Price Per Serving: $1.16

Jacked Factory Nitrosurge has key ingredients that research suggests can boost athletic performance, making this an ideal pick for athletes. The doses of these ingredients are a bit low per serving if you only do the one-scoop serving size. However, the canister does offer a two-scoop serving, which makes the dosages better for athletes packing on body mass.

For instance, some studies suggest a range of 2.5g/day of betaine anhydrous for improved muscle endurance, and this formulation contains 1.25g per scoop. It also contains creatine, albeit in a lower amount (1 to 2 grams per one to two scoops) than what’s typically recommended for optimal performance. (6) However, many pre-workouts don’t contain any creatine, so that’s a benefit it has amongst some competitors.

Jacked Factory Nitrosurge contains two proprietary blends: elevATP and Astragin. The former contains ancient peat and apple extract, which seemed to enhance athletic performance in a small study of 25 subjects. (7) The other proprietary blend Astragin contains the herb astragalus membranaceus. In animal studies, astragalus has been shown to increase exercise endurance and power output. (8)

Using a one-scoop budget-friendly at $1/serving, making it one of the more affordable pre-workouts for muscle gain on our list. If you use two scoops, it’s still not the most expensive, at $2/serving.

I like the addition of L-theanine, an amino acid that has shown to help muscles fight fatigue in animal studies. (26) Given that the doses are on the lower end of the range for key ingredients in the one-scoop serving, and the addition of proprietary blends, I give Jacked Factory Nitrosurge a 3 out of 5 for formulation. For the two-scoop serving size, it gets a 3.5 out of 5 — but the caffeine content is a whopping 360mg, which is on the higher end of the range of our tested products.

When it comes to the sweetener used, you might prefer the flavor of artificial sweeteners over natural sugar alternatives like stevia. If you prefer to avoid sucralose and acesulfame potassium, then this won’t be the best fit for you.

Best-Tasting Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: XWERKS Ignite 

Taste isn’t the most important thing when you’re trying to build lean muscle, but it doesn’t hurt. With four flavor options to choose from, it’s a safe bet that you’ll find your Goldilocks flavor with XWERKS Ignite. One of our product testers says, “I tried the Watermelon flavor, and you can definitely pick up on the artificial sweeteners.” But the artificial sweetener isn’t an unpleasant taste, they say, giving this an impressive 4 out of 5 for taste.

In addition to ingredients like L-citrulline, beta-alanine, and tyrosine, XWERKs Ignite contains DMAE bitartrate, which works as a nootropic. Nootropics can help improve focus, which can give you more effective sessions and ultimately help gain muscle. (27) “I got the tingles from this, but I also felt very energized and very focused for my workout,” according to one of our product testers. That bodes well for a solid muscle pump and hypertrophy (or muscle growth from high-intensity exercise).

If you’re wondering what the deal is with the large dose of vitamin B12, don’t worry — it’s considered safe in large doses because your body doesn’t store excess amounts (11). Vegans might be deficient in vitamin B12, so the dose can boost your wellness.

The ingredients for XWERKS Ignite aren’t available on their website, which doesn’t bode well in terms of transparency along with the lack of third-party testing, so we give it a 1 out of 5  in that area.

Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois adds, “Ignite has a lower dose of caffeine per serving compared to other pre-workouts. If you can tolerate a cup of coffee without negative side effects, chances are you can tolerate the caffeine in this pre-workout.” You can probably even indulge in a post-workout cup of joe, too.

XWERKS Ignite has several ingredients that can be beneficial for athletes such as L-citrulline and beta-alanine. (1)(17) However, dosages aren’t as generous as some competitors. Bourgeois concludes, “I’d give Ignite a 2.5 out of 5 for its formulation. Considering its cost per serving, I wish its ingredients were more clinically dosed.”

Read our full XWERKS Ignite Pre-Workout Review.

Best Budget Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Nutricost Pre-X

When choosing supps, budget is an important factor. Nutricost Pre-X is the most budget-friendly option in our lineup at $0.83/serving, so bodybuilders and weekend warriors alike won’t have to worry about it breaking the bank compared to some of the pricier options out there.

Pre-X contains a lot of taurine, which can improve aerobic performance, strength, powder, and recovery in doses of 1-3g/day. (12) It has a higher dose of L-citrulline too, which is another pro. 

One study noted that one of Pre-X’s ingredients, Nitrosigine®, when combined with L-citrulline, increased vasodilation in test subjects. (28) Increased blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients to working muscles, potentially promoting muscle growth. Nitrosigine® may reduce markers of muscle fatigue after exercise, which may help with muscle recovery. (28)

Regarding the formulation, registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois says: “I’d score Nutricost Pre-X Workout Complex a 3.75 out of 5 for its formula. It contains powerful ingredients, but the doses of some miss the mark just a bit.”

