4 Best Pre-Workouts With Testosterone Boosters in 2023

Author: Oleksandr Maksymenko (Certified Sports Nutritionist, MSc)

No wonder why so many are looking for the best pre workout with testosterone booster. Almost every man at some point in life has wanted to increase testosterone levels to accelerate muscle and strength growth. From this review, you will learn which nutrients and other pre-workout components affect testosterone synthesis and get a list of testosterone boosting pre workout.

 In a hurry? 

In a hurry?

In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the BULK by Transparent Labs.


First place went to test boosting pre workout BULK from the brand Transparent Labs. It is a well-balanced product with a good dosage of caffeine, the needed dosage and ratio of citrulline malate, as well as betaine.

Best Pre Workout With Testosterone Boosters

Top 4 Best Pre-Workouts With Testosterone Boosters Reviewed

  1. BULK by Transparent Labs – Top Pick
  2. Optimum Nutrition Pre Advanced – Best High-Stim Option
  3. ProSupps Hyde – Best Balanced Option
  4. Gold Standard Pre-Workout – Budget Pick

ProductTotalStimulationIngredients BreakdownNutrition Label
Transparency
TasteValue for Money
Transparent Labs49910101010
Optimum Nutrition Pre-Advanced4810109.59.59
ProSupps47.59.59.59.59.59.5
Optimum Nutrition Pre-Workout4799109.59.5

1. BULK by Transparent Labs – Top Pick

BULK by Transparent Labs

  • Best For: Overall Athletic Performance, Muscular Endurance, Reducing Fatigue
  • Flavors: Strawberry Kiwi, Piña Colada, Blue Raspberry, Black Cherry, Peach Mango, Tropical Punch, Sour Grape
  • Caffeine: 200 mg
  • Special Ingredients: Zinc, Beta-Alanine, Citrulline Malate, Betaine, Theanine
  • Package Information: 30 servings per package
  • Serving: 1 scoop (~20.5-21 g)
  • Company Founded: 2015
  • Recommended By Athletes: Paul Sklar, Hafþór Júlíus Björnsso, Tanner Shuck

First place went to test boosting pre workout BULK from the brand Transparent Labs. It is a well-balanced product with a good dosage of caffeine, the needed dosage and ratio of citrulline malate, as well as betaine. In addition to these key components, this product also contains zinc, and its deficiency may lead to impaired testosterone synthesis. This product is also certified from the recognized third party Informed Choice.

Performing Bulk by TL

Among the relative disadvantages is one of the highest single doses of beta-alanine on the market, which dramatically increases the chances of tingling.

49Expert Score

It is a well-balanced product with a good dosage of caffeine, the needed dosage and ratio of citrulline malate, as well as betaine.

Stimulation:
9
Ingredients Breakdown:
10
Nutrition Label Transparency:
10
Taste:
10
Value for Money:
10

Positives:

  • A well-formulated product with a moderately high dosage of caffeine

  • Contains citrulline malate and betaine in the required single dosages

  • Contains zinc

  • Informed Choice certified

  • Best price / pre-workout formula ratio in this review

Could be better:

  • A very high single dose of beta-alanine

2. Optimum Nutrition Pre Advanced – Best High-Stim Option

Pre Advanced

  • Best For: Overall Athletic Performance, Muscular Endurance, Reducing Fatigue
  • Flavors: Berry Blast, Raspberry Lime Mojito, Strawberry Mango Daiquiri
  • Caffeine: 300 mg
  • Special Ingredients: Vitamin D, Magnesium, Creatine Monohydrate, Beta-Alanine, Citrulline
  • Package Information: 20 servings per package
  • Serving: 1 scoop (~20 g)
  • Company Founded: 1986
  • Recommended By Athletes: Cody Allen, Clay Harbor

The second position was taken by Pre Advanced from the well-known brand Optimum Nutrition. This product contains 300 mg of caffeine, so it provides a very strong stimulating effect. It can work well for athletes with experience taking pre-workouts with a moderate to high caffeine dosage and good caffeine tolerance. However, it is not suitable for beginners and athletes with high sensitivity to caffeine.

Performing Pre Advanced

Pre Advanest also includes 6 g of citrulline, 3.2 g of beta-alanine, 5 g of creatine monohydrate and 1.2 creatine nitrate. We included Pre-Advanced in our testosterone booster pre workout supplement because it contains vitamin D and magnesium, which are involved in maintaining a healthy level of testosterone.

