Pretty much every bodybuilder I work with has a favorite supplement brand, and they often stick with it religiously without doing much testing. And trying to convince these people about other products is very difficult unless you have some clear test results and research.
For that reason, our team at TotalShape got together with a few clients and a dietitian to make a detailed head-to-head comparison between currently very popular pre-workouts Gorilla Mode and Bucked Up.
It took a few weeks to get the data and results, but we found some interesting details.
Here’s what it’s about.
Key Differences Between Gorilla Mode And Bucked Up
The main difference between Gorilla Mode and Bucked Up is that the first one has a more carefully selected formula.
Personally, I've found Gorilla Mode amps up my energy more than Bucked Up. Our dietitian's research confirmed this after analyzing their nutritional content.
Almost every ingredient in Gorilla Mode is scientifically proven to enhance energy and stamina for workouts. However, Bucked Up's formula includes some ingredients with uncertain effects.
Stay tuned for more details on this.
Another win for Gorilla Mode is its wider range of flavors, a hit among customers. It sounds trivial, but variety keeps things fresh and avoids flavor fatigue.
Features Head to Head
Having tried both products myself, I broke down the differences, and here are five important features we compared between the two products.
Ingredients
Both contain caffeine anhydrous and citrulline, with similar caffeine doses that avoid jitters. They support thermogenesis, a fat-burning metabolic process.
While both contain citrulline, the type they use is different.
Mode uses L-Citrulline, optimal for boosting nitric oxide, confirmed by our dietitian and the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition [1].
Not surprisingly, our testing revealed the same results.
Effectiveness
To gauge real-world effects, I, six clients, and three fitness experts conducted tests. We trained for a week without pre-workouts, then a week with each product.
Both improved weight and rep counts, but Gorilla Mode showed greater enhancements, aligning with our dietitian's findings on its scientifically proven ingredients.
Supplement Form
Both products come in powder form, and from my own experience working with both, Bucked Up had a smaller scoop size per dose which also seemed to dissolve quicker in water than Gorilla Mode.
What we found is that they both dissolve easily and don’t leave a lumpy mess to try and force down before training.
Flavor
Taste matters to me, so I was pleased to find out that Gorilla Mode is available in a large range of flavor choices. I found this quite refreshing, especially because I was taking it daily, thus I didn't have to feel bored with only one flavor
The variety of flavor choices is made possible thanks to the meticulous manufacturing process that ensures a variety of high-quality flavors.
However, we all agreed that some of the Bucked Up flavors were just a bit more natural and not as sweet-tasting as the Gorilla Mode ones.
Price
Gorilla Mode is $49 per tub, with bulk discounts for long-term savings.
Bucked Up is cheaper but offers fewer servings and no bulk discounts.
Always purchase from official sources to avoid counterfeit products.
Unique Supplement Features
I always have a keen interest in what goes into my body, so with the help of a dietician, we delved into the unique ingredients of each formula and took a closer look to see if there was anything that stood out.
Gorilla Mode
These are the ingredients that our dietitian highlighted for us:
- Betaine: This amino acid has been shown by the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition to impact muscle growth and performance during training [2].
- L-Tyrosine: This ingredient can help to reduce physical and mental fatigue during work and training.
- Creatine: Clinical trials published by the National Library of Medicine have proven that regular creatine supplementation can help athletes improve endurance and build up more lean muscle mass [3].
- Malic Acid: Studies published by the National Institutes of Health have shown that malic acid combined with citrulline has a positive effect on exercise strength [4].
- GlycerPump: Glycerol can help with hydration levels and physical activity in performance athletes as shown by Nutrition Reviews research [5].
“Creatine is among the most well-researched and effective supplements. It can help with exercise performance by rapidly producing energy during intense activity. Creatine may also provide cognitive benefits, but more research is needed in that area.”
- Kamal Patel, Editor, & Co-founder at Examine.com
Suited For Men and Women
Gorilla Mode
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
Bucked Up
- Beta-Alanine: This is a positive ingredient that National Library of Medicine studies have linked to improved performance levels, but I would like to see a higher dose [6].
