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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.
Luckily for you, we've done the research. I spent many hours researching vegan supplements, examined other user reviews, and worked with my vegan clients and a couple of certified dietitians to put together a list of the top vegan pre-workout supplements.
The Best Vegan Pre-Workout Supplements
- Best Overall Vegan Pre-Workout Supplement: Transparent Labs
- Cheapest Vegan Pre-Workout Supplement: NITROSURGE
- Best Endurance Pre-Workout for Vegans: Gorilla Mode
- Best Vegan Pre-Workout for Muscle Recovery: Transparent Labs
- Best Vegan Pre-Workout Formula for Focus: 4 Gauge
- Best Vegan Pre-Workout Powder for Women: Powher
- Best Tasting Vegan Pre-Workout Supplement: Pre Lab Pro
- Best Vegan Pre-Workout With Caffeine: NITROSURGE
Our 10 Best Vegan Pre-Workout Supplements (July 2024)
1 - Transparent Labs Preseries Bulk (Best Overall & for Recovery)
- Price per serving : $1.67
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, Caffeine
- All flavors : Strawberry Lemonade, Strawberry Kiwi, Piña Colada, Blue Raspberry, Black Cherry, Peach Mango, Sour Grape, Watermelon, Watermelon Peach, Cherry Splash, Blueberry Pomegranate, Tropical Punch
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- Some customers complained about the supplement taste and shipping issues
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Bodybuilders and athletes
- Those seeking muscle growth
Who is it not for?
- Those sensitive to strong tastes
Final Verdict
Transparent Labs offers a robust formula with no artificial additives, making it perfect for serious athletes focused on muscle growth and recovery. Highly recommended for its transparency and effectiveness.
Having personally experimented with various supplements, Transparent Labs caught my attention.
Their commitment to a 100% transparent formula meant I knew exactly what I was consuming, and the results spoke for themselves.
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.”
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
2 - Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout (Best for Endurance)
- Price per serving : $1.67
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Creatine Monohydrate, Caffeine, Beta-Alanine, L-Tyrosine
- All flavors : Orange Rush, Mouthwatering Watermelon, Tiger's Blood, Bombsicle, Cherry Blackout, Fruit Punch, Cotton Candy Grape, Blackberry Lemonade, Jungle Juice, Strawberry Kiwi, Piña Colada, Volcano Burst, Krush, Sour Candy Apple, Spiked Cider
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Increases energy, strength, and endurance for better muscle pumps
- Improves focus and mental acuity during workouts
- 11 flavor options to choose from
Cons
- Might not be suitable for people with caffeine sensitivity
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals seeking strong pre-workout effects
- Flavor enthusiasts
Who is it not for?
- People who are caffeine sensitive
Final Verdict
Gorilla Mode is ideal for athletes who need a boost in strength and endurance during intense sessions. It offers a variety of flavors to suit any taste.
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.
After trying it out, I understood why it's so popular. It powered up my training sessions, giving me that extra push I needed.
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.
Although it has high doses of stimulants, many customers say they never feel jittery with this supplement.
Another thing I 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.
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
3 - 4 Gauge (Best for Focus)
- Price per serving : $1.5
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Caffeine, Rhodiola, Red Beet, L-Carnitine
- All flavors : Data not available
- Third-party tested : Data not available
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Laser-like mental focus during workouts
- 100% natural ingredients
- No artificial sweeteners or flavors
- "Smart caffeine" to improve endurance
Cons
- May cause an upset stomach
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing focus and endurance
- Natural ingredient seekers
Who is it not for?
- Those with a sensitive stomach
Final Verdict
4 Gauge provides excellent mental focus and extended endurance without the crash, making it a top choice for long training sessions. Safe and effective for sustained use.
When I first added 4 Gauge to my regimen, I was taken aback by its potency. It wasn't just hype; this pre-workout powder truly transformed my gym sessions.
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.
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 (Best for Women)
- Price per serving : $1.50
- Key ingredients : EnXtra, Caffeine, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Rednite, L-Tyrosine, Beta-Alanine
- All flavors : Data not available
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- More flavor options would be great
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Women looking for tailored supplementation
- Those avoiding strong stimulants
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for bulking ingredients
Final Verdict
Powher is specially formulated for women, providing an energy boost without overwhelming caffeine jitters or excessive muscle bulking ingredients.
