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Finding a good, safe vegan pre-workout supplement is hard. Finding one that’s also vegan is even harder.
You’d be surprised at how many supplements are marketed as a vegan pre-workout but turn out to have animal-based products in them.
If you want that instant boost of energy and focus for a killer exercise from a plant-based supplement, it's important to do your research.
Luckily for you, we've already done that.
Together with a team of certified dietitians, I put together this list of the top vegan pre-workout supplements so you can quickly find a supplement you can trust.
Our 10 Best Vegan Pre-Workout Supplements (September 2023)
1 - Transparent Labs Preseries Bulk Pre-Workout (Editor's Choice)
As the brand name suggests, this vegan-friendly pre-workout supplement prides itself on a 100% transparent formula with a precisely balanced science-backed dosage of 19 active ingredients created to increase nitric oxide production, improve physical performance and focus, and reduce fatigue and muscle soreness while working out.
Drawing from our experience, although this pre-workout formula is creatine-free, the unique, highly potent Testosterone Support complex it contains can significantly boost muscle mass growth, making the product particularly suitable for bodybuilders and other serious athletes who strive for a better “pump.”
- Claimed to contain scientifically-backed active ingredients at clinically effective dosages
- Includes a potent Testosterone Support complex (vitamin D3, boron, and zinc) to enhance lean muscle growth
- A good dose of fermented, vegan BCAA (2:1:1) included to help prevent muscle waste and speed up workout recovery
- No artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, preservatives, or harmful additives
- Some customers complained about the supplement taste and shipping issues
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2 - Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout
Gorilla Mode’s pre-workout delivers everything you need to power your training sessions: increased nitric oxide levels, elevated energy and focus, and boosted muscle strength and endurance.
It contains L-Citrulline, GlycerPump, Agmatine, Creatine, and Betaine to get the blood flowing in your muscles and promote intracellular hydration to maximize your muscle pumps.
As indicated by our tests, this product also uses nootropics for cognitive enhancement to significantly increase your focus and mental sharpness in the gym.
Although it has high doses of stimulants, many customers say they never feel jittery with this supplement.
Another thing we love about this pre-workout is its wide range of flavor options. If you’re a fan of refreshing drinks, we highly recommend the Mango Peach or Jungle Juice variants.
- Increases energy, strength, and endurance for better muscle pumps
- Improves focus and mental acuity during workouts
- 11 flavor options to choose from
- Might not be suitable for people with caffeine sensitivity
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
3 - 4 Gauge
Our team discovered through using this product that the 4 Gauge is a potent pre-workout powder that delivers a focused and satisfying workout experience as you hit the gym.
It claims to help enhance your endurance, which means you can train for longer without worrying about crashing afterward. Apart from being one of the most effective pre-workout powder, it is also pretty safe.
Unlike other manufacturers who sell their customers short by hiding the real ingredients that goes into their products, 4 Gauge wants you to know exactly what's in their vegan powder.
Hint: it's all natural ingredients - so you can be sure that you're getting what you paid for.
- Laser-like mental focus during workouts
- 100% natural ingredients
- No artificial sweeteners or flavors
- "Smart caffeine" to improve endurance
- May cause an upset stomach
If you're tired of getting ripped off by other supplements, then consider giving this product a try; it might do you some good.
4 - Powher: Editor's Choice for Females
Something I always noticed when working with female clients is that so many of them never take pre-workouts.
The reason is actually quite simple. Most girls don’t really want to bulk up. But from a fitness perspective, they can still benefit from the extra energy boost.
Some of the top pre-workout brands contain ingredients specifically chosen for bulking, while also having amounts that are not entirely suitable for the female physique - and that’s the gap that Powher has filled.
- Specifically designed for females
- Less risk of caffeine-related jitters
- Lack of strong bulking ingredients
- Energy booster to help you work harder at the gym
- More flavor options would be great
The creators list ingredients that have been chosen for and tested on females as an energy booster. Along with the extra energy, it will also help with fat loss, which is something a lot of users have positively commented on.
If you’re a woman looking for energy and muscle gain, and a vegan, then Powher should be considered on your list.
