find the one perfect bar for you because the truth is there may be more than one that fits your desired goals. In fact, there are more than one and it just takes some work in finding it.
How We Choose
When choosing this list of the best protein bars, we wanted to focus on three things: reputability of the company, taste and effectiveness, and price. Each company should be working for you and the name of the brand matters. We look at those trusted companies who work tirelessly to product the best protein bars around. We also know your bar should taste good and be effective for keeping you full and working on producing more gains. These bars have both of those covered and you shouldn’t settle for anything less. Lastly, price matters. We know it can be expensive to find a good bar and these above are perfect for all your goals while still being affordable options.
FAQ Section
What is the best protein bar?
Jacked Factory Authentic Bars. This is a great protein bar with authentic ingredients, taste, and results. This decadent high protein bar is made with real ingredients and whey protein isolate for that clean, filtered protein to help with muscle growth and recovery. With no artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, this protein bar is exactly what you need to round a great dietary routine.
What makes a protein bar great?
Protein bars should offer the right balance of macronutrients with the highest amount being protein. Often times, protein bars will have a lot of fat and carbs that don’t match the amount of protein. They should also taste good and be effective in their goal of providing you with the best nutrients and ingredients so you progress with your goals.
Can protein bars be used as meal replacements?
Protein bars can be used as meal replacements but sparingly. It is always best to eat a whole food meal so you don’t miss out on any nutrients, or even looking to products designed for meal replacements is a great place to start as well. Check out our list of the Best Meal Replacements for some awesome supplements!
When is it best to eat a protein bar?
Protein bars are great for many occasions. For your pre-workout or post-workout fuel, protein bars can really prove to be worth your while. On busy days, taking a protein bar on the go is a great option when looking to stay on your diet and eliminate the desire to snack.
On the whole, are protein bars healthy?
That is a tough question as it really depends on the bar. Protein bars can be healthy if they have the right balance of macronutrients and don’t contain artificial flavors, sweeteners, or sugar alcohols. Doing your research is the best way to determine if the bar of your choosing is a healthy option for you.
Wrap Up
Protein bars should work for your benefit and your benefit only. While they should taste good, they should also provide for overall quality health benefits and it is possible to have both. These protein bars listed above are really great sources of protein that taste good and will give you that boost to fuel a workout, recover from tough training, or offer a healthy snack during the day as you power through to the end.
With protein as an essential building block for muscle, having a protein packed bar is something to really look for to advance your goals. While it can be frustrating to search and search for the best option, it is out there. Your goals are priority number one and while it can be daunting to know there are a ton of products on the market, the benefit is that you don’t have to change your goals to find the right one. It will find you. Check out these protein bars for your bodybuilding goals and see your progress unfold today with a great meal replacement.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
Pasiakos, Stefan M.; McLellan, Tom M.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2015). “The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review”. (source)
Tipton, K. D.; Wolfe, R. R. (2001). “Exercise, protein metabolism, and muscle growth”. (source)
Tanskanen, Minna M.; Westerterp, Klaas R.; Uusitalo, Arja L.; Atalay, Mustafa; et al. (2012). “Effects of Easy-to-Use Protein-Rich Energy Bar on Energy Balance, Physical Activity and Performance during 8 Days of Sustained Physical Exertion”. (source)
Hassan, Sami Kadhim (2020). “Quantitative and qualitative effects of proteins and natural sugars on hardening and color of high-protein nutrition bars during storage”. (source)
Shmerling, Robert H. MD (2015). “Are protein bars really just candy bars in disguise?”. (source)
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate Review
This ultra-pure and micro-filtered whey protein is great for providing the building blocks for athletic performance and strength.
Product Overview
A good protein powder is essential when it comes to building muscle and working on recovery and finding a good whey isolate is a must for those looking to pack on that lean muscle while also working on trimming down. Since protein plays a vital role in growing, repairing, and maintaining muscle, a protein supplement is that must have post-workout product to really boost all areas of your gains. Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is a great isolate with clean and effective ingredients to really get your gains to where you want them to be.
Choosing between a whey isolate and whey concentrate can sometimes be a difficult one. What it comes down to are your end all goals for what you want most out of your training routine. For those looking to bulk up and really put on some strength and size, a whey concentrate may be a wise choice for you. However, for those who want to keep on that lean muscle and start to cut, a whey isolate can be a solid choice for it filters out excess carbs and fat to leave you with a pure protein supplement. With Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate, that is exactly what you get.
Shop at Swolverine
Swolverine is a lifestyle brand designed for endurance athletes and those always staying active. With products designed to fuel athletic performance, elite athletes and those seeking a goal flock to Swolverine for their top of line products and supplements. They live by the belief that everyone can optimize their athletic performance and human potential through transparency and honest products including those with proven ingredients and effective doses. As an honest and hard working company, Swolverine is there is to improve your human potential, and your athletic performance is just one piece of that larger mission.
