Runners who are aiming to shed pounds may benefit from adding thermogenic fat burners to their routine to enhance weight loss results.
As a long-time trainer of athletes, I'm frequently asked about effective natural fat burners, and decided to test twenty products over six months to find the best options for active runners.
Which fat burning supplements should you use, and how can you ensure it complements your running routine without causing unwanted side effects?
Read on and find out.
The Best Fat Burners For Runners
- Best Overall Fat Burner For Runners: PhenQ
- Best Fat Burner for Male Runners: Hunter Burn
- Best Fat Burner for Endurance in Runners: PhenQ
- Best Thermogenic Fat Burner for Athletes: PhenGold
- Cheapest Fat Burner For Runners: Capsiplex Trim
- Best Fat Burner for Active Women: Capsiplex Trim
Our 5 Best Fat Burners For Runners (April 2024)
1 - PhenQ (Best Overall & for Endurance)
- Calcium Carbonate : 625 mg
- Caffeine Anhydrous : 150 mg
- L-Carnitine Fumarate : 142.5 mg
- α-Lacys Reset® : 25 mg
- Nopal : 20 mg
- Capsicum Extract : 8 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No harmful side effects due to its all-natural ingredients
- Contains α-Lacys Reset® to boost calorie burn
- Enhances mood despite calorie restriction
- Provides better stamina so you can run consistently fast
Cons
- Available exclusively through the company's official website
Our hands-on knowledge shows PhenQ may be the best thermogenic fat burner to help you lose weight quickly because it has given my clients and me the best overall results in our testing.
With the scientifically proven blend of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), magnesium, and cysteine in the α-Lacys Reset® formula, you should be able to speed up your metabolism and burn more calories faster. In a study published in the medical journal Obesity Reviews, ALA caused significant weight loss [1].
After using PhenQ for four weeks, we had more energy, decreased cravings, and were able to run longer distances during our daily workouts, which ultimately led to a higher rate of weight loss.
Supplement Facts:
2 - Transparent Labs Fat Burner
- Coleus Extract : 250 mg
- Green Tea Extract : 200 mg
- 5-Htp : 150 mg
- L-Tyrosine : 150 mg
- Caffeine Anhydrous : 120 mg
- Cayenne Pepper : 50 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- May help increase metabolic rate
- May lower calorie consumption
- A clean formulation that helps increase energy and focus
Cons
- Some consumers claim that they didn't notice any significant changes in weight
With this natural fat burner from Transparent Labs, you can suppress your appetite and increase thermogenesis, enabling you to consume fewer calories and burn fat even while at rest.
With cayenne pepper extract and a highly concentrated, anhydrous form of caffeine, you can fuel your running regimen efficiently while at the same time significantly boosting your fat-burning capacity [3].
I noticed that this product significantly boosted my stamina, which allowed me to beat my previous running speed.
Supplement Facts:
3 - Hunter Burn (Best for Male Runners)
- Vitamin D3 : 3000 IU
- Konjac Root Extract : 3000 mg
- White Kidney Bean Extract : 500 mg
- L-Theanine : 200 mg
- Matcha Green Tea : 200 mg
- Cayenne Pepper : 125 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains high-quality natural ingredients
- It has a high dosage of the active ingredients that help burn fat
- Helps you reduce food intake due to its high fiber content
Cons
- Some consumers may find it a bit pricey
Hunter Burn is probably the best fat burner for men who are sensitive to caffeine and other potent stimulants.
While this premium fat burner supplement does not contain caffeine, it has mild herbal stimulants that may enhance performance on the track. Furthermore, its ingredients with satiating and thermogenic properties may help reduce hunger and improve metabolism.
"Insoluble fiber adds bulk to food and isn't digested, so it helps increase feelings of fullness as well as the frequency of bowel movements."
- Kaleigh McMordie, RDN, Texas
After two months of using this product, my clients were able to retain lean muscles and increase their fat loss significantly.