From my personal observations and chats with fellow female gym-goers, I realized many shy away from pre-workouts. The reason is actually quite simple.
Most girls don’t really want to bulk up. 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.
But when I introduced them to Powher to my female client, the game changed. I monitored her stats before and after taking this supplement and noticed she had extra energy, and it helped with fat loss.
If you’re a woman looking for energy and muscle gain, and a vegan, then Powher should be considered on your list.
5 - NITROSURGE (Cheapest Option & With Caffeine)
- Price per serving : $1.00
- Key ingredients : L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, Caffeine, L-Theanine
- All flavors : Swoleberry, Green Apple, Cherry Bomb, Blue Raspberry, Cherry Limeade, Arctic White, Pineapple, Watermelon, Fruit Punch, Grape, Sour Peach Rings, Blueberry Lemonade, Black Cherry, Cotton Candy
- Third-party tested : Data not available
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- Skin tingling side effects
- Low on L-citrulline
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious consumers
- Those preferring mild stimulants
Who is it not for?
- Those seeking high doses of citrulline
Final Verdict
NITROSURGE is an affordable option that offers a balanced energy boost with a pleasant taste, making it accessible and enjoyable for regular use.
Aside from their clean ingredients and mainstays (L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine), Nitrosurge also contains the “smart blend” of caffeine and L-theanine.
I remember the first time I tried NITROSURGE; the blend of L-theanine and caffeine was a game-changer. It gave me a steady energy boost without the usual jitters.
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.
However, I was a bit bummed that it didn’t contain more L-citrulline.
Finally, it did make my 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
- Price per serving : $1.88
- Key ingredients : Green Tea, Yerba Maté, Panax Ginseng, Rhodiola
- All flavors : Acai Berry
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- Despite many positive reviews, some customers warned about too high caffeine content that may pose a serious risk of experiencing side effects
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Health-conscious athletes
- Keto diet followers
Who is it not for?
- Those sensitive to caffeine
Final Verdict
Organic Muscle is perfect for health-conscious individuals looking for an organic, superfood-enriched pre-workout supplement. It supports general wellness with a mild energy boost.
I'm always on the lookout for sugar-free options, and Vega Sport delivered. The sustained energy boost it provided was noticeable, especially during my longer 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.
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.
7 - Pre Lab Pro (Best Tasting)
- Price per serving : $2.21
- Key ingredients : Red Beetroot Powder, Setria® Gluthathione + L-Citrulline, Natural Caffeine, L-Theanine, L-Tyrosine, Vitamin D3, B-Complex Vitamins
- All flavors : Natural berry
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- A bit on the pricey side
- Contains creatine
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those valuing steady energy release
- Taste-focused consumers
Who is it not for?
- Budget-conscious consumers
Final Verdict
Vega Sport Energizer is suitable for those on ketogenic diets or needing a sugar-free option. It provides steady energy ideal for moderate-intensity workouts.
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. When I finally tried it, I understood the rave reviews it often receives.
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.
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
- Price per serving : Not available
- Key ingredients : Caffeine Anhydrous, N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, Agmatine Sulfate, L-Citrulline Malate, Beta Alanine
- All flavors : Strawberry Lemonade
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Performance-focused athletes
- Those on keto and vegan diets
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer less intense flavors
Final Verdict
Pre Lab Pro tastes great and provides a gradual energy lift without a crash, ideal for users who need consistent performance and muscle building support.
When I stumbled upon RARI Nutrition, their bold claims caught my eye. It 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.
After a few sessions with this pre-workout, I could genuinely feel the difference in my performance.
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.
9 - Organic Muscle
- Price per serving : $2.75
- Key ingredients : Green Coffee Bean Extract, Green Tea Extract, Rhodiola, Ginseng
- All flavors : Lemon Berry
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Superfood herbs
- USDA-certified
- Contains natural ingredients, such as green tea extract
- 100% organic
Cons
- Formula is hidden
- Not as high in energy as the other products mentioned
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Organic product seekers
- Those preferring natural supplements
Who is it not for?
- Those needing high-energy boosts
Final Verdict
RARI Nutrition offers a clean, naturally formulated pre-workout that supports performance without artificial ingredients. Not the best tasting but effective for focused workouts.