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate Highlights
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is an ultra-pure, cold-pressed, and micro-filtered protein powder designed to be rich and creamy so it not only helps your gains, but is enjoyable in the process. With whey being the building blocks for athletic performance and strength, this is sourced from grass-fed American cows and is free of recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH). With awesome benefits like increasing strength, optimizing recovery, building more muscle, and boosting athletic performance, this protein supplement will give you the most when it comes to providing the best for all your gains.
This whey isolate consists of 26g of protein with a great ratio of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) to assist with all your muscle growth and recovery needs. A great addition to this formula are digestive enzymes which are great for maximizing the rate of absorption to help optimize muscle growth and repairing that needs to take place. With four great flavors, this protein is perfect for boosting your post-workout routine.
Ingredients
Whey Protein Isolate: A more filtered form of whey, the filtration process has eliminated the excess carbs and fat found in this protein. This is great for muscle growth, recovery, and working to help with weight loss goals as you seek to cut (1).
Papain: A powerful digestive aid used to improve digestion while also working to reduce inflammation.
Protease: Enzymes to help digestive proteins and allow your digestive tract to function properly and effectively (2).
Other Ingredients
Dutch Alkalized Cocoa Powder, Natural & Artificial Flavor, Xantham Gum, Sucralose
Calories
110
Protein
26g
Carbs
2g
Sugars
1g
Servings Per Container
30
Serving Size
1 Scoop
Flavors
Vanilla, Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip
Best Way To Take
Mix one scoop with 8 oz. of water or beverage or choice before, during, or after your workouts.
Price, Flavors, Effectiveness For Swolverine Whey Isolate
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is that protein supplement you need to help you build, rebuild, and recover to get the most out of your gains. With 30 servings per container, one scoop will pump you with this ultra-pure, rich, and creamy protein to really boost your workouts.
This protein comes in four great tasting flavors of Vanilla, Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, and Mint Chocolate Chip so you never have to worry about the taste getting old.
Pros
Ultra-pure, cold-pressed, and micro-filtered
Source from grass-fed American cows
Digestive enzymes to maximize absorption
Great flavors
Cons
High in price
Does contain sucralose, albeit a small amount
Price: $52.99
Featured Swolverine Athlete
Richard Essig
Richard Essig is a CrossFit coach and athlete who uses Swolverine products to boost all areas of his performance so he can be the best. As someone who has been into fitness for quite some time, his passion became clear and, while finishing school and working, he still decided to try his hand at coaching. Swolverine products are exactly what Essig needs to power him through the day and allow him to continue to thrive as he seeks all of his goals. By promoting their products, he seeks to help others achieve their own respective goals as well.
Check out our list of the Best Protein Powders for more great protein supplements here!
Overall Value
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is a great protein supplement to tackle all your growth, recovery, and weight loss needs. With clean and effective whey, mixed with BCAAs and digestive enzymes, this supplement is everything you want as you try to build, rebuild, and recover fully. Swolverine seeks to make products that all consumers will love and that will work for all of their health and fitness goals. What you are really getting is a great whey isolate with effective ingredients and flavors from a company who cares about their consumers. Try Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate today and see what this protein supplement can do for you.
Try Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate Here
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Swolverine, Richard Essig Instagram and Envato
References
Devries, Michaela C.; Phillips, Stuart M. (2015). “Supplemental protein in support of muscle mass and health: advantage whey”. (source)
Goodman, Barbara E. (2010). “Insights into digestion and absorption of major nutrients in humans”. (source)
Best Pre-Workout For Men To Boost Muscle & Strength Training 2021
When looking for a great pre-workout for men, it should increase muscle, promote energy, and boost strength training.
We all know that a good supplement can boost our gains and a top tier pre-workout can provide for all the needs to enhance muscle growth, energy, focus, and strength training as we seek the most out of our masculine performance. While a good protein powder or intra-workout BCAA are also vital for promoting all of our gains, a pre-workout, especially one for active men, can boost our gains to new heights. When it comes to both masculine health and performance, look no further than this list of the best pre-workout products for men.
Able to provide muscle pumps, increase energy, aid in weight loss, and get our blood pumping, we as active men know just what it takes to succeed in order to boost our masculine performance. For your overall masculine health, you deserve to have a high-quality supplement able to tackle any and all of your goals. Our bodies deserve the best when it comes to supplements and our muscle growth, energy levels, and overall masculine performance rely on great products to help us get there.
Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Muscle Building for more great pre-workout products!
We’ve put together a list of the Best Pre-Workouts For Men so you can start to see those desired gains to muscle growth, energy, and strength training. With clean and effective products, you can’t go wrong when looking to promote masculine performance.
Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Men 2021
Best Pre-Workout Overall: Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Orange, Green Apple, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
Transparent Lab PreSeries BULK is an effective per-workout for those looking to increase muscle, promote better strength training results, and aid in overall masculine performance. BULK contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, 4,000 mg of BCAAs, and 2,500 mg of betaine to boost your workouts, blood flow, weight loss, and muscle growth, all in attempts to improve performance. BULK will reduce fatigue and increase your energy to give you a more impactful and longer lasting workout. Transparent Labs prides themselves on a 100% label and there are artificial additives, colorings, or preservatives to ruin this clean product.
Pros
High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps
Very clean ingredients for an honest product
From a reputable company in Transparent Labs
Cons
High in beta alanine
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK here! Also, use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off!
Best For Strength & Performance: Performance Lab SPORT Pre
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
N/A
Best Way To Take
Take up to 6 capsules 30-45 minutes before your workout. Take on an empty stomach with 16-32 oz. of water
Performance Lab Sport Pre is another high-quality pre-workout supplement available to the public at a great price point. Performance Lab Sport is one of the most rigorously scientifically vetted brands and all of their pre-workout products are free of synthetic additives (which might dehydrate the muscles), non-GMO, and vegan friendly. Sport “Pre” increases nitric oxide in the blood to support the oxygenation of muscles during workouts, improves endurance by hydrating the muscles, and enhances both anaerobic and aerobic exercise by increasing ATP reductase for the best benefits out of strength training, weight loss, and masculine performance.
Pros
Vegan friendly
Capsules are easy to take
Will help with strength and endurance
Caffeine free for those looking for no caffeine
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available through their site
Price: $39.00
Click here for the best price
Best Pre-Workout For Weight Loss: Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting, LEAN is great for those looking to target stubborn fat while keeping on that lean muscle. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue for better energy, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to slim down and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Best Pre-Workout For Muscle Pumps: National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Fruit Punch
Best Way To Take
Take 1 scoop and mix with 8-12 fl. oz. of water.
National Bodybuilding Co. has a great pre-workout supplement called Stage Ready Pre-Workout which delivers quality muscle pumps, enhanced stamina, weight loss, and a solid boost of energy to really elevate your performance. With an advanced and effective blend, this pre-workout can hydrate and buffer muscle tissue, raise nitric oxide levels and blood flow, optimize ATP production, and boost neurotransmitter synthesis. With great ingredients and a clean formula, it is no wonder why National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready Pre-Workout won for Best Pre-Workout in GI Supplement Awards.
Pros
An effective blend with solid benefits for muscle pumps, energy, and stamina
Patented ingredients and great taste
From a reputable company
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Could use more beta alanine as a key ingredient
Price: $48.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready here!
Best For Clean Ingredients: Performance Lab SPORT Pre
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
N/A
Best Way To Take
Take up to 6 capsules 30-45 minutes before your workout. Take on an empty stomach with 16-32 oz. of water
Performance Lab Sport Pre is another high-quality pre-workout supplement available to the public at a great price point, especially for men looking to improve their overall masculine health. Performance Lab Sport is one of the most rigorously scientifically vetted brands and all of their pre-workout products are free of synthetic additives (which might dehydrate the muscles), non-GMO, and vegan friendly. Sport “Pre” increases nitric oxide in the blood to support the oxygenation of muscles during workouts, improves endurance by hydrating the muscles, and enhances both anaerobic and aerobic exercise by increasing ATP reductase for the best benefits out of strength training, weight loss, and performance.
Pros
Vegan friendly
Capsules are easy to take
Will help with strength and endurance
Caffeine free for those looking for no caffeine
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available through their site
Price: $39.00
Click here for the best price
Best For Cutting: Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting, LEAN is great for those looking to target stubborn fat while keeping on that lean muscle. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to slim down and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Best Pre-Workout Without Creatine: Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
15
Carbs
2g
Sugar
1g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
Berry Blast, Fruit Punch, Grape, Krisp Apple, Orange Kush, Pink Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Take one scoop with water before your workout.
Increase the performance and intensity of your workout with this high-quality pre-workout powder available from Kaged Muscle. Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged is unmatched in terms of ingredient quality and synthesis of the blend of proteins. Kaged Muscle lab tests every batch to make sure each is fully loaded as advertised — 274 mg pure caffeine, 2 g taurine, 6.5 g fermented BCAAs, 6.5 g pure l-citrulline, and 2 g of their patented betapower blend. It’s an unbeatable combination that is guaranteed to supercharge any workout with great pre-workout ingredients from supplements to increase muscle and promote weight loss while working towards better masculine performance.
Pros
Contains BCAAs and has well-dosed ingredients
No artificial colors or flavors
Great taste
Cons
A bit expensive
Does contains sucralose, which is an artificial sweetener
Caffeine content may be high for those sensitive
Price: $39.99
Click here for the best price
Use code GENIRON10 to save 10%! Check out our individual review for Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged here!