5 - NITROSURGE
If you’re sensitive to too much caffeine, finding a good vegan and stim-free pre-workout is next to impossible. Jacked Factory, based out of Canada, has made your life a whole lot easier.
Aside from their clean ingredients and mainstays (L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine), Nitrosurge also contains the “smart blend” of caffeine and L-theanine.
Based on our firsthand experience, when taken together, L-theanine enhances the power of caffeine, giving you more pump for each gram.
It’s definitely not “infinite energy” like the company claims. Still, it does deliver powerful, hard-hitting energy for more reps in the gym at a very consumer-friendly price.
- Smart caffeine is great for sensitive consumers
- Provides a good amount of energy
- Contains 1.6g of beta alanine to reduce fatigue and improve blood flow and facilitate muscle growth
- Delicious cherry taste
- Skin tingling side effects
- Low on L-citrulline
However, we were a bit bummed that it didn’t contain more L-citrulline.
We loved that it didn’t give us that regular caffeine crash you get with most cheap pre-workout supplements.
However, it did make our skin tingle. I like the taste of this, though. When mixed up in a drink, it actually tastes like cherries.
6 - Vega Sport Sugar-Free Energizer
Vega Sport Sugar-Free Energizer promises to give your body an immediate and sustained energy boost, increase your endurance and mental focus to get you powered up through short workouts.
Since this pre-workout drink is free of sugar, it’s commonly considered more appropriate for short-duration, low-intensity workouts.
However, some users have claimed it kept them energized enough even during a bit longer high-impact workouts.
Also, others have said that it helped them get the most out of their workouts even when they were feeling sluggish and slammed due to their crazy daily schedule.
Not only can this product help you replenish electrolytes, but the antioxidants it contains provide fantastic anti-inflammatory support to your immunity, reducing joint and muscle soreness and assisting with recovery.
Although the drink is available in two flavors only, many users seem to like both tastes.
- High-quality plant-based ingredients
- Contains antioxidants and electrolytes for additional immune system support to keep the fluid in the cells balanced and store fuel in the muscles
- Keto-friendly, vegan certified, low-calorie supplement
- Gluten-free, sugar-free, non-GMO pre-workout without artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives
- Despite many positive reviews, some customers warned about too high caffeine content that may pose a serious risk of experiencing side effects
7 - Pre Lab Pro
If you’ve been in the fitness world a while, you’ve definitely heard of Pre Lab Pro. They’re known for clean, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly products.
You know how most pre-workouts just “hit you”? We didn’t feel that with this product.
The increase was nice and steady, and there was no crash afterward. It definitely has all of the ingredients you need to crush in the gym, they just don’t hit you as hard.
Unlike most vegan-friendly supplements, their pre-workout contains amino acids for faster protein synthesis. Coupled with the improved blood flow, this means more epic muscle building each time you lift the bar.
- Promotes ATP energy production and protein synthesis with its amino acids
- No known experience of sudden crash
- Improves blood flow for muscle growth and increased energy levels
- Tastes amazing
- A bit on the pricey side
- Contains creatine
Also, it contains L-Glutamine and other essential amino acids that build muscle mass and protect your muscle gains and recovery. However, note that it does contain creatine. If you want to avoid this ingredient, look for creatine-free preworkout supplements.
8 - RARI Nutrition
RARI Nutrition claims to be the best vegan pre-workout that’s clinically dosed to help you get that maximum muscle pump, power, and workout performance your body needs before working out.
Unlike other pre-workout that’s filled with artificial fillers, RARI Nutrition is formulated scientifically with clean and natural ingredients like nitric oxide to get through intense workouts without feeling the effects of jitters, shakes, or a sudden crash that leaves you fatigued all day.
It’s also designed to ensure peak performance levels and ultimate focus through booster nitric oxide properties that are safe for both guys and girls.
- Keto and vegan-friendly product
- Certified with Good Manufacturing Process (GMP)
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
- Contains nitric oxide that helps to improve overall performance
- Some users reported that the flavor is terrible
- Caffeine in the product may cause side effects like nervousness, sleeplessness, rapid heartbeats, dizziness, stomach pains, and nausea.