Bourgeois also adds, “I like that Pre-X Workout Complex contains L-citrulline, but it may fall short of the ideal dose per serving. There’s no set standard amount of L-citrulline in a pre-workout, but most studies point to at least 6-8 grams per serving.”

There are other factors to consider, like taste and ease of use. Our product tester, a competitive weightlifter, says: “I tried the Blue Raspberry. I drank it with cold water as well as at room temperature, and it was great both ways. Super easy to drink.” 

All the flavors are  sweetened with sucralose, an artificial sweetener. Our testers ranked the flavor of Nutricost Pre-X as a 4 out of 5 and the other tester gave it a 5 out of 5.

This formula does contain a bit more caffeine than other pre-workouts on the market. Our tester notes, “Make sure you don’t take this on an empty stomach. I did that, and it hit me really hard and fast. I’ve tried dozens of pre-workouts, and even two hours after taking this, I didn’t have a big drop in energy.”

Best Stim-Free Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Gainful Pre-Workout 

If you’re sensitive to caffeine or just don’t want it in your supplement, Gainful Pre-Workout has a great stim-free option. It has a lower amount of beta-alanine than other formulations, so it’s also less likely to give you that tingly feeling.

This formulation contains a higher dose of creatine compared to other pre-workout muscle gain supplements on the market and falls within the recommended 3-5 grams per day cited in some studies. Creatine is one of the more popular supplement ingredients in workout supplements and can help improve muscle mass, performance, and recovery, according to studies. (6)

Gainful Pre-Workout contains BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), which are essential amino acids you need to get from food since your body doesn’t make them. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which means they can help support healthy muscle mass and potentially reduce muscle breakdown. (13)

The dosing of branched-chain amino acids for athletes is higher in studies (close to 10 grams of leucine and 5 grams of isoleucine), so the low amounts in Gainful Pre-Workout might not be significant enough. (14)

The creatine and L-citrulline content is decent in this formulation, but otherwise, the dosages of the amino acids are questionable in terms of their efficacy. Overall, I’d give Gainful Pre-Workout a 3 out of 5 for formulation.

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain and a Pump: Onnit Alpha-BRAIN

Training for a pump might also build muscle if you’re doing it right! Onnit Alpha-BRAIN contains ingredients that can help boost blood flow to give you that pump, as well as ingredients that can help boost athletic performance. 

Beta-alanine may help boost cognitive function (17), which might explain the experience one of our testers had: “I usually feel more focused with most pre-workouts, but Alpha-BRAIN is one of the best for this, and I’d rate its the effects a 4 out of 5.” 

Another one of our product testers had a similar experience, stating “I have even taken this before work instead of coffee just for that extra attention.”

Part of the way Alpha-BRAIN gives you a pump is from L-citrulline, an amino acid that stimulates nitric oxide production (18). Nitric oxide is a vasodilator, which means it dilates blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow. Regarding the L-citrulline content, RD Chelsea Rae Bourgeois adds, “It also contains 2.4 grams of L-citrulline. Most research points to training benefits in doses of at least 3 grams, but combining it with beta-alanine is sure to give you a good pump for a hard-hitting workout.”

When it comes to taste, it might depend on the flavor you choose. One of our product testers said, “I’d give Yuzu Peach a 3 out of 5 for flavor because it is bitter, but Tiger’s Blood is a clear 5 out of 5.”

In terms of formulation, Registered Dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois notes, “I’d give Alpha Brain a 3.25 out of 5 for its formulation. It contains proprietary blends and very little L-citrulline compared to other pre-workouts.”

Check out our full Legion Pulse Pre-Workout Review.

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain for Beginners: Legion Pulse

If you’re new to the world of pre-workout muscle gain supplements, it can be a bit overwhelming given all of the options out there. As a beginner getting started in the gym, how do you know which brand contains ingredients that are beneficial for muscle gain, and in amounts that can actually make a difference? That’s where Legion Pulse comes into play.

Legion Pulse has a generous amount of L-citrulline — among the highest of the options in this lineup. L-citrulline not only can boost blood flow to working muscles, but its vasodilating effects can have a positive impact on blood pressure, which is significant if you’re one of the nearly half of Americans whose blood pressure runs on the high side. (19)

The ingredient amounts are more generous than many other options we reviewed, though some of the amounts fell a bit below typical ranges mentioned in scientific studies. “Legion Pulse scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formulation, with high marks for its natural ingredients, all of which serve a purpose,” says Registered Dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois.

Bourgeois also had this to say about Legion Pulse: “While Pulse doesn’t contain any creatine, it does have citrulline malate, beta-alanine, and betaine anhydrous to support muscle endurance, recovery, and gain.”