Benefits Of Pre-Workout For Muscle, Energy, Focus & Strength Training
For those looking into the benefits of what a pre-workout can do, the affects towards muscle growth and increased energy, as well as a host of others, have seriously dynamite results on our masculine performance and training goals. Benefits of a good pre-workout include:
Muscle growth and pumps: All of your strength training and muscle goals will be achieved by allowing more blood flow and increased pressure on those muscles to grow (1).
Increased energy and focus: More intense workouts as a result of better energy and focus to really stay locked in (2).
Reduction in fatigue: Provide for longer training sessions by burning calories to fuel your body with what it needs while reducing muscle soreness and promoting better masculine health.
Boost recovery: Allow you to bounce back faster and promote better growth for better and faster turn around time.
Better masculine performance: Overall this will aid in your performance goals and help you see the results you want most.
Pre-Workout Safety & Effectiveness On Masculine Performance
Although pre-workout supplements are not monitored by the FDA, they are safe on the whole for the general public. One of the main ingredients in most pre-workouts, being caffeine, can have negative affects on those sensitive or who are trying to avoid it, so always reading the label can ensure your masculine health is being taken care of.
A few side effects do exist for pre-workouts including dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and high blood pressure so it is important to monitor how much and when you take it so as to not disrupt any of your daily life goals. On the whole, pre-workouts can be beneficial towards muscle growth, energy, focus, and strength training but reading and knowing what you are taking can be more than beneficial.
Key Ingredients Of Pre-Workout
While each company has their own unique formula, there are some key ingredients that should be included in your pre-workout supplement to help boost all of your gains towards strength training and masculine performance.
Caffeine: Works to elevate energy and focus to be more alert and have a better workout without any sluggish feelings (3).
BCAAs: The building blocks of muscle protein synthesis, these will help with muscle growth, muscle maintenance, and a reduction in fatigue (4).
Beta-Alanine: Acts as a buffer for pH levels to push past fatigue and increase energy.
Creatine: Makes adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to help fuel your muscles and boost overall performance (5).
L-Citrulline: Boosts nitric oxide and helps maintain good blood flow for increased pumps by changing to L-arginine.
Betaine: Is great for muscle growth and power by producing carnitine to elevate strength training and masculine performance (6).
How Does Pre-Workout Affect Muscle Growth & Masculine Performance
Pre-workout and it’s affect on muscle growth and masculine performance depend on the ingredients included in each respective formula. Creatine is perfect for increased strength by increasing the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which will provide for energy and better strength training. Something like citrulline malate can deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles to provide fuel and will work as a great way to boost muscle pumps, something that will pay off in the long run when it comes to masculine performance (7).
What About Energy & Focus
For energy and focus, certain ingredients like caffeine and L-theanine can provide for energy and allow you to be alert for whatever comes your way. By targeting the right receptors, you will be dialed in and ready to take on any workout that comes your way. This will also add to your motivation to really enhance strength training and muscle growth.
How We Choose
When it comes to choosing the best pre-workouts for men, we wanted to create a list to reflect what you want, need, and deserve out of your supplements. The reputation of the brand is very important for a top tier company will use only the best ingredients to boost all areas of your gains. Having an effective product is very important and should not be overlooked when it comes to boosting masculine performance and strength training. Price is very important because we know how expensive supplements can be when it comes to boosting your muscle and strength training goals. We sought the best supplements that are still affordable enough to not break the bank but still give you everything you want and need out of your pre-workout for men.
FAQ Section
What is the best pre-workout for men?
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK. This is an effective pre-workout with clinically dosed ingredients for those looking to increase strength and muscle size while also looking to bulk and boost masculine performance. From an honest and transparent company, you can’t go wrong with this clean pre-workout void of all artificial colorings, additives, and preservatives.
Do stimulant-free pre-workouts exist?
Stim-free per-workouts do exist and can work well when it comes to your strength training goals without any unwanted stimulants. With an increase demand for stim-free products, many companies have shifted their focus including these in their pre-workout repertoire.
Check out some amazing stim-free pre-workout supplements here!
Are pre-workout supplements safe?
Although pre-workouts are not monitored by the FDA, they are safe for public use. With potential side effects like dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and high blood pressure, it is important to always read the label for proper directions on how to take each respective pre-workout.
When should I take my pre-workout?
This depends on the product, but it is ideal to take pre-workout somewhere around 30 minutes before your workout. This will allow time for all of those nutrients to hit your body properly so you can work as effectively as possible.
What are the differences in pre-workouts for masculine health and performance over those for women?
The main differences are ingredients and dosing. Men and women have different respective needs and your supplements should also reflect that. Caffeine for example tends to be slightly higher in masculine pre-workouts since men tend to weigh more. It really depends on your goals and how the company has properly dosed each pre-workout.
Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Muscle Building for more great pre-workout products!
Wrap Up
A great pre-workout supplement for men can work to provide benefits towards muscle, energy, focus, strength training, and masculine performance and should not be overlooked in your supplementation routine. While it is best to have a well-rounded supplementation routine, a high-quality pre-workout can work to provide for all those muscle gains and strength training goals that you need most. Finding the right supplement to boost masculine performance and health can really boost all the needs of active men. Check out this list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Men and see what these can do for your strength training and masculine performance goals today.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
Kedia, A.; Hofheins, J.; Habowski, S.; Ferrando, Arny; et al. (2014). “Effects of a Pre workout Supplement on Lean Mass, Muscular Performance, Subjective Workout Experience and Biomarkers of Safety”. (source)
Ellerbroek, Anya C.; Antonio, Jose (2019). “Effects of Pre-Workout Supplements on Strength, Endurance, and Mood”. (source)
McLellan, Tom M.; Caldwell, John A.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2016). “A review of caffeine’s effects on cognitive, physical and occupational performance”. (source)
Negro, M.; Giardina, S.; Marzani, B.; Marzatico, F. (2008). “Branched-chain amino acid supplementation does not enhance athletic performance but affects muscle recovery and the immune system”. (source)
Kreider, Richard B. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Yu, Zhu-Lin; Zhang, Ling-Yu; Jiang, Xiao-Ming; Xue, Chang-Hu; Chi, Naiqui; Zhang, Tian-Tian; Wang, Yu-Ming (2020). “Effects of dietary choline, betaine, and L-carnitine on the generation of trimethylamine-N-oxide in healthy mice”. (source)
Outlaw, Jordan J.; Wilborn, Colin D.; Smith-Ryan, Abbie E.; Hayward, Sara E.; et al. (2014). “Acute effects of a commercially-available pre-workout supplement on markers of training: a double-blind study”. (source)
Best Pre-Workout For Men To Boost Muscle & Strength Training 2021
When looking for a great pre-workout for men, it should increase muscle, promote energy, and boost strength training.
We all know that a good supplement can boost our gains and a top tier pre-workout can provide for all the needs to enhance muscle growth, energy, focus, and strength training as we seek the most out of our masculine performance. While a good protein powder or intra-workout BCAA are also vital for promoting all of our gains, a pre-workout, especially one for active men, can boost our gains to new heights. When it comes to both masculine health and performance, look no further than this list of the best pre-workout products for men.
Able to provide muscle pumps, increase energy, aid in weight loss, and get our blood pumping, we as active men know just what it takes to succeed in order to boost our masculine performance. For your overall masculine health, you deserve to have a high-quality supplement able to tackle any and all of your goals. Our bodies deserve the best when it comes to supplements and our muscle growth, energy levels, and overall masculine performance rely on great products to help us get there.
Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Muscle Building for more great pre-workout products!
We’ve put together a list of the Best Pre-Workouts For Men so you can start to see those desired gains to muscle growth, energy, and strength training. With clean and effective products, you can’t go wrong when looking to promote masculine performance.
Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Men 2021
Best Pre-Workout Overall: Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Orange, Green Apple, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
Transparent Lab PreSeries BULK is an effective per-workout for those looking to increase muscle, promote better strength training results, and aid in overall masculine performance. BULK contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, 4,000 mg of BCAAs, and 2,500 mg of betaine to boost your workouts, blood flow, weight loss, and muscle growth, all in attempts to improve performance. BULK will reduce fatigue and increase your energy to give you a more impactful and longer lasting workout. Transparent Labs prides themselves on a 100% label and there are artificial additives, colorings, or preservatives to ruin this clean product.
Pros
High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps
Very clean ingredients for an honest product
From a reputable company in Transparent Labs
Cons
High in beta alanine
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK here! Also, use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off!
Best For Strength & Performance: Performance Lab SPORT Pre
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
N/A
Best Way To Take
Take up to 6 capsules 30-45 minutes before your workout. Take on an empty stomach with 16-32 oz. of water
Performance Lab Sport Pre is another high-quality pre-workout supplement available to the public at a great price point. Performance Lab Sport is one of the most rigorously scientifically vetted brands and all of their pre-workout products are free of synthetic additives (which might dehydrate the muscles), non-GMO, and vegan friendly. Sport “Pre” increases nitric oxide in the blood to support the oxygenation of muscles during workouts, improves endurance by hydrating the muscles, and enhances both anaerobic and aerobic exercise by increasing ATP reductase for the best benefits out of strength training, weight loss, and masculine performance.
