Nootropic pre-workouts are gaining popularity as businesses seek to differentiate themselves from the competition. Nootropic is a fancy term for brain supplements that improve mental capacity.
Pre Lab Pro was created by a nootropic manufacturer and combines the conventional nootropic stack with substances that increase strength and endurance. How does it square up to the competition?
Pros
- Caffeine-sensitive people will benefit from the low caffeine dose.
- Uses the most effective nootropic combination of l-theanine and caffeine to boost attention without jitters.
- Additional components help promote strength and endurance while also increasing blood flow.
Cons
- It tastes different from the typical pre-workouts and requires some getting used to.
- Compared to other well-known pre-workouts, it is on the pricier side.
Quick Verdict
Pre Lab Pro is a solid productivity and cognitive enhancing pre-workout taking advantage of the caffeine L-theanine stack.
However, our #1 pre-workout of choice is Transparent Labs Bulk Pre-Workout. It has the same caffeine L-theanine stack in a larger dose with other effectively dosed ingredients for enhanced performance.
What Is Pre Lab Pro?
Pre Lab Pro is a nootropic pre-workout from Performance Lab, a supplement manufacturer. They’re best known for their product Mind Lab Pro.
Pre-Lab Pro is their first attempt at pre-workout supplements, and it does a reasonable job based on the contents.
Pre Lab Pro
Pre Lab Pro Nootropic Pre-Workout
Minimal nootropic pre-workout for brain boosting benefits without caffeine jitters and anxiety.
CHECK CURRENT DEALS
Pre Lab Pro Ingredients
| Ingredient | Dose |
| L-Citrulline/L-Glutathione | 2000 mg L-Citrulline + 200 mg L-Glutathione |
| Red Beet Powder | 1500 mg |
| Himalayan Pink Salt | 500 mg |
| L-Tyrosine | 400 mg |
| L-Theanine | 160 mg |
| Natural Caffeine | 80mg |
L-Citrulline/L-Glutathione (2200 mg)
L-citrulline and L-glutathione are newly researched supplements for improving performance.
One of the first experiments on rodents demonstrated that combining L-citrulline and L-glutathione boosted nitric oxide levels more than L-citrulline alone [1].
This was later replicated in human experiments with seven days of L-citrulline and L-glutathione intake, which resulted in increased blood flow following high-intensity exercise compared to a placebo [2].
It has to be seen whether this results in increased long-term performance.
Finally, an 8-week resistance training trial using L-citrulline and L-glutathione daily discovered that the intervention group grew lean mass more than the placebo group after four weeks [3].
However, after eight weeks, there was no significant difference between groups, implying that it may not have long-term advantages.
Red Beet Powder (1500 mg)
The unique addition of red beet powder may aid recovery following strength exercises. According to studies, consuming 600 mg of red beet powder boosts heart rate recovery [4].
Furthermore, red beets’ nitric oxide content lowers the oxygen cost during exercise, resulting in improved endurance [5][6].
Himalayan Pink Salt (500 mg)
Currently, there is little evidence that sodium intake during exercise increases endurance performance [7]. However, one study indicated that 500 mg of sodium per hour improved half-ironman performance by 7.8% [8].
It would be incorrect to claim that salt can improve ultra-endurance performance by that margin alone, as this is most likely due to several other confounding factors that have not been controlled for.
Furthermore, the limited information we have on pre-exercise eating indicates that sodium before activity retains more fluid than a placebo or water alone [9].
At best, anecdotal evidence suggests that this improves gym performance or gives you better pumps.
L-Tyrosine (400 mg)
L-tyrosine does not improve physical performance, even at the high doses utilized in the study [10][11][12].
However, it has certain cognitive benefits and has been found to improve cognitive regulation, particularly in intellectually challenging situations [13].
It is very useful in increasing cognitive flexibility, which is regulated by dopamine.
While L-Tyrosine shows little promise for treating clinical illnesses or increasing physical activity, it can be beneficial in stressful or cognitively demanding situations.
