Every gym-goer has their not-in-the-zone days. While that's completely normal, the longer you're in the fitness stagnation, the harder it is to get back on track.
I'm no different, so, as a certified personal trainer, I spent hours digging into the internet to find a pre-workout supplement that'll get me pumped and improve my overall gym game, and that led me to Legion Pulse.
I've read good reviews, but I was still skeptical because I've heard some can cause crashes or sleeplessness. So, I needed to test it together with my team of fitness experts.
Here is my Legion Pulse pre-workout review.
LEGION Pulse Pre Workout Supplement
Ingredients
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- High-intensity trainers
- Those needing mental focus
Who is it not for?
- Those sensitive to high caffeine
Final Verdict
Legion Pulse is designed for those who need both physical and mental endurance boosts. Its high caffeine content, however, makes it unsuitable for evening workouts or caffeine-sensitive individuals.
What is Legion Pulse Pre-Workout?
Legion Pulse pre-workout is designed to help increase energy, improve focus, enhance strength and endurance, and reduce fatigue. It's made with high-quality natural ingredients such as caffeine, L-citrulline malate, and beta-alanine.
This product is manufactured by Legion Athletics, a Florida-based company founded by Mike Matthews.
Matthews is a fitness enthusiast, book author, and blogger. He got tired of pre-workouts containing low-quality ingredients and unnecessary additives, so he created Legion Athletics Pulse instead.
Let's dig into more detail on its ingredients and effectiveness.
Pre-workout supplements like Legion Pulse are often packed with nutrients that aid in enhancing the workout experience. They commonly contain amino acids such as L-citrulline malate which promotes the production of nitric oxide.
Based on my experience, this compound is crucial in facilitating vasodilation, or widening of the blood vessels, thus improving blood flow to the muscles during workouts.
By prioritizing quality and effectiveness, Matthews and Legion Athletics have created a product that aims to truly support its users' fitness journey.
Our #1 Recommendation
Legion Pulse Pre-Workout
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
Legion Pulse Ingredients
If I were to sum up its formulation, it would be this:
- They took ingredients that work and dosed them heavily.
- And that's pretty much what is needed for a pre-workout.
Caffeine Anhydrous- This product has 350 milligrams of caffeine per serving (two scoops), which is the same amount you take in with three and a half cups of coffee.
Based on our tests, that's a pretty strong dosage per serving and can be overwhelming for those sensitive to caffeine, but you can choose to take just one scoop.
Caffeine can give mental and energy boosts, increase power output and reduce muscle pain.
Beta-Alanine- According to one of the studies found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, 3.5 grams of Beta-alanine in Pulse is known to increase muscle endurance so that you can do more reps and increase muscle mass faster [1].
It also works as a lactic acid buffer; it helps reduce fatigue, pain, and cramps.
Beta-alanine also causes a weird tingling feeling that lasts about 30 minutes.
L-Theanine- One of the studies also found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website suggests that L-Theanine smooths out the stimulating effects of caffeine so that you can feel pumped for your training without the jitters [2].
It also helps prolong the effects of caffeine.
Betaine Anhydrous- Pulse contains 2.5 grams per serving of Betaine Anhydrous.
Betaine helps hydrate the muscles and maintain the normal functions in our system. Well-hydrated muscles have increased strength, which enables you to get through the exercises more easily.
L-Citrulline DL-Malate- L-Citrulline Malate helps improve blood flow, so the body can efficiently move oxygen and other nutrients in the system. Citrulline Malate helps you become more active with less energy consumption.
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC- Another ingredient that helps sharpen focus is Alpha GPC. Alpha GPC increases choline, a compound with brain-boosting properties, keeping you more focused on your exercise and increasing overall gym performance.
Benefits of Legion Pulse
Boosts Energy with No Jitters or Crash
With the high dose of caffeine you'll feel the buzz in your workouts, but the fun part is, with the proper dose of L-theanine, you won't feel any jitters or crashes.