Pros
Vegan friendly
Capsules are easy to take
Will help with strength and endurance
Caffeine free for those looking for no caffeine
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available through their site
Price: $39.00
Click here for the best price
Best Pre-Workout For Weight Loss: Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting, LEAN is great for those looking to target stubborn fat while keeping on that lean muscle. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue for better energy, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to slim down and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Best Pre-Workout For Muscle Pumps: National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Fruit Punch
Best Way To Take
Take 1 scoop and mix with 8-12 fl. oz. of water.
National Bodybuilding Co. has a great pre-workout supplement called Stage Ready Pre-Workout which delivers quality muscle pumps, enhanced stamina, weight loss, and a solid boost of energy to really elevate your performance. With an advanced and effective blend, this pre-workout can hydrate and buffer muscle tissue, raise nitric oxide levels and blood flow, optimize ATP production, and boost neurotransmitter synthesis. With great ingredients and a clean formula, it is no wonder why National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready Pre-Workout won for Best Pre-Workout in GI Supplement Awards.
Pros
An effective blend with solid benefits for muscle pumps, energy, and stamina
Patented ingredients and great taste
From a reputable company
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Could use more beta alanine as a key ingredient
Price: $48.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready here!
Best For Clean Ingredients: Performance Lab SPORT Pre
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
N/A
Best Way To Take
Take up to 6 capsules 30-45 minutes before your workout. Take on an empty stomach with 16-32 oz. of water
Performance Lab Sport Pre is another high-quality pre-workout supplement available to the public at a great price point, especially for men looking to improve their overall masculine health. Performance Lab Sport is one of the most rigorously scientifically vetted brands and all of their pre-workout products are free of synthetic additives (which might dehydrate the muscles), non-GMO, and vegan friendly. Sport “Pre” increases nitric oxide in the blood to support the oxygenation of muscles during workouts, improves endurance by hydrating the muscles, and enhances both anaerobic and aerobic exercise by increasing ATP reductase for the best benefits out of strength training, weight loss, and performance.
Pros
Vegan friendly
Capsules are easy to take
Will help with strength and endurance
Caffeine free for those looking for no caffeine
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available through their site
Price: $39.00
Click here for the best price
Best For Cutting: Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting, LEAN is great for those looking to target stubborn fat while keeping on that lean muscle. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to slim down and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Best Pre-Workout Without Creatine: Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
15
Carbs
2g
Sugar
1g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
Berry Blast, Fruit Punch, Grape, Krisp Apple, Orange Kush, Pink Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Take one scoop with water before your workout.
Increase the performance and intensity of your workout with this high-quality pre-workout powder available from Kaged Muscle. Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged is unmatched in terms of ingredient quality and synthesis of the blend of proteins. Kaged Muscle lab tests every batch to make sure each is fully loaded as advertised — 274 mg pure caffeine, 2 g taurine, 6.5 g fermented BCAAs, 6.5 g pure l-citrulline, and 2 g of their patented betapower blend. It’s an unbeatable combination that is guaranteed to supercharge any workout with great pre-workout ingredients from supplements to increase muscle and promote weight loss while working towards better masculine performance.
Pros
Contains BCAAs and has well-dosed ingredients
No artificial colors or flavors
Great taste
Cons
A bit expensive
Does contains sucralose, which is an artificial sweetener
Caffeine content may be high for those sensitive
Price: $39.99
Click here for the best price
Use code GENIRON10 to save 10%! Check out our individual review for Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged here!
Benefits Of Pre-Workout For Muscle, Energy, Focus & Strength Training
For those looking into the benefits of what a pre-workout can do, the affects towards muscle growth and increased energy, as well as a host of others, have seriously dynamite results on our masculine performance and training goals. Benefits of a good pre-workout include:
Muscle growth and pumps: All of your strength training and muscle goals will be achieved by allowing more blood flow and increased pressure on those muscles to grow (1).
Increased energy and focus: More intense workouts as a result of better energy and focus to really stay locked in (2).
Reduction in fatigue: Provide for longer training sessions by burning calories to fuel your body with what it needs while reducing muscle soreness and promoting better masculine health.
Boost recovery: Allow you to bounce back faster and promote better growth for better and faster turn around time.
Better masculine performance: Overall this will aid in your performance goals and help you see the results you want most.
Pre-Workout Safety & Effectiveness On Masculine Performance
Although pre-workout supplements are not monitored by the FDA, they are safe on the whole for the general public. One of the main ingredients in most pre-workouts, being caffeine, can have negative affects on those sensitive or who are trying to avoid it, so always reading the label can ensure your masculine health is being taken care of.
A few side effects do exist for pre-workouts including dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and high blood pressure so it is important to monitor how much and when you take it so as to not disrupt any of your daily life goals. On the whole, pre-workouts can be beneficial towards muscle growth, energy, focus, and strength training but reading and knowing what you are taking can be more than beneficial.
