Some of the athletes I train dislike the tingling sensations caused by the beta-alanine in some pre-workouts. Although I told them it's not really a health concern, it can be a distraction during training.
In response to this, I embarked on a meticulous journey, researching and analyzing 12 popular pre-workouts without beta-alanine.
Each product was rigorously tested over several months by evaluating of their effectiveness in reducing muscle fatigue and enhancing athletic performance.
This meticulous process was done to ensure the pre-workouts we suggest meet the highest standard of quality and effectiveness.
Here are the results.
The Best Pre-Workouts Without Beta-Alanine
- Best Overall Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine: Gorilla Mode
- Cheapest Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine: PEScience
- Best Tasting Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine: Organic Muscle
- Best Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine for Endurance: Gorilla Mode
- Best Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine for Vegans: Ora Organic Natural
- Best Pump Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine: 4 Gauge
- Best Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine for Bone Health: Pre Lab Pro
My Top 12 Beta-Alanine Free Pre-Workout Supplements (July 2024)
1 - Gorilla Mode Pre-workout (Best Overall & for Endurance)
- Price per serving : $1.30
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Creatine Monohydrate, Caffeine
- All flavors : Piña Colada, Spiked Cider, Volcano Burst, Krush, Sour Candy Apple, Orange Rush, Mouthwatering Watermelon, Tiger's Blood, Cherry Blackout, Fruit Punch, Cotton Candy Grape, Blackberry Lemonade
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- May help boost mood and motivation
- Promotes better blood circulation
- Can significantly increase energy and endurance for more exercise capacity
- May help reduce post-workout muscle soreness
Cons
- Could be a little pricey
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Athletes seeking enhanced endurance
- Users looking for strong energy boosts without tingling sensations
Who is it not for?
- Budget-conscious shoppers
Final Verdict
Gorilla Mode is excellent for serious athletes needing sustained energy and pump. It's a premium choice worth the investment.
I selected Gorilla Mode as the top beta-alanine-free pre-workout because it maximizes muscle energy, strength and pumps without causing skin tingling. It significantly boosts endurance.
Gorilla Mode's high doses of L-Citrulline and creatine enhance muscle water and nutrient supply, promoting muscle growth and reducing fatigue as shown in studies by the National Library of Medicine [1,2].
Moreover, according to studies published by Military Medicine, its caffeine and L-tyrosine content deliver sustained energy and improved exercise performance, preventing fatigue [3].
Having used Gorilla Mode extensively, both personally and with clients, I find its energy boost genuine and side-effect-free. Its impact on strength and muscle endurance is consistently superior.
Supplement Facts:
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
2 - 4 Gauge Pre-workout (Best for Enhanced Pump)
- Price per serving : $1.80
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Red Beet Root, Rhodiola Rosea
- All flavors : Fruit Blast
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps boost energy levels without post-exercise fatigue
- Promotes calmness while enabling you to get more out of your training
- Help increase hydration and better endurance
Cons
- Also a bit heavy on the budget
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing balanced energy and focus
- Users preferring pre-workouts without caffeine jitters
Who is it not for?
- Individuals seeking budget options
Final Verdict
4 Gauge provides a strong pump with moderate stimulation, making it ideal for intense workouts without overwhelming effects.
I placed 4 Gauge second on the beta-alanine-free pre-workout list for its ability to enhance physical performance and pumps without tingling sensations, similar to Gorilla Mode.
Its distinct stimulation, likely from moderate caffeine and L-theanine, offers sufficient energy while maintaining calmness.
The caffeine level is optimal, keeping focus during workouts without jitters.
Additionally, it includes coconut water powder, rich in electrolytes like sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, aiding in nerve and muscle function regulation.
4 Gauge's standout feature is its strong muscle pumps, enabling me to lift significantly heavier weights without distracting me during training.
Supplement Facts:
3 - Pre Lab Pro (Best for Bone Health)
- Price per serving : $2.21
- Key ingredients : Setria® Performance Blend, Natural Caffeine, L-Theanine
- All flavors : Natural Berry
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gives little to no jitters
- Supports bone health and immune function due to Vitamin D
- L-theanine content helps you remain calm during intense training
Cons
- Uses proprietary blend formulation
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users focusing on bone health and moderate energy levels
- Beginners to pre-workouts
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring a high caffeine kick
Final Verdict
Pre Lab Pro supports overall health and provides a gentle boost in energy, suitable for those new or sensitive to stimulants.
