Best Pre-Workout for Pump (2024 Review) | #1 Brand!

• The research showed a link between protein synthesis after a workout and amino acid transport acceleration. The greater rate of transport after the workout is suggested to be due to the increased flow of blood. Raising Nitric Oxide levels will give you PUMP. NO is a gas that is helping with blood vessel dilation in response to muscle stress.
• Research published in the International Journal of Cardiology showed that 5000 Mg of Citrulline Malate increases NO production and blood flow. THIS SUPPLEMENT contains 6 grams of L-Citrulline Dl-Malate + Red Beet (Beta Vulgaris). Those TWO is likely responsible for the crazy PUMP my clients and I are receiving every time with 4Gauge (LATEST PROMO HERE).
• Beetroot has been shown to increase plasma nitrate by 52%, resulting in an improved anaerobic performance of 4.2%
• Few other ingredients arguably responsibe for Vascularity are: Trimethylglycine (Not Proven), Agmatine (Not Proven)

Getting that pump is something we all want when working out. It makes us feel great, and it also helps to build muscle. But, getting the pump isn’t as easy as it seems.

There are different ways and tricks to boost it, but in my experience, the best way to achieve it is through pre-workout supplements. Whether you’re looking for the best pump pre-workout bodybuilding or not, I’m here to help.

Over the past few months, I’ve been researching the best products that improve performance and increase energy, endurance, and pumps for my clients.

I’ve had detailed insight into dozens of supplements in the market until I discovered only the best pre-workouts for the pump available. 

Make no mistake; it’s difficult to find effective supplements with a clean formula that would produce measurable results. But, based on my research, experience, and testimonials of my colleagues and clients, I listed all the best products down below.

Ready to take your pumps to a whole new level?

Read to discover the best supplementation for your athletic needs!

Best Pre Workout For Pump and Vascularity (2024 List)

1. 4 Gauge – My #1 & Best Choice

The ultimate booster of energy, strength, power, and skin-splitting pumps, 4 Gauge, is one of the cleanest pre-workouts available today in my opinion.

I was hooked from the first time I tried it. It’s a product that delivers; I was blown away by how effective my pumps were!

This supplement combines an effective formula that’s been praised by endurance athletes and bodybuilders alike: 6,000mg L-citrulline DL-malate, caffeine and theanine, creatine monohydrate, and many more!

My clients are extremely satisfied with 4Gauge as we can notice the results quickly. The bonus is that there are no side effects!

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2. Pump Surge –  Best Pump Pre Workout Without Caffeine

With a blend of citrulline, betaine, glycerol powder, and a few others, PumpSurge is the best pre-work and best pump supplementation that is caffeine-free.

When I first tried it, it was on a request from a client. I understand that not everyone wants caffeine in their supplements, but I didn’t believe this one would work.

But its formula speaks for itself; it’s well-designed with ingredients that boost power and energy. The most important thing? Massive pumps that you can’t overlook and these are only the beginning of what Pump has in store for you.

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3. Altius Pre Workout – For Good Performance and Strength

Altius is a solid pre-work that’s a great value for money. I usually recommend it to those who’re looking to improve their workout performance and build strength.

It’s a very versatile supplementation as it can be used by all types of athletes. I’m happy to report that it’s a reliable product.

I can always count on it boosting energy and focus levels, muscle strength, and endurance. It’s also very effective when it comes to muscle pumps due to its clean formula.

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4. Cellucor NO3 Ultimate – Good Formula

Another stim-free supplement on the list, C3 Ultimate boasts skin-splitting pumps you won’t easily forget. I was blown away by just how effective this supplementation really is.

It packs 4,000mg of citrulline, and in combination with other energy-boosting ingredients, it helps to reduce muscle fatigue, increase nitric oxide in the body, boost the blood supply, and minimize muscle damage.

It always makes me feel like I can do more, train harder, and push myself further, which makes it a great thing to use when you lack motivation!

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5. Legion Pulse Pre Workout

Legion Pulse combines ingredients backed by science with an effective formula that boosts nitric oxide in the body at the same time and decreases muscle recovery time.

