Whereas the best pre-workout supplements can definitely add some spark to your coaching by their included stimulants, these formulations can generally lack in relation to focus and psychological readability. Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout packs servings of each alpha-GPC and ashwagandha to assist bolster your mind energy mid-workout. (1)(2) The 200 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous can be an efficient dosage for newbie athletes simply getting used to pre-workout supplementation.
For these wanting a cognitive increase extra so than a singular kick of power, Alpha-BRAIN could be an efficient powder, in our opinion. Nonetheless, the formulation is dear, and there are fewer taste choices in comparison with different dietary supplements providing comparable caffeine and nootropic servings. On this Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout evaluate, we’ll go over this standard complement’s full formulation in addition to its real-world qualities like style and solubility. For extra info on how we take a look at dietary supplements for our content material, make sure you learn our BarBend supplement testing methodology web page.
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise boasts a singular components aimed to extend power and focus. Select between two flavors and several other subscription choices to economize.
Medical Disclaimer: The content material on BarBend is supposed to be informative in nature, however it shouldn’t be taken as medical recommendation. The opinions and articles on this website should not supposed to be used as analysis, prevention, and/or remedy of well being issues. It’s all the time a good suggestion to speak to your physician earlier than starting a brand new health, dietary, and/or complement routine. Particular person wants for nutritional vitamins and minerals will range.
Primary Takeaways
- The 200 milligrams of caffeine per serving could be an approachable dosage for pre-workout novices.
- This pre-workout powder is obtainable in two totally different flavors, which is decrease than different dietary supplements inside the class providing as much as 14 totally different tastes.
- Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout will not be the identical formulation as Onnit’s authentic Alpha-BRAIN, which included extra substances designed for improved psychological readability and cognitive perform.
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise Specs
| Value Per Serving | $3 |
| Caffeine Per Serving | 200mg |
| Key Elements | Beta alanine, l-citrulline, ashwagandha extract, caffeine anhydrous, alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline, theobromine, methylliberine powder |
| Sweeteners Used | Stevia, monk fruit extract |
| Out there Flavors | Tiger’s Blood, Yuzu Peach |
| Third-Celebration Testing | None |
Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is a department of Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN sequence, the model’s dietary complement lineup designed to spice up cognitive efficiency. Along with this pre-workout powder, Alpha-BRAIN could be present in capsules, prompt sticks, and ready-to-drink photographs. Whereas all formulations include nootropic substances, comparable to ashwagandha and alpha-GPC, the unique Alpha-BRAIN has added servings of extra compounds, like cat’s claw extract for irritation and immune system assist, toothed clubmoss, and huperzine A for improved cognitive perform. (3)(4)(5)
You could find Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout in 20-serving tubs with prices per serving beginning at about $3. That is double the price of among the best cheap pre-workouts that sometimes clock in between $1 to $1.50 per serving. That mentioned, Onnit does provide a ‘Subscribe & Save’ service that gives 25% off future auto-ship orders.
As a pre-workout, the Alpha-BRAIN complement incorporates 200 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous, which is par for the course when it comes to pre-workouts. Plus, this formulation is nicely inside the FDA’s 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, making it an excellent choice for rookies simply getting used to pre-workouts as an power supply. (6)
Different frequent pre-workout substances on this combination embrace 2.4 grams of beta-alanine and a pair of.4 grams of l-citrulline. “Whereas the citrulline serving is underdosed per current research, I nonetheless really feel this mix does work nicely collectively,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and BarBend knowledgeable contributor. (7)(8) “You may count on an excellent pump from this pre-workout, for certain.”
In fact, although, the spotlight of this formulation is the 225 milligrams of ashwagandha and 125 milligrams of alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline (alpha-GPC). These substances might assist give athletes the benefits of nootropics, which is Alpha-BRAIN’s predominant promoting level. “The included ashwagandha could be nice for managing stress throughout high-intensity exercises, and the alpha-GPC has been proven to spice up motivation and cognitive perform,” Bourgeois provides. (1)(2)
Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is rounded out with pure substances, together with stevia or monk fruit extract, relying in your taste of alternative. Bourgeois notes, although, that this formulation does include three proprietary blends, which might add a layer of thriller to the purity and precise efficiency of this pre-workout powder.
