Sometimes, greens powders aren’t all…green. Brickhouse Nutrition’s Field of Greens — in addition to the leafy goodness offered by the best greens powders — also contains a unique blend of reds (a fruit supplement), prebiotics and probiotics (which both support digestion and gastrointestinal health), and a blend specifically designed to boost your metabolism. 

Here at BarBend, we’ve put our supplement testing methodology to determine the goods, bads, and in-betweens of over 40 greens powders, including Field of Greens. We think this supp offers a unique twist on typical greens powders, even though our team of fitness and nutrition experts — like me, a certified nutrition coach — are disappointed that it’s not third-party tested. Read on for our full Field of Greens review.

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Main Takeaways

The 5-in-1 formula of Field of Greens combines greens, reds, prebiotics, probiotics, and a metabolic boost.

Field of Greens contains 100% USDA organic freeze-dried fruits and veggies. 

Because of the added fruits, the taste of Field of Greens is naturally sweeter than most greens powders.

Field of Greens Specs

Brickhouse Nutrition is a relatively new supplement company created in 2016 by two brothers. They used their own experience in sports nutrition to create high-quality supplements. Field of Greens is Brickhouse Nutrition’s superfood powder which consists of a 5-in-1 blend of greens, reds, prebiotics, probiotics, and a metabolism boost all in one. Brickhouse Nutrition claims their superfood powder is packed with organic ingredients that provide support for your digestion, metabolism, immunity, and inflammation. 

The nice thing about this green powder is that the inclusion of a reds blend makes the overall taste less grassy green and more green apple fruity. One of our testers is thrilled by this, noting: “The taste was surprisingly sweet. I was expecting a bitter or earthy taste, but it was almost fruity instead.” 

Field of Greens’s formula is a proprietary blend of real, freeze-dried fruits and veggies. This means it’s filled with vitamins and nutrients like iron, potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin C which all come straight from the fruits and veggies. 

[Related: Best Fruit and Vegetable Supplements]

However, all of the ingredients are proprietary blends, which is a big source of frustration for me as a certified nutrition coach. Proprietary blends mean you can’t tell how much of which ingredients you are actually getting in each serving. I’d prefer a lot more transparency in my supplements, especially because Field of Greens isn’t third-party tested.

Field of Greens

There are definitely cheaper greens powder options out there and without the exact amount of each ingredient, we can’t be sure if the price of Field of Greens is worth the value you’re getting. But it is important to note that with only 10 calories and a serving size of 10 grams, one serving of this greens blend won’t even make a dent in your daily calorie expenditure. 

I do like the versatility here, though, because this product offers a lot of “extra” features that other greens powders just don’t typically have. Field of Greens comes in a “Raw” option that doesn’t include stevia; “Charged,” which contains caffeine; and, “Insight,” a cognitive blend that contains a proprietary blend of super mushrooms. Unfortunately, “Charged” doesn’t list the amount of caffeine in each serving, which can be dangerous. Consuming over 300 to 400 milligrams of caffeine in a day can cause unwanted side effects like decreased quality of sleep, stomach discomfort, and heart issues. 

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Field of Greens

Not every supplement is right for each individual. Here at BarBend, we aim to provide you with the information you need to decide if each supplement fits your needs. To make it easier, we’ve made a short and sweet list to help you determine if Field of Greens is right for you.

Recommended for:

Those who struggle to get their daily dose of vegetables 

Anyone looking to add more antioxidants to their diet

Individuals wanting a green, red, and prebiotic, probiotic, and metabolism-boosting combo — with the option to add caffeine or a mushroom blend

Not Recommended for:

Those who already consume enough fruit and veggies in a day and/or take multivitamins

People who prefer their supplements to be third-party tested and not include proprietary blends

Individuals that are extremely sensitive to caffeine, as it contains an unspecified amount of green tea extract

Our Experience Using Field of Greens

Upon first glance at the Field of Greens canisters, our testers already have a lot to say. One of our expert testers notes, “The container is clear, so you can see the green powders in the bottle.” As a certified nutrition coach myself, I also like that you can see the coloring of powder from the outside before using it. It’s almost like they are letting you know ahead of time “Hey, this greens powder doesn’t have all these unnecessary frills and fillers.” 

Pouring a scoop of Field of Greens

The same expert tester mentioned the branding, saying, “I like the holographic label. There is a lot of information on the label which is really helpful and transparent. The packaging seems male-centered.” I can definitely see what they mean. While many green powders have a stereotypically feminine softness about them with marketed benefits like hormone balancing and skin health, Field of Greens uses bold, assertive fonts and strong, solid lines on their packaging, which typically panders to men. 

Ingredients and Formulation

Field of Greens is a vegan, gluten-free, superfood powder composed of 5 different proprietary blends. This makes it unclear how many servings of each ingredient you receive in each scoop. The lack of information on the specifications of the formula and the exact amount of each ingredient docks some overall points in my view as a certified nutrition coach, even though the ingredients list is impressive. 

The organic greens blend contains over a dozen different veggies. Brickhouse Nutrition highlights chlorella and spirulina specifically on their website as the two greens that stand out from the pack. (1) Research suggests that foods may help with cardiovascular health, anemia, immune function, arterial stiffness, and reducing cholesterol. (2) 

The reds blend packs in a ton of organic fruits, like green apples, green bananas, and a mix of berries, which are rich in antioxidants and may help prevent cardiovascular diseases and heart conditions. (3) I like the inclusion of reds because, as a nutrition coach, I know that fruits are so often overlooked in our day-to-day lives. Natural fruits are the best way to get these nutrients, but a solid reds supplement is a great secondary option. (I just wish they weren’t in a proprietary blend.)

Field of Greens only includes a single probiotic strain, which disappoints me. The strain, Bacillus coagulans, seems like it may have been added without as much deep consideration as the other ingredient. Even on the Brickhouse Nutrition Science page, they share an extensive list of the included fruits and veggies and point out the distinct benefits of each, but they provide very little explanation on why they chose this strain and why adding a probiotic to your greens powder can benefit you. (1) 

[Related: Best Probiotic Supplements]

I also couldn’t find the CFU count anywhere on the website, so it’s impossible to tell the strength of the probiotics in each serving. This could potentially be tricky because taking more than your body is used to at one time could cause digestive issues. 

The metabolic blend is where things get a little questionable. This blend contains ginger powder, licorice powder, turmeric, and green tea powder. Brickhouse Nutrition’s Science page claims this blend is intended to decrease inflammation and bloating (which does make sense based on those ingredients), as well as increase the metabolism. (1) 

Nutrition Facts label on a tub of Field Of Greens

Having said that, it’s important to note that “metabolism booster” is another phrase for “fat burner.” These supplements claim to fire up your metabolism to help you lose weight, reduce fat absorption, or increase fat oxidation during exercise. There isn’t a whole lot of research to support the idea that fat burners actually help with weight loss. Generally, any metabolism-boosting effects typically come from caffeine and don’t have a long-lasting effect. (4)(5)  

As a certified nutrition coach, I strongly discourage investing in fat burners and caution anyone against taking for granted the weight loss claims that different supplements lay claim to. I will give Field of Greens a bit of a pass for this, though, as it seems to be the least marketed part of what this supplement can do for you.  

The color of Field of Greens sparked a lot of conversation among our testers. One of our expert testers remarks: “The powder doesn’t have a vibrant green color like many other green powders which honestly I prefer. I normally stay away from anything artificially colored.” Another expert tester describes how the powder changes color when it’s mixed with water, saying: “When dry, the powder has a pale, almost sage-green color. Once it’s added to water, it changes to a dark avocado green with a tinge of brown.”

There were mixed reviews on the side effects, though. One expert tester was surprised to find they didn’t have any discomfort, commenting: “I didn’t experience any digestive discomfort, which is surprising since I have a sensitive stomach.” On the other hand, an expert tester that had two servings in one day had a less positive experience, explaining: “I experienced a lot of bloating and gas after taking it twice in one day!”