48Expert Score

Pre Advanest also includes 6 g of citrulline, 3.2 g of beta-alanine, 5 g of creatine monohydrate and 1.2 creatine nitrate.

Stimulation:
10
Ingredients Breakdown:
10
Nutrition Label Transparency:
9.5
Taste:
9.5
Value for Money:
9

Positives:

  • Good overall formula from reputable brand

  • The strongest stimulating effect in this pre workout with test booster rating

  • Contains vitamin D and magnesium

Could be better:

  • Definitely not for beginners (due to the high dose of caffeine)

  • Contains magnesium in the oxide form, which is less bioavailable than other forms

  • High risk of tingling due to high dose of beta-alanine

3. ProSupps Hyde – Best Balanced Option

ProSupps Hyde

  • Best For: Overall Athletic Performance, Muscular Endurance, Reducing Fatigue
  • Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Watermelon, Fruit Punch, Tiger’s Blood
  • Caffeine: 250 mg
  • Special Ingredients: Zinc, Creatine Monohydrate, Beta-Alanine, Citrulline
  • Package Information: 30 servings per package
  • Serving: 1 scoop (~9.75 g)
  • Company Founded: 2012
  • Recommended By Athletes: Soniya Singh Khatri, DJ Harris

The next pre workout supplement with testosterone booster is HYDE. It contains 250 mg of caffeine, 1.25 g of creatine monohydrate, 2.5 g of beta-alanine and 3 g of citrulline per serving. At just $1 per serving, this is the most budget-friendly option in this review.

Performing ProSupps Hyde

Photo by @prosupps

It is a very balanced product, a serving of which also contains 15 mg of zinc in the form of bisglycinate, which has good bioavailability.

47.5Expert Score

It contains 250 mg of caffeine, 1.25 g of creatine monohydrate, 2.5 g of beta-alanine and 3 g of citrulline per serving.

Stimulation:
9.5
Ingredients Breakdown:
9.5
Nutrition Label Transparency:
9.5
Taste:
9.5
Value for Money:
9.5

Positives:

  • High stimulating effect

  • A very balanced pre-workout formula

  • Contains 15 mg of zinc

  • Budget-friendly

Could be better:

  • Not for beginners (due to high caffeine dosage)

  • Still a high single dose of beta-alanine

4. Gold Standard Pre-Workout – Budget Pick

Gold Standard Pre-Workout

  • Best For: Overall Athletic Performance, Muscular Endurance, Reducing Fatigue
  • Flavors: Blueberry Lemonade, Fruit Punch, Green Apple, Watermelon Candy
  • Caffeine: 175 mg
  • Special Ingredients: Vitamin D, Citrus Bioflavonoids, Creatine Monohydrate, Beta-Alanine
  • Package Information: 20 servings per package
  • Serving: 1 scoop (~10 g)
  • Company Founded: 1986
  • Recommended By Athletes: Evan Johnson, Chandler Smith

Gold Standard Pre-Workout is another product from the brand that we have already considered above. In this pre-workout, you will find the lowest dosage of caffeine among the products in this ranking, as well as a lower single dose of beta-alanine, which can be considered as an advantage. A serving also contains 3 g of creatine.

At the same time, this product contains a very low dose of citrulline to expect additional effects. On the other hand, this testosterone boosting pre workout contains vitamin D as well as a complex of bioflavonoids. Flavonoids can provide potential anti-aromatase activity, and due to this can have a positive effect on testosterone levels.

Given that the cost of a serving is less than $1, this is a product that definitely deserves attention.

47Expert Score

In this pre-workout, you will find the lowest dosage of caffeine among the products in this ranking, as well as a lower single dose of beta-alanine, which can be considered as an advantage.

Stimulation:
9
Ingredients Breakdown:
9
Nutrition Label Transparency:
10
Taste:
9.5
Value for Money:
9.5

Positives:

  • Better suited for beginners and intermediate athletes due to the relatively low dosage of caffeine

  • Contains vitamin D and a complex of bioflavonoids to support testosterone levels

  • Informed Choice certified 

  • The lowest cost per serving in this ranking

Could be better:

  • Ridiculously low citrulline dosage

  • The stimulating effect may not be enough for experienced users of high-caffeine pre-workouts

Does pre-workout increase testosterone?