RARI Nutrition is a natural pre-workout supplement that you may want to consider when looking for the best vegan pre-workout if you want to lose weight, build muscle, get a caffeine boost, or increase cardio for runners.
9 - Organic Muscle
It’s hard to argue with its USDA certification, so we intend to do nothing of the sort. Organic Muscle exclusively uses organic, non-GMO ingredients, which they claim helps increase pump, stamina, and focus during your training sessions. It's also one of the best pre-workouts for running.
Although we wish they were more open about the ingredients in their pre-workout formula, it’s hard to argue with their ingredients. Ginseng, maca, beetroot, green tea extract — it’s basically the Mount Rushmore of great, natural supplements.
The best thing, in our opinion, is that this is basically a vegan and organic pre-workout supplement and a superfood in one mixture.
Ingredients like berries, roots, herbs, coconut water, and green tea will keep you healthy long after you toss your workout clothes in the hamper and crash on the bed.
- Superfood herbs
- USDA-certified
- Contains natural ingredients, such as green tea extract
- 100% organic
- Formula is hidden
- Not as high in energy as the other products mentioned
It didn’t give us the same rush of extended energy as 4 Gauge, though.
10 - Vega Sport
Last on our pre-workout list is Vega Sport’s Pre-Workout Energizer. Overall, it didn’t really impress us in any of the categories (it doesn’t contain many ingredients that’ll produce immediate effects).
However, its ingredients are 100% plant-based, and it does produce sustained energy - perfect for any vegans looking for a quick boost in energy.
There’s a catch, though….
It contains brown rice syrup (sugar), which increases your carb and calorie count without providing much in return.
- 100% clean, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free
- No artificial sweeteners
- Too much sugar
- Not enough stimulation
- A bit on the pricey side
The only reason you might want this is for the extra simple carbs before a workout, but it isn't really our style.
Buyer's Guide
Vegan pre-workout supplements are designed to boost energy, endurance, and focus for those adhering to a plant-based lifestyle. With the rise in veganism, the market has seen a surge in such products. This guide will help you navigate the options and choose the best vegan pre-workout.
Ingredients to Look For
- Natural Caffeine: Derived from green tea or coffee beans, it provides a clean energy boost without the jitters.
- Beta-Alanine: Helps improve endurance and reduce muscle fatigue.
- L-Citrulline: Aids in increasing blood flow, leading to better muscle pumps during workouts.
- BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids): Essential for muscle recovery and reducing muscle soreness.
- Electrolytes: Important for hydration and muscle function.
Avoid Harmful Additives
Ensure your supplement doesn't contain artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. Look for products labeled as non-GMO and free from fillers.
Check for Allergens
Even if a vegan product, it might contain allergens like gluten or soy. Always check the label, especially if you have specific allergies or sensitivities.
Brand Reputation
Choose brands known for their transparency, quality control, and positive customer reviews. A good reputation often indicates a trustworthy product.
Flavor and Mixability
A pre-workout that doesn't mix well or has an unpleasant taste can be off-putting. Check reviews to see what others say about the taste and texture.
Value for Money
While you shouldn't skimp on quality, finding a product that offers good value is essential. Compare the price per serving, and consider buying in bulk to save money.
Certified Vegan
Ensure the product is certified vegan. This guarantees it doesn't contain animal-derived ingredients and hasn't been tested on animals.
Sustainability
Consider brands that use sustainable sourcing practices and eco-friendly packaging. Supporting such brands is a step towards a more sustainable future.
Adaptogens and Nootropics
Some vegan pre-workouts include adaptogens like ashwagandha or nootropics like L-Theanine. These can help manage stress, improve focus, and enhance mood.
Personal Needs and Preferences
Remember, everyone's body is different. What works for one person might not work for another. Consider any specific needs or goals you have when choosing a supplement.
What is a Pre-Workout Supplement?
A pre-workout supplement is a fitness product designed to help you boost energy levels and get the most out of your workouts by having more strength and stamina.
They won’t make you Schwarzenegger in Hercules in New York, but taking what could be the best pre-workout supplement fills your body with a blend of ingredients that can help you with your workout and rep out those final reps [1].