Taste

Our expert testers overall enjoy the taste of Field of Greens. One of our expert testers says, “The drink does not have a strong aftertaste.” That’s pretty high praise for a greens powder. This taste is almost certainly thanks the to inclusion of a reds blend. I like that this adds a naturally sweet flavor and would make it a great addition to smoothies. 

Another expert tester mentions, “I tried original. It’s not bad…slightly sweet and more fruity (kind of like green apple) than vegetable-y — for an unflavored greens powder, I’m impressed.” On a scale of 1 to 5, they score the flavor 3.5 out of 5. 

Certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial team member Kate Meier has this to say about the taste: “The taste almost comes off as a sweet green tea. Its not horrible to drink, but it isn’t utterly fabulous, either.“

Super important to note: regardless of how you feel about the taste, this powder might be a bit hard on your stomach. Meier notes: “The product recommends taking it twice daily, but it was aggressive on the stomach so I began with one scoop to eventually taking it twice in a day.”

Solubility

Our expert testers also like the solubility of Field of Greens. One tester says, “There were a few clumps in the drinks but they were pretty easy to dissolve with the back of my spoon.” One of our testers mentions that the powder doesn’t stay mixed when it’s left alone, expressing that it “mixes well with just a straw, [but] it does settle a little on the bottom if you don’t drink it all at once.”

A fresh Field Of Greens shake next to the container.

Another expert tester had a similar experience with leaving the green drink to sit for a short period, saying: “I mixed one scoop of the Field of Greens powder with 8 ounces of water and left the solution on my desk for about a minute. Once I got back, about an inch of residue was at the bottom of the glass. So, I re-mixed it with a spoon and drank it immediately to prevent the powder from settling again. After finishing the drink I was so surprised that so much of the powder was still at the bottom of the glass that I ended up adding more water to the glass.” 

One of our expert testers noticed a texture from the powder, saying, “The texture of the beverage was grainy. You can definitely feel the gritty residue of the solution on your throat, but it’s not as grainy as other green powders I’ve tried.” Overall, this tester scores the solubility as 4.5 out of 5. 

That’s not the only grade the solubility gets from us, though. Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and member of BarBend’s editorial team, puts it this way: “I personally do not mind having to shake the drink before consumption, but the product itself should be made to where I shouldn’t have to mix it so often. The product mixes easily without a blender, but it also settles just as quick. The overall rating for mixability is a 3 out of 5.“ One of the biggest problems for Meier was the sheer amount of powder that stuck to the sides of the cup after drinking — that’s hard-earned money going down the proverbial drain (unless you re-mix with more water, which we recommend).

Price Per Serving

At $2.33 per serving or $2.10 with a subscription, Field of Greens is about the price per serving I’d expect for a green powder that also includes reds, prebiotics, probiotics, and a metabolism booster. While it may be slightly more expensive than other greens powders, the organic, freeze-dried ingredients and the combination of fruits, veggies and a single strain of probiotics make Field of Greens a potentially more valuable greens powder than some competitors. 

Third-Party Testing

Unfortunately, Field of Grains loses some credibility because it isn’t third-party tested. As a nutrition coach, I’m always cautious about products that aren’t third-party tested. It’s especially important in the case of Field of Greens because all of their ingredients are proprietary blends, so you can’t be sure exactly how much you’re getting out of each ingredient. 

Additionally, there is not a lot of research on the benefits of greens powders and juices, so this makes third-party testing even more crucial to at least clarify ingredient quantities and quality. 

What to Consider Before Buying Field of Greens

Here at Barbend, we’ve tested over 40 different greens powders, individually examining their formulas, evaluating their efficacy, and sampling each to bring you the full picture of what each product is like. We know that the supplement industry is inundated with options, so it can be overwhelming to narrow it down to which one is best for your specific needs. We’ve compiled a list of considerations to determine if Field of Greens is the right choice for you and your routine. 

Access to Whole, Natural Foods: If you eat a lot of fruits and veggies in your diet already, you may not need to use a supplemental greens powder. 

Desire for Reds and Probiotics with Greens: Field of Greens is especially useful if you’re looking for a greens powder with added benefits like reds and probiotics. 

Health Concerns: If you have health concerns, especially a kidney condition, or are pregnant, consult with your doctor before taking a new supplement.  

Caffeine Sensitivity: Field of Greens contains an unspecified amount of green tea extract. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you may want to consider a different greens supplement. 

Third-Party Testing: Especially if you compete in strength sports and need to know your supplements don’t contain any banned ingredients, it might be especially important to consider that Field of Greens isn’t third-party tested (and contains proprietary blends).

Field of Greens Product Vs. Competitors

Field of Greens is unique from its competitors in that it offers more flavor options than most and contains that reds blend. At BarBend, we  like that both AG1 and Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens are third-party tested and very transparent about their ingredients and amount of each, which gives them more credibility than Field of Greens.  

AG1 includes everything Field of Greens has plus protein powder, enzymes, and super mushrooms, setting it apart from Field of Greens. Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens, another greens powder we like at Barbend, costs much less and specifies the amounts of all it’s ingredients. While Field of Greens has fewer calories per serving than AG1 and Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens, each of the other greens blends contains more protein a calorically dense, essential macronutrient that most of us don’t get enough of. 

Read our full Athletic Greens review.

Places to Buy Field of Greens

Brickhouse Nutrition website

Customer Experience and Brand Reputation

You can only purchase Brickhouse Nutrition products from their website. They offer a subscription service, a rewards program, a 15% military discount, standard shipping, and a 60-day return policy. The catch with the 60-day return policy is that you have to initiate the return within 30 days of purchase. 

It’s hard to find user reviews that aren’t on the Brickhouse Nutrition website. I typically like to browse Amazon for unbiased user reviews rather than rely on the ones from the company’s website. But, Field of Greens is not on Amazon. The website features over 7,000+ reviews, most of which are positive, but it’s possible that the reviews may be edited by the company. 

Our Final Verdict on Field of Greens

I like the idea of a supplement that combines a greens, reds, prebiotics, and probiotics — but in the case of Field of Greens, it’s a jack of all trades, master of none situation. There seems to be a large variety of fruits and veggies, but there is no way to know how much of each a serving actually contains because of the proprietary blends. Additionally, the prebiotics, probiotics, and metabolism boost seem to be a secondary focus in this supplement.  

Overall, our expert testers had a lot of good things to say about their experience with drinking Field of Greens. In general, most of the comments ranged from neutral to positive, the most positive remarks being about the almost fruity taste of the powder. They also mentioned the color of the powder being significantly different from competitors. While most are usually filled with artificial green coloring to make the powder look more appealing, Field of Greens has a duller green color, free of artificial coloring — which can be a big plus.

FAQs

References

REV7 Collaborator (2019, August 26). Field of Greens Science. Retrieved July 20, 2024, from https://brickhousenutrition.com/blogs/science/field-of-greens-science 

Gurney, T., & Spendiff, O. (2022). Algae Supplementation for Exercise Performance: Current Perspectives and Future Directions for Spirulina and Chlorella. Frontiers in nutrition, 9, 865741. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.865741 

Zehiroglu, C., & Ozturk Sarikaya, S. B. (2019). The importance of antioxidants and place in today’s scientific and technological studies. Journal of food science and technology, 56(11), 4757–4774. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-019-03952-x 

Jeukendrup, A. E., & Randell, R. (2011). Fat burners: nutrition supplements that increase fat metabolism. Obesity reviews : an official journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity, 12(10), 841–851. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-789X.2011.00908.x 

Prather, J. M., Florez, C. M., Vargas, A., Soto, B., Harrison, A., Willoughby, D., Tinsley, G., & Taylor, L. (2023). The effects of a thermogenic supplement on metabolic and hemodynamic variables and subjective mood states. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 20(1), 2185538. https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2023.2185538 

Ruma Arora Soni, K. Sudhakar, R.S. Rana, Spirulina – From growth to nutritional product: A review, Trends in Food Science & Technology, Volume 69, Part A, 2017, Pages 157-171, ISSN 0924-2244, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2017.09.010. 

