Pre-Workout Natural Energy is a pre-workout supplement from MusclePharm’s Natural Series.
It’s a natural formula which is designed to improve energy and performance for improved workouts.
MusclePharm is an American supplement company which is based in Denver, Colorado.
Ingredients Label
Active Ingredients
Betaine
Betaine is a naturally occurring compound which is found in sugar beets.
It’s been shown to boost power output and possibly improve body composition (1).
The effective dose is around 2.5g.
Citrulline
Citrulline is an amino acid which boosts nitric oxide levels.
This can increase dilation of the blood vessels during exercise, resulting in enhanced blood flow, endurance, and pumps (2).
An effective dose of citrulline (not the malate form) is around 4g.
Tart Cherry
Tart cherry is a strong anti-oxidant.
Research shows it’s powerful for reducing inflammation and cell damage, possibly resulting in quicker muscle recovery (3).
Taurine
Taurine is a fatigue-reducing amino acid (4).
It can improve water and nutrient uptake into the muscle cells, improving performance and pumps.
Organic Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant which increases energy levels (5).
Although it’s often used in a synthetic form, the caffeine in this particular formula is derived from all-natural sources such as green coffee beans, guayusa, and guarana.
An effective dose of caffeine usually ranges between 200-500mg.
Coconut Water Powder
Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes.
Consuming electrolytes around workout time may improve performance and rehydration (6, 7).
Who Takes It?
Athletes wanting to improve their energy and performance during workouts may benefit from using Pre-Workout Natural Energy.
How to Take
Mix 1 scoop (11.6g) with 250mL water, and consume 30 minutes before your workout.
Side Effects
Caffeine can trigger rapid or irregular heartbeat if taken above the recommended dose.
Pros
- Includes proven ingredients which improve energy, pumps, and performance
- All-natural ingredients, including the colours and flavours.
Cons
- The doses of some ingredients are well below the effective dose used in studies
- Only one flavour option available.
Conclusion
MusclePharm has an excellent idea with this formula, acknowledging the fact that there’s a growing number of people who appreciate natural products.
Unfortunately, the organic nature of this supplement is its only real benefit, since the doses of virtually all ingredients are unsatisfactory for their intended purposes.
You may be able to expect a small boost to energy, performance, and recovery, however there are other natural pre-workouts on the market that may provide better effects.