The sweeteners used aren’t artificial (stevia and erythritol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol), which is a plus if you’re not a fan of artificial sweeteners in your pre-workouts. Regarding the sweeteners, one of our product testers noted, “The initial taste is pleasant, but there is a bit of an artificial sweetener aftertaste — score 4 out of 5 on flavor.”

Check out our full Legion Pulse Pre-Workout Review.

Best Natural Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Naked Nutrition Energy

Naked Nutrition Energy touts a natural pre-workout option free of GMO ingredients, artificial sweeteners, and artificial flavors. The ingredients help support muscle gain while offering versions with and without caffeine.

This pre-workout offers a bit of an energy boost without being too much — 200 milligrams is right around the middle of the range of products we tested. The beta-alanine dose is on the lower end of the range we tested, which one of our product testers appreciated since beta-alanine is known for giving you the tingles: “This was great for a little energy boost, like what you get after having a big cup of coffee. And I love that you don’t get the tingles.” 

Free of artificial sweeteners and flavors, Naked Nutrition Energy and some of the other best natural pre-workouts utilize real cane sugar, so unlike the other options in our lineup, it’s not sugar-free. Our product tester gives the taste a 5 out of 5, noting, “This is bitter if you mix it just with water, but great if you mix it with a sports drink.”

Regarding the formulation, here’s what one of our registered dietitians, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois has to say: “I’d give Naked Energy a 3.75 out of 5. It has a fairly low dose of L-arginine.”

Bourgeois adds, “Naked Nutrition keeps its supplement formulas pretty streamlined. This formula has low doses of L-arginine, creatine, and beta-alanine, making it more appropriate for endurance athletes.”

While the amount of carbs in this pre-workout muscle gain supplement isn’t super high, it does contain 9 grams of added sugar per serving. If you have blood sugar imbalances or other conditions that make you sensitive to added sugars, you should consult with your healthcare provider and assess how your blood sugar responds to the combination of this pre-workout and exercising, which can raise your blood sugar in the initial phase.

Benefits of the Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain

The key ingredients in pre-workouts for muscle gain tend to repeat a bit and for a good reason. Many of the main ingredients have scientifically backed evidence supporting the role they play in muscle performance, athletic stamina, and even cognitive focus. Some of the highest-rated supplements in terms of formulation have more generous dosing that aligns with the amounts cited in studies, which means they’re more likely to be of benefit vs. lower dosing that might not measure up.

A container of XWERKS Ignite Pre.

Increased blood flow: Many pre-workout supplements for muscle gain contain ingredients that help boost blood flow, which helps provide oxygen and nutrients to muscles to support muscle growth. Some examples of this are L-citrulline and L-arginine, which act as a precursor for nitric oxide, a vasodilator. (20) Vasodilators widen your blood vessels to allow increased blood flow, which is what gives you a good pump!

Energy and focus: Ingredients like caffeine can give you an energy boost, while beta-alanine and L-tyrosine may help increase cognitive function (17), (10). 

Muscle growth support: Ingredients like creatine, L-citrulline, and beta-alanine have been studied for their potential benefits for improving muscle performance, which may support healthy muscle growth.

How Much Do The Best Pre-Workouts for Muscle Gain Cost?

The cost per serving for the pre-workouts for muscle gain we reviewed falls in the range of $0.83-$3. The cost depends on the ingredients used and their doses, which means you might pay more for the versions that deliver larger concentrations of the key ingredients compared to the lower-dose formulations.

Our tester scooping Transparent Labs Bulk Black as best pre-workout.

What to Consider Before Buying the Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a more casual gym-goer, your priorities will differ from others when it comes to choosing pre-workout supplements for muscle gain. Here are some of the most important factors (we think) that you should consider before you commit to buying one.

Ingredients & Dosing

As you probably noticed, the dosages for the common key ingredients in pre-workouts vary a lot. If you’re a big-time strength trainer, you might want to consider supplements with higher doses of ingredients, whereas some lower-dose options might be “more appropriate for endurance athletes,” as registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois notes. Also, if you prefer that creatine is in your pre-workout, then don’t even consider the types that don’t include it in their formulation — stick with your priorities here.

Stimulants

Some of the pre-workouts had higher caffeine concentrations, which in some people can cause stomach upset, insomnia, headache, and other symptoms. (21) If you’re sensitive to caffeine, then stick with the caffeine-free or lower-caffeine options. This is especially true if you already consume caffeine in other forms like coffee or black tea!

Our tester holding a scoop of Naked Pre.