Rani, K., Sandal, N., & Sahoo, P. K. (2018). A comprehensive review on chlorella-its composition, health benefits, market and regulatory scenario. The Pharma Innovation Journal, 7(7), 584-589. 

Bárbara Franco Lucas, Michele Greque de Morais, Thaisa Duarte Santos, Jorge Alberto Vieira Costa, Spirulina for snack enrichment: Nutritional, physical and sensory evaluations, LWT, Volume 90, 2018, Pages 270-276, ISSN 0023-6438, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lwt.2017.12.032. 

The post Brickhouse Nutrition Field of Greens Review (2024) — Assessed and Tested by Experts appeared first on BarBend.

If you’ve considered investing in one of the best rowing machines, chances are your quest has crossed paths with the Hydrow brand. Unlike other fitness brands that dabble in a variety of training mediums, Hydrow is solely focused on rowing, offering three types of rowing machines and scenic programming featuring world-class instructors.

In addition to giving you a stellar cardio workout, rowing can also target your legs, arms, back, and core. “Rowing is great for those who want a full body workout and are looking for a form of cardio that is low impact,” says BarBend editorial member and former collegiate rower Lauren Keary. While this equipment and programming can cost a pretty penny, we’ve done the legwork to find the Hydrow discount codes to help you save. 

How to Find a Hydrow Discount Code (2024)

There are a few ways to save sitewide when shopping for Hydrow rowers. Below, we’ve detailed some routes to take when looking for the best discount deals and Hydrow coupon codes.

1. Hydrow Email and Text Signup

Hop onto the Hydrow.com website and you’ll immediately be asked if you want to save on a Hydrow Rower. Thank you for asking. The answer is yes, we do. 

The 16-inch touchscreen on the Hydrow Wave Rower.

If you click “Yes,” you’ll be prompted to share your email address and cell phone number with Hydrow, which signs you up for marketing emails and recurring automated promotional and marketing text messages. By signing up for this, you can score a promotional code for $100 off storewide orders. 

2. Hydrow Military and First Responder Discounts

Hydrow offers a 5% first responder and military discount. This includes firefighters, paramedics, law enforcement, and EMTs, as well as veterans, active-duty military, and direct family members. To grab this discount, you’ll need to follow the prompt on the screen at checkout to log into your GovX account. If you’ve never used GovX, you’ll need to go through the steps to verify your identity. Once verified, you’ll be given a unique code to use with Hydrow.

Our tester raising the Hydrow Wave Rower vertically.

One thing worth noting is that this 5% discount off Hydrow equipment cannot be used or paired with any other discounts or coupon codes.

3. Hydrow Refer a Friend

When you refer a friend to Hydrow and they purchase one of the brand’s best magnetic rowing machines — such as the Hydrow Pro, Hydrow Wave, or Hydrow Vista — you can get cash back in the form of a Visa gift card worth $150 or more. 

To reap this sweet deal, download the Hydrow iOS mobile app and tap “More” on the bottom of the screen. From there, you’ll see a tab that says “Refer a Friend,” where you can get a referral link to share with your friends and family. If you’re on a browser, go to Hydrow.com/share/ and choose the option to share a referral link. 

Hydrow Wave Rower Build

Once your friend has used the referral link and has purchased a rower, you’ll receive your Visa card in 45 days. If your friend or family makes a return, you won’t receive the card. This referral code will give your friends and family a small discount on their purchase, though they’ll need to be first-time customers and this code cannot be bundled or combined with other codes or promotions.

4. Hydrow Financing

Starting at $36 a month, you can use Klarna to pay for your new rower over time with 0% APR for 48 months.

When Do Hydrow Brand Products Go On Sale?

Holidays are a time for friends and family to come together, share stories and meals, and yes, in this consumerist culture, shop until you drop. Brands love to offer limited-time discounts over the holidays and Hydrow is no different, often offering holiday sales in their online store.

From Black Friday to Memorial Day, peruse our curated lists of the best holiday-specific offerings from top brands below.

New Year’s fitness sales

Presidents Day fitness sales

Memorial Day fitness sales

Fourth of July fitness sales

Labor Day fitness sales

Black Friday/Cyber Monday fitness sales

Our Favorite Hydrow Products

From luxury equipment to some of the best compact rowing machines we’ve tested, Hydrow’s lineup of cardio machines is worth your consideration. In addition to their sleek and smooth rowers, these machines are rich in tech, offering electromagnetic resistance, Bluetooth connectivity, and immersive touchscreen displays streaming Hydrow programming. Below are some of our favorite products from the brand.

Hydrow Wave Rower

This is the most compact rower offered by Hydrow, but it can still deliver a rowing experience that evokes the feel of rowing on water. The 16-inch HD touchscreen allows you to row with collegiate and Olympian athletes across scenic bodies of water via the Hydrow app.

Our tester using the Hydrow Wave Rower.

Read more about this Hydrow product in our Hydrow Wave Rower Review.

Hydrow Rower

The Hydrow Pro Rower plants a pivoting 22-inch HD touchscreen atop a sleek aluminum and steel frame that can support users up to 375 pounds. Electromagnetic resistance works to keep the noise of your workout to a minimum.

Read more about this Hydrow product in our Hydrow Rower Review.

Why Choose Hydrow?

A Hydrow purchase comes with a 30-day risk free trial so you can see if their equipment is right for you, your goals, and most importantly, your space. The brand also provides a 5-year frame warranty and a 1-year warranty on labor, parts, and electronics. 

Our tester taking in a trainer-led workout on the Hydrow Wave rowing machine

But what impresses us the most about Hydrow is the production value of the programming. The coaches are elite. The scenic rows are gorgeous. All told, you can choose from 5,000 workouts in over 100 different locations around the world, and we think that justifies the $44 monthly subscription fee.

FAQs About Hydrow Discount Codes

The post Hydrow Discount Codes, Tried and Tested (2024) appeared first on BarBend.

ProForm is known for making some of the best treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and rowers on the market, with tech-forward features compatible with the immersive iFIT app, a one-stop shop for fitness classes and scenic workouts.

While ProForm primarily offers mid-range equipment hovering between $700 and $2,000, what’s the harm in saving more money with ProForm promo codes, discounts, and deals? We’ve combed the web and spoken with ProForm’s customer service to help you find and use the best discount codes on your next sitewide purchase.

How to Find a ProForm Promo Code (2024)

Nothing beats the feeling of whipping out a coupon code when you’re in the digital checkout lane. To help you save some cash on one of the best ProForm treadmills, here are a handful of ways you can save on ProForm equipment.

1. ProForm Text and Email Signup

When you navigate to the ProForm website, a pop-up will appear offering you $50 off storewide orders of $499 or higher. All you have to do to score this ProForm coupon code is share your email or phone number, which will sign you up for ProForm email newsletters and recurring automated promotional and marketing text messages. After rolling your virtual shopping cart to the virtual checkout line, simply input that code and watch the total price drop by $50. 

2. ProForm Military and First Responder Discounts

A 3% promotional code can be acquired for former and active military members, first responders, and law enforcement. This discount can sometimes be used and stacked with other discount codes, so it’s worth touching base with ProForm’s customer service to see what’s what. 

Our tester moving the ProForm TLX Treadmill.

While this discount can’t be used for iFIT memberships, it can be used for the purchase of equipment. It can also be used for ProForm+, a program that allows shoppers to purchase a 3-year iFIT membership and receive a free piece of equipment. 

To get this ProForm discount code, call customer service at 1-888-742-0128.

3. ProForm+ Free Equipment with Three-Year iFIT Pro Membership

“iFIT programming… is some of the best interactive fitness programming available, especially for cardio,” says BarBend expert reviewer and certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto. If you know iFIT — featuring scenic workouts that take you all around the globe —  is the type of programming you’re after, ProForm+ lets you score a free piece of ProForm equipment when paying for a 3-year iFIT Pro membership.

[Related: iFIT Review]

The ProForm fitness equipment eligible with this offer is subject to availability and can change, but as of this writing, it includes the ProForm Trainer 1000, ProForm Carbon E7, ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14, and ProForm Pro R10 Rower. You can peruse the current exercise equipment offerings by visiting ProForm.com/free-equipment.