Talking of flavors, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is obtainable in two varieties — Yuzu Peach and Tiger’s Blood. From our testers, the tastes are each fulfilling, though they most well-liked Tiger’s Blood a bit extra, because the Yuzu Peach was a bit bitter. Nonetheless, different pre-workout powders can provide dozens of flavors, which does put Onnit at an obstacle.
Lastly, this standard pre-workout complement doesn’t carry any third-party certification, which could be a detriment to energy athletes wanting a clear formulation. Whereas the model claims that “many” of its merchandise are regularly third-party examined for purity and banned substances, there isn’t a info or certifying stamps discovered on the Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout product web page.
Execs
The ashwagandha and alpha-GPC might increase psychological efficiency
Mixes simply, per our testers
Decrease caffeine counts are perfect for rookies
Cons
Solely 20 servings per container
$3 per serving is larger than the common pre-workout value
No clear info on third-party testing
Who Ought to Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise
Whereas we’ve ranked Onnit Alpha-BRAIN amongst among the best pre-workouts for focus, we perceive it is probably not the most effective decide for each athlete on the market. Under are a number of camps we really feel may gain advantage from including this gluten-free, sugar-free pre-workout to their routine, together with a handful of teams that will need to look elsewhere for his or her pre-training power wants.
Really useful for:
- Wholesome adults seeking to preserve caffeine consumption at or beneath the FDA’s 400-milligram really useful every day allowance
- Athletes wanting a pre-workout with cognitive advantages for boosted mind perform throughout coaching classes
- People delicate to synthetic sweeteners
Not Really useful for:
- Funds-minded athletes searching for a budget-friendly pre-workout complement
- People wanting a devoted nootropic complement to assist mind well being and cognitive perform
- These wanting a pre-workout with huge taste choices
Our Expertise Utilizing Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise
We’ve examined greater than 100 totally different pre-workouts over time, protecting each subcategory from the best pre-workouts for muscle gain to pre-workouts for weight reduction, pumps, CrossFit and extra. We utilized these pattern testing techniques to this Alpha-BRAIN evaluate, inspecting the powder’s full formulation in addition to its real-world qualities, like style, solubility, and affordability. To make our findings a bit extra digestible, we’ve given Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout a score for every examined class on a scale of 1 (lowest) to five (highest).
Elements and Formulation
Let’s get this out of the way in which — Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is NOT a direct substitute for Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN complement for reminiscence and focus. This formulation doesn't function the model’s ‘Onnit Stream Mix,’ containing phosphatidylserine or oat straw extract, ‘Onnit Focus Mix’ with huperzia serrata (huperzine A), or the ‘Onnit Gas Mix,’ which incorporates the essential amino acid l-leucine in addition to pterostilbene. Fairly, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is extra of a fundamental complement with a number of nootropics added in. In case you’re searching for a complement containing extra cognition-focused substances, we suggest the unique capsules.
Editor’s Be aware: Onnit additionally produces Alpha-BRAIN Black Label, which is the model’s premium nootropic mix with added substances comparable to lion’s mane, an adaptogenic mushroom that research have correlated with improved psychological efficiency in people. (9)
Talking solely to the Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout formulation, we recognize the dosages of caffeine, l-citrulline, and beta-alanine. The 200 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous is inside the FDA’s really useful every day allowance of as much as 400 milligrams, and the citrulline (albeit underneath the 3-gram really useful serving) and beta-alanine can work nicely collectively to supply that “pumped up” sensation you are feeling throughout coaching. (6)(7)(8)
Plus, our testers report that the pores and skin tingling is manageable and never overbearing. “You get a bit little bit of tingles, however I view it extra as a cue that the powder is working its magic quite than an annoyance mid-training,” notes our tester, a licensed private coach.
We additionally rank Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout amongst among the best natural pre-workouts given its use of pure substances over synthetic compounds. For instance, you possibly can count on both monk fruit extract or stevia as the principle sweetening agent on this powder, which can be extra useful for athletes delicate to synthetic sweeteners or added sugars.