Key Ingredients Of Pre-Workout
While each company has their own unique formula, there are some key ingredients that should be included in your pre-workout supplement to help boost all of your gains towards strength training and masculine performance.
Caffeine: Works to elevate energy and focus to be more alert and have a better workout without any sluggish feelings (3).
BCAAs: The building blocks of muscle protein synthesis, these will help with muscle growth, muscle maintenance, and a reduction in fatigue (4).
Beta-Alanine: Acts as a buffer for pH levels to push past fatigue and increase energy.
Creatine: Makes adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to help fuel your muscles and boost overall performance (5).
L-Citrulline: Boosts nitric oxide and helps maintain good blood flow for increased pumps by changing to L-arginine.
Betaine: Is great for muscle growth and power by producing carnitine to elevate strength training and masculine performance (6).
How Does Pre-Workout Affect Muscle Growth & Masculine Performance
Pre-workout and it’s affect on muscle growth and masculine performance depend on the ingredients included in each respective formula. Creatine is perfect for increased strength by increasing the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which will provide for energy and better strength training. Something like citrulline malate can deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles to provide fuel and will work as a great way to boost muscle pumps, something that will pay off in the long run when it comes to masculine performance (7).
What About Energy & Focus
For energy and focus, certain ingredients like caffeine and L-theanine can provide for energy and allow you to be alert for whatever comes your way. By targeting the right receptors, you will be dialed in and ready to take on any workout that comes your way. This will also add to your motivation to really enhance strength training and muscle growth.
How We Choose
When it comes to choosing the best pre-workouts for men, we wanted to create a list to reflect what you want, need, and deserve out of your supplements. The reputation of the brand is very important for a top tier company will use only the best ingredients to boost all areas of your gains. Having an effective product is very important and should not be overlooked when it comes to boosting masculine performance and strength training. Price is very important because we know how expensive supplements can be when it comes to boosting your muscle and strength training goals. We sought the best supplements that are still affordable enough to not break the bank but still give you everything you want and need out of your pre-workout for men.
FAQ Section
What is the best pre-workout for men?
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK. This is an effective pre-workout with clinically dosed ingredients for those looking to increase strength and muscle size while also looking to bulk and boost masculine performance. From an honest and transparent company, you can’t go wrong with this clean pre-workout void of all artificial colorings, additives, and preservatives.
Do stimulant-free pre-workouts exist?
Stim-free per-workouts do exist and can work well when it comes to your strength training goals without any unwanted stimulants. With an increase demand for stim-free products, many companies have shifted their focus including these in their pre-workout repertoire.
Check out some amazing stim-free pre-workout supplements here!
Are pre-workout supplements safe?
Although pre-workouts are not monitored by the FDA, they are safe for public use. With potential side effects like dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and high blood pressure, it is important to always read the label for proper directions on how to take each respective pre-workout.
When should I take my pre-workout?
This depends on the product, but it is ideal to take pre-workout somewhere around 30 minutes before your workout. This will allow time for all of those nutrients to hit your body properly so you can work as effectively as possible.
What are the differences in pre-workouts for masculine health and performance over those for women?
The main differences are ingredients and dosing. Men and women have different respective needs and your supplements should also reflect that. Caffeine for example tends to be slightly higher in masculine pre-workouts since men tend to weigh more. It really depends on your goals and how the company has properly dosed each pre-workout.
Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Muscle Building for more great pre-workout products!
Wrap Up
A great pre-workout supplement for men can work to provide benefits towards muscle, energy, focus, strength training, and masculine performance and should not be overlooked in your supplementation routine. While it is best to have a well-rounded supplementation routine, a high-quality pre-workout can work to provide for all those muscle gains and strength training goals that you need most. Finding the right supplement to boost masculine performance and health can really boost all the needs of active men. Check out this list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Men and see what these can do for your strength training and masculine performance goals today.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
Kedia, A.; Hofheins, J.; Habowski, S.; Ferrando, Arny; et al. (2014). “Effects of a Pre workout Supplement on Lean Mass, Muscular Performance, Subjective Workout Experience and Biomarkers of Safety”. (source)
Ellerbroek, Anya C.; Antonio, Jose (2019). “Effects of Pre-Workout Supplements on Strength, Endurance, and Mood”. (source)
McLellan, Tom M.; Caldwell, John A.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2016). “A review of caffeine’s effects on cognitive, physical and occupational performance”. (source)
Negro, M.; Giardina, S.; Marzani, B.; Marzatico, F. (2008). “Branched-chain amino acid supplementation does not enhance athletic performance but affects muscle recovery and the immune system”. (source)
Kreider, Richard B. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Yu, Zhu-Lin; Zhang, Ling-Yu; Jiang, Xiao-Ming; Xue, Chang-Hu; Chi, Naiqui; Zhang, Tian-Tian; Wang, Yu-Ming (2020). “Effects of dietary choline, betaine, and L-carnitine on the generation of trimethylamine-N-oxide in healthy mice”. (source)
Outlaw, Jordan J.; Wilborn, Colin D.; Smith-Ryan, Abbie E.; Hayward, Sara E.; et al. (2014). “Acute effects of a commercially-available pre-workout supplement on markers of training: a double-blind study”. (source)
Eleiko Kettlebells Review To Maximize Strength & Hard Training
These kettlebells are durable and effective to help maximize all of your strength and hard training goals.