A BarBend tester on the ProForm 750R rowing machine.

With this exclusive deal, you’re paying for three years of access to iFIT Pro. You can pay an upfront payment of $1,404 or opt for monthly payments of $39 for 36 months.

4. ProForm Specials

Limited-time ProForm deals can be found at ProForm.com/specials. These special offers, which can range in savings between $50 and $300 off select equipment, are only available while supplies last. There, you’ll also see which equipment is currently eligible for the brand’s ProForm+ deal.

When Do ProForm Brand Products Go On Sale?

In addition to ProForm’s fitness coupons, deals, and standing offers, you can also find their equipment on sale around major holidays. We’ve done the work for you and rounded up the best holiday sales, so when it gets close to the holiday, you can check out our collection of the best sales from retailers like ProForm, NordicTrack, Horizon, and more.

New Year’s fitness sales

Presidents Day fitness sales

Memorial Day fitness sales

Fourth of July fitness sales

Labor Day fitness sales

Black Friday/Cyber Monday fitness sales

Our Favorite ProForm Products

Our team of certified personal trainers, former collegiate athletes, and lifelong fitness fanatics have tried and tested the most popular ProForm equipment, with high praise for these tech-focused machines. Here are some of our favorite products from the brand.

ProForm Pro HIIT H14

This hybrid trainer combines an elliptical machine with a vertical stair stepper stride, making it a space-saving option for those in tight quarters. It features a 14-inch HD touchscreen, which can stream more than 17,000 workouts from iFIT’s library. 

Our tester on the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical.

Read more about this ProForm product in our ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical Review.

ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill

“The ProForm Pro 9000 is one of my favorite treadmills,” says BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto. “The cushioned deck helps prevent joint pain, and the negative 3% to 12% incline/decline range is great for runners who need to train hills.”

ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill

Read more about this ProForm product in our ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Review.

ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

Bring your spin class into your own home with this adjustable exercise bike’s 14-inch HD touchscreen, which is capable of streaming iFIT’s vast library of cardio and strength workouts. You’ll also find a dumbbell cradle behind the seat, making it easy to incorporate the upper body into your cardio routine. 

The ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22.

Read more about this ProForm product in our ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 Review.

Why Choose ProForm?

iFIT is one of the best fitness apps we’ve tested, and ProForm (along with NordicTrack) design their equipment with the app in mind. With ProForm’s iFIT-enabled equipment, you’ll have access to thousands of instructor-led training programs featuring gorgeous backdrops around the world. What’s more, iFIT-enabled equipment is capable of making automatic adjustments to your speed, resistance, and incline based on the demands of your streaming workout, leaving you to focus on your sweat. 

FAQs About ProForm Promo Codes

The post ProForm Promo Codes, Tried and Tested (2024) appeared first on BarBend.

The Women’s 49-kilogram event at the 2024 Olympics didn’t play out the way anyone expected. Heading into the competition on Aug. 7, Hou Zhihui of Team China was the presumptive gold medalist.

Zhihui would ultimately win her second Olympic gold, but her victory didn’t come nearly as easily as anyone — including Zhihui herself — likely expected.

[Check In: 2024 Olympics Weightlifting Results]

In the final moments of the event and with one attempt remaining, Zhihui lifted 117 kilograms, or 257.9 pounds, in the clean & jerk to advance from bronze to gold and set a new Olympic record in the process.

Hou Zhihui | 2024 Olympics Women’s 49-Kilogram

Zhihui, the world record holder in the snatch, had the deck stacked in her favor prior to the commencement of the session. However, things unraveled for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Champion as the competition progressed, leading to a surprisingly uneven performance:

Snatch: 89x, 89, 93x

Clean & Jerk: 110, 117x, 117 | Olympic Record

Total: 206

[Related: Best Pre-Workout Supplements for Weightlifting]

Despite being the strongest 49-kilogram snatcher in the world, Zhihui closed out the first half of the session in second place behind 21-year-old Romanian superstar Mihaela Cambei.

Cambei had been on an absolute tear throughout 2024, pushing her strength to new heights at every competition and, when the cards were on the table at the Olympic Games, threatening China’s dominance over one of its signature divisions.

However, Chinese weightlifters are renowned as perhaps the best in the world for their ferocity on the platform. Zhihui had two attempts at 117 kilograms and failed the first. But her last-ditch effort demoted Cambei from gold to silver.

Zhihui joined teammate Li Fabin, going two-for-two in gold medals on the first day of weightlifting in Paris.

2024 Olympics Weightlifting Coverage by BarBend

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Featured Image: @luxiaojunbarbell / Instagram

The post Hou Zhihui Sets Olympic Record Clean & Jerk to Steal Gold Medal at 2024 Olympics appeared first on BarBend.

The 2024 Olympics in Paris, France, are finally here. On Aug. 7, 2024, the Women’s 49-kilogram class was the second weight category to step onto the lifting platform, following the Men’s 61-kilogram class earlier in the morning.

China’s Hou Zhihui was the clear favorite to claim the gold entering the event, but the rest of the podium was expected to be a battle between five athletes, including Team USA’s Jourdan Delacruz.

Image courtesy of USA Weightlifting

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Shoes on the Market]

BarBend will update this page as the event progresses, including podium results and a play-by-play of the competition from start to finish. Stay tuned!

2024 Olympics: Women’s 49KG Weightlifting

Hou Zhihui (CHN): 217

Mirabai Chanu (IND): 200

Surodchana Khambao (THA): 200

Jourdan Delacruz (USA): 200

Mihaela-Valentina Cambei (ROU): 199

Rira Suzuki (JPN): 197

Nina Sterckx (BEL): 193

Katherin Echandia Zarate (VEN): 193

Fang Wan Ling (TPE): 192

Beatriz Piron Candelario (DOM): 191

Rosina Randafiarison (MAD): 172, Continental

Nicola Lagatao (GUM): Universality

[Related: Best Lifting Straps for Weightlifting]

2024 Olympics Women’s 49KG Weightlifting Results

Women’s 49KG Podium

Gold: Hou Zhihui (CHN) — 206 (89/117) — Olympic Record Clean & Jerk

Silver: Mihaela-Valentina Cambei (ROU) — 205 (93/112)

Bronze: Surodchana Khambao (THA) — 200 (88/112)

Event Recap — Snatch

56 kilograms was the opening snatch for Nicola Lagatao of Guam, beginning the competition. The bar rapidly advanced to 80 kilograms and beyond, signaling a brief but fiery session. Japan’s Rira Suzuki commanded the room with 83 kilograms on her first attempt, and then it was off to the races with athletes from Venezuela and Chinese Taipei following suit.

Team USA’s Jourdan Delacruz appeared first for 84 kilograms and was wobbly but got herself on the board. Saikhom of India followed with a commanding opener at 85 kilograms. Suzuki twice failed her 85-kilogram attempts, closing her out of the first half of the competition.

Medal contender Surodchana Khambao of Thailand appeared for 86 kilograms and smoked it. Belgium’s Nina Sterckx failed her first snatch at 86 despite urging silence from the crowd before lifting. With her face scrunched, Sterckx missed her second attempt.

Venezuela’s Echandia showed a lot of heart but couldn’t clinch her last two attempts at 86 kilograms. Heroically, Sterckx attempted 86 kilograms a third time but was unsuccessful. Delacruz followed with a second-attempt miss at 87, while Saikhom, Khambao, Piron, and Delacruz again missed 88.

Saikhom held 88 kilograms overhead after seven attempts from athletes before her, finally breaking the barrier; Khambao, on her third attempt, matched it, though it took moments to stabilize.

Presumptive gold medalist Hou Zhihui of China came out to begin at 89 kilograms and nearly powered her bar — at the last moment, the judges unexpectedly took the lift from her. The final athlete to open was Romania’s Mihaela Cambei, who took the lead with 89.

Zhihui’s second attempt was successful at 89. Cambei returned fire by smoking 91 kilograms. Zhihui missed 93 kilograms on her final attempt despite holding the world record at 97. Cambei took the final attempt of the snatch portion at 93, closing out the portion as the leader.