I love that I don't feel drained when the effects wear off.
Improves Mental Focus
The more focused you are on working out, the better the results you're getting. It's because you'd be more conscious of the contraction and proper form of the exercise and be more deliberate in getting the task done.
“The more you actively focus on the contraction, the more muscle fibers you activate and the less likely you are to get injured.”
- Alan Snyder, DPT, Owner of Breakaway Physical Therapy
Alpha GPC in Pulse combined with the brain-boosting powers of caffeine does the trick and I was able to work out with better focus.
Increases Endurance
Citrulline malate is an endurance aid for your muscles, and what's impressive with Legion Athletics Pulse, compared to other pre-workouts, is that they've dosed it with the right amount, which is 8 grams.
Combined with the stimulant caffeine that doubles up your power and Beta-alanine that lowers lactic acid build-up, you can endure more grueling workouts and perform more reps and heavy exercises.
This supplement helped me push through heavy lifts, move faster, and perform high-intensity exercises for longer.
Reduces Fatigue
This product also helps decrease that burning feeling when you're stretching your muscles during a workout. It reduces post-workout pain - thanks to its L-Citrulline DL-malate and Beta-Alanine components.
I noticed that my recovery time felt shorter, and it helped me hit the gym sooner and perform better.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Legion Pulse has no reported side effects, but it may cause an itchy or tingling sensation because of its beta-alanine component. You'd feel the itch about 15 minutes after taking the supplement, and it can last up to 30 minutes.
It's nothing harmful, but it might be unsettling for some.
Although I felt the tingling effects too, they stopped after one week of consumption.
However, the good thing is that Mike Matthews already reduced the dosage to 2.5 grams per serving to decrease this minor side effect.
How to Take Legion Pulse?
There are two ways to take Legion Pulse. If you're doing basic workouts, mixing one scoop with 10-12 ounces of cold water should be enough. But if you're going to do 45 minutes or more of intense cardio or weightlifting, it would be best to take a two-scoop serving.
Based on our tests, the best results were seen after consuming it 15-30 minutes before the workout.
- Provides high doses of natural ingredients
- Contains electrolytes
- Natural sweeteners/flavors
- Mixes well
- Tastes bad
- May cause tingly, itchy feeling on the skin
Our #1 Recommendation
Legion Pulse Pre-Workout
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
My Personal Experience With It
I give Pulse credit for the pretty straightforward formula - no added fluff in the ingredients. All the ingredients are backed by a lot of science and are clinically effective.
As a regular gym-goer and a professional fitness trainer, I’m looking for a pre-workout that can give me an extra push for my workouts. In that sense, Legion Pulse did not disappoint.
I noticed a pumped up effect and felt like I could exercise twice a day. I am also more concentrated on exercises, I can move faster and lift heavier weights.
I also didn't experience a crash or arrhythmia, so I thought it was pretty impressive with a high-dose pre-workout like this.
Other pre-workouts we've reviewed:
Compared to Other Pre-Workouts
Legion Pulse has a comprehensive ingredient list focusing on physical and mental performance. However, when comparing with other products, you must consider preferences or sensitivities to caffeine and other components.
Gorilla Mode
It’s a premium pre-workout supplement that amplifies physical and mental prowess. It provides a complete boost to your strength and endurance while reducing fatigue. Legion works the same and deals with the same issues but includes 350mg of caffeine, which is higher than Gorilla’s.
Transparent Labs
Transparent Labs PreSeries Bulk Pre-Workout is tailored for those who appreciate a caffeine kick and enhanced muscle recovery. It’s a solid option for coffee drinkers and those undeterred by stimulants.
Legion includes more ingredients in its formula, like L-Theanine, to enhance mental focus and attack other areas that Transparent Labs doesn’t.