Other pre-workout supplements buyer's guide you may like:
Benefits of a Vegan Pre-Workout Powder
The best vegan pre-workouts on the market contain an amazing power: they make you dead set on destroying the gym (metaphorically) before each session [2].
Everyone wants to look great, but nobody wants to lift heavy stuff (especially not after today’s 10:00 AM meeting).
Once the juices start running through your body, though, you’ll want to do nothing else besides pump iron and get fit.
With the right blend of pre-workout ingredients, you’ll experience better workouts.
If you haven’t been achieving results in the gym, it could be because you don’t have the power to push yourself that extra rep or 2 it takes to see results. With a pre-workout supplement, you get:
- A quick and lasting energy boost
- Increased muscle growth and power
- More pumps
- Faster muscle recovery
- Better physical and mental performance
The pre-workout powder option is even better.
Unlike regular supplements made with unhealthy animal-based products, a (plant-based) vegan pre-workout supplement gives you all of those benefits with none of the health drawbacks.
Are There any Potential Side Effects?
There are some potential side effects, just like with other health supplements. Some may make you jittery, anxious, or irritable [3].
If you take a low-quality brand pre-workout supplement, you may also suffer from severe crashes or worse, so much energy that you can’t sleep [4]. It's a more common occurrence when you're caffeine-sensitive and you're taking vegan pre-workout supplements with unregulated amounts of stimulants in its ingredients [5].
However, my #1 tip for you would be to stick to a quality vegan pre-workout supplement at the recommended dosages.
Just know the jitters are only temporary [6]. You can read all about it here: How long does the pre-workout effect last?
The general side effects of most pre-workout supplements are jittery feelings, excess energy, headaches, and nausea.
- Agatha Milholland, University of Rochester
FAQs
Can Vegans Have Pre-workout?
Yes, vegans can have a pre-workout. Vegan pre-workout supplements are often as effective as popular non-vegan options too.
What Is Plant-Based Pre-workout?
A plant-based pre-workout is naturally flavored with no added sugar, soy-free, NON-GMO, and banned substance-free supplement.
Do Vegans Really Need Creatine?
Yes, vegans really need creatine. Both meat-eaters and vegans need creatine supplementation since getting the proper amount of creatine through food is impossible or at least impractical.
What Is The Best Vegan-Friendly Pre-Workout?
Possibly the best vegan-friendly pre workout supplement for you comes down to personal preference and goals.
However, if we had to choose, Transparent Labs Bulk would be our top choice.
According to our research, many users have reported that because it is a natural pre-workout supplement, this is the best vegan-friendly pre-workout powder that they have tried in recent years,
Why? You ask. Most of its users claim that it has yielded some really positive results right after consumption.
You have been warned: the increased athletic workout performance, energy, and focus from this will make you feel like you just had a couple of espresso shots without the caffeine.
You should be able to feel the difference during your workout as little as 15 minutes after taking it. But that’s basically how you know how well your pre-workout supplements work.
Our #1 Recommendation
Transparent Labs Preseries Bulk Pre-Workout
- Claimed to contain scientifically-backed active ingredients at clinically effective dosages
- Includes a potent Testosterone Support complex (vitamin D3, boron, and zinc) to enhance lean muscle growth
- A good dose of fermented, vegan BCAA (2:1:1) included to help prevent muscle waste and speed up workout recovery
- No artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, preservatives, or harmful additives
- Get 10% off using code: TOTALSHAPE
- Some customers complained about the supplement taste and shipping issues
About The Author
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Hey. Do you recommend 4 Gauge for weight loss or muscle growth? Or is this pre workout supplement just to increase your energy and focus at the gym?
Hello Arthur, that’s a good question! The answer is both. As we know, a pre workout supplement will give you higher levels of power, strength, and energy during gym time. If you regularly work out with a higher intensity of energy, you’ll burn more calories/gain more muscles, depending on what your workout goal is. Hope that helps!
I’m glad that pre-workout products are now accommodating vegan people like me. Vegan pre workout powders like these are even available.
Vegan sports supplements are usually pricey, but thanks to 4 Gauge and its affordable price!