[Related: Best Pre-Workout Supplements for Weightlifting]

Event Recap — Clean & Jerk

74 kilograms was the initial weight on the bar, but things quickly heated up as athletes declared 100 kilograms and above.

Rosina Randafiarison won the crowd with a heroic 100-kilogram personal best clean & jerk, followed by a jubilant celebration. The judges decided to invalidate her effort, citing that she had dropped the weight early. With the stadium behind her, Randafiarison appeared once more and left no doubt on her final attempt.

Fang Wan Ling put away a 102-kilogram opener with pristine technique. Delacruz followed with a 105-kilo opener, which put her on the board and corrected her bomb-out from Tokyo three years prior. Echandia matched it with her opener. Snatch leader Cambei took 106 for her opener and demolished it.

Venezuela, Chinese Taipei, and the Dominican Republic attempted 107 kilograms. Suzuki comfortably made her 108-kilogram opener. A back-room error forced Echandia out early, barely beating the clock; she missed her final clean.

Zhihui came out for her 110-kilogram opener earlier than expected but sent the bar flying overhead. Khambao followed, narrowly making the lift and stumbling across the platform. After a long hiatus, Delacruz also took 110 on her second attempt, missing it behind. Cambei showed dominance over 110 on her second attempt, making a case for the top of the podium.

Saikhom attempted 111 to kick her attempts off but was unsuccessful; she corrected her error on her second attempt at the same weight. Delacruz had a triumphant final attempt, successfully lifting 111 kilograms to close her Paris chapter.

Khambao heroically lifted 112 on her final attempt as the competition wound down. Cambei, on her final attempt, put away 112 for a massive personal record and a 205-kilogram Total. Saikhom made a big push with 114 to get herself onto the podium but couldn’t clinch it.

On the final lift of the competition, facing down a bronze medal instead of gold, Zhihui set a new Olympic record to swipe the win out of Cambei’s hands by a single kilogram.

2024 Olympics Weightlifting Schedule

Weightlifting events will be held at the 2024 Olympics from Aug. 7 to Aug. 11, 2024, in Paris, France. Catch all the action live by referring to the full schedule below. All times are in Eastern Standard Time and are subject to change:

Wednesday, August 7

9:00 AM: Men’s 61KG

1:30 PM: Women’s 49KG

Thursday, August 8

9:00 AM: Women’s 59KG

1:30 PM: Men’s 73KG

Friday, August 9

9:00 AM: Men’s 89KG

1:30 PM: Women’s 71KG

Saturday, August 10

5:30 AM: Men’s 102KG

10:00 AM: Women’s 81KG

2:30 PM: Men’s +102KG

Sunday, August 11

5:30 AM: Women’s +81KG

More 2024 Olympics Content on BarBend

Why Can’t North Korea Compete in Weightlifting at the 2024 Olympics?

2020 Olympian Predicts Weightlifting Results at the 2024 Olympics

These “Banned” Countries Have Struggled To Send Athletes to the 2024 Olympics

Featured image courtesy of USA Weightlifting

The post 2024 Olympics Weightlifting Results: Women’s 49-Kilogram appeared first on BarBend.

Remember Cinderella’s “Don’t Know What You’ve Got Until It’s Gone?” If you’re an older adult struggling with balance, the song’s lyrics may be ringing truer than they did back in the ‘80s. The days of once-assured things like balance might be slipping away, but thankfully, there are many exercises one can perform — with or without the best home gym equipment — for better balance in their golden years. (1)

The body’s balance relies on the contribution of many sensory systems working together. As we age, we progressively lose function in these systems, leading to imbalances. (2) Medications, gradual loss of muscle mass, inner ear problems, chronic conditions, slowed reaction time, and visual impairments are just a few ways our sensory systems can start to go haywire. While not every impairment can be remedied, balance exercises for seniors can help to improve balance, increase confidence, and decrease the risk of falls.

Key Takeaways

One in four older adults in the U.S. fall each year; improving balance is a key factor of fall prevention. (3)

Studies have shown that older adults who practice balance exercises can move more independently and enjoy a boost in confidence. (4)

Some of the best senior balance exercises include standing on one leg, marching in place, and walking heel-to-toe.

8 Best Balance Exercises for Seniors

Before beginning any exercise program, take a personal assessment of your health and balance fitness to see if you should first consult a physician. 

“If you already have balance issues, or if you’re concerned you might develop them, consult with your doctor,” advises Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member. “Alert them to any falls, even if they didn’t result in injury. While the solution may be as simple as doing some exercises, it could be that there is an underlying issue that is causing you to become off-balance.”

Once you’re ready to begin balance training, Meier suggests setting yourself up for successful activity by:

Wearing supportive shoes made for stability

Using supportive items such as a railing or a sturdy chair

Making sure you are feeling well (and have had adequate food and water)

Now that we know how to prepare, let’s learn how to perform the best balance exercises for seniors. 

1. Standing on One Leg

Pro tips: Choose a flat, stable surface where you have enough space around you. For extra stability, stand near a wall or a sturdy chair. Aim to perform two to three sets on each leg. As your balance improves, try to increase the duration you hold each position or decrease your reliance on support. 

Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart and engage your core muscles to help maintain stability.

Shift your body weight onto your right leg with your foot firmly planted on the ground.

Slowly lift your left leg off the ground by bending your knee and bringing your foot toward your buttocks. Keep your knee bent and your foot close to the standing leg to start.

Once your left foot is lifted, hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds. Look straight ahead or slightly upwards to help with balance.

Slowly lower your left foot back to the ground and return to the starting position.

Switch to the left leg and repeat the exercise.

Aim to hold the position for 10 to 15 seconds, completing two to three reps on each leg.

2. Walking Heel-to-Toe

Pro tips: Walking heel-to-toe is a great exercise for seniors. Choose a straight line on the floor to help you stay aligned (you can use a straight line on a tile floor or a piece of tape). Make sure your posture is straight, with your shoulders back, your head up, and your gaze straight forward. You can hold your arms out to the side (imagine a tightrope walker) to find good balance. Once confident, incorporate turns or increase your distance.

If you suffer from balance problems, this is a great exercise to incorporate into your daily exercise routine by walking the straight line two to four times. It helps develop coordination and strengthen the muscles used for balance, so keep practicing and you’ll likely see improvement over time. 

From a standing position, place the heel of your right foot directly in front of the toes of your left foot.

Lift your right foot and place it ahead so that the heel of the right foot touches the toes of the left foot.

Try to maintain good balance as you’re stepping. It might be helpful to focus your eyes on a fixed point straight ahead to help with stability.

Continue the walk, placing each heel directly in front of the toes of the other foot. 

Take your time with each step. If you lose balance, try to regain it before continuing.

3. Sidestepping

Pro tips: Find a flat surface with enough room to move sideways without running into obstacles. Engage your core muscles to maintain balance and control, and keep your gaze forward rather than looking down at your feet. Once confident, you can increase your distance and speed, or incorporate turns. If you’re ready to progress, try using a resistance band or holding light weights for strength training.

By incorporating sidestepping into your routine, you’ll build better lateral strength and coordination, which are key for overall balance and functional movement.

From a standing position, shift your body weight slightly to one side to prepare for the sidestep.

Step your right foot out to the side.

Bring your left foot to meet your right foot, maintaining the same distance between them.

Continue stepping to the right, maintaining your balance.

Repeat the same on the left side.

Aim to complete two to four sidestepping walks.

4. Backwards Leg Kicks

Pro tips: Because this simple exercise requires single-leg balance, you may need to hold on to a sturdy chair or wall for extra support. Focus on engaging your core muscles and kicking in a slow, controlled manner. (This is not the time to unleash your inner karate kid.)

If you’re ready for a progression, add light ankle weights or a resistance band, or incorporate small pulses at the top of the kick. 

BarBend’s Jake Herod performing a glute kickback.

From a standing position, shift your body weight onto your right foot. Make sure your right knee is slightly bent to help with stability. 