In fact, although, we’d be remiss to not point out the brain-boosting results of Alpha-BRAIN’s formulation. As a licensed diet coach, I can attest to the “movement state” introduced on by the ashwagandha and alpha-GPC, which assist create a locked-in expertise throughout coaching. In my expertise, even throughout high-stress leg exercises or grueling cardio classes, exercises really feel extra manageable and the whole lot appears to function with out confusion. Research additionally assist these nootropic substances, claiming they might assist enhance focus and stress administration. (1)(2)
That mentioned, whereas we recognize the heightened processing pace of those cognitive sharpeners in addition to the slight stimulation from the 200 milligrams of caffeine, we nonetheless price the formulation at 3.25 out of 5. “I’d actually prefer to see this combination with out so many proprietary blends,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and our knowledgeable contributor. “Having proprietary blends can result in questioning regarding the true efficiency of the formulation, and the shortage of third-party testing info doesn’t essentially bode nicely for any additional claims. Moreover, I scored this pre-workout as such given the lower-than-recommended serving of l-citrulline.”
Style
When it comes to style, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is obtainable in Tiger’s Blood, a tropical taste with hints of coconut and berries, in addition to Yuzu Peach. Our testers have been in a position to trial each choices, with Tiger’s Blood taking the highest spot as our most well-liked variation. “For my part, the Yuzu Peach was just a bit too bitter. You may definitely get the combination down, however I wouldn’t essentially flip to it for on a regular basis power boosts,” states our one tester.
Having tried each variations myself, I agree that Tiger’s Blood is the tastiest choice, though I wouldn’t say Yuzu Peach was off-putting. It has a welcomed chunk to it that I really feel might be interesting to athletes, particularly those who’ve worn their style buds skinny with traditional Blue Raspberry and Lemon Lime varieties from different manufacturers. Maybe I’m swayed by understanding the mind well being advantages of the formulation, however it’s a tasty addition to a light-weight pre-workout meal, nonetheless.
We do rating Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout’s style at 3 out of 5, although, given the blended critiques on taste in addition to the shortage of extra selection. We’ve had different pre-workouts that provide as much as 14 totally different style variations, permitting athletes to mess around with palate-pleasing picks with out skewing from the bottom formulation an excessive amount of. With this Onnit providing, you get simply two choices.
Solubility
Whereas Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout definitely has mental-boosting substances inside the formulation, one of many largest dopamine hits I get from this powder is when it mixes completely in my best shaker bottle. There’s no sense of settling or residue, and I see no “floaties” that may be commonplace with different dietary supplements.
We price the solubility at 5 out of 5, too, given the graceful consistency of this beverage that takes little to concoct. “After three or 4 jostles of my shaker cup, the powder is effectively dissolved,” notes our tester, a licensed private coach. This may be useful for athletes taking their pre-workout on the go or those who have to hurriedly combine up a pre-training mix earlier than hitting the weights or cardio room.
Value Per Serving
Sadly, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout doesn't come low cost in relation to getting these neurotransmitters fired up for coaching. The fee per serving equates to roughly $3, which is sort of double the common $1.85 per serving of different high-quality pre-workout dietary supplements. Plus, you possibly can solely buy Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout in 20-serving tubs, that means that you just’ll have to replenish your shares extra usually if consuming this powder day by day. As such, we price this dietary complement at 1 out of 5 for the class.
Fortunately, although, Onnit does provide a ‘Subscribe & Save’ service that may, a minimum of, low cost the entire worth — offered you don’t thoughts auto-ship orders. The model gives a 25% worth minimize for repeat deliveries, and delivery cadences could be chosen for each 7, 15, 20, 30, 45, 60, or 90 days.
Third Celebration Testing
Whereas Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN Reminiscence & Focus capsules have been the topic of earlier scientific trials, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout doesn't have any indicating markers that it’s been third-party examined. (10) The model does state that “many” of its merchandise have been third-party accredited for athletes, however we don't see any stamps of approval throughout this pre-workout’s product web page or labeling. We err on the facet of warning right here and price Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout at 1 out of 5 for third-party testing.
What to Think about Earlier than Shopping for Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise
Whether or not searching for the best pre-workout for CrossFit, a formulation for psychological focus, or a high-stim choice to actually get the juices flowing, there are a number of components price contemplating earlier than deciding on a pre-workout complement on your routine. Under are a number of key objects we suggest maintaining prime of thoughts earlier than including a flavorful formulation to your on-line cart.
- Key Elements: It may be useful to scan your complement’s substances record prior to buy to be able to examine for any underserved compounds. Many frequent pre-workout substances, such because the best natural pre-workout ingredients, could have RDAs or higher intakes levied to them, so look to make sure your formulation is able to delivering efficient dosages with every serving.