Flavor & Usability

A pre-workout might have all the ingredients you prioritize and fit within your budget, but it means nothing if you hate the flavor or find it difficult to use. Finding a supplement that tastes good when mixed into your preferred liquid (water, sports drinks, or whatever it may be) should be a top priority if you don’t want to dread using it. Many of the supplements in our lineup scored 4 or 5 out of 5 for flavor, so start with those first if you’re new to the market!

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain FAQs

References

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The post Tested and R.D. Reviewed: The Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain 2024 appeared first on BarBend.

Do you want more muscle? If you’re reading this, the answer probably isn’t “no.” Whether you’re hoping for big gains from dedicated time in the weight room or you’re an endurance athlete who relies on a muscular body composition to reduce fatigue and injury, many of us wouldn’t say no to muscle gain.

A lot of the best pre-workout supplements can help support your performance goals with ingredients that can improve muscle endurance and athletic performance. We don’t say that lightly – we’ve tested and researched the ingredients, dosages, and scientific evidence backing all of those claims for over 100 different pre-workouts. When it comes to the best pre-workout for muscle gain, we have you covered with our high-quality lineup of the eight top choices researched and tested by our team of dietitians, personal trainers, and athletes. 

The 8 Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain of 2024

Best Overall Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs BULK Black

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain for Athletes: Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Build

Best-Tasting Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: XWERKS Ignite 

Best Budget Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Nutricost Pre-X

Best Stim-Free Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Gainful Pre-Workout

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain and a Pump: Onnit Alpha-BRAIN

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain for Beginners: Legion Pulse

Best Natural Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Naked Nutrition Energy

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.

We’ve outlined dosing in terms of what is likely to be safe and effective based on scientific studies. Everyone is unique, though, so be sure to consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about starting a new supplement, especially if you have preexisting health conditions.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain

Our team of supplement testers and reviewers consists of registered dietitians, personal trainers, athletes, and other health and fitness enthusiasts. Together, we not only focus on the formulation and dosing of pre-workout supplements for muscle gain, but we also consider factors like price, flavor, and other aspects regarding usability. 

We researched and reviewed more than 100 different types of pre-workout supplements before settling on our lineup of the best of the best. Not only do we sift through the options to find the ones with quality ingredients, but members of our review team personally tested the products as in accordance with our supplement testing methodology. We considered several factors in our reviews, including:

Formulation: We know poring over a supplement facts label isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, so we did the heavy lifting in that area. For each of the main ingredients in our lineup of the best pre-workout supplements for muscle gain, we compared it to what scientific studies suggest are the effective dosages. 

Cost: The cost per serving for supplements varies a bit, and we know that your budget can be a big consideration when it comes to something you’ll use consistently. Cost is reported per serving as listed on the supplement labels.

Taste: A supplement might have spot-on researched-back formulation and fit your budget, but you might not stick with it if you feel like you have to choke it down. These supplements have passed the taste test from our expert reviewers – but do keep in mind that taste is subjective, so you might have different opinions. 

Solubility: Like taste, how easily a supplement dissolves into your favorite pre-workout drink will determine how likely you are to use it. We’ve included supplements that aren’t gritty and easily dissolve into liquids so you can spend less time mixing and more time focusing on your workout.

Transparency: Some supplement brands list ambiguous proprietary blends of ingredients, which means you don’t know exactly how much of each ingredient you’re getting. We consider how transparent the supplement label is, as well as if a product is third-party tested. Because supplements aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), third-party testing ensures the product is safe for consumption and contains the amount and ingredients it claims to contain.

Best Overall Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs BULK Black

We chose Transparent Labs Bulk Black as our overall top pick for pre-workout muscle gain because of it scored highly with our testers and experts for formulation, taste, and ease of use. Translation: you’ll get the best of the best all around.

Bulk Black has a solid 8 grams of L-citrulline (which has the potential to improve blood flow and improve exercise performance), and beta-alanine (which increases carnosine in muscles). (1) Carnosine is an amino acid that is found in higher amounts in trained athletes, suggesting that it plays a role in muscle development. (25)

If taste is an important consideration (let’s be honest, it is for most of us!), you’ll likely find a flavor that hits the spot with seven different flavor options. Our tester raves at the flavor and gives it a 5 out of 5 for taste, saying “The Peach Mango flavor is a tropical paradise. I could drink this all day just for the taste.”

Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois notes: “Since Bulk Black is a fairly high stimulant pre-workout formula, I love that it is third-party tested. It also contains 1,300 mg of taurine to help prevent taurine deficiency from the 4 grams of beta-alanine in every serving.”

In terms of formulation, Bourgeois adds, “I’d give Transparent Labs BULK BLACK a 4.25 out of 5 for formulation with deductions based on the proprietary blends used.”  Add in the fact that it scored a 5 out of 5 for solubility with our testers and an easy to use, well-balanced supp.