Use a slow and controlled motion to extend your left leg behind you (aim for a few inches above hip level). Keep your leg straight and avoid arching your back. Keep your torso upright and avoid leaning forward or arching your back excessively. 

Slowly lower the left leg back to the starting position and repeat for eight to 10 repetitions.

Repeat the exercise on the opposite side.

Aim for two sets of eight to 10 leg kicks on each side.

5. Backwards Walking

Pro tips: If this is your first go at backwards walking, go slow and keep your distance short. If you struggle with balance problems, it’s best to try this near a wall, a sturdy object, or a buddy who can lend a hand. Focus on core muscle engagement, standing upright, and foot placement. 

As a progression, increase your distance, or add a resistance band or light ankle weights for strength training. You could also try walking backwards on a treadmill. 

Standing upright, move your right foot back behind you — heel first — then roll the foot to the ball before setting it fully on the ground.

Repeat the same with the left foot maintaining the same foot spacing.

Continue stepping backward, moving one foot at a time.

Look straight ahead rather than down at your feet to maintain balance.

For beginners, aim to walk as far as your space allows for two to four walks.

6. Marching in Place

Pro tips: Marching in place is one of the best mobility exercises for older adults. (5) Find a flat, stable surface and wear supportive non-slip shoes. Focus on breathing naturally and keeping your torso upright.

If you’re ready for a progression, add speed, increase your duration, or add arm movements. As with any physical activity, pay attention to your breathing, and rest if feeling winded.

Start standing with feet hip-width apart and lift your right knee towards your chest, aiming for your thigh to be slightly below parallel to the ground.

Lower your right foot back to the ground and allow it to come back to the starting position.

Repeat the same with the left knee.

Continue marching in an alternate pattern lifting each knee and stepping down in a steady, rhythmic motion.

Continue marching for 5 to 10 minutes for one of the best balance exercises with a cardio boost.

(Pssst … if you enjoyed the cardio boost of marching in place and you feel confident with your balance, you might want to scope out the best treadmills for seniors and nudge someone towards your holiday wishlist.)

7. Tree Pose

Pro tips: Find a flat, non-slippery surface (use a yoga mat if you have one handy). Stand by a sturdy chair or wall for extra support if needed. Focus on engaging your core muscles and keeping your gaze straight ahead.

As a progression, you can increase the duration of your hold, or change your foot placement from the ankle or calf to the inner thigh.

Begin by standing with your feet together with your weight evenly distributed. Your arms should be relaxed at your sides.

Shift your weight onto your right foot. Make sure your right knee is slightly bent to help with stability and then lift your left foot off the ground, bringing the heel toward your inner right thigh. (For beginners, place it on the inner calf or just above the ankle.)

Once your foot is in place, focus on your balance, and stand tall and straight with your shoulders relaxed.

Slowly reach your arms overhead, bringing your palms together. 

Focus on your breathing, engage your core muscles, and hold the pose for 20 to 30 seconds, or as long as you feel comfortable. 

Come back to the starting position and repeat the exercise on the other side.

For beginners, aim to complete the exercise twp times on each side for 20 to 30 seconds. As you progress, increase the duration.

8. Lunges

The forward lunge and lateral lunge are recommended for older adults because they are safer than stepping, walk-through, or reverse lunging activities. They don’t require single-leg support so there is a lowered risk of falling. (6) We’ll provide the step-by-step for the forward lunge.

Pro tips: The lunge is arguably a more difficult and complex balance exercise for older adults so take your time and perform lunges next to a wall or sturdy chair for extra support if needed. (When training clients for the first time, I always have them perform lunges with support — there’s no shame in taking a modification!)

Performing a forward lunge.

Begin by standing with your feet hip-width apart and engage your core muscles. (Using your core strength is key in this exercise.)

Take a step forward with your right foot, ensuring your knee is aligned over your ankle.

Bend both knees to lower your body until your right thigh is parallel to the ground or slightly above it. Your left knee should hover just above the ground.

Drive through your right heel to return to the starting position. 

Aim to perform five to 10 repetitions, depending on your ability, then switch to the left foot.

For beginners, try for two sets of five to 10 lunges on each leg.

Other Ways To Improve Balance

“Doing balance-dedicated exercises is fantastic, but there are many other factors that can cause people to become off-balance, and there are steps you can take to mitigate the risk of falling,” says BarBend expert Kate Meier. 

Keeping up with your annual exams, monitoring your blood pressure, talking to your physician about medications, and seeking help from a physical therapist if you have injuries are the best places to start.

If you’ve already worked through the healthcare side of things — medications, health conditions, and physical therapy — “then think about your fitness,” suggests Meier. “Do you participate in resistance training a few times a week? This can strengthen key muscles, from core muscles that keep you upright and balanced, to the small muscles in your feet that prevent ankle rolls.”

Performing a goblet squat.

If you’re looking for exercises for older adults at home, check out the benefits of the stability ball in addition to the exercises we covered here. The stability ball is an inexpensive, yet very effective piece of lightweight equipment to have at home.

Group exercise classes like tai chi and classes that are specifically designed for older adults can be a great place to work on improving balance and fall prevention. “Or work with a personal trainer who has experience training older adults,” Meier suggests. “The focus of those sessions will include balance work in addition to resistance training — both key aspects in fall prevention.”

Improving overall strength is also a key part of staying balanced in your golden years. For strength training, implement body weight squats, sit-to-stand exercises, or work with a trainer at your gym to improve leg strength.

Final Word

For many older adults, knowing how to improve balance is a crucial part of improving quality of life. Not only does it increase overall wellness, but it also plays an important part in fall prevention. “Falls are one of the most common causes of serious injuries and even death in older adults,” explains BarBend expert Kate Meier. (7) “Working on balance is key for older adults to prevent these falls and the serious injuries that could result from them.”

Seek medical advice from experts if you have a known condition or injury before attempting to start an exercise program. Once cleared by your doctor or physical therapist, implement balance and stability exercises to improve balance, increase confidence, and lower the risk of falls. If you’re struggling with balance problems and are looking for a safe, effective workout from home, check out the best recumbent bikes for seniors, which can offer a low-impact cardio option to get your workout in safely. 

FAQs: Balance Exercises for Seniors

References

Lesinski, M., Hortobágyi, T., Muehlbauer, T., Gollhofer, A., & Granacher, U. (2015). Effects of Balance Training on Balance Performance in Healthy Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Sports Medicine, 45(12), 1721–1738.

Sturnieks, D. L., St George, R., & Lord, S. R. (2008). Balance disorders in the elderly. Neurophysiologie Clinique, 38(6), 467–478.

Moreland, B., Kakara, R., & Henry, A. (2020). Trends in Nonfatal Falls and Fall-Related Injuries Among Adults Aged ≥65 Years — United States, 2012–2018. MMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69(27), 875–881. 

Hafström, A., Malmström, E. M., Terdèn, J., Fransson, P. A., & Magnusson, M. (2016). Improved Balance Confidence and Stability for Elderly After 6 Weeks of a Multimodal Self-Administered Balance-Enhancing Exercise Program. Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, 2, 233372141664414. 

Kato, Y., Islam, M. M., Koizumi, D., Rogers, M. E., & Takeshima, N. (2018). Effects of a 12-week marching in place and chair rise daily exercise intervention on ADL and functional mobility in frail older adults. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 30(4), 549–554. 

Flanagan, S. P., Wang, M. Y., Greendale, G. A., Azen, S. P., & Salem, G. J. (2004). Biomechanical Attributes of Lunging Activities for Older Adults. J Strength Cond Res, 18(3):599-605. 

Appeadu, M. K., Bordoni, B. (2023). Falls and Fall Prevention in Older Adults. Stat Pearls. 

Carbonneau, E., & Smeesters, C. (2014). Effects of age and lean direction on the threshold of single-step balance recovery in younger, middle-aged and older adults. Gait & Posture, 39(1), 365–371.

Halvarsson, A., Dohrn, I. M., & Ståhle, A. (2014). Taking balance training for older adults one step further: the rationale for and a description of a proven balance training programme. Clinical Rehabilitation, 29(5), 417–425. 