I added Pre-Lab Pro from Opti Nutra to my list for its impressive vitamin and mineral content.
Pre-Lab Pro's Vitamin D and various B vitamins boost performance by aiding muscle cell energy metabolism and red blood cell development.
“Vitamin B6 is involved in production of hemoglobin, the protein in blood that carries oxygen throughout the body.”
- Sonya Angelone, RDN, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
It also has a low caffeine amount, perfect for those sensitive to high caffeine levels, providing a mild energy boost for fitness beginners.
After weeks of use, Pre-Lab Pro offered a moderate energy and stamina increase, without any itchy sensations during or post-workout as reported by my testing team.
Supplement Facts:
4 - PUMPSURGE
- L-Citrulline : 5000 mg
- Betaine Anhydrous : 2500 mg
- Taurine : 2000 mg
- Alpha-GPC : 150 mg
- Huperzine A : 50 mcg
- AstraGin : 25 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Light on the budget
- Absolutely no jittery effects because it's a non-stim pre-workout
- Helps enhance mood and focus
Cons
- Doesn’t provide the same rapid stimulation as caffeinated pre-workouts
This beta-alanine-free pre-workout suits those highly sensitive to caffeine, aiming for swift fitness progress.
Pumpsurge, a stimulant-free option, is rich in L-Citrulline, enhancing vasodilation and potentially boosting muscle nutrient supply for heavier lifting and leaner body mass.
It includes three cognitive enhancers: Taurine, Huperzine A, and Alpha GC. Research by the National Institutes of Health indicates these improve neuromuscular strength, alertness, and focus, thereby increasing endurance [4,5].
Taking Pumpsurge 30 minutes before my workout consistently provided me with a heightened sense of calm, allowing me to complete my daily routine without experiencing fatigue.
Supplement Facts:
5 - ONNIT Total Nitric Oxide - Pre-Workout Powder
- Price per serving : $1.75
- Key ingredients : Beet Root, L Arginine, L Citrulline Malate
- All flavors : Harvest Fruit
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- You can use this ready pre-workout in your late-night exercise
- Promotes faster muscle repair and growth
- May help improve endurance workouts for weight loss
Cons
- The label doesn't show the exact amount of ingredients
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Late-night exercisers
- Those focusing on muscle repair and growth
Who is it not for?
- Users preferring strong flavor profiles
Final Verdict
ONNIT provides substantial workout enhancement without disrupting sleep, perfect for those training in the evenings.
Total Nitric Oxide from Onnit, a stimulant-free pre-workout without beta-alanine, made my list due to its performance-enhancing reputation among my colleagues.
This pre-workout is designed to boost nitric oxide (NO) levels in the body, aiding in maximizing workout intensity.
Elevated NO levels enhance muscle oxygenation and nutrient delivery, potentially extending workout duration and speeding recovery.
Colleagues at Total Shape experienced improved performance, noting increased strength and stamina from this pre-workout.
Supplement Facts:
6 - Organic Muscle Natural Superfood Pre-Workout Powder (Best Tasting)
- Price per serving : $2.75
- Key ingredients : Organic Beetroot, Organic Maca Root, Organic Matcha
- All flavors : Lemon Berry, Passionfruit
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- May give little to no side effects due to all-natural organic ingredients
- May help support complete body nourishment due to vitamins and minerals
- Suitable for people with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
Cons
- Ingredients are lacking in scientific proof and don't reveal exact amounts
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Health-conscious individuals
- People with dietary restrictions like diabetes
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer clinically proven ingredients
Final Verdict
Organic Muscle offers a clean, all-natural energy boost, but lacks solid scientific backing for some ingredients.
USDA-certified, Organic Muscle's dietary supplement is a natural superfood blend of fruit and plant extracts. It delivers clean energy and aids in quick muscle recovery.
With an optimal amount of naturally sourced caffeine, it provides a healthy energy boost during training.
Don't forget that this supplement doesn't contain beta-alanine either, so you won't feel jittery and tingly.
This pre-workout is one of our favorites because it keeps us energized and in a good mood throughout the day.
Supplement Facts:
7 - Cracked Pre-Workout
- Price per serving : $4.54
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Ashwagandha, Organic Lion's Mane
- All flavors : Blue Cherry Pineapple
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Promotes better blood flow and oxygen supply to the muscles
- Helps reduce mental stress during an intense workout
- May help improve strength and energy levels
Cons
- Contains artificial flavors and artificial sweeteners
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing a significant mental boost
- Users looking for a blend of energy and nootropics
Who is it not for?