4 Gauge
4 Gauge Pre-Workout enhances muscular endurance and pumps up your performance. It highlights creatine's role in boosting strength and contains 150mg of caffeine for mental focus. It avoids artificial additives and sugars but may cause stomach issues for some.
Both supplements promote the same. However, 4 Gauge focuses on creatine benefits, while Legion Pulse offers a broader ingredient mix.
What Others Say About Legion Pulse
Here are some of the Legion Pulse reviews that sound positive:
"I feel a kick in my energy, and I'm not as tired as I usually am. NO jittery feeling or crash whatsoever. Definitely a good buy."
- Will from Des Moines, IA
"I'm a regular gym-goer, and this product makes me jump off my feet to the gym. I'm more focused when working out, and my favorite part is I don't feel drained after the effects have worn off."
- Craig from Austin Texas
On the other hand, these customers were not so happy with the results:
"I was disappointed as it didn't work for me. No pump whatsoever even when I went for 2 scoops. Maybe it's not just for me."
- Jamie from Florida
"I got the pump I needed, but what put me off was the taste - it tastes awful. They've changed the formula, and it didn't turn out well."
- Nathan, Philadelphia, PA
Price and Where to Buy?
Legion Pulse comes at a reasonable price and can be bought on Amazon or the official website, where you can save a few bucks through discounts.
During my research phase, I discovered that some users think it's a bit expensive. But because I was so pleased with the effects, the price didn't bother me as much. I truly believe it provides great value for money.
Aside from discounts, you can rest easy when you buy Legion Pulse from the platforms above since you're sure to receive legitimate products. That ensures you're never at risk of getting unwanted side effects.
FAQ
Does Legion Pulse Have Side Effects?
Yes, Legion Pulse could provoke a tingling sensation – paresthesia – due to the beta-alanine. It’s a harmless and temporary symptom that will pass over time.
Can Legion Pulse Pump My Workout Performance?
Yes, Legion Pulse can pump your workout performance using natural ingredients such as nitric oxide. This allows you to push harder and get bigger pumps to gain more muscle.
Are Legion Pulse Supplements Legit?
Yes, Legion Pulse supplements are legit. They contain scientifically proven ingredients that ensure pre-workout performance.
How Important Is Pre-workout Nutrition for Optimal Performance?
Pre-workout nutrition plays a crucial role in providing the body with the necessary energy and nutrients to optimize performance during exercise. A balanced meal consisting of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats can sustain energy levels and enhance workout performance.
What Is the Role of Hydration in Pre-workout Preparation?
Hydration is essential for optimal workout performance as it helps maintain fluid balance, regulate body temperature, and prevent dehydration during exercise. Proper hydration before, during, and after a workout can significantly impact endurance and overall performance.
How Do Rest and Recovery Impact Workout Performance?
Prioritizing rest and recovery is crucial for workout performance as it allows the body to repair and adapt to the physical stress of exercise. Sufficient sleep, rest days, and recovery techniques such as foam rolling can help prevent injury and improve overall performance during workouts.
Our Verdict on Legion Pulse Supplement
Based on our research and testing, we’ve come to the conclusion that we wouldn't recommend this pre-workout supplement.
The results just don’t quite match up with the marketing statements.
We’ve seen far better results with Gorilla Mode, and even my workout partner asked what had happened when I first started taking it.
We Recommend This Instead
Gorilla Mode
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Provides high doses of natural ingredients
- Contains electrolytes
- Natural sweeteners/flavors
- Mixes well
- Get 10% off using code: TOTALSHAPE
- You can only buy it on their website
About The Author
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I used to be a skeptic about pre-workouts. I mean, who needs energy while they’re at the gym? But after a friend recommended Legion Pulse to me, I was pleasantly surprised. I felt a surge of energy and focus while lifting weights and running on the treadmill. It’s been a couple of months now and the effects have only gotten more pronounced!
Legion Pulse pre-workout might be the best one I’ve ever taken! 100% recommend