The effect of pre-workouts on testosterone levels has not been studied. Moreover, claims of testosterone-boosting supplements do not have scientific support. The general scientific consensus on this issue does not support taking dietary supplements that claim to have testosterone-boosting properties, at least for healthy young people without hypogonadism. And even if you really have a problem with testosterone levels that have fallen below a healthy range, or if you have erectile dysfunction, you need to see a doctor.

So what do I mean by testosterone booster pre workout, and how did I choose specific products for this review?

lifting without weight

What components of pre-workouts can have a positive effect on testosterone levels?

Since there are several micronutrients that play an important role in the synthesis and maintenance of healthy testosterone levels, I have selected only pre-workouts that contain these nutrients. Deficiency of these micronutrients can negatively affect testosterone levels. I will briefly consider each of them.

1. Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays an important role in testosterone production. Men with a deficiency of this vitamin may have lower testosterone levels. I have selected 2 products that contain vitamin D for this pre workout with test booster review.

2. Zinc

Zinc deficiency correlates with lower testosterone levels, so I included 2 products with zinc in this review.

3. Magnesium

Magnesium can affect testosterone levels by decreasing oxidative stress, a high level of which can negatively affect testosterone levels. Also, this mineral is able to potentially increase the bioavailability of testosterone.

Unfortunately, only one product in this review contains magnesium, albeit in the oxide form, which is not the most bioavailable. On the other hand, the same product contains vitamin D.

4. Other components

Other components found in some pre-workouts that can help maintain testosterone levels include flavonoids and ashwagandha.

Flavonoids are more often found in pre-workouts. These are phytochemicals that are widely found in fruits and vegetables. It is assumed that they are able to inhibit the activity of the aromatase enzyme, which converts testosterone into estradiol, and thus can indirectly affect testosterone levels. Aromatase inhibitors are considered as a tool to increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone.

Ashwagandha is rarely found in pre-workouts, although it does show potential testosterone-boosting effects.

athlete exercising with dumbbell

How to choose the best pre-workout with testosterone booster?

Do not forget that the key task of pre-workouts is to give you an energy boost, improve muscle endurance and delay the onset of fatigue. And the presence of additional micronutrients that contribute to the maintenance of testosterone levels can only be considered as a bonus. When choosing a pre-workout, pay attention to the factors discussed below.

1. Caffeine content

Since caffeine is the key component of the pre-workout, pay attention to its dosage and your individual sensitivity. If you have never used this type of supplement before, it is best to start with a dosage of 100-150 mg of caffeine per serving. If you are an athlete with experience taking pre-workouts and have a good tolerance for caffeine, you can choose a product with a higher dosage.

You should also know that the safe daily dose of caffeine for healthy adults is 400 mg. So consider the total amount of caffeine you're getting from beverages, foods, and pre-workouts.

2. Other performance-enhancing ingredients

Citrulline and betaine stand out among additional pre-workout components with ergogenic potential. Citrulline should contain at least 3 g per serving, while citrulline malate should contain at least 6 g. To obtain the potential effects of betaine, it is better that a single dose is 2.5 g.

At the same time, many pre-workouts include creatine and beta-alanine. These components have the most scientific support along with caffeine. However, they are not mandatory components of pre-workouts, because unlike caffeine, citrulline and betaine, they do not have acute effects.

3. Additional ingredients

In order to at least somehow justify the title of testosterone boosting pre workout, pay attention to the presence of micronutrients that have already been considered - vitamin D, zinc and magnesium.

Flavonoids and ashwagandha can be considered as additional bonus elements. However, it is worth considering that ashwagandha can cause adverse reactions and may even be contraindicated for some people, so you need to be careful with it.

4. Third party testing

It is also best to choose products from well-known brands that have also been tested by an independent third party for the absence of prohibited substances and contaminants. For example, the first and last places of this rating have certification from Informed Choice.

Deadlifting in the gym

What lifestyle habits help keep testosterone in a healthy range?

When we talk about maintaining testosterone levels in a healthy physiological range, there are key lifestyle factors to keep in mind:

  • Engage in strength training, avoiding overtraining,
  • Follow a high-quality diet, with an emphasis on vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, as well as polyphenols,
  • Control your weight and body fat percentage, staying in a healthy fitness or athletic range. Both an excess of fat mass in the body and a too low percentage of body fat have a negative effect on testosterone,
  • Get at least 7 hours of sleep,
  • Don't forget about stress management.