- Individuals avoiding artificial additives
Final Verdict
Cracked Pre-Workout excels in mental and physical energy boosts, though it may not suit those avoiding artificial ingredients.
Consider Cracked Pre-Workout for a beta-alanine-free option that enhances energy, pump, and cognitive performance.
Despite its proprietary blends, I value its inclusion of nootropics and adaptogenic herbs, proven by the National Library of Medicine to boost mental focus and alertness [6].
The energy blend lists precise amounts of L-citrulline, creatine, and caffeine, assuring ergogenic benefits.
"By stimulating excitatory neurotransmitters, [caffeine] jump-starts the brain the way that adrenaline does, which sends messages to the rest of the body to perform."
- Whitney Crouch, RDN, CLT
Initially skeptical due to the proprietary blends, I found this pre-workout effective in energy boost, mental performance enhancement, and stress relief.
Supplement Facts :
8 - PEScience Prolific Pre-Workout (Cheapest Option)
- Price per serving : $0.87
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Caffeine, Rhodiola Rosea
- All flavors : Melon Berry Twist, Raspberry Lemonade
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Promotes mind and body coordination
- May help provide a sustained energy boost
- Could increase muscle mass
Cons
- May not be suitable for people who have pre-existing heart problems
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Bodybuilders seeking muscle mass
- Those preferring sustained alertness during workouts
Who is it not for?
- Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions
Final Verdict
PEScience Prolific is perfect for intense muscle-building sessions with sustained focus, not recommended for those with heart issues.
Prolific pre-workout from PEScience, beta-alanine-free, is ideal for those aiming to build lean muscle like athletes and bodybuilders.
It contains Citrulline and Betaine anhydrous, enhancing performance through faster muscle repair post-intense exercise, and promoting muscle growth.
The combination of caffeine and L-theanine ensures alertness and relaxation, while Rhodiola extract reduces stress hormones from strenuous exercise, supporting prolonged, motivated performance.
My team found it highly effective for maintaining focus and wakefulness during two-hour lifts, without jitters or tingling.
Supplement Facts:
9 - MyoBlox LOCO® Pre-Workout
- Price per serving: Currently unavailable. Key ingredients: Contains 400 mg of natural caffeine per scoop (other ingredients not listed). All flavors: Watermelon Candy (other flavors not detailed). Third-party tested: Information not available.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- May help improve blood flow enabling you to add more weights
- Significantly helps increase strength and energy
- May help you stay motivated with intense focus
Cons
- May potentially cause heart problems due to bitter orange extract
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Professional athletes and bodybuilders
- Users seeking high-strength pre-workout stimulants
Who is it not for?
- Those sensitive to bitter orange extract
Final Verdict
MyoBlox LOCO is designed for high-performance workouts with robust stimulants, not suitable for those with heart sensitivities.
Before exploring the final three beta-alanine-free pre-workouts, let's consider Loco from MyoBlox, suitable for pro athletes and bodybuilders to elevate their workouts.
Loco contains 400 mg of natural caffeine from green tea leaf extract, theobromine, and L-theanine. According to the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, these ingredients offer a significant boost in clean energy and stamina for uninterrupted workouts [7].
It also includes bitter orange extract, a potent brain stimulant for sustained energy during intense workouts.
I initially used half a scoop, as a full scoop caused my heart to race with slight palpitations.
Supplement Facts:
10 - PEScience High Volume Nitric Oxide Booster Pre Workout
- Price per serving : $0.97
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Arginine Nitrate, HydroMax™, Ferula Extract
- All flavors : Melon Berry Twist, Raspberry Lemonade, Kiwi
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- May help widen blood vessels
- May help the body fight infections
- My increase nitric oxide levels
Cons
- Some consumers find it hard to dissolve in water
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Cardio-focused athletes
- Users sensitive to stimulants
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring quick mix solutions
Final Verdict
This booster excels in enhancing blood flow for prolonged cardio sessions but might not appeal to those looking for quick prep.
High Volume Nitric Oxide Matrix from PEScience, another beta-alanine-free and caffeine-free option, is ideal for those sensitive to stimulants, enhancing cardio workouts.
This pre-workout, as its name suggests, delivers “high volume pumps” with key ingredients like L-Citrulline, Arginine Nitrate, and Agmatine Sulfate, proven to increase NO levels, as per the European Journal of Applied Physiology [8].
