Lean Pre-Workout

L-Citrulline malate is an amino acid that enhances physical endurance due to its role in the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) . [1]

When nitric oxide production increases, blood flow improves, allowing nutrients and oxygen to replenish muscle tissue more efficiently. This translates to greater muscle pumps and heightened energy levels.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the performance-enhancing effects of L-citrulline malate such enhancing strength, muscle power output, anaerobic and aerobic capacity [2, 3, 4]

Additionally, studies indicate that L-Citrulline Malate reduces muscle soreness and enhances immune responses during the post-exercise period, supporting recovery from physical training [5].

Beta-alanine is an amino acid that functions as a precursor to carnosine, a molecule that accumulates in skeletal muscle tissue, where it plays a crucial role in buffering the acid produced during intense physical exercise. 

Supplementing with Beta-alanine has been shown to increase muscle carnosine levels, which are quickly depleted during intense exercise [6, 7].

Research shows that supplementing with Beta-alanine can significantly improve overall exercise capacity including maximal strength and power output, particularly in exercises requiring sustained maximal effort[8].  strength [9] 

Beta-alanine supplementation may also increase lean muscle mass [10] and delay the onset of neuromuscular fatigue [11, 12].

Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine, plays a role in various physiological processes, primarily as an osmolyte (helping cells maintain fluid balance) and a methyl donor (assisting in biochemical reactions). Betaine supplementation has shown promise in improving muscle endurance and enhancing strength and power in trained individuals [13, 14, 15].

While the mechanisms are not fully understood, Betaine supplementation may promote athletic performance through regulating cellular hydration, supporting creatine biosynthesis and playing a role in ATP (energy) production. [16]

Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) is a bioavailable form of L-carnitine, an essential molecule for transporting fatty acids across mitochondrial membranes to be used for energy. Acetyl-L-carnitine  is suggested to have diverse ergogenic properties for athletes and gym-goers due to its potent nootropic effects that promote a healthy mood and cognitive function and protect against neurodegeneration [17, 18]. 

ALCAR may also enhance physical performance and target stubborn fat by facilitating fatty acid oxidation [19, 20].

Choline is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in various physiological processes, particularly in brain development and function. It serves as a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter integral to memory, mood regulation, and muscle control. [21]

While most pre-workouts contain synthetic caffeine anhydrous, we utilize organic caffeine derived from green coffee beans (as PurCaf®). 

Caffeine is a well-documented ergogenic aid that enhances physical and cognitive performance. Research indicates that caffeine improves performance by reducing perceived exertion and delaying fatigue through adenosine receptor antagonism, increasing central nervous system excitability. [22, 23]

Caffeine enhances muscle strength and power output by facilitating calcium mobilization and neuromuscular transmission [24].

L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea known for its ability to promote nervous system relaxation without sedation. In the context of athletic performance, it is often combined with caffeine in pre-workout supplements to enhance focus, reduce jitteriness, and improve cognitive function. Research suggests that L-Theanine modulates nervous system function, leading to improved attention, reaction time, and stress reduction—key factors for optimal workout performance. [25, 26]

Additionally, L-theanine has been shown to work in synergy with caffeine to support cognitive function and overall performance [27]. L-theanine may help smooth out the overstimulation sometimes caused by stimulants, preventing energy crashes and promoting sustained mental clarity.

Theobromine is the primary alkaloid found in cocoa beans and is chemically related to caffeine, acting as a central nervous system stimulant [28].

Research has found that theobromine has differential contributions to mood and cognitive function compared to caffeine, providing further insight into the distinct yet synergistic nature of these naturally occurring stimulants [29].

BioPerine® is a patented black pepper (Piper nigrum) fruit extract standardized for its piperine content. Piperine is a natural alkaloid known for its “bioenhancer” properties, improving the bioavailability of molecules that are typically poorly absorbed or extensively metabolized in the liver [30, 31].

This natural nootropic is known for inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, thereby increasing acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter vital for learning and memory. 

A recent research review contends that huperzine-A, a constituent of the Chinese folk medicine Huperzia serrata, is a good  candidate to improve cognitive function and may help boost memory [32].