- Taurine: This ingredient is often included in energy drinks as it may have stimulating effects, but there’s not enough data to confirm an impact on workouts.
- Alpha GPC: Regular intake of GPC can impact lower body performance, but this wasn’t reproduced for upper body strength as shown by the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition [7].
- Himalayan Rock Salt: While this may be a good form of salt for your overall health, it’s unclear what benefits it provides over regular table salt as a pre-workout ingredient.
Suited For Men and Women
Bucked Up
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
How We Tested the Products
At TotalShape, we prioritize hands-on testing for accurate, reliable reviews. I led the evaluation of Gorilla Mode and Bucked Up, supported by colleagues and clients.
Expert Collaboration
A certified dietician critically assessed the nutritional content, distinguishing scientifically supported ingredients from those with uncertain evidence.
Real-world Testing
Our group, including six clients and three fitness experts, underwent a thorough test. They trained for a week without pre-workouts to set a baseline, and then tested each product. Their feedback was crucial in assessing effectiveness, taste, and user experience.
Data Analysis
We meticulously analyzed the data post-testing, focusing not just on numbers but also on the subtle differences in energy boost and workout performance. Our comprehensive findings reflect our dedication to providing trustworthy insights.
Buyer's Guide: Choosing the Right Pre-Workout Supplement
When selecting a pre-workout supplement, it's crucial to consider these five factors, as exemplified in our comparison of Gorilla Mode and Bucked Up:
- Ingredient Profile and Dosages: Look for key ingredients like caffeine, beta-alanine, and citrulline. Gorilla Mode excels with its scientifically proven ingredients at optimal dosages, enhancing energy and stamina.
- Safety and Side Effects: Ensure the product is safe with minimal side effects. Both Gorilla Mode and Bucked Up contain ingredients generally recognized as safe, but individual sensitivities should be considered.
- Brand Reputation and Quality Assurance: Choose reputable brands with a commitment to quality. Gorilla Mode's meticulous manufacturing process ensures high-quality flavors and safety, setting it apart.
- Taste and Mixability: Consider the flavor range and how well the product mixes. Gorilla Mode offers a variety of flavors, catering to different preferences, while Bucked Up is noted for its more natural taste.
- Cost and Value: Assess the cost per serving and overall value. Gorilla Mode, though slightly higher priced, offers bulk discounts and a comprehensive formula, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
In conclusion, based on these criteria, Gorilla Mode emerges as a more favorable option, offering a scientifically-backed formula, a range of flavors, and better value for money.
FAQs
Why Is Gorilla Mode the Best Pre-Workout?
Gorilla Mode is the best because of its powerful mix, immense pumps, laser focus, infinite energy, and empowering power.
How Long Does Gorilla Mode Take To Kick In?
It takes about 30 to 60 mins for Gorilla Mode to kick in.
How Long Does Pre-Workout Last?
Pre-workout lasts between 30 mins to 2.5 hours. It depends on the ingredients and the length of the activity, but the benefits of a pre-workout last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours after it sets in.
Which Product Should You Invest In?
Based on our research and feedback from a dietitian and a few clients, we came to the conclusion that Gorilla Mode is the better pre-workout supplement.
The formula seems to have taken a lot more scientific research to pick the ideal ingredients and dosage. The result is a better workout with either higher weights or more reps in each set.
And when you order it in a bulk package, it works out very affordable for each workout, which means you can get to your health and fitness goals considerably easier and faster.
Order your first supply today and see how much of a difference it can make.
We Recommend
Gorilla Mode
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Contains nitric oxide for insane pumps
- Many positive comments about good endurance and energy boost
- High dose of caffeine may help with mental focus and fat burning
- Tastes good
- Get 10% off using code: TOTALSHAPE
- Does not list calorie count
Our #1 Recommendation
Bucked Up
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Sustained energy and endurance boost
- Natural ingredients for health benefits
- Variety of flavors
- High cost for small servings
- Underdosed ingredients
- Limited caffeine content; no additional stimulants
- Some ingredients lack scientific support
About The Author
You May Also Like