This is definitely a welcome benefit, especially if you’re serious about training and want to do it daily. A blend of L-citrulline, caffeine, ornithine, and beta-alanine, I was amazed by the massive pumps I was experiencing. You’ll feel the blood rush through your veins!

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6. Vintage Blast

For better strength, hydration, incredible pumps, and a boost of energy, try Vintage Blast. It keeps me going every time I take it and I was surprised by the results I was able to experience.

This supplementation keeps muscles working without any fatigue. It provides a steady flow of nutrients into your muscles before and after the workout with a clean formula that’s loaded with all sorts of ingredients to fully support your performance.

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7. Animal Pump

If you want to improve your performance in the gym, if you’re a bodybuilder, and want to boost strength and power, Animal Pump designed their formula for you.

A buddy from work gave me a capsule to try, and I was blown away by how effective can a small capsule be! This brand has packed quality ingredients in its dose, and it gives that pump without a doubt.

Take it 30 minutes before your workout and you’ll experience the results of your training quickly!

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Some supplements not included in this review, but I was advised by my clients to include:

EVL ENGN Shred (contains some thermogenic ingredients for weight loss / fat loss), Transparent Labs BULK

8. Evlution Nutrition Engn Shred Pre Workout

The ENGN Shred is advertised as an uncomplicated pre-workout that allows an intensive workout and supports your fat loss goals at the same time. In addition to the expected performance-boosting effects, it also claims to provide fat-burn actions and cognitive enhancers that help boost concentration.

Good pre-workout supplementation provides powerful amino acids for training and keeps you healthy. The Evlution Nutrition ENGN Shred pre – Workout is combined with a balanced full, high, protein, low-carb, and low-carb diet.

The main purpose of ENGN Shred is to help you get the energy you need for your workout, as well as the nutrients you need for the rest of your workout.

This includes helping your body control the development of fat by using it for energy, and the thermogenic effect of the ingredients will help boost your metabolism, which will even allow you to increase fat burning rather than just sitting around doing nothing.

L – Carnitine, this is one of the best fat burners I have ever tried, and I advise you to read my fat burner reviews to understand what is best for you and also to find out which ones are worth adding to your shopping cart. Some customers are disappointed with fat burners because they seem strange to them, but I’m not.
In this study, the exercise dose was based on body weight, so check out my fat-burning supplements from Ronnie Coleman to pick the product that’s best for you.

ENGN Shred contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and cayenne, which stimulate metabolism through thermogenesis. Synephrine increases the metabolic rate by increasing fat oxidation and basal metabolism rate. Pros: no proprietary blends.

Some Words About Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout

We make sure to get our most important nutrients for the day and we may even squeeze in a few friends to get some cheering in too. Before sunset yoga By this point, most of us are feeling much better and we have our coffee spiked with protein so we’re ready to run. I had every intention of doing more exercise but the day was fast running out so I ran to the grocery store and loaded up on supplies before I ended my night with some dinner. gorilla mode pre-workout has side benefits (a lot of issues for others). But there’s no stopping it. The basis for our 3-hour workout changes a lot of core problems I had for years. I even cut down on my recovery time between runs and workouts in general. And now I’m faster and stronger than I have ever been and am out of negative body fat. I personally, don’t even do full 400’s but used to, not now, about 70% into the workout. 20% does the job. Add on high-volume sessions like these on a heavy day. Running that first day doesn’t give you much of a boost in terms of time spent doing the workout. That’s why your joints take a beating that day. Also, you should stay off the hills at the end if you can or on the second day of the workout. They’ll impact the recovery of the 3rd-day workout or some others that don’t have fasted to heavy days. Watch this tape out, it’s one of the most comprehensive videos I have seen on running. All the different trends, different times, and over 3 hours straight.

What is Pump?

The pump is a crucial process if you want to achieve muscle growth. Essentially, a pump is an increase of blood flow into the muscles.

You probably noticed or felt it during your workouts. It can be increased with regular workouts, rep-variety, patience, correct energy intake, and providing more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles.

Once the blood becomes oxygenated  (loaded with oxygen), it is then pumped into the active muscles. Then you can feel a tight feeling that we call pump. We can help increase this blood flow by removing lactic acid and carbon dioxide from our muscles.