- Caffeine Per Serving: The FDA recommends as much as 400 milligrams of caffeine every day for wholesome adults, so ensure that your pre-workout of alternative doesn’t place you over this threshold. (6) Calculate how a lot caffeine you frequently devour all through the day and see how your most well-liked powder impacts these metrics.
- Out there Flavors: It may be a trouble to devour pre-workout dietary supplements that aren’t pleasing to your palate. Search for supps that cater to your preferences. We additionally suggest selecting a pre-workout with a handful of fulfilling flavors, as this may help add some selection to your routine with out skewing from the foundational formulation too aggressively.
- Third-Celebration Testing: Amy Goodson MS, RD, CSSD, LD, states, “It’s finest to go for dietary supplements which have been third-party examined for high quality, efficiency, and purity. Dietary dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA, so having this additional sense of safety could be important, particularly for energy athletes that have to abide by governing companies of their respective sport.”
[Related: Ultimate Guide to Pre-Workouts]
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise Vs. Opponents
As you possibly can in all probability assume, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout will not be the one powder available on the market. There exists a variety of pre-workout dietary supplements, every with their very own perks and advantages. Under, we’ve crafted a side-by-side chart detailing key specs of two comparable powders to Alpha-BRAIN — BULK from Clear Labs and Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Exercise.
| Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise | Clear Labs BULK | Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Exercise | |
| Value Per Serving | $3 | $1.67 | Beginning at $0.63 |
| Caffeine Per Serving | 200mg | 200mg | 300mg |
| Key Elements | Beta alanine, l-citrulline, ashwagandha extract, caffeine anhydrous, alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline, theobromine, methylliberine powder | Citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, taurine, l-tyrosine, alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline, natural caffeine, l-theanine, theobromine, black pepper fruit extract, boron | L-citrulline, beta-alanine, taurine, betaine anhydrous, caffeine anhydrous, n-acetyl l-tyrosine, alpha-GPC, DMAE bitartrate, CDP choline, theobromine, huperzine A |
| Sweeteners Used | Stevia, monk fruit extract | Stevia | Sucralose |
| Out there Flavors | Tiger’s Blood, Yuzu Peach | Strawberry Lemonade, Strawberry Kiwi, Pina Colada, Blue Raspberry, Black Cherry, Peach Mango, Tropical Punch, Bitter Grape, Watermelon, Watermelon Peach, Cherry Splash, Blueberry Pomegranate | Blue Raspberry, Watermelon, Fruit Punch, Grape, Peach Mango |
| Third-Celebration Testing | None | Sure (Knowledgeable Selection) | Sure (certifying lab not listed) |
As a high-quality pre-workout in its personal proper, Transparent Labs BULK pre-workout delivers an identical caffeine depend to Alpha-BRAIN, together with frequent substances like l-tyrosine, l-theanine, and extra. Plus, this TL pre-workout is third-party examined by Knowledgeable Selection and is obtainable at a decrease value per serving. Nonetheless, the presence of stevia can result in gastrointestinal misery in some athletes. (11)
For a budget-friendly pre-workout, we frequently suggest Nutricost Pre-X due to its value per serving that begins at roughly $0.63. There are additionally 5 flavors to select from — a step up from Onnit’s two listed tastes. We additionally recognize that Pre-X is third-party examined, though there's a little bit of thriller with this declare because the certifying lab will not be listed on Nutricost’s web site.
Locations to Purchase Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise
You could find Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout instantly from the model’s retail web site. We’ve additionally discovered this standard pre-workout complement from third-party retailers together with GNC and Amazon.
Buyer Expertise and Model Status
Based mostly in Austin, Texas and based by Aubrey Marcus, Onnit produces among the best protein powders, creatine dietary supplements, pre-workouts, and normal wellness dietary supplements we’ve examined right here at BarBend. Along with dietary dietary supplements, Onnit manufactures energy coaching tools from kettlebells to maces, golf equipment, and extra. The model is a well-liked title in health with endorsements from celebrities {and professional} athletes alike, comparable to Joe Rogan, who frequently mentions Onnit on his profitable podcast. Onnit could be reached for inquiries on the ‘Contact Hyperlink’ positioned on the backside of onnit.com.
When it comes to buyer critiques, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout at present boasts a 3.8 out of 5 on the model’s retail website based mostly on 77 buyer responses. “Vital increase to my exercises with no main caffeine crash, afterwards,” notes one optimistic buyer response.