When neurotransmitter activity is maintained, but dopamine and norepinephrine levels are momentarily reduced, the most significant cognitive benefits occur [14].
Effective doses for cognitive improvement begin at 2 grams, significantly higher than Pre Lab Pro’s dose.
L-Theanine (160 mg) & Natural Caffeine (80 mg)
Pre Lab Pro was designed primarily as a pre-workout for focus. It was one of the first nootropic pre-workout pills on the market. If you don’t know, a nootropic is a fancy term for brain supplements. What makes it so effective for concentration?
It adds to the caffeine L-theanine nootropic stack. Caffeine is well-known for enhancing performance by increasing focus and alertness.
However, L-theanine has the opposite effect, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting relaxation [15].
This doesn’t sound like a good pre-workout component. When combined with coffee, however, a synergistic effect enhances alertness and attention while reducing jitteriness and anxiety [16].
For example, taking a caffeine L-theanine stack has been shown to improve visual processing speed, working memory, and computer-based reaction time [17]. Surprisingly, L-theanine alone shortens reaction time.
There were also improvements in attentiveness and decreases in tiredness and mental fatigue.
Even tiny amounts of 100 mg L-theanine and 50 mg caffeine have been shown to improve reaction time and accuracy [18].
This enhancement was bigger than that observed in the caffeine-only group. Finally, even smaller dosages of 97 mg L-Theanine and 40 mg caffeine enhanced task-switching accuracy and alertness and reduced fatigue [19].
This dose is similar to Pre Lab Pro, which has 160 mg of L-Theanine and 80 mg of caffeine. This 2:1 ratio appears to be optimal for concentration.
Pre Lab Pro Price
Pre Lab Pro is one of the most costly pre-workout supplements. It is even more expensive than Transparent Labs Bulk, which costs $1.67 per serving. I’ll break out the several Pre Lab Pro bundles below:
| 1-Month Supply (20 Servings | 2-Month Supply (40 Servings | 4-Month Supply (80 Servings |
| $59.99 ($2.95/serving) + free shaker bottle | $118.00 ($2.95/serving) + free shaker bottle | $177.00 ($2.21/serving) + free shaker bottle |
Pre Lab Pro Features
Taste And Mixability
Pre Lab Pro, like most pre-workouts, mixes easily and does not form clumps. This is true whether mixing in a shaker bottle or with a milk frother. However, the taste leaves a lot to be desired.
Despite being sweetened with monk fruit, stevia, erythritol, and swerve, it is not particularly sweet. It is sour rather than sweet.
It has the distinct flavor of beet extract. Some individuals may appreciate this, but you’ll dislike it if you’re used to a “typical” pre-workout flavor.
Third-Party Testing
As a competitive athlete, you should be on the lookout for the informed sport-banned substance tick if you are subject to random drug testing. According to the World Anti-Doping list, the supplement has been tested for chemicals that are banned.
It guarantees that your supplement is devoid of contaminants and that you will not fail a random drug test.
It’s why I’ve ranked this the best nootropic for energy for athletes.
Who Is Pre Lab Pro For?
Caffeine Sensitive People
The typical serving size of caffeine in pre-workout supplements is 150–200 milligrams. Some people have gone to ridiculous levels, deciding that weightlifters require 300–400 mg in a single dose.
I don’t think anyone needs that much, and if you do it usually means something else is wrong in your routine, such as not getting enough sleep or food or having too much stress.
Professionals Needing A Pick Me Up
Do you have a crucial morning meeting or presentation? Pre Lab Pro provides a boost of alertness, focus, and energy without adding to your already high level of anxiety.
Athletes After A Minimal Pre-Workout
Athletes should exercise caution when selecting pre-workout supplements. Always look for the informed sport check to ensure it’s a banned substance test, as supplements can be tainted.
Furthermore, the L-citrulline/l-glutathione combination and red beet powder may improve strength and endurance performance.
Coffee Haters
I am one of these people. Since I can’t stomach coffee, Pre Lab Pro is an excellent alternative for those mornings when I need a little caffeine boost without needing to take a ton.
