This last year, I’ve had the chance to try out a number of supplements thanks to my pals at Ripp’d Nutrition. To be honest, if it weren’t for pre-workouts, I would absolutely hate going to lift weights or do conditioning sessions. So, let me walk you through some of the pre-workouts I’ve been able to try out this past year, and what I thought of them.
DISCLAIMER: I’m not going to analyze what is or isn’t in any of them. I leave it up to you to watch the labels on any products you wish to take. Know the rules and laws surrounding anything you’re taking. There is no sense in getting into trouble over something that there is a perfectly legal and effective alternative to. Also, understand that everyone’s body reacts differently, so my experience may not reflect yours.
Thriller
This one got a lot of hype before I tried it. It is made by Olympus Labs, or was before it 
ended up banned in certain states (one of the states just happens to be the one where they produced it).
Despite the hype, I didn’t get much out of it. Yes, I felt a quick boost of energy, but after that initial boost, there was nothing. In fact, I felt kind of drained mid-workout. So, if you can still get your hands on it somewhere, it might be for you, but it seemed to be a bit of a let-down for me.
Hemo Shock
First of all, I tried their original blend (made by ). It sucked. I gained no energy, no boost, nothing. It was like drinking really gross kool-aide. Plus, it clumps worse than anything I’ve ever seen. You pretty much have to grind it up again to get it into a bottle of water.
That said, they made a new formula that they released a little later this last year. This formula is not bad at all. In fact, I’d say it’s probably a great pre-workout for anyone just getting started and isn’t so immune to caffeine just yet.
Xcelerator-X
To me, this one is king. Made by Xcel Sports Nutrition, this one beats the rest hands-down. I have never felt more energy for a workout in my life. This one kept me going through the worst conditioning sessions I’ve ever had and left me with excess energy after my weight lifting sessions.
Just make sure if you take it before heading to the gym, you don’t leave during a high traffic time. It kicks in within fifteen minutes, so if you end up stuck behind a slow driver, you’re going to get to the gym with a tingly face.
Just remember to not take any sort of pre-workout if you’re not healthy enough to do so. If you’re not sure, talk to your doctor. That said, always be careful and read your labels no matter what. Don’t ever take anything you think might be harmful to you.