Supplement Facts:
4 - PhenGold (Best Thermogenic Fat Burner)
- Green Tea Extract : 500 mg
- Green Coffee : 100 mg
- L-Theanine : 250 mg
- L-Tyrosine : 350 mg
- Rhodiola rosea : 250 mg
- Cayenne Pepper : 200 mg
- Caffeine : 225 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains powerful ingredients with a thermogenic effect
- Accelerates fat loss by reducing calorie consumption
- Helps increase physical and mental energy
Cons
- May not be suitable for caffeine-sensitive individuals
Taking PhenGold in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle may be worth your investment if you wish to burn fat quickly while also improving mental clarity.
This fat burner contains the nootropic Rhodiola rosea to increase your brain function, enabling you to focus more during your daily run according to the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology [4].
Also, the high amounts of potent thermogenic ingredients found in this supplement, such as caffeine and green tea, may help your body burn more fat by increasing metabolism and boosting physical energy [5].
After four weeks of use, PhenGold has helped my clients sustain energy and run farther than they did before.
Supplement Facts:
5 - LeanBean
- Glucomannan : 1000 mg
- Choline : 27.5 mg
- Garcinia Cambogia Extract : 33.33 mg
- Green Coffee : 16.67 mg
- Turmeric : 16.67 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Should significantly help in suppressing appetite
- Added vitamins and minerals help strengthen immunity
- High in antioxidants to promote overall well being
Cons
- Some consumers find taking six pills every day a bit expensive to keep up
Next on the list is a specifically designed fat burner for women.
LeanBean, known as a top belly fat burner for women due to its Glucomannan content for fullness, and low caffeine for energy and focus, is currently out of stock. It has helped my clients run faster and longer with fewer cravings, aiding in quick fat loss [2].
While taking LeanBean, my female clients could run faster and longer distances while having fewer cravings throughout the day, which helped them lose excess fat more quickly.
A great alternative is Capsiplex Trim, which offers enhanced fat burning, increased metabolism, reduced appetite, improved workout efficiency, and better concentration.
Supplement Facts:
How We Tested These Fat Burners for Runners
Choosing the best fat burners for runners isn't a task we take lightly. As avid runners and fitness enthusiasts ourselves, we understand the unique demands and challenges faced by those who hit the pavement regularly. Our testing process was both rigorous and personal, ensuring that our recommendations resonate with fellow runners.
Personal Trials
Several members of our team, including myself, tried out these fat burners during our regular runs. We noted any changes in energy levels, endurance, and post-run recovery. I remember one particular long run where I felt more sustained energy and less fatigue, which I attributed to the fat burner I was testing.
Ingredient Analysis
We meticulously examined the ingredient list of each product. We looked for ingredients backed by scientific research and known to benefit runners specifically.
Feedback from Fellow Runners
We reached out to our local running community and collected feedback on their experiences with these fat burners. Their insights were invaluable in understanding the broader impact of these supplements.
Taste and Mixability
As runners, we often mix our supplements with water or sports drinks. We tested how well each fat burner dissolved and tasted when mixed with various liquids.
Value for Money
We compared the cost per serving, the quality of ingredients, and the overall benefits to determine which products offered the best value for runners.
Safety and Side Effects
Given the increased heart rate and body temperature during runs, we paid special attention to any potential side effects, especially those that could affect a runner's performance or safety.
Consultation with Experts
We consulted with sports nutritionists and trainers to get their expert opinions on the efficacy and safety of each fat burner for runners.
Fat Burner Buyer's Guide
There are many fat burner supplements on the market today, and if you don't choose wisely, you may end up not losing stored fat, breaking your budget, and even having unexpected health problems. So here are the things to keep an eye on.
Ingredients
When buying weight loss pills, it is crucial to know whether they contain ingredients that increase fat oxidation, hasten metabolic rate, or suppress appetite because all of these work differently and might not be suitable depending on your goals.
According to the National Library of Health, you should also note your allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances to prevent adverse effects [6].
