Are you looking for the best pre-workout supplements for running?
We’ve all been there. You have a big race coming up and you want to make sure you give yourself the best chance of success. That’s why it’s important to choose the right pre-workout for your individual needs. Check out our list of the 5 best pre-workout for running and find the one that’s perfect for you!
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, these pre-workouts will give you the energy and strength you need to hit the pavement.
So what are you waiting for? Read on to discover which pre-workout supplements are right for you!
How we choose our WOW products
You want to find the best pre-workout drink mixes or powders for running, but there are so many products and reviews that it's hard to know where to start.
It can be tough to know which pre-workout drink or powder is right for you since they all promise different results. And with so many options on the market, it can be hard to figure out which one is worth your time and money.
We have read through thousands of reviews on Amazon to find the best pre-workouts for running. Our list includes both powder and capsule-based supplements, so you can find the perfect product for your needs.
6AM RUN Marathon Pre Workout
Best for Long-Distance
Why We Are “Wow-ed” By It
Looking for a pre-workout that will help you run your best marathon ever? Look no further than 6AM RUN Marathon! Their high-energy, all-natural formula is designed to help you go the distance, without any jitters or crashes.
6AM RUN is the perfect pre-workout for distance runners and endurance athletes. It contains essential amino acids and energy-boosting ingredients that will help you power through your training runs and race day. And because their formula is all-natural and free of artificial stimulants, you can be sure you're getting a safe and effective product with no artificial sweeteners or artificial flavors.
So if you're looking for a pre-workout that will help you cross the finish line first, pick up a bottle of 6AM RUN specially formulated for endurance events.
What “Wow Factors” You Should Know About
Their premium ingredients are sourced naturally and made in the USA, and they are so confident in their product that they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Their unique formula is perfect for runners of all levels, providing sustained energy and endurance without the jitters that come with too much caffeine found in most other pre-workout powders.
And because it's crash-free, you can take it before work, school, or any other activity without worrying about feeling awful later. This is not one of your normal energy drinks. It is a specially formulated, pre-workout for running and contains an important amino acid blend for that extra boost and mental focus.
6AM RUN Sprint Pre Workout
Best for Short Sprints
Why We Are “Wow-ed” By It
Looking for a pre-workout supplement that will give you an instant energy boost? Look no further than the 6AM RUN Sprint!
Formulated with all-natural ingredients, this high-energy conditioning formula is perfect for cardio and focus. Plus, it's keto and vegan friendly! Their pre-workout for running contains their proprietary blends for optimal body-balanced health benefits to maximize every performance session.
Simply mix with water and drink before your workout for an extra edge. Choose from delicious Lemonade or Fruit Punch flavors.
What “Wow Factors” You Should Know About
This premium product is specifically designed to enhance energy, focus, power, and stamina in runners, helping them to reach their full potential.
The best thing about 6AM Run's pre-run energy powder is that it doesn't come with any of the unwanted side effects such as crash, bloating, cramps, or bulk that are common side effects of other pre-workouts. To maximize your run or exercise session without artificial sweeteners and increase your energy levels, 6 AM Run is the pre-workout drink for you.
Additionally, it is 100% guaranteed to reduce Half and Full Marathon run times or your money back! Now that is a guarantee to go to the bank with!
Tailwind Nutrition Endurance Fuel
Best Drink Mix Formula
Why We Are “Wow-ed” By It
Looking for a delicious, all-in-one exercise drink to keep you going during your workout or race? Look no further than Tailwind Nutrition Endurance Fuel!
This complete endurance pre-workout drink mix comes in four delicious non-caffeinated flavors: Mandarin Orange, Berry, Lemon, and Unflavored. Multiple flavors ensure that there is something here for everyone.
It provides everything you need to stay hydrated and fueled during your activity, without any soy, dairy, or gluten. And best of all, it's vegan-friendly!
What “Wow Factors” You Should Know About
Their unique formula is made with clean ingredients that your gut is able to absorb easily, helping to prevent those dreaded "gut bombs" that can ruin your workout or race.
Additionally, our endurance drink mix is vegan, non-GMO, and free of gluten, soy, and dairy, making it compatible with a variety of diets. They know that pre-workout formulas are key to muscular endurance and increased blood circulation.
And because they know that taste is important too, their Endurance Fuel has no aftertaste and dissolves clear with water for a refreshing experience that won't leave any residue in your bottle.
So whether you're training for a marathon or just trying to stay hydrated during your next workout, pick up a bag of Tailwind Nutrition Endurance Fuel!