Bulk Black relies on stevia for taste. While this sweetener is preferred by many over artificial sweeteners, it has properties that can lead to a bitter aftertaste. (2)

Bulk Black does contain caffeine and other ingredients that act as stimulants, which is important to note if you’re unsure how you’re affected by these ingredients.

You should note that the higher amount of beta-alanine in this formulation can cause tingles in your skin, which might be intense if you’re not used to it. (3)

Read our full Transparent Labs Bulk Black Pre-Workout Review.

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain for Athletes: Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Build

Jacked Factory Nitrosurge has key ingredients that research suggests can boost athletic performance, making this an ideal pick for athletes. The doses of these ingredients are a bit low per serving if you only do the one-scoop serving size. However, the canister does offer a two-scoop serving, which makes the dosages better for athletes packing on body mass.

For instance, some studies suggest a range of 2.5g/day of betaine anhydrous for improved muscle endurance, and this formulation contains 1.25g per scoop. It also contains creatine, albeit in a lower amount (1 to 2 grams per one to two scoops) than what’s typically recommended for optimal performance. (6) However, many pre-workouts don’t contain any creatine, so that’s a benefit it has amongst some competitors.

Jacked Factory Nitrosurge contains two proprietary blends: elevATP and Astragin. The former contains ancient peat and apple extract, which seemed to enhance athletic performance in a small study of 25 subjects. (7) The other proprietary blend Astragin contains the herb astragalus membranaceus. In animal studies, astragalus has been shown to increase exercise endurance and power output. (8)

Using a one-scoop budget-friendly at $1/serving, making it one of the more affordable pre-workouts for muscle gain on our list. If you use two scoops, it’s still not the most expensive, at $2/serving.

I like the addition of L-theanine, an amino acid that has shown to help muscles fight fatigue in animal studies. (26) Given that the doses are on the lower end of the range for key ingredients in the one-scoop serving, and the addition of proprietary blends, I give Jacked Factory Nitrosurge a 3 out of 5 for formulation. For the two-scoop serving size, it gets a 3.5 out of 5 — but the caffeine content is a whopping 360mg, which is on the higher end of the range of our tested products.

When it comes to the sweetener used, you might prefer the flavor of artificial sweeteners over natural sugar alternatives like stevia. If you prefer to avoid sucralose and acesulfame potassium, then this won’t be the best fit for you.

Best-Tasting Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: XWERKS Ignite 

Taste isn’t the most important thing when you’re trying to build lean muscle, but it doesn’t hurt. With four flavor options to choose from, it’s a safe bet that you’ll find your Goldilocks flavor with XWERKS Ignite. One of our product testers says, “I tried the Watermelon flavor, and you can definitely pick up on the artificial sweeteners.” But the artificial sweetener isn’t an unpleasant taste, they say, giving this an impressive 4 out of 5 for taste.

In addition to ingredients like L-citrulline, beta-alanine, and tyrosine, XWERKs Ignite contains DMAE bitartrate, which works as a nootropic. Nootropics can help improve focus, which can give you more effective sessions and ultimately help gain muscle. (27) “I got the tingles from this, but I also felt very energized and very focused for my workout,” according to one of our product testers. That bodes well for a solid muscle pump and hypertrophy (or muscle growth from high-intensity exercise).

If you’re wondering what the deal is with the large dose of vitamin B12, don’t worry — it’s considered safe in large doses because your body doesn’t store excess amounts (11). Vegans might be deficient in vitamin B12, so the dose can boost your wellness.

The ingredients for XWERKS Ignite aren’t available on their website, which doesn’t bode well in terms of transparency along with the lack of third-party testing, so we give it a 1 out of 5  in that area.

Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois adds, “Ignite has a lower dose of caffeine per serving compared to other pre-workouts. If you can tolerate a cup of coffee without negative side effects, chances are you can tolerate the caffeine in this pre-workout.” You can probably even indulge in a post-workout cup of joe, too.

XWERKS Ignite has several ingredients that can be beneficial for athletes such as L-citrulline and beta-alanine. (1)(17) However, dosages aren’t as generous as some competitors. Bourgeois concludes, “I’d give Ignite a 2.5 out of 5 for its formulation. Considering its cost per serving, I wish its ingredients were more clinically dosed.”

Read our full XWERKS Ignite Pre-Workout Review.

Best Budget Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Nutricost Pre-X

When choosing supps, budget is an important factor. Nutricost Pre-X is the most budget-friendly option in our lineup at $0.83/serving, so bodybuilders and weekend warriors alike won’t have to worry about it breaking the bank compared to some of the pricier options out there.

Pre-X contains a lot of taurine, which can improve aerobic performance, strength, powder, and recovery in doses of 1-3g/day. (12) It has a higher dose of L-citrulline too, which is another pro. 