Product Overview
Kettlebells are great fitness tools to help enhance your growth as you seek the most out of strength training while also boosting aerobic capacity. As simple and convenient tools, kettlebells can be used at home or in the gym and provide for an effective way to power through training and into performance. Putting a priority on strength and hard training, Eleiko Kettlebells are sure fire products to help you achieve any and all of your goals.
Kettlebells work to provide benefits in a multitude of areas and can be used with a variety of exercises. As equipment for a full body workout, you can increase strength, endurance, and flexibility during any hard training (1). Promoting things like power, balance, and stability, you can work to nail down form to enhance mind-muscle connection while also allowing your body to fall into better muscle memory for bigger lifts (2). Eleiko Kettlebells can do all this and more as they seek to be simple, convenient, and effective ways to train.
Shop at Eleiko
Eleiko is on a mission is help make people stronger so they perform better in sports and in life. Their journey to making workout equipment is fascinating and started with their main metal product; waffle irons. Focusing on innovation and being committed to quality and performance, they sought to improve the lives of others and shift their focus to kettlebells, barbells, and more so those who want to can improve their strength training and performance to be the best they can be.
Check out our list of the Best Kettlebells for more great equipment!
Eleiko Kettlebells Highlights
Eleiko Kettlebells capitalize on the many benefits that a kettlebell can do from strength training, to endurance work, to promoting better form. Eleiko knows that athletes prioritize both training and performance, and while they are essentially one in the same, those at the top of their game know how to separate them and Eleiko has created a set of training kettlebells and competition kettlebells so all can improve their strength and hard training goals.
Training Kettlebells
These well-constructed kettlebells are classic and effective for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Designed for dynamic training, these will help you gain strength, mobility, and the cardiovascular benefit of real endurance. The varied grip allows for a double hand hold and the rugged and durable finish is resistant to high impact and holds chalk for a good grip. A durable high-grade cast iron kettlebell, this is perfect for those strength goals and the demands of hard training on the body.
Check Out Eleiko Training Kettlebells Here
Competition Kettlebells
These competition kettlebells are designed for performance and calibrated for competition and come in popular weight ranges. Using high-grade iron and a molded construction for exceptional durability, these kettlebells are carefully calibrated for competitive use with a wide flat base and non-corrosive steel handle. Regardless of the weight, each kettlebell is identical in size so you can continue to strength train with consistent equipment.
Check Out Eleiko Competition Kettlebells Here
Price & Effectiveness
Both of these Eleiko kettlebells, whether for training or for competition, are perfect for improving your strength and hard training goals. Built to last and highly durable, you absolutely can’t go wrong by using these in your home or at the gym.
The training kettlebells range in weight from 4kg all the way up to 56kg. Prices range from $25.00 to $163.00.
The competition kettlebells range in weight from 8kg to 32kg. Prices range from $65.00 to $153.00.
Pros
Durable and consistent
Great weight options for variety
Perfect for strength work and hard training
Great grips on both for stability and added strength
Cons
Premium priced
Eleiko Ambassador
Harrison Maurus – Weightlifter
Harrison Maurus is an American weightlifter on Team USA and an Eleiko ambassador, seeking to promote their great workout products to further his goals, but also those of others. He currently holds 10 American records and the Youth World Record in the clean and jerk. His past three World Championships finishes have been a bronze medal in 2017, 6th in 2018, and 9th in 2019, but that hasn’t stopped Maurus from continuing to compete at a high level to achieve his goal of a world title. Relying on Eleiko to help power his strength and hard training goals, Maurus knows just what it takes to be the best in the world.
Overall Value
Eleiko Kettlebells are great workout tools to really power you through any strength goals or hard training. Made from high-quality material and designed for optimal effectiveness, you can’t go wrong with a great kettlebell to add to your home or gym routine. What you are really getting is a top tier kettlebell that is built to last and designed for all your strength training goals. Check out Eleiko today and watch your strength, endurance, and stability grow to new heights.
Try Eleiko Kettlebells Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Eleiko, Harrison Maurus Instagram and Envato
References
Kravitz, Len. “Kettlebell Research Update”. (source)
Beardsley, Chris; Contreras, Bret (2014). “The Role of Kettlebells in Strength and Conditioning: A Review of the Literature”. (source)