UCAN Sugar-Free Pre Workout Powder
Best for Keto Dieters
Why We Are “Wow-ed” By It
Introducing UCAN Sugar-Free Pre Workout Powder! This keto-friendly powder is perfect for anyone looking for a clean, sustainably-sourced energy source that won't leave them feeling crashed and jittery.
Their unique SuperStarch formula provides long-lasting energy with no sugar spikes or crashes, making it the perfect pre or post-workout drink for both men and women.
Plus, their all-natural Cran-Raz flavor is delicious and refreshing - you'll look forward to your next workout just so you can have another serving!
Mixes easily with water or your favorite beverage, and comes in a convenient 30-serving container.
What “Wow Factors” You Should Know About
UCAN is the preferred choice of pros for its plant-based energy that delivers consistent, long-lasting energy for daily use or athletic performance.
This healthy, efficient, and calorie-free pre-workout is also gluten-free, keto-friendly, soy-free, dairy-free, caffeine-free, and vegan.
It was originally developed for a child with a rare metabolic disease and has been proven in independent clinical trials to help all athletes reach their personal best.
2BEFORE Plant-Based Caffeine Free Pre Workout
Best Vegan Formula
Why We Are “Wow-ed” By It
Start your workout routine off on the right foot with 2BEFORE Plant-Based Caffeine Free Pre Workout.
This pre-workout supplement is designed to improve cardio endurance and prepare your body for post-workout recovery.
Made with Adaptive New Zealand blackcurrants, this all-in-one pre workout supplement provides the benefits you need to perform at your best.
Whether you're a runner, cyclist, or just looking to improve your overall fitness, 2BEFORE Plant Based Caffeine Free Pre Workout can help you take your workouts to the next level.
What “Wow Factors” You Should Know About
If you're looking for a clean, vegan pre-workout that's certified by Informed Sport and tested for banned substances, 2BEFORE is the perfect choice.
Their powder is gluten-free and keto-friendly, with only 4.5g of sugar from non-GMO berry juice.
And because it's made from Adaptive blackcurrant berry juice dried onto maltodextrin, it's lightly sweetened with monk fruit and free of added colors, preservatives, or stimulants.
But don't let its simple ingredients fool you – this powerful berry provides an effective dose of 120mg anthocyanins for intense color, plus multiple benefits including endurance, immunity, blood flow, and recovery.
Our “WOW Factor” Buyer’s Guide
Most runners don't know what a pre-workout is or how it can help them.
A lot of runners don't realize that they're not getting the most out of their runs. They think that running hard for an hour is all they need to do, but this isn't always the case.
Pre-workouts can help you get more out of your runs by increasing your energy and endurance, helping you focus better, and preventing muscle fatigue.
Here are the most frequently asked question about pre-workouts for running and our answers to them.
Are pre-workouts good for running?
A great pre-workout should contain caffeine, beta-alanine, and arginine. Caffeine enhances alertness and focus, beta-alanine helps reduce fatigue, and arginine boosts nitric oxide production which can improve blood flow.
Should I take a pre-workout before a 5k?
If you're simply looking to finish the race, then you might not need a pre-workout; but if you're aiming for a personal best, a pre-workout can definitely help.
Here's a more detailed breakdown: if your main goal is to improve your endurance, then pre-workout probably won't do much for you.
Pre-workout is designed to give you a boost of energy so you can push yourself harder in the gym - but if you're already pushing yourself as hard as you can during your runs, then there's not much room for improvement.
That said if you find that you're running out of energy before the end of your runs, or if you're struggling to focus, then pre-workout can help.
What's the best time to take a pre-workout?
The best time to take a pre-workout is about 30 minutes before your run. This will give the ingredients enough time to be absorbed into your system so you can reap the benefits during your run.
How long does a pre-workout last?
The effects of a pre-workout will usually last for about four hours. So if you're planning on running first thing in the morning, you'll want to take your pre-workout the night before.
What is a good pre-workout for cardio?
There isn't really any one "good" pre-workout for cardio, because everyone's body is different and will respond differently to different supplements.
However, a good pre-workout for cardio should generally include some kind of caffeine or stimulant to help increase energy and endurance, as well as some type of carbohydrate source to help provide sustained energy throughout the workout.
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are also often recommended as a good pre-workout supplement for cardio since they can help reduce muscle fatigue and improve overall performance.
Is creatine good for running?
Yes, creatine can be beneficial for runners.
Creatine is a compound that helps to produce energy in the cells, and it can help to increase power and performance during running.
Some studies have shown that creatine can improve running economy and time to exhaustion, so it may be helpful for runners who are trying to improve their endurance or race times.