One study noted that one of Pre-X’s ingredients, Nitrosigine®, when combined with L-citrulline, increased vasodilation in test subjects. (28) Increased blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients to working muscles, potentially promoting muscle growth. Nitrosigine® may reduce markers of muscle fatigue after exercise, which may help with muscle recovery. (28)

Regarding the formulation, registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois says: “I’d score Nutricost Pre-X Workout Complex a 3.75 out of 5 for its formula. It contains powerful ingredients, but the doses of some miss the mark just a bit.”

Bourgeois also adds, “I like that Pre-X Workout Complex contains L-citrulline, but it may fall short of the ideal dose per serving. There’s no set standard amount of L-citrulline in a pre-workout, but most studies point to at least 6-8 grams per serving.”

There are other factors to consider, like taste and ease of use. Our product tester, a competitive weightlifter, says: “I tried the Blue Raspberry. I drank it with cold water as well as at room temperature, and it was great both ways. Super easy to drink.” 

All the flavors are  sweetened with sucralose, an artificial sweetener. Our testers ranked the flavor of Nutricost Pre-X as a 4 out of 5 and the other tester gave it a 5 out of 5.

This formula does contain a bit more caffeine than other pre-workouts on the market. Our tester notes, “Make sure you don’t take this on an empty stomach. I did that, and it hit me really hard and fast. I’ve tried dozens of pre-workouts, and even two hours after taking this, I didn’t have a big drop in energy.”

Best Stim-Free Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Gainful Pre-Workout 

If you’re sensitive to caffeine or just don’t want it in your supplement, Gainful Pre-Workout has a great stim-free option. It has a lower amount of beta-alanine than other formulations, so it’s also less likely to give you that tingly feeling.

This formulation contains a higher dose of creatine compared to other pre-workout muscle gain supplements on the market and falls within the recommended 3-5 grams per day cited in some studies. Creatine is one of the more popular supplement ingredients in workout supplements and can help improve muscle mass, performance, and recovery, according to studies. (6)

Gainful Pre-Workout contains BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), which are essential amino acids you need to get from food since your body doesn’t make them. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which means they can help support healthy muscle mass and potentially reduce muscle breakdown. (13)

The dosing of branched-chain amino acids for athletes is higher in studies (close to 10 grams of leucine and 5 grams of isoleucine), so the low amounts in Gainful Pre-Workout might not be significant enough. (14)

The creatine and L-citrulline content is decent in this formulation, but otherwise, the dosages of the amino acids are questionable in terms of their efficacy. Overall, I’d give Gainful Pre-Workout a 3 out of 5 for formulation.

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain and a Pump: Onnit Alpha-BRAIN

Training for a pump might also build muscle if you’re doing it right! Onnit Alpha-BRAIN contains ingredients that can help boost blood flow to give you that pump, as well as ingredients that can help boost athletic performance. 

Beta-alanine may help boost cognitive function (17), which might explain the experience one of our testers had: “I usually feel more focused with most pre-workouts, but Alpha-BRAIN is one of the best for this, and I’d rate its the effects a 4 out of 5.” 

Another one of our product testers had a similar experience, stating “I have even taken this before work instead of coffee just for that extra attention.”

Part of the way Alpha-BRAIN gives you a pump is from L-citrulline, an amino acid that stimulates nitric oxide production (18). Nitric oxide is a vasodilator, which means it dilates blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow. Regarding the L-citrulline content, RD Chelsea Rae Bourgeois adds, “It also contains 2.4 grams of L-citrulline. Most research points to training benefits in doses of at least 3 grams, but combining it with beta-alanine is sure to give you a good pump for a hard-hitting workout.”

When it comes to taste, it might depend on the flavor you choose. One of our product testers said, “I’d give Yuzu Peach a 3 out of 5 for flavor because it is bitter, but Tiger’s Blood is a clear 5 out of 5.”

In terms of formulation, Registered Dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois notes, “I’d give Alpha Brain a 3.25 out of 5 for its formulation. It contains proprietary blends and very little L-citrulline compared to other pre-workouts.”

Check out our full Legion Pulse Pre-Workout Review.

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain for Beginners: Legion Pulse

If you’re new to the world of pre-workout muscle gain supplements, it can be a bit overwhelming given all of the options out there. As a beginner getting started in the gym, how do you know which brand contains ingredients that are beneficial for muscle gain, and in amounts that can actually make a difference? That’s where Legion Pulse comes into play.

