Top 5 Best Pre-Workout Supplements: My Favorites

As an experienced bodybuilder and fitness enthusiast, I know how important it is to choose the right pre-workout. The perfect supplement can make the difference between an average session and a workout where you crush your personal bests. In this blog, I’ll share my top 5 favorite pre-workout supplements and what makes them stand out.

1. Raw Nutrition - CBUM Thavage

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Developed in collaboration with Chris Bumstead, a six-time Classic Physique Mr. Olympia, Thavage is a pre-workout that takes your performance to the next level. What I love about this product is its balanced formula: a mix of ingredients for energy, focus, and pump. With L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, and Alpha-GPC, you get physical energy and mental sharpness. The flavors are amazing too—my favorite is Blackberry Lemonade!

2. HR Labs - Defib V3

HR Labs is known for its high-quality products; Defib V3 doesn’t disappoint. This pre-workout is powerful, featuring high doses of caffeine and other energy-boosting ingredients like L-Tyrosine and Theacrine. What I particularly like is the long-lasting energy without the crash. It’s a perfect choice for heavy leg days or intense strength training. The pump and focus you get are truly next-level.

3. Ryse Supplements - Godzilla Pre-Workout

The name says it all: Godzilla. This pre-workout is an absolute powerhouse. It contains massive amounts of L-Citrulline (12 grams!) and Beta-Alanine, delivering an explosive pump. Plus, the addition of Cognizin ensures laser-sharp focus during your workout. This is my go-to when planning a heavy session and wanting to give it my all.

4. Applied Nutrition - ABE (All Black Everything)

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ABE is a versatile pre-workout, perfect for those who don’t need extreme stimulants but still want a solid boost. With ingredients like creatine, Beta-Alanine, and taurine, you get a good mix of energy and endurance. I also appreciate that ABE is free of unnecessary additives, and the flavors, like Fruit Punch and Blue Lagoon, are delicious. It’s ideal for both beginners and advanced users.

5. XXL Nutrition - Blast!

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If you’re looking for a reliable pre-workout at an affordable price, Blast! from XXL Nutrition is an excellent choice. With 300 mg of caffeine and a good dose of L-Citrulline, it provides a solid energy boost and pump. What I like about it is that it’s effective without being overwhelming—perfect for my everyday workouts. XXL Nutrition is also a Dutch brand, which is a nice bonus.

How to Choose Your Perfect Pre-Workout

When choosing a pre-workout, it’s important to know what your needs are. Are you looking for maximum energy for heavy lifts or something milder for daily workouts? Experiment with dosages and ingredients to find what works best for you.

Do you have a favorite that didn’t make my list? Let me know—I’m always curious to discover new top picks!