However, not all studies have shown positive effects of creatine on running performance, so it's important to do your own research and see if it's something that could work for you.
If you decide to take creatine, be sure to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it over time, as too much creatine can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Can I use pre-workout for cardio?
Yes, you can use pre-workout for cardio. In fact, many people do. However, it's important to note that not all pre-workouts are created equal. Some are designed specifically for cardio exercises, while others are meant for weightlifting or other forms of strength training.
Be sure to read the label carefully to determine whether the pre-workout you're considering is appropriate for your intended activity.
And if you're new to pre-workouts, start with a lower dose and work your way up gradually to find the right amount for you.
Can pre-workout burn fat?
There are a lot of misconceptions out there about pre-workout supplements and their ability to help with fat loss. The truth is, while these supplements can certainly give you a boost of energy to help you push through your workouts, they won't directly cause you to lose fat.
There are some ingredients in pre-workout that can indirectly contribute to fat loss though. For example, caffeine is a common ingredient and it has been shown to increase the body's metabolism and promote lipolysis (fat burning). Other ingredients such as green tea extract and omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to boost metabolism and promote fat burning.
While taking a pre-workout supplement won't directly cause you to lose fat, it can certainly help you to exercise more effectively, which can indirectly lead to fat loss.
Is creatine good for cardio?
There is a lot of debate on whether or not creatine is good for cardio. Some people say that it's great for increasing energy and stamina, while others claim that it can cause heart arrhythmias. The jury is still out on this one, but there are some things to consider if you're thinking about taking creatine.
First, let's look at the benefits of creatine. Creatine has been shown to increase energy production in the body, which can lead to improved performance during cardio workouts.
It can also help to improve stamina and endurance, which can be helpful for longer cardiovascular sessions.
In addition, creatine has been associated with increased muscle mass and strength, which could theoretically help to support the cardiovascular system.
Now, let's look at the potential risks of taking creatine. Some people claim that creatine can cause heart arrhythmias, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
However, there is some evidence to suggest that creatine can increase blood pressure, so if you have hypertension or are at risk for it, you should use caution when taking creatine.
Overall, the jury is still out on whether or not creatine is good for cardio. If you're considering taking it, be sure to talk to your doctor first and make sure it's safe for you.
Should you take pre-workout on an empty stomach?
It depends on your goals and how your body reacts to caffeine. Generally speaking, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can make you more alert and improve your cognitive function. Caffeine also blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that makes you feel sleepy.
However, if you're looking to improve your athletic performance, you may want to consider taking a pre-workout on an empty stomach. The amino acids in pre-workout can help give you a boost of energy, while the caffeine can help increase your stamina and endurance. Just be sure to listen to your body and see how it reacts before making this a regular habit.
Are pre-workouts worth it?
There is a lot of debate surrounding pre-workouts and whether or not they are actually effective. Some people swear by them, while others find that they don't really notice a difference when using them. There is no definitive answer, as it really depends on the individual.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you're considering taking a pre-workout supplement.
First, pre-workouts often contain caffeine and other stimulants, so if you're sensitive to those substances, you may want to avoid them.
Additionally, pre-workouts can sometimes cause side effects like jitters or energy crashes after your workout. If you notice any negative effects after taking a pre-workout, discontinue use and speak to your doctor.
Overall, pre-workouts can be helpful for some people, but they're not right for everyone. If you're thinking about taking one, be sure to do your research and talk to your doctor first.
Should I take a pre-workout before every workout?
Pre-workout supplements are meant to give you energy and focus for your workout. For some people, taking a pre-workout every time may be necessary, but for others, it may not be necessary. Experiment with different pre-workouts and find the one that works best for you and your goals.
How can I boost my energy before a run?
Before a run, it's important to give your body the sustenance it needs in order to perform at its best. Try eating a light snack that combines both carbohydrates and protein about an hour before running.
Some good examples of pre-run snacks include banana with peanut butter, whole-grain toast with turkey, or yogurt with fruit.
In addition to fueling your body properly, it's also helpful to do some light stretching or yoga before running in order to loosen up your muscles and get your blood flowing.
And finally, make sure you drink plenty of water before and during your run in order to stay hydrated.
Is BCAA good for runners?
There is some evidence that BCAA supplementation can improve endurance performance in runners. A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that BCAA supplementation improved time to exhaustion, running economy, and markers of muscle damage. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
What supplements to take to run faster?
There's no single answer to this question - it depends on your individual physiology and what you're trying to achieve.
However, there are a few key supplements that can help you run faster, whether you're trying to improve your sprint speed or your endurance.