What Do Bodybuilders Take for Pump?

Pump products use a combination of ingredients that increase nitric oxide production in the body, which can dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to working muscles. As one may see, the lifestyle of a bodybuilder is very strict and dedicated. Not only in terms of diet and training but also in the required vitamins and minerals one needs to take for the long-term pump. While some foods and nutrients are absolutely necessary, there are some that should not be skipped at all.

A pump is most certainly a muscle gainer and one of the most effective ways to reach such heights, but one needs to take a supplement for prolonged effects. The correct supplements provide the correct balance of nutrients to get your body’s hunger levels up and help pump up the muscles that are able to gain much weight. Today, we have compiled a list of 10 bodybuilders and how much they take in order to pump up their muscles for maximum effect.

What Gives You a Pump in Pre-Workout Supplement? Main Ingredients You Should Look for

When you exercise with the goal to grow and build muscles there are a few things to take into consideration. And it all starts with increased blood flow that sends oxygen and nutrients into your muscles.

The more you boost circulation, the more nutrients reach your muscles, and the more you can build them.

One of the core tricks of getting the pump is increasing nitric oxide production in your body. NO is a crucial molecule that plays dozens of important roles in our bodies, but it’s primarily responsible for increasing blood flow.

While most pre-workouts boost energy levels and improve overall performance, there are a few specific pre-workout ingredients you should look out for when you want to get the pump going (and nitric oxide boosters are one of the crucial components).

L-Citrulline Malate

Our bodies can produce this essential AA, so it’s important that you get it from another source. L citrulline malate helps to boost nitric oxide in the body, which means it improves blood circulation and supplies the muscles with more oxygen and nutrients to provide full support for active muscles. Having enough nitric oxide in your body means better heart health, cardiovascular system, increased blood-flow, and glucose intake, and many other health and athletic benefits.

Beta-Alanine

Another AA, beta-alanine, helps to improve endurance and minimize lactic acid build-up in the muscles during your workouts. It reduces muscle fatigue, which helps to improve the intensity of the workouts by enabling you to train longer, harder.

Creatine

Naturally found in our bodies, creatine boosts energy levels and improves muscle strength and endurance. It’s a common ingredient in bodybuilding pre-workout supplements because it minimizes muscle recovery time.

Caffeine

For a clear focus, increased motivation, and energy, does of caffeine provides great support for all athletes, no matter their skill level. It improves memory, alertness, performance, and increases the fat-burning process.

Is Preworkout Dangerous? Any Side Effects?

Best Pre workout supplements are generally safe for most people, but make sure to follow the recommended dose and not go overboard with the product.

You may experience drawbacks, especially if you’ve never taken these muscle pump supplements before.

Make sure to stack up that water intake and reduce your dose of prework you’re taking to let your body get adjusted to the new supplement.

Among others, many side-effects come from caffeine.

You’ll want to pay attention to that, especially if you’re a coffee lover and drink numerous cups of coffee.

Overall, here are some of the side-effects you may experience:

Crashes and jitters

Nausea

Headaches

Trouble sleeping, insomnia

Tingling and itchy sensation

Other Tips to Increase your Results

Whether you’re taking supplements of not, here are a few extra tips that will help you get the best pumps!

Take Creatine

Creatine brings many benefits to the table and it’s an extremely welcome ingredient in pre-works. If your supplement doesn’t have it, get creatine and mix it in for added value. It can be a cheap addition but will make the best pre-workout drink you can get your hands on!

Avoid Too Much Rest

Allow yourself to take notice of how far you’ve come and what you’ve achieved, but don’t be tempted to take too much rest. Keep focused on your goals and work out regularly. 

Drink Lots Of Water

Increase water intake throughout the day, not just before the training.

Muscles need a constant flow of blood plasma as much as they can get. Keep that in mind and always bring a water bottle with you. 

Pile On The Weight

Instead of using your usual weights and reps, make a change and go with something really heavy instead. This is a trick that will help you notice the changes and results quicker as it’ll have a bigger impact on your muscles when you combine weights and hold the squeeze.