Legion Pulse has a generous amount of L-citrulline — among the highest of the options in this lineup. L-citrulline not only can boost blood flow to working muscles, but its vasodilating effects can have a positive impact on blood pressure, which is significant if you’re one of the nearly half of Americans whose blood pressure runs on the high side. (19)

The ingredient amounts are more generous than many other options we reviewed, though some of the amounts fell a bit below typical ranges mentioned in scientific studies. “Legion Pulse scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formulation, with high marks for its natural ingredients, all of which serve a purpose,” says Registered Dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois.

Bourgeois also had this to say about Legion Pulse: “While Pulse doesn’t contain any creatine, it does have citrulline malate, beta-alanine, and betaine anhydrous to support muscle endurance, recovery, and gain.”

The sweeteners used aren’t artificial (stevia and erythritol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol), which is a plus if you’re not a fan of artificial sweeteners in your pre-workouts. Regarding the sweeteners, one of our product testers noted, “The initial taste is pleasant, but there is a bit of an artificial sweetener aftertaste — score 4 out of 5 on flavor.”

Check out our full Legion Pulse Pre-Workout Review.

Best Natural Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Naked Nutrition Energy

Naked Nutrition Energy touts a natural pre-workout option free of GMO ingredients, artificial sweeteners, and artificial flavors. The ingredients help support muscle gain while offering versions with and without caffeine.

This pre-workout offers a bit of an energy boost without being too much — 200 milligrams is right around the middle of the range of products we tested. The beta-alanine dose is on the lower end of the range we tested, which one of our product testers appreciated since beta-alanine is known for giving you the tingles: “This was great for a little energy boost, like what you get after having a big cup of coffee. And I love that you don’t get the tingles.” 

Free of artificial sweeteners and flavors, Naked Nutrition Energy and some of the other best natural pre-workouts utilize real cane sugar, so unlike the other options in our lineup, it’s not sugar-free. Our product tester gives the taste a 5 out of 5, noting, “This is bitter if you mix it just with water, but great if you mix it with a sports drink.”

Regarding the formulation, here’s what one of our registered dietitians, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois has to say: “I’d give Naked Energy a 3.75 out of 5. It has a fairly low dose of L-arginine.”

Bourgeois adds, “Naked Nutrition keeps its supplement formulas pretty streamlined. This formula has low doses of L-arginine, creatine, and beta-alanine, making it more appropriate for endurance athletes.”

While the amount of carbs in this pre-workout muscle gain supplement isn’t super high, it does contain 9 grams of added sugar per serving. If you have blood sugar imbalances or other conditions that make you sensitive to added sugars, you should consult with your healthcare provider and assess how your blood sugar responds to the combination of this pre-workout and exercising, which can raise your blood sugar in the initial phase.

Benefits of the Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain

The key ingredients in pre-workouts for muscle gain tend to repeat a bit and for a good reason. Many of the main ingredients have scientifically backed evidence supporting the role they play in muscle performance, athletic stamina, and even cognitive focus. Some of the highest-rated supplements in terms of formulation have more generous dosing that aligns with the amounts cited in studies, which means they’re more likely to be of benefit vs. lower dosing that might not measure up.

A container of XWERKS Ignite Pre.

Increased blood flow: Many pre-workout supplements for muscle gain contain ingredients that help boost blood flow, which helps provide oxygen and nutrients to muscles to support muscle growth. Some examples of this are L-citrulline and L-arginine, which act as a precursor for nitric oxide, a vasodilator. (20) Vasodilators widen your blood vessels to allow increased blood flow, which is what gives you a good pump!

Energy and focus: Ingredients like caffeine can give you an energy boost, while beta-alanine and L-tyrosine may help increase cognitive function (17), (10). 

Muscle growth support: Ingredients like creatine, L-citrulline, and beta-alanine have been studied for their potential benefits for improving muscle performance, which may support healthy muscle growth.

How Much Do The Best Pre-Workouts for Muscle Gain Cost?

The cost per serving for the pre-workouts for muscle gain we reviewed falls in the range of $0.83-$3. The cost depends on the ingredients used and their doses, which means you might pay more for the versions that deliver larger concentrations of the key ingredients compared to the lower-dose formulations.

Our tester scooping Transparent Labs Bulk Black as best pre-workout.

What to Consider Before Buying the Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a more casual gym-goer, your priorities will differ from others when it comes to choosing pre-workout supplements for muscle gain. Here are some of the most important factors (we think) that you should consider before you commit to buying one.

Ingredients & Dosing

As you probably noticed, the dosages for the common key ingredients in pre-workouts vary a lot. If you’re a big-time strength trainer, you might want to consider supplements with higher doses of ingredients, whereas some lower-dose options might be “more appropriate for endurance athletes,” as registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois notes. Also, if you prefer that creatine is in your pre-workout, then don’t even consider the types that don’t include it in their formulation — stick with your priorities here.