Increased NO improves circulation, allowing more nutrients and oxygen to cells, and reducing muscle soreness and fatigue during extended workouts.
Despite lacking caffeine and beta-alanine, it boosted my workout performance, enhancing strength and stamina, and reducing routine completion time.
Supplement Facts :
11 - Ora Organic Natural Pre-Workout (Best for Vegans)
- Price per serving : No
- Key ingredients : Not fully detailed but are natural and organic
- All flavors : Berry Beet
- Third-party tested : Information not available
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Doesn't give energy crashes due to adaptogens
- Promotes healthy blood flow to fight fatigue
- May help to significantly increase energy
Cons
- Many of their ingredients and claimed benefits are not supported by research
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Vegans and environmentally conscious users
- Those preferring organic and natural ingredients
Who is it not for?
- Skeptics of non-traditional medicine
Final Verdict
Ora Organic is an eco-friendly option providing steady energy from natural sources, though its benefits may lack rigorous scientific support.
Ora Organic's "Renewable Energy Pre-workout," beta-alanine-free and vegan-friendly, boosts workout energy with natural nutrients.
Its energy blend includes organic coconut, proven by Research Gate studies to provide electrolytes for rehydration and muscle contraction support in athletes [9].
The caffeine sources are organic green coffee beans, matcha green tea, and yerba mate, offering natural brain stimulation.
What we liked best about this product is that all of its ingredients are organic and natural, and the energy lasts longer than most of the other pre-workouts on the list.
Supplement Facts :
12 - Vega Sport Pre-Workout Powder
- Price per serving : Approx. $1.69
- Key ingredients : Vegan
- keto
- gluten-free
- non-GMO
- All flavors : Strawberry Lemonade
- Third-party tested : Information not available
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps you get energized and stay alert without the added sugar
- May support a stronger immune system
- Certified hormone-free and gluten-free pre-workout
Cons
- Most consumers don't like the taste of this pre-workout
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing low-intensity energy boosts
- Individuals focusing on immune support
Who is it not for?
- Users expecting great taste
Final Verdict
Vega Sport supports sustained workouts and health benefits with minimal stimulants, though its taste may not be for everyone.
Vega Sport's sugar-free energizer, the last on my beta-alanine-free pre-workout list, boosts energy and strength with low caffeine content.
Its effectiveness is partly due to eleuthero extract, which, according to the National Library of Medicine, enhances blood circulation and oxygen and nutrient delivery, aiding in alertness [10].
Furthermore, it has Rhodiola extracts, which may help you feel less stressed so you can focus more on working out, finishing your routine, and getting to your fitness goals faster.
"Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic nootropic that may improve cognitive function, enhance memory and learning, and protect the brain. It also helps with emotional calming and protects against emotional stress."
- Jennifer T. Haley, MD, FAAD, Scottsdale, Arizona
Despite its unappealing taste, Vega Sport provided my testing team with sustained, clean energy without jitters or tingling.
Supplement Facts :
How We Picked the Best Pre-Workouts Without Beta-Alanine
My team and I rigorously tested beta-alanine-free pre-workouts, focusing on:
Ingredient Profile
We meticulously analyze the ingredients in each supplement, focusing on their potential to enhance muscle endurance and recovery. Key ingredients we look for include L-citrulline, known for boosting nitric oxide production and improving blood flow; creatine, for its role in energy production and muscle strength; and caffeine, for its energy-boosting properties.
We assess the synergy of these ingredients and their combined effect on workout performance.
Dosage and Concentration
It's crucial that the dosages of key ingredients align with clinically proven standards. We compare the concentration of each ingredient in the supplement to those used in scientific studies, ensuring they are not only effective but also safe, minimizing the risk of side effects.
Brand Reputation and Quality
We evaluate the reputation of supplement brands, considering their history, customer feedback, and compliance with industry standards. Brands with a proven track record of quality, transparency in ingredient sourcing, and manufacturing processes that adhere to regulatory guidelines are given preference.
Value for Money
We assess the cost-effectiveness of each supplement by calculating the cost per serving while taking into account the quality of ingredients and their dosages. This helps us determine whether a supplement offers good value for the investment, balancing affordability with quality.
Personal Tolerance and Sensitivities
Recognizing that individual responses to supplements can vary, especially with stimulants like caffeine, we conduct tests to gauge personal tolerance. We carefully monitor the effects of different caffeine levels on energy, focus, and any potential side effects like jitters or heart palpitations. This helps us recommend products that cater to a wide range of sensitivities and preferences.