I've always been keen on organic products, so when I found a USDA-certified pre-workout like Organic Muscle, I was thrilled. The natural ingredients not only felt good but also enhanced my workouts.
It's also one of the best pre-workouts for running.
Although I 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 my 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.
It didn’t give me the same rush of extended energy as 4 Gauge, though.
10 - Vega Sport
- Price per serving : $2.58
- Key ingredients : Coconut oil powder, Yerba mate leaf extract, Green tea leaf extract, Rhodiola root extract
- All flavors : Acai Berry, Lemon Lime
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 100% clean, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free
- No artificial sweeteners
Cons
- Too much sugar
- Not enough stimulation
- A bit on the pricey side
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Vegans and plant-based diet followers
- Those seeking mild pre-workout effects
Who is it not for?
- Those avoiding sugar
Final Verdict
Vega Sport's Pre-Workout Energizer is well-suited for those looking for a plant-based, naturally sweetened option, though it may not be stimulating enough for all athletes.
Rounding up my list is Vega Sport’s Pre-Workout Energizer. While it might not have been my top pick initially, its plant-based ingredients provided a consistent energy boost that grew on me over time.
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.
The only reason you might want this is for the extra simple carbs before a workout, but it isn't really my style.
How We Tested Vegan Pre-Workout Supplements
Here's how we chose the best pre-workout supplements:
Ingredients
We meticulously analyzed each product's composition to ensure it was genuinely vegan and free from any hidden animal-derived components.
Beyond that, we looked for clean, natural ingredients that would provide the necessary energy boost without any harmful side effects.
Our team also considered the presence of essential nutrients, performance-enhancing compounds, and any unique additions that set a product apart.
Price
We compared the cost per serving of each pre-workout supplement, taking into account the quality and quantity of ingredients.
Our aim was to find products that offered the best balance between affordability and effectiveness, ensuring that our readers got the most bang for their buck.
Taste
Our team personally sampled each product, rating them on flavor, aftertaste, and mixability.
We also took note of any chalkiness or unusual textures. After all, your pre-workout ritual should be something you look forward to, not dread because of an unpleasant taste.
Buyer's Guide
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.
- Probiotics: Ensure a healthy gut flora and a balanced gut can lead to better energy utilization during workouts.
- Creatine: Is usually of animal origin, but there are synthetic, plant-based versions available. Creatine can offer benefits like improved muscle energy, increased muscle mass, and faster post-workout recovery.
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.
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.
Powder vs. Capsules
Powders offer the advantage of quick absorption, allowing athletes to feel the effects faster. They can be mixed with water or a beverage of choice, providing flexibility in terms of flavor and consistency.
On the other hand, capsules are convenient, portable, and mess-free. They're perfect for those on-the-go or for those who prefer not to deal with the taste of certain supplements. However, capsules might take a bit longer to digest and release their contents.
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 or Hercules, but taking what could be the best pre-workout supplement fills your body with a blend of ingredients that, according to a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition can help you with your workout and rep out those final reps [1].
Other Pre-workout Supplements You May Like:
Benefits of a Vegan Pre-Workout Powder
The best vegan pre-workouts on the market contain an amazing power: according to another study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 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.
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].
Related Article: 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 Are the Best Vegan Pre-Workout Meals?
The best vegan pre-workout meals are fruit paired with nut butter, chia seeds, oatmeal topped with fruits or nuts, unsweetened dried fruit combined with almonds, coffee, and baked sweet potato.
Our Verdict on the Best Vegan Pre-Workout
After extensive testing, I confidently recommend Transparent Labs Preseries Bulk as the top vegan pre-workout supplement.
Its 100% transparent formula and potent Testosterone Support complex significantly boosted my muscle growth and recovery, without any artificial additives.
Our tests found this supplement stands out for its effectiveness, especially for serious athletes and bodybuilders seeking a clean, vegan-friendly boost.
Transparent Labs truly delivers on its promises, making it an ideal choice for those prioritizing performance and ingredient transparency in their fitness journey. In the realm of vegan pre-workouts, it's a clear winner in my book.
Our #1 Recommendation
Transparent Labs Preseries Bulk (Best Overall & for Recovery)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- 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
You May Also Like
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?
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!