Creatine is perhaps the most well-studied supplement for improving athletic performance, and it's been shown to be effective for running. It works by increasing ATP production in your muscles, giving you more energy for explosive movements like sprinting. If you're looking to boost your short-term speed, Creatine is a great option.
Beta-Alanine is another excellent choice for runners, especially if you're aiming to improve your endurance. It has been shown to improve VO₂ max - a measure of your body's oxygen utilization during exercise. This means that it can help you run longer and harder before becoming fatigued.
Caffeine is a popular choice for runners, as it can improve both short-term speed and endurance. Caffeine works by stimulating the central nervous system, giving you a boost of energy that can help you push through fatigue.
If you're looking for an all-in-one supplement to improve your running performance, consider a product that contains all three of these key ingredients.
No matter what supplements you choose, be sure to listen to your body and don't overdo it. Supplements are meant to enhance your training, not replace it. And as always, consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before starting any supplement regimen.
What is better fat burner or pre-workout?
There is no easy answer to this question, as it depends on a variety of factors including your specific goals and diet.
Generally speaking, fat burners can be helpful for weight loss or fat burning by increasing the body's metabolic rate, while pre-workouts can help to improve energy and performance levels during a workout.
However, it is important to consult with a doctor or nutritionist before starting any new supplement regimen in order to ensure safety and efficacy.
How can I lose my stomach fat?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to lose stomach fat will vary depending on your individual circumstances and goals. However, there are some general tips and strategies that can help you slim down your stomach.
For starters, you'll want to focus on improving your diet. Eating more whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can help you reach your goal weight. Meanwhile, cutting back on refined carbs and sugary drinks can also help reduce belly fat.
In addition to making dietary changes, you'll also need to get moving if you want to lose stomach fat. Cardio activities like walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming can help burn calories and promote fat loss. Strength training is also important, as it can help tone your stomach muscles and give you a more defined midsection.
Our Best Advice
Looking for the best pre-workouts for running? We’ve spent dozens of hours reading thousands of reviews on Amazon from verified customers to find the perfect pre-workout for your needs. Here are a few things to remember before you make your final choice.
First, you have to decide whether you are looking for a pre-workout drink or other supplements for the purpose of gaining energy with intense training (like sprints and HIIT) or endurance with steady-state training (like distance running and marathons).
Secondly, are you looking to build muscle and increase energy levels with an eye on muscle endurance and muscle recovery or more about muscle gain and muscle growth? Runners tend to focus only on endurance and not the growth of their lean muscle mass and a balance between cardio and strength training is always advised.
Thirdly, are you committed to the energy boost that comes from a high dose of caffeine anhydrous or are you looking for a caffeine-free option?
In addition, are you interested in a sugar-free, keto-friendly (or perhaps vegan) alternative? These options may have to do with other things than the real effects of the pre-workout on your performance (especially the caffeine content).
Each of these three decisions will affect which way you go in determining the right pre-workout supplement for your needs. But there are other considerations as well.
Because the formulation of the pre-workout is key to finding the right one for your needs and goals, you probably should know something about branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) and their effects on muscle recovery.
Another amino acid to keep an eye on is beta-alanine and its ability to promote increased blood flow to prevent muscle fatigue and muscle breakdown. Also, the effects on your fat stores and active tissues (as per transparent labs) should also be taken into consideration.
In addition, knowing something about how all of this affects your perceived effort in your workout performance is interesting as many people report a tingling sensation when taking high doses of some pre-workout drinks.
Other ingredients such as green tea, vitamin c (on the positive side), and artificial flavors (on the negative side) are also part of these proprietary blends. A naturally sweetened option is always my preference.
Whether you want an energy boost, to build muscle or simply to fight off fatigue, there are many options for you to consider. Here is our take on the best choice for runners and you may be surprised!
Our #1 WOW Choice (and why)
The Best Pre Workout Supplement for YOU
Our No. #1 WOW Choice is a double Wowzzzer because it includes both 6AM RUN Sprint and 6AM RUN Marathon Pre Workout Powder for obvious reasons.
This is a major variable affecting which formula you want to use in your own running routine. And both of these "sister" products are high-quality, effective options but for two different types of runners.
Take a look again at the product descriptions above and you will see what I mean when I say that they stand heads and shoulders above the rest. We hope you agree.
And don't forget to click the button below the images to check the availability and price for your favorite product since these popular products are often out of stock. But don't worry, you can always check back in again later to see if they are ready to buy. Always remember to do today what is easily put off for tomorrow!
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