The post The 8 Best Balance Exercises for Seniors, Chosen By Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

When you need that extra energy boost and focus in the gym, choosing one of the best pre-workout supplements can give you the edge. If you’re on the go, grabbing a ready-to-go can of Cellucor C4 Energy Drink can sub in for your favorite powder. At BarBend, our team of expert testers use a detailed supplement testing methodology to rank supplements and energy drinks — and we think C4 gives just the right amount of fizz, buzz, and flavor (even though, alas, it isn’t third-party tested).

As a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, I’m a nerd for ingredients, benefits, and how they stack up against research. I like that C4 has a solid blend of performance-boosting amino acids and a safe amount of caffeine. With insight from our expert testers so you know how it actually tastes and feels, here is my full C4 Energy Drink review. 

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Main Takeaways

C4 Performance Energy is a canned, carbonated energy drink from the supplement brand Cellucor. It has 200 milligrams (mg) of caffeine and a blend of ingredients commonly found in pre-workout supplements. 

C4 Energy Drink is technically a beverage — it’s a pre-workout drink, not a pre-workout supplement, though it may work similarly. This distinction means it’s not third-party tested.

C4 Energy Drink is sugar-free (but uses artificial sweeteners) and has 0 carbs and 5 calories. It could be one of the best pre-workouts for weight loss since it doesn’t add many calories or macros to your day while potentially helping you perform better in the gym.

C4 Energy Drink Specs

Drinking coffee before hitting a workout gives you about 80 to 100 milligrams of caffeine; a pre-workout drink like C4 Energy Drink gives you 200 milligrams of caffeine plus other ingredients (amino acids and vitamins) to potentially deliver “explosive energy,” better focus, more endurance, and less fatigue. 

A can of C4 Energy Drink staged with dumbbells

C4 contains its own energy blends called “CarnoSyn® (l-carnosine) Beta-Alanine” and Betapower® (betaine anhydrous) to reduce fatigue and increase endurance and work capacity. As a nutrition coach, I’m not in love with proprietary blends like this, because it means consumers have less transparency about how much of each ingredient is actually present. 

The carbonated drink also contains citrulline malate and n-acetyl l-tyrosine to increase nitric oxide, improve blood flow, and potentially boost cognition. It has a decent amount of vitamins B3 (niacin), B6, and B12 which may also boost energy — but research is mixed on their impact on exercise performance. (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)

Though the ingredients sound good, how much you get of each is unspecified, so it’s hard to say if it’s clinically dosed. In comparison, the Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout Powder gives you all the dosages on the label. (It’s also one of our picks for the best pre-workouts for women.) 

But what makes the energy drink worth it is its convenience. One of BarBend’s expert testers is a huge fan, saying: “Honestly, I regularly get these by the case. It’s what I grab when I need pre-workout, because it treats my stomach even better than the C4 powder.”

Our tester cracks open a can of C4 Energy Drink

C4 Energy Drink comes in 13 flavors that our testers and customers love. It has 5 calories, 0 carbs, and is sugar-free — but it contains artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium, along with natural and artificial flavors. Each 16 fluid ounce can comes to $2.33 when you buy a pack of eight, though a subscription will knock the price per serving down a bit. Energy drinks like this one aren’t third-party tested. 

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use C4 Energy Drink

C4 Energy Drink has a decent amount of caffeine (200 mg), so it’s not for anyone looking for the best non-stim pre-workouts. On the other hand, pre-workout supplements can go up to 300 mg of caffeine, so it’s also not one of the strongest pre-workouts. It’s somewhere in between — here’s who may or may not benefit.

Looking down at an opened can of C4 Energy Drink

Recommended for:

On-the-go athletes who want a convenient canned and carbonated energy drink

People looking for a 200 mg of caffeine boost

Gymgoers who aren’t picky about the amount of pre-workout ingredients

Not Recommended for:

Pregnant or nursing people

Those who want an exact amount of specific pre-workout ingredients

People who want a non-stim pre-workout or a lower amount of caffeine

Our Experience Using C4 Energy Drink

So you know what’s in C4 Energy Drink and what it’s supposed to do, but how does it actually taste, feel, and work? We got BarBend’s expert testers to weigh in with their experience of its taste and effect, and I’ll also chime in as a nutrition coach with my ratings of 1 to 5 on the ingredients, formulation, cost, and safety.

Next time you forget your pre-workout and notice your gym has cans of C4, should you grab one? Here’s our team’s take.

Ingredients and Formulation

C4 Energy Drink has 200 milligrams of caffeine and an undisclosed amount of several amino acids and vitamins frequently found in pre-workout supplements: beta-alanine, betaine, citrulline malate, n-acetyl-l-tyrosine, and B-vitamins. Apart from the B vitamins, there is some solid research on each ingredient’s potential efficacy. (6)

C4 also has two other products whose ingredients vary slightly. C4 Ultimate has 300 milligrams of caffeine for those who need a little more, and C4 Smart Energy contains natural caffeine from green coffee beans and Cognizin® (another proprietary blend), which has a nootropic effect that may boost cognition. 

Nutrition Facts label on a can of C4 Energy Drink

Although the ingredients are good, it’s hard to say if the dosages are accurate without knowing how much you’re getting, so I’m taking a point and a half off as a nutrition coach who values knowing what’s in my supplements (and how much). Since it contains artificial sweeteners, a con for some, I’m knocking off another half points, landing the formulation at a 3 out of 5.

[Related: Strongest Pre-Workout]

Effects

We don’t know how much of each ingredient there is, but having our tester weigh in on how it felt helps. One expert tester says: “This is pretty good if you’re looking for a caffeine buzz. It doesn’t feel like it’s overloaded with stimulants, just feels like it’s an energy drink with beta-alanine. You will get the tingles from it, so if you don’t like that, it’s not for you.”

Regarding caffeine content, they add, “This is comparable to most energy drinks in caffeine dosages, and it’s great that it tastes good, too.”

Taste

We asked one of our testers, a competitive weightlifter, how it tasted. They love the fizz, noting: “One of the best parts of C4 drinks is that they are carbonated. Pre-workout powders aren’t carbonated, so it’s a great change-up.” 

Our tester drinks a C4 Energy Drink

Regarding taste and flavors, they add, “It’s rare for me to find a C4 flavor I don’t like, and I’ve been drinking C4 regularly for a decade. My favorite flavors are Arctic Snow Cone and Starburst Cherry. They are all very sweet — if you don’t like sweet drinks, you wouldn’t like these.” When asked to rate the taste, they give it a 5 out of 5.

C4 Energy Drink in two flavors

Another one of BarBend’s expert testers shares their experience: “All the flavors are genuinely good. They all get a 5 out of 5 for taste, which is honestly pretty rare. They’re not too sweet — definitely in the Goldilocks ‘just right’ zone. The 200 flavors are honestly a bit better than the 300s, but they’re all really good.”

Price Per Serving

Through the C4 website, a 12-pack of 16-oz cans costs $27.99, so it’s $2.33. If you do a subscription, it’s $25.19 for a 12-pack, making it $2.10 per serving. Amazon occasionally has sales on select flavors. 

Two dollars for a drink isn’t too bad, though it’s a lot if you compare it to the price per serving for a pre-workout powder. Then again, you’re paying for the convenience of a grab-and-go drink. I’ll go with a 4 out of 5 here.

Third-Party Testing

Since dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), we love products that do third-party testing. Some C4 supplements are third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport, but since this is a beverage and not technically a supplement, it doesn’t apply. So, no third-party testing here: a 2 out of 5, with an extra good faith point since Cellucor does test its other products.

What to Consider Before Buying C4 Energy Drink

If you’re ready to try an energy drink, here are a few things to consider: what type of stimulant and how much it has, whether it has creatine, its price, what kind of sweeteners, and safety. You also want to look out for common pre-workout side effects — tingling from beta-alanine is a big one, and the company even warns of it on its website. (I say “warns” lightly here — the tingles are harmless, but they can be…annoying and uncomfortable unless you happen to not mind or even enjoy them. Yes, many of our testers do.)