FAQ

Does zinc increase testosterone?

A systematic review from 2023 states that zinc supplementation improves testosterone levels. However, in the absence of a zinc deficiency, its intake in the form of a supplement may not be reflected in the level of testosterone.

Are testosterone boosters safe?

It is impossible to generalize the safety profile of so-called testosterone boosters as a group of supplements, because each of them must be considered separately for each individual. For example, Ashwagandha has contraindications and may interact with medications. It can also cause vomiting, stomach upset and other unpleasant symptoms.

If you have low testosterone, the best solution is to consult a physician.

Conclusion

The scientific consensus doesn't support the use of so-called “testosterone boosters”, so I don't recommend getting your hopes up. On the other hand, if pre-workout contains vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium, this can be seen as an added bonus to help maintain healthy testosterone levels. And don't forget about the key lifestyle factors! As for the best pre workout with testosterone booster, BULK from Transparent Labs took first place in this rating.

Also read:

References:

  • L. Te, J. Liu et al., Correlation between serum zinc and testosterone: A systematic review, J Trace Elem Med Biol, 2023 Mar; 76:127124,
  • Magnesium, Fact Sheet for Health Professionals, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS); https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/#h7 (accessed August 2023),
  • Peggy G., D. Bour et al., A bioavailability study comparing two oral formulations containing zinc (Zn bis-glycinate vs. Zn gluconate) after a single administration to twelve healthy female volunteers, Int J Vitam Nutr Res, 2007 Jul;77(4):243-8,
  • Amit Zamir, Tavor Ben-Zeev, Jay R. Hoffman, Manipulation of Dietary Intake on Changes in Circulating Testosterone Concentrations, Nutrients. 2021 Oct; 13(10): 3375,
  • C. G. Clemesha, H. Thaker, M. K. Samplaski, ‘Testosterone Boosting’ Supplements Composition and Claims Are not Supported by the Academic Literature, World J Mens Health. 2020 Jan; 38(1): 115–122,
  • How Can You Increase Testosterone Naturally, Examine, https://examine.com/articles/increase-testosterone-naturally/ (accessed August 2023),
  • M. Wrzosek, J. Woźniak, D. Włodarek, The causes of adverse changes of testosterone levels in men, Expert Review of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 15, 2020 - Issue 5,
  • Willem de Ronde, Frank H de Jong, Aromatase inhibitors in men: effects and therapeutic options, Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2011; 9: 93,
  • S. J Smith, A.L. Loprest et al., Examining the Effects of Herbs on Testosterone Concentrations in Men: A Systematic Review, Adv Nutr. 2021 May; 12(3): 744–765,
  • J. L. Temple, C. Bernard et al., The Safety of Ingested Caffeine: A Comprehensive Review, Front Psychiatry. 2017; 8: 80,
  • Ismaeel Ahmed, Effects of Betaine Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Power: A Systematic Review, Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 31(8):p 2338-2346, August 2017.

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With over 20 years in Olympic Weightlifting, our team does its best to provide the audience with ultimate support and meet the needs and requirements of advanced athletes and professional lifters, as well as people who strive to open new opportunities and develop their physical capabilities with us.

All products we select are primarily approved and tested by the Olympic Weightlifting Champion Oleksii Torokhtiy. Under his guidance, we provide honest and reasonable assessments of the products we review by checking their characteristics, packaging, design, comfort and durability features, and general product rating. We select products from only high-quality and trusted sports brands, thus vouching for their quality.

The product testing process is described in more detail here
BULK by Transparent Labs

Oleksandr Maksymenko

Sports Nutritionist, MSc

Experience: 7 years

Specializing in: Weight management, Fitness / Sports nutrition

Oleksandr is a professional fitness nutritionist, certified by FPA (Fitness Professional Association). Oleksandr adheres to the principles of evidence-based dietetics and instills in his clients a healthy relationship with food - without strict prohibitions on favorite foods and regular disruptions. His main task – not only get a result for you, but also maintain it for many years, enjoying tasty and delicious food.


If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com

This article was written by our qualified author and proofread by expert with proven experience. When writing the article we use our expertise and data from open sources with strong reputation, scientific or medical based. The list of references is provided at the end of the article.


Our team of authors and experts includes professional athletes (Olympians, winners of European and World titles) PhD in Sport Science, certified coaches, sports nutritionists, CSCP, physiotherapists and other. Read more about the team here, and more about how we test here.

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