Add Glutathione

If you’re convinced your supplements don’t do them justice, try adding glutathione to them. It will without a doubt bring on an animal tearing pump.

This is an effective method, especially when you combine glutathione with citrulline. The combo boasts strengths, and endurance incredibly effectively (all scientifically backed up).

What is the Most Dangerous Pre Workout?

When it comes to incorporating heavier weights for a strength training workout, a larger weight will typically equate to more force production. But this only applies when you perform the same movement for the same number of repetitions, i.e. the same rep range and back to the weight with which you did it before. When you perform a new exercise, whether it be squats, presses or flies, or even a barbell row, it’s important to hold your weight slightly differently to get the best possible effect.

On the other hand, to maintain muscular hypertrophy, you don’t want to overdo the weight for the number of reps you’re working with. Although heavyweight increase the workout intensity for the eccentric phase, it limits the metabolic expenditure and the amount of stimulation to the muscle groups during the concentric phase. Therefore you should hold back on the weight you’re performing to allow your body to use as much energy as possible.

Does L Citrulline Give You a Pump?

L Citrulline is an amino acid that’s found in fish and nuts and it’s in a few popular supplements including Amway Vitamin Shoppe CitrusMax HCA, Source Naturals Citrulline Acetate, and Kaia Nutrition Citrulline Powder. So it’s not a huge surprise that the ingredient is a coveted one for many dieters, as citrulline does indeed enhance energy and endurance by making your blood more alkaline.

It does so via a process called vasodilation, in which blood vessels expand and dilate and capillaries on your skin get bigger to let more blood through. That allows you to burn more calories by pumping more blood through your limbs, muscles, and internal organs. Citrulline works by improving the amount of fuel your body can access. “Vasodilation causes blood vessels to dilate and then to expand, so that’s what it does,” says Dr. Victoria Stiles, a leading nutritional physician.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Ingredients in Pre-Workouts Give You a Pump?

One of the primary ingredients responsible for the pump sensation is L-arginine, an amino acid that acts as a precursor to nitric oxide (NO) production in the body. Nitric oxide is a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels and increases blood flow to the muscles, resulting in improved nutrient and oxygen delivery. This increased blood flow creates a fuller and more pumped appearance.

Another commonly included ingredient is citrulline malate, which also aids in the production of nitric oxide. Citrulline malate enhances the body’s ability to eliminate ammonia, a byproduct of exercise, which can cause fatigue. By reducing ammonia levels, citrulline malate helps improve endurance and prolongs the pump effect.

Beta-alanine is another ingredient that may contribute to the pump sensation. It increases levels of carnosine, a dipeptide found in muscles that helps regulate pH levels during exercise. By buffering the acidity produced during intense workouts, beta-alanine delays fatigue and supports muscle endurance, allowing for longer and more intense pump-inducing workouts.

Additionally, some pre-workout supplements contain creatine, a well-known ingredient that provides numerous benefits for muscular performance. Creatine enhances intracellular hydration, allowing muscles to retain more water. This leads to an increase in muscle size and the appearance of a fuller, more pumped look.

Other ingredients commonly found in pre-workout supplements, such as caffeine, taurine, and various herbal extracts, contribute to the pump indirectly by increasing energy levels, focus, and overall performance, enabling users to push harder during their workouts.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness and individual response to pre-workout supplements can vary. Furthermore, it’s essential to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplements into your routine to ensure they align with your health and fitness goals.

Does Pump Pre-Workout Help with Boners?

While pre-workout supplements that promote a pump effect may enhance blood flow and vasodilation in the body, it is important to note that their effects are primarily related to muscle performance and exercise performance rather than sexual function. The term “boner” commonly refers to an erection, which involves complex physiological mechanisms primarily regulated by the circulatory and nervous systems.

While increased blood flow to the genital area can play a role in achieving and maintaining an erection, the factors influencing sexual function are multifaceted and can be influenced by various factors such as hormones, psychological factors, and overall health.

It is crucial to differentiate between pre-workout supplements designed for exercise performance and those specifically formulated to address sexual function. If individuals have concerns related to sexual health, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide appropriate guidance and advice tailored to their specific needs.