In this process, I actively collaborated with my team and consulted experts, ensuring our selections met high standards of effectiveness and safety.
Why Do You Need a Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine?
Opt for a beta-alanine-free pre-workout to avoid itching and tingling sensations, reduce anxiety-related effects, and enjoy benefits without daily usage, despite missing beta-alanine advantages.
Personal preferences, sensitivities, and fitness goals are crucial in choosing the right pre-workout supplement. Consulting healthcare professionals or fitness experts is advisable for informed decisions.
Itching Skin and Tingling Sensations
According to studies published by the Journal of Neuroscience, Beta-alanine can cause paresthesia, a harmless but potentially uncomfortable tingling sensation [11]. A beta-alanine-free pre-workout is suitable for those sensitive to these effects.
Requires Daily Use To Be Effective
Research by the International Society of Sports Nutrition shows that beta-alanine's effectiveness peaks with consistent, long-term use [12].
Those preferring intermittent supplement use can benefit from beta-alanine-free options, which offer immediate effects from other ingredients without daily consumption needs.
Buyer's Guide for the Best Pre-workout Supplement Without Beta-Alanine
To find the best pre-workout supplement without beta-alanine, you should consider the ingredients, the dosage of these ingredients, the brand reputation, and the value for money.
Pre-workout Ingredients
Ideal pre-workouts without beta-alanine should have ingredients that enhance muscular endurance, speed muscle recovery, and improve blood flow, similar to beta-alanine's benefits.
Key ingredients like L-citrulline, creatine, caffeine, and BCAAs are crucial for boosting muscle strength, stamina, and protein production for quicker muscle healing, as shown by studies published by Nutrition and Metabolism [13].
Dosage Of Ingredients
Effective pre-workouts must contain clinically validated dosages of each ingredient. Caffeine, for instance, can enhance energy and muscle strength, but high doses may cause jitteriness or fatigue, especially in those with low caffeine tolerance.
This is more noticeable if you're sensitive to caffeine, so consider getting stimulant-free pre-workout supplements instead.
Brand Reputation
Assessing a brand's reputation is vital, as it indicates the company's track record. Established brands often command higher prices due to their commitment to quality and effectiveness.
Customer reviews and feedback are useful for gauging brand reliability. Purchasing directly from the brand's website often ensures protection under their return policy.
Value for Money
Calculate the daily cost of your preferred pre-workout by dividing the total price by the number of servings per bottle, considering your usage per serving. This helps in comparing the economic efficiency of different beta-alanine-free pre-workouts.
FAQs
Is Beta-Alanine Bad for You?
No, beta-alanine is not bad for you because its primary actions are to increase carnosine levels and reduce lactic acid build-up in the body, which has a good effect on blood circulation and physical performance. The side effect of beta-alanine does not pose a health risk and will disappear after about half an hour.
Can You Take Too Much Beta-Alanine?
No, you can’t take too much beta-alanine as it may result in an unusual tingling of the skin, known as paresthesia, that is most noticeable on the face, neck, and hands. Since the intensity of this tingling increases with dosage size, beta-alanine supplements should be taken in divided doses.
Is There an Alternative to Beta-Alanine That Boosts Recovery?
Yes, there is an alternative to beta-alanine that boost recovery; BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) help in the formation of protein, which is required for the growth of new muscle fibers.
Our Verdict on the Best Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine
After extensive testing and analysis with my team, we unanimously agree that Gorilla Mode Pre-workout stands out as the best choice.
Its balanced blend of L-Citrulline, creatine, and caffeine effectively enhances muscle endurance and strength, without the distracting tingling from beta-alanine.
Our hands-on experience, coupled with positive client feedback, confirms its superior performance in boosting workout intensity and duration.
Gorilla Mode's impressive results in our rigorous trials make it my top recommendation for a beta-alanine-free pre-workout.
Our #1 Recommendation
Gorilla Mode Pre-workout (Best Overall & for Endurance)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- May help boost mood and motivation
- Promotes better blood circulation
- Can significantly increase energy and endurance for more exercise capacity
- May help reduce post-workout muscle soreness
- Get 10% off using code: TOTALSHAPE
- Could be a little pricey
About The Author
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Good article! I prefer caffeine-free supplements, but some of these look interesting. Beta-alanine always leaves me feeling jittery.