Our Remaining Verdict on Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise
In case you’re searching for a fast ticket to exercise enhancement, we really feel Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout can ship. The formulation contains a beginner-friendly 200 milligrams of caffeine, and the inclusion of ashwagandha and alpha-GPC, among the finest nootropic substances, could be a useful increase to your in-gym focus and mind efficiency. Whereas the worth is excessive when in comparison with different pre-workouts on the market, we really feel the psychological readability and interesting flavors are sufficient to warrant the heightened value.
No matter your intentions together with your pre-workout of alternative, it may well all the time be useful to offer the substances record a fast scan to make sure your caffeine is inside FDA suggestions and that frequent pre-workout components are served at high-quality dosages. (6) We additionally suggest selecting a complement with a number of (interesting) flavors as this may help defend in opposition to taste fatigue over time. Follow your funds, use these notes as steering, and prepare to cost up for future exercises classes forward.
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Exercise FAQs
Does Onnit Alpha-BRAIN work?
pre-workout does offer you a noticeable increase in power and focus previous to coaching. The 200 milligrams of caffeine per serving are inside the FDA’s really useful every day allowance of as much as 400 milligrams, and research report that the included nootropics (ashwagandha and alpha-GPC) can profit cognitive perform by enhancing focus and managing stress throughout intense exercise classes. (1)(2)(6)
How a lot does Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout value?
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is obtainable in 20-serving tubs for roughly $3 per serving. Moreover, the model gives a ‘Subscribe & Save’ service that contains a 25% low cost on all future auto-ship orders.
How lengthy does it take for Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout to kick in?
Per the label directions, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout can take impact between 20 and half-hour after consumption. Our private testing experiences align with this timeline, too, as our knowledgeable testers observed improved power and focus roughly 20 minutes after downing their blended beverage earlier than stepping into their exercise classes.
References
- Parker, A. G., Byars, A., Purpura, M., & Jäger, R. (2015). The results of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, caffeine or placebo on markers of temper, cognitive perform, energy, pace, and agility. Journal of the Worldwide Society of Sports activities Diet, 12(sup1). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4595381/
- U.S. Division of Well being and Human Providers. (n.d.). Workplace of dietary dietary supplements – ashwagandha: Is it useful for stress, nervousness, or sleep?. NIH Workplace of Dietary Dietary supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/
- U.S. Division of Well being and Human Providers. (n.d.). Cat’s Claw: Usefulness and Security. Nationwide Middle for Complementary and Integrative Well being. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/well being/cats-claw
- Toothed clubmoss. Important.ly. (n.d.). https://www.important.ly/trc/Toothed-clubmoss/monograph=339/
- Qian, Z. M., & Ke, Y. (2014). Huperzine A: Is it an efficient disease-modifying drug for alzheimerâ€TMS illness? Frontiers in Growing older Neuroscience, 6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4137276/
- Commissioner, O. of the. (2024, August 28). Spilling the beans: How a lot caffeine is an excessive amount of?. U.S. Meals and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/shoppers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much
- Gonzalez, A. M., & Trexler, E. T. (2020). Results of citrulline supplementation on train efficiency in people: A evaluate of the present literature. Journal of Power and Conditioning Analysis, 34(5), 1480–1495. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31977835/
- Ostfeld, I., & Hoffman, J. R. (2023). The impact of β-alanine supplementation on efficiency, cognitive perform and resiliency in troopers. Vitamins, 15(4), 1039. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839397/
- Mori, Okay., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, Okay., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2008). Enhancing results of the mushroom yamabushitake (hericium erinaceus) on gentle cognitive impairment: A double‐blind placebo‐managed scientific trial. Phytotherapy Analysis, 23(3), 367–372. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18844328/
- Solomon, T. M., Leech, J., deBros, G. B., Murphy, C. A., Budson, A. E., Vassey, E. A., & Solomon, P. R. (2016). A randomized, double‐blind, placebo managed, parallel group, Efficacy Examine of Alpha Mind® administered orally. Human Psychopharmacology: Scientific and Experimental, 31(2), 135–143. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26876224/
- Kasti, A., Nikolaki, M., Synodinou, Okay., Katsas, Okay., Petsis, Okay., Lambrinou, S., Pyrousis, I., & Triantafyllou, Okay. (2022). The results of stevia consumption on intestine micro organism: Pal or foe? Microorganisms, 10(4), 744. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9028423/