Should I Take Pump and Pre-Workout Together?

Whether you should take a pump supplement and a pre-workout supplement together depends on your fitness goals, tolerance to stimulants, and individual preferences. These supplements serve different purposes, and combining them can have both benefits and potential drawbacks.

Pre-workout supplements are designed to enhance your energy, focus, and endurance during your workout. They often contain ingredients like caffeine, beta-alanine, and citrulline malate. These compounds can increase alertness, reduce fatigue, and improve overall exercise performance. However, the caffeine content in pre-workouts can vary widely, so if you’re sensitive to stimulants or work out in the evening, you might want to be cautious with their use.

Pump supplements, on the other hand, are formulated to increase blood flow to your muscles, leading to a fuller and more pumped appearance during your workout. Common ingredients in pump supplements include citrulline, arginine, and nitrate compounds. These ingredients help dilate blood vessels and improve nutrient delivery to muscles.

Combining pre-workout and pump supplements can be beneficial if you’re looking for both increased energy and muscle pump. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks, such as an increased risk of overstimulation, jitteriness, or a rapid heart rate due to the combination of stimulants in pre-workouts and vasodilators in pump supplements.

Before combining these supplements, consider your tolerance level, the specific ingredients in each product, and the timing of your workouts. It may be wise to start with lower doses and gradually increase them as you gauge your body’s response. Additionally, always read product labels and consult with a healthcare professional or a fitness expert for personalized advice, especially if you have any underlying health concerns or conditions. Ultimately, the decision to take pump and pre-workout supplements together should align with your fitness goals and individual needs.

What Gives You the Best Muscle Pump?

The best muscle pump, scientifically referred to as vasodilation, is achieved through the augmentation of blood flow to the muscles. Nitric oxide (NO) plays a pivotal role in this physiological process. One of the most effective ways to enhance nitric oxide production and subsequently attain an impressive muscle pump is through the utilization of specific ingredients commonly found in pre-workout supplements.

Arginine and citrulline malate are notable amino acids that contribute significantly to vasodilation. Arginine acts as a precursor to nitric oxide, promoting its synthesis in the body. Citrulline malate, on the other hand, indirectly elevates arginine levels, extending the duration of nitric oxide production. These amino acids work synergistically to dilate blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow and nutrient delivery to the muscles during exercise.

Supplements containing these vasodilatory ingredients, such as pre-workout formulations, can effectively heighten the muscle pump experience. Additionally, beetroot extract, rich in nitrates, has gained attention for its ability to enhance nitric oxide production and improve blood flow, further contributing to a satisfying muscle pump.

Incorporating resistance training, particularly high-repetition sets, into your workout routine can also amplify the muscle pump. This type of training induces metabolic stress, prompting the release of various vasodilatory compounds and facilitating blood flow to the working muscles.

Optimal hydration is another crucial factor in achieving a remarkable muscle pump. Dehydration can compromise blood volume, hindering blood flow to the muscles. Ensuring adequate water intake is therefore essential for maximizing the effects of vasodilatory supplements and resistance training on muscle pump attainment.

Will Salt Give Me a Pump?

While salt consumption is often associated with various health concerns, particularly regarding cardiovascular health, it can indeed contribute to the phenomenon known as “the pump” during exercise.

The pump, scientifically termed “cellular swelling” or “muscle hypertrophy,” refers to the temporary increase in muscle size and vascularity experienced during or after resistance training or high-intensity exercise. This pump is primarily due to increased blood flow to the muscles, leading to enhanced nutrient delivery and waste removal, as well as swelling of muscle cells caused by the influx of fluid.

Salt, or sodium chloride, plays a crucial role in regulating fluid balance and blood volume in the body. When you consume salt, the sodium ions it contains help to maintain proper hydration levels by retaining water in the bloodstream. This increase in blood volume leads to a rise in blood pressure, facilitating greater blood flow to working muscles during exercise.

Additionally, sodium ions are involved in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contractions. Adequate sodium levels are necessary for optimal muscle function and performance during exercise. Therefore, consuming salt before or during a workout can help maintain electrolyte balance and support muscle function, potentially enhancing performance and the pump effect.