My Experience With Pre Lab Pro
I mentioned the “acquired” taste above (it is truly an acquired taste), which is not as pleasant as other pre-workouts. However, I use Pre Lab Pro when I don’t want to be kicked by a gigantic dose of caffeine.
Energy drinks and high-caffeine pre-workouts can make me feel nervous and anxious. So, 80 milligrams of caffeine is nice.
To hide the taste, I would frequently combine it with a stim-free pump pre-workout for added flavor and pre-workout components.
When I’m feeling bold, I’ll drink it straight. You get used to it.
User Reviews & Testimonials
Pre Lab Pro has some raving reviews averaging 4.4/5 stars on the Performance Lab website. Here’s a sample:
“I don’t get the caffeine based dehydration and odd headaches are gone. Great product.” – Loyd M
“Has changed my workout routine. I’m excited to take this. To crush my workouts. And to not feel like I’m buzzing, overly wired or too intense. It’s a clean feeling and I am stoked to have found this.” – Cole M.
The few bad reviews the product has all revolve around the taste, which is completely understandable. Here is an example:
“I can’t say how it helped in the gym or my lifestyle, I only used it ONE time because I honestly couldn’t stomach the taste of it.” – Justin S.
Pre Lab Pro Alternatives
Transparent Labs Bulk Pre-Workout
Transparent Labs Bulk stands apart from other pre-workouts due to its effective dose of components based on scientific research.
The pre-workout contains a combination of performance-enhancing and nootropic substances that promote muscle endurance, fatigue resistance, and increased cognitive function. It also comes in various flavors and has been checked for forbidden chemicals.
Transparent Labs Bulk Pre-Workout contains Citrulline Malate, Beta-Alanine, Betaine Anhydrous, Taurine, L-Tyrosine, Alpha-GPC, Organic Caffeine, L-Theanine, Theobromine, Panax Ginseng, Bioperine, and Boron.
These substances were carefully chosen for their proven effects in improving workout performance, ranging from increasing nitric oxide generation for better blood flow to boosting energy levels and cognitive abilities.
You can read my full in-depth breakdown in my Transparent Labs Bulk Pre-Workout review.
Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train
Crazy Nutrition’s Intensive Pre-Train distinguishes itself with well-dosed components, unlike many other pre-workouts that underdose or conceal doses in proprietary blends.
Citrulline Malate, Beta-Alanine, Betaine Anhydrous, Taurine, Caffeine, and Ashwagandha are the key ingredients, and they are dosed correctly, according to scientific studies.
The tastes are well-balanced, and the consistency is great even without a blender. The price is reasonable, especially when combined with a subscription, and the product has a 60-day money-back guarantee.
However, there are some disadvantages, such as limited flavor options and a limited number of servings in each container, which may be insufficient for people who workout more than five times per week.
You can read our full breakdown in our Crazy Nutrition Pre-Workout review.
Frequently Asked Pre Lab Pro Questions
Does Pre Lab Pro Contain Creatine?
Pre Lab Pro does not include creatine. Taking creatine separately is preferable because there are no immediate performance-enhancing effects.
It takes around 28 days to fully saturate the muscles with creatine and notice improvements in strength, power, and muscle mass.
Summary
Pre Lab Pro is one of the few pre-workout supplements designed to provide a minimal caffeine intake. It is ideal for caffeine-sensitive people and contains several performance-enhancing substances.
Pre Lab Pro
Pre Lab Pro Nootropic Pre-Workout
Minimal nootropic pre-workout for brain boosting benefits without caffeine jitters and anxiety.
CHECK CURRENT DEALSReferences
- McKinley-Barnard, S., Andre, T., Morita, M., & Willoughby, D. S. (2015). Combined L-citrulline and glutathione supplementation increases the concentration of markers indicative of nitric oxide synthesis. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12(1), 27.
- Cabre, H. E., Greenwalt, C. E., Gould, L. M., & Smith-Ryan, A. E. (2023). The effects of L-Citrulline and Glutathione on Endurance performance in young adult trained males. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 20(1), 2206386.
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