Ingredient Breakdown
Let's delve into some common ingredients found in top-tier fat burners:
- L-Carnitine: A natural compound found in foods like meat and dairy, L-Carnitine plays a pivotal role in energy production. It aids in transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they're burned for energy. This process can assist in weight reduction and body fat decrease.
- Green Tea Leaf Extract: Beyond its traditional use as a beverage, green tea extract has been linked to enhanced mental focus and weight loss. Its caffeine content can also provide a much-needed energy boost during workouts.
- Cayenne Pepper Extract: This spicy ingredient does more than just add flavor. It can promote thermogenesis, a process where the body burns calories to produce heat. Additionally, cayenne pepper may foster a healthy gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Dosage
When you decide what ingredients are right for you, make sure they are formulated with the correct dosages. You should prioritize products with no proprietary blends and, ideally, a brand that shows how much of every ingredient is in the fat burner [7].
Value for Money
To maximize your investment, choose a sufficiently dosed product in one or two capsules that does not require repeated ingestions throughout the day. Also, you can opt for a brand that provides a month's supply in every bottle.
Furthermore, to determine how much money you'll spend each day on supplements, divide the price by the number of servings per bottle and multiply by the number of times the supplement must be taken per day.
Transparency in Labeling
In the vast sea of supplements, transparency has become a beacon for trustworthiness. Consumers are now more educated and cautious about what they put into their bodies.
Transparent labeling, which clearly lists each ingredient and its dosage, is preferred over mysterious proprietary blends.
Knowing exactly what you're consuming and in what amounts allows for informed decisions and ensures you're getting the best bang for your buck.
Affordability vs. Quality
It's a common misconception that price always equates to quality, especially in the supplement industry.
While some high-end fat burners offer premium ingredients, there are affordable options that don't compromise on efficacy.
It's essential to research, read reviews, and perhaps even consult with a nutritionist or fitness expert before making a purchase.
Remember, the best fat burner is one that aligns with your goals, budget, and body's needs.
Importance of Diet and Training
It's paramount to understand that no supplement can replace the foundational pillars of a balanced diet and consistent training.
Fat burners are designed to assist and amplify your efforts, not replace them. Ensuring you have a well-structured diet and exercise routine is the first step. Once these are in place, fat burners can provide that extra push to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Speaking from personal experience, you can't simply take fat burners and do nothing workout and diet-wise and expect to see some reasonable results. Exercise, diet, and supplementation should all be considered together.
Otherwise, you will lack results, and most likely, you are just looking for shortcuts instead of a genuine weight loss plan that always works.
FAQs
Why Do Runners Take Fat Burners?
Runners take fat burners to help them lose fat or excess weight more effectively while running. Because many people run to burn fat, these weight loss supplements can help boost metabolism, reduce calorie intake, and increase energy and endurance.
Can I Take Fat Burners Before Running?
You can take fat burners before running to ensure that you have the energy and strength to make it through a challenging run.
Taking these supplements will also assist you in burning more calories during your workouts and throughout the day.
Are Fat Burners Safe For Runners?
Fat burners are generally safe for runners because many of these supplements are derived from natural, high-quality ingredients that are unlikely to cause any adverse side effects.
Also, fat-burning supplements may help improve overall health.
Our Verdict: The Best Fat Burner for Runners
Of all the fat burners we tested, PhenQ proved to be the best fat burner for boosting energy levels and burning calories in both male and female runners.
After only two weeks of use, my clients and I noticed its positive effects on endurance. As we continued to use these supplements over the next few months, we saw significant weight loss and even gains in lean muscle mass in comparison to other fat burners on the list.
We believe PhenQ has assisted us in losing weight by improving our metabolism and boosting our pre-workout for running, leading to higher excretion and energy expenditure, which inevitably caused fat loss in a surprisingly short period of time.
Our #1 Recommendation
PhenQ (Best Overall & for Endurance)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- No harmful side effects due to its all-natural ingredients
- Contains α-Lacys Reset® to boost calorie burn
- Enhances mood despite calorie restriction
- Provides better stamina so you can run consistently fast
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of April
- Available exclusively through the company's official website
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