However, it’s essential to emphasize moderation in salt consumption, as excessive intake can have negative health consequences, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions such as hypertension or cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily sodium intake to no more than 2,300 milligrams, with an ideal limit of 1,500 milligrams for most adults.

Moreover, the effectiveness of salt in promoting the pump during exercise may vary among individuals and depend on factors such as hydration status, fitness level, and overall diet. Other dietary factors, such as carbohydrate intake, hydration level, and the timing of meals, also influence muscle pump and performance during exercise.

In conclusion, while salt consumption can contribute to the pump effect during exercise by promoting fluid retention and supporting muscle function, it’s essential to consume it in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Individuals should consider their overall health status and dietary needs when incorporating salt into their pre-workout routine. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian can provide personalized recommendations based on individual health goals and considerations.

Final Conclusion on Pre-Workout For Pumps. What to Choose & Where to Buy?

Adding high-quality pre-workout supplements to your diet can help you build muscle. Additionally, don’t forget to snack on creatine, water, and glutathione; all of these can improve the pump massively!

I found these tips on Reddit and GNC back when I was trying to figure out how to get that muscle-enhancing pump. After years of testing it on myself and my clients, I can confirm these tips were remarkably valuable!

Now, all of the pre-works I listed in this article are well designed with a solid formula that boosts pumps and focuses; those with caffeine and those that are stimulant-free.

I tested them all with the help of my friends and clients alike, and we can confirm that these supplements are effective and deliver what they promise well.

But, if I had to choose one supplement on the list, I’d say that one specifically stands out from the crowd. In my experience and according to my training colleagues and clients, the best pre-workout drink for a pump is 4 Gauge Pre-Workout.

Used by bodybuilders and athletes, 4 Gauge is formulated to improve endurance, boost stamina during workouts, and increase focus and motivation. The supplement contains a clean formula that’s based on energy and pump-enhancing ingredients.

Whenever I take 4 Gauge, I know I can count on an energy explosion that will serve me to get through the workout effectively and take it a step further every single time.

The crystal-clear focus enables me to sync my mind with my body while working out muscles and increasing the blood flow

For best effects, I normally take 1 serving at least 30 minutes before the workout. I did take it after a snack a few times and it was just as effective, especially after consulting with my fellow nutritionist.

4 Gauge is made with natural ingredients, which makes it a plant-based supplement, also great for vegans!

Does Pre-Workout Cause Pump?

It’s an interesting question. The high concentration of hormones is usually associated with a fast metabolism, high blood pressure, and effects that can cause a temporary increase in energy. But in real life, I’ve never noticed anything like that. Pummeled into the ground after a hard session, I still had a full tank of energy. That’s a real high. The idea that pre-workout pumps up your muscles for a long time is, however, somewhat less likely. It’s not that I’m so useless during workouts that I can’t even pump my arms after a good workout. But I do notice that there are more muscles in my arms than there used to be, and my triceps in particular feel much more powerful.

Of course, it’s not the case that working muscles pump themselves up and are then absorbed. But it’s a sign that my muscles are working harder than they used to. In that way, that’s a good sign. I often question the effectiveness of pre-workouts. It is true that I feel tired and jittery for a few hours after taking a pre-workout. I’m not a morning person. That’s usually a good time to take a sleep aid or an antidepressant. But I do feel that working muscles pump their own hormones more during the pre-workout stage. In fact, there is some scientific data on this. But I find it odd that people have such strong opinions about it.

4Gauge is #1 TOP Pre Workout Supplement:

I’ve never experienced any side effects with this supplement, even though some of my clients reported trouble sleeping when taking it before the evening workouts (due to caffeine, perhaps).

Otherwise, the supplement is clinically tested and once I found it, I was thrilled to see that it’s completely natural without any harmful and artificial ingredients.

To sum up, I don’t think I’ve ever peaked in my physical performance as much as I did after taking 4 Gauge. Alongside good whey protein powder, it supports my athletic performance and my goals, no matter the intensity of the workouts.