A close look at a can of C4 Energy Drink

One of BarBend’s expert testers adds, “The energy from these is pretty clean. I got energy plus focus, with only a little bit of tingling.”

Stimulants: The C4 Energy Drink contains 200 mg of caffeine, equivalent to two cups of coffee.

Creatine: There is no creatine in this.

Price: It is $27.99 for a 12 pack and $2.33 per serving. If you do a subscription, it’s $25.19 and $2.10 per serving.

Sweeteners: C4 Energy Drink contains the artificial sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium,

Third-party testing: No. Some C4 products are third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport, but drinks don’t apply.

C4 Energy Drink Vs. Competitors

Let’s see how C4 Energy Drink stacks up to its competitors. We’re comparing it to two popular brands that offer a pre-workout powder instead of a drink so you can see how the specs break down. We like Transparent Labs for its clean ingredients, and their BULK pre-workout is on our list of the best pre-workouts for men. Nutricost is also a solid company, and both do third-party testing.

The most significant difference is that the other two list how much of each ingredient you get per dose, while C4 doesn’t, which is a major plus for people who like to know precisely what they’re taking. Nutricost Pre-X is also the strongest, with 300 milligrams of caffeine (the other two have 200). Another difference is the sweeteners — Transparent Labs BULK has a natural sweetener (Stevia), while the other two have the artificial sweetener sucralose.

Places to Buy C4 Energy Drinks

Cellucor.com

C4Energy.com

Amazon

Golds Gym

GNC

Target

The Vitamin Shoppe

Walmart

7 Eleven

Albertsons, Kroger, Publix

Customer Experience and Brand Reputation

Here’s what to expect if you decide to place an order based on their policies and other customers’ experiences.

Shipping and Delivery:

Time: After placing your order, it may take 5 to 10 business days to process, ship, and arrive with ground shipping. If you opt for an expedited order for overnight or second-day delivery, they’ll ship the same day. If you place it after 1:00 PM Central Standard Time, they’ll ship the following business day.

Price: You get free shipping for any subscription and orders over $55. Orders under $55 have a flat fee of $8 for shipping.

Trial Period: Cellucor offers a 90-day money-back guarantee on orders placed through c4energy.com or an authorized seller. You have to submit a request for a refund or replacement. Once approved, you’ll submit proof of purchase. You may have to mail back whatever you have left of your product and pay the shipping cost. 

Customer Reviews:

Cellucor Site: Although there are only 2,039 reviews on their website, users rate C4 Energy Drink a 4.8 out of 5.

Amazon: There are more reviews on Amazon — 22,389 — with a rating of 4.6 out of 5. 

Customer Thoughts: Customers say the C4 Energy Drink is high-quality, and they like that it’s sugar-free. They say it still tastes great and doesn’t leave an aftertaste. Several reviews don’t like the tingling side effect, and some say it’s not worth the price.

Our Final Verdict on C4 Energy Drinks

Fitness nerds often have a cabinet full of their favorite powder supplements with ingredients they trust. At the end of the day, Cellucor’s C4 Energy Drink is just that — an energy drink that provides a hefty caffeine dose in a can with some other stuff pre-workout-esque ingredients. It’s not necessarily comparable to a powder with clear, third-party tested, non-proprietary blended ingredients. Still, our testers and customers like the taste and convenience it offers. 

A final word from one of our experts highlights the taste, carbonation, and convenience: “Having a carbonated energy drink — that tastes great! — is an awesome change of pace for pre-workouts. Having it in a can is super convenient, too, which is definitely something I value in an energy drink.”

FAQs About C4 Energy Drinks

Lingering questions? Let’s answer them.

References

Hoffman JR, Emerson NS, Stout JR. β-Alanine supplementation. Curr Sports Med Rep. 2012 Jul-Aug;11(4):189-95. doi: 10.1249/JSR.0b013e3182604983. PMID: 22777329.

Lee EC, Maresh CM, Kraemer WJ, Yamamoto LM, Hatfield DL, Bailey BL, Armstrong LE, Volek JS, McDermott BP, Craig SA. Ergogenic effects of betaine supplementation on strength and power performance. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2010 Jul 19;7:27. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-7-27. PMID: 20642826; PMCID: PMC2915951.

Gonzalez, Adam M.1; Trexler, Eric T.2. Effects of Citrulline Supplementation on Exercise Performance in Humans: A Review of the Current Literature. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 34(5):p 1480-1495, May 2020. | DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000003426

Hase A, Jung SE, aan het Rot M. Behavioral and cognitive effects of tyrosine intake in healthy human adults. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2015 Jun;133:1-6. doi: 10.1016/j.pbb.2015.03.008. Epub 2015 Mar 20. PMID: 25797188.

Jagim AR, Harty PS, Tinsley GM, Kerksick CM, Gonzalez AM, Kreider RB, Arent SM, Jager R, Smith-Ryan AE, Stout JR, Campbell BI, VanDusseldorp T, Antonio J. International society of sports nutrition position stand: energy drinks and energy shots. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2023 Dec;20(1):2171314. doi: 10.1080/15502783.2023.2171314. PMID: 36862943; PMCID: PMC9987737.

Harty, P.S., Zabriskie, H.A., Erickson, J.L. et al. Multi-ingredient pre-workout supplements, safety implications, and performance outcomes: a brief review. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 15, 41 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-018-0247-6

The post C4 Energy Drink Review (2024): An R.D.’s Thoughts appeared first on BarBend.

At the halfway mark of the first weightlifting event at the 2024 Olympics, it looked like Eko Yuli Irawan would make Olympic history.

Irawan, 35, was the oldest of 12 athletes performing during the Men’s 61-kilogram lightweight event in Paris. He’s also a four-time Olympic medalist and was poised to become the first weightlifter to win five consecutive Olympic medals.

[Related: Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners]

But in the second half of the event, tragedy struck. Irawan, inches from the Olympic podium, may have missed the history books due to an uncharacteristically slippery lifting platform. And he wasn’t the only one.

Slippery Slopes

Prior to Paris, Irawan was among a small coalition of four-time Olympic medalists, including all-time great Pyrros Dimas and American Norbert Schemansky. Halfway through the 61-kilogram event, Irawan was in second place.

Weightlifting events test athletes in two floor-to-overhead movements, the snatch and the clean & jerk. Their best efforts in each are added together to rank them by Total.

Irawan appeared late in the event to attempt a 162-kilogram, or 357.1-pound clean & jerk — a weight he had comfortably bested many times in the past. As he split his feet to suspend the bar overhead, his back foot visibly slipped on the platform, causing him to drop the weight.

Thus would begin a series of athletes — including Team USA’s bronze medalist Hampton Morris — sliding around on stage while attempting to hold hundreds of pounds overhead.

[Related: Best Pre-Workout Supplements for Weightlifting]

Backstage, Irawan was seen wincing in pain and clasping his hip as medical attendants administered first aid. He appeared, though as of this article’s publication it is unconfirmed, to have injured his back leg.

“The platform may have been slippery because it was brand-new,” says Team USA weightlifter and 2020 Olympian Caine Wilkes. “As the competition continues, these accidents will likely become less frequent.”

“You can ask for a platform sweep, but the officials don’t always have to do it at your request,” Wilkes continued.

Valiantly, Irawan attempted to stamp a successful clean & jerk twice more. Were he successful, he would have likely made it to the podium and become the first-ever five-time Olympic medalist weightlifter. He joined athletes from Bulgaria, Italy, Vietnam, and the Phillippines in going “zero-for-three” in at least one movement.

More Weightlifting at the 2024 Olympics

“I’m Carrying a Legacy”: Meet 2024 Olympian Mary Theisen-Lappen

Is Karlos Nasar Strong Enough To Win Gold in Two Divisions at the 2024 Olympics?

These Countries Have Struggled To Send “Banned” Weightlifters to the 2024 Olympics

Featured Image: @ekopower61 / Instagram

The post Multiple Athletes Slip, Are Injured, Lose Medals on First Day of Weightlifting at 2024 Olympics appeared first on BarBend.