Stimulants

Some of the pre-workouts had higher caffeine concentrations, which in some people can cause stomach upset, insomnia, headache, and other symptoms. (21) If you’re sensitive to caffeine, then stick with the caffeine-free or lower-caffeine options. This is especially true if you already consume caffeine in other forms like coffee or black tea!

Our tester holding a scoop of Naked Pre.

Flavor & Usability

A pre-workout might have all the ingredients you prioritize and fit within your budget, but it means nothing if you hate the flavor or find it difficult to use. Finding a supplement that tastes good when mixed into your preferred liquid (water, sports drinks, or whatever it may be) should be a top priority if you don’t want to dread using it. Many of the supplements in our lineup scored 4 or 5 out of 5 for flavor, so start with those first if you’re new to the market!

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain FAQs

References

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The post Tested and R.D. Reviewed: The Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain 2024 appeared first on BarBend.

The nation’s capital region continues to lead the American College of Sports Medicine’s Fitness Index, with Seattle also securing a top spot

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) American has released its 17th annual American Fitness Index, ranking the fittest U.S. cities based on 33 indicators of fitness and livability. This year, Arlington, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Seattle, Washington, topped the list in that order, maintaining their rankings from 2023. 

Published by ACSM and Elevance Health Foundation, the results demonstrate that more Americans are walking and biking to work than ever, while park expenditures are up and food security has improved slightly.

However, there remain problems to solve: residents in the 100 largest cities are not exercising enough to meet minimum ACSM standards and the number of people getting more than seven hours of sleep each night has decreased, according to the organization.

“The Fitness Index offers four ways city leaders and residents can make a substantial difference: fuel knowledge, celebrate success, inspire action, and join the movement,” said ACSM president Stella Volpe, PhD. “The significance and value of the index goes well beyond the rankings. City officials can use the Fitness Index as a baseline to measure progress and make data-driven decisions that improve residents’ health.”

“This data can also serve as a yardstick for future evaluation, enabling cities to track their progress and celebrate their achievements in creating healthier and more vibrant communities,” Volpe added.

Rounding out the top ten fittest cities are San Francisco, California; Madison, Wisconsin; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Denver, Colorado; Atlanta, Georgia; Irvine, California; and St. Paul, Minnesota.

Full rankings and scores, a call-to-action report, a city comparison tool, and other insights are accessible on the Fitness Index website.

Top 10 Cities:

Arlington, Virginia

Overall Rank: 1

Personal Health Rank: 4

Community & Environment Rank: 1

Washington, D.C.

Overall Rank: 2

Personal Health Rank: 2

Community & Environment Rank: 3

Seattle, Washington

Overall Rank: 3

Personal Health Rank: 1

Community & Environment Rank: 11

San Francisco, California

Overall Rank: 4

Personal Health Rank: 3

Community & Environment Rank: 18

Madison, Wisconsin

Overall Rank: 5

Personal Health Rank: 5

Community & Environment Rank: 16

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Overall Rank: 6

Personal Health Rank: 13

Community & Environment Rank: 2

Denver, Colorado

Overall Rank: 7

Personal Health Rank: 6

Community & Environment Rank: 19

Atlanta, Georgia

Overall Rank: 8

Personal Health Rank: 9

Community & Environment Rank: 15

Irvine, California

Overall Rank: 9

Personal Health Rank: 7

Community & Environment Rank: 31

St. Paul, Minnesota

Overall Rank: 10

Personal Health Rank: 25

Community & Environment Rank: 4

The post DC Metro Area Is Home to America’s Fittest Cities, Index Finds appeared first on Athletech News.

The 2024 Strongman Champions League (SCL) Estonia contest occurred on July 20, 2024, in Tartu, Estonia. The single-day competition featured 12 athletes representing 11 countries competing through five events: Boat Pull, Viking Press, Wheelbarrow & Shield Medley, Conan’s Wheel, and Power Stairs.

Adam Roszkowski of Poland stood atop the podium after accumulating 52.5 of a possible 60 points. He bested runner-up Kane Francis of the UK by 2.5 points. Below are the final results:

2024 Strongman Champions League Estonia Results

Adam Roszkowski (POL) — 52.5 points

Kane Francis (UK) — 50 points

Péter Juhász (HUN) — 45 points

Aivars Šmaukstelis (LAT) — 40.5 points

Evans Nana Aryee (GHA) — 39.5 points

Ervin Toots (EST) — 35 points

Kevin Hazeleger (NED) — 29 points

Heikki Pohjonen (FIN) — 23.5 points

Gunnar Gimbutas (EST) — 23.5 points

Andrea Invernizzi (ITA) — 21.5 points

Ilya Khazov (CYP) — 15 points

Kelin Mills (RSA) — 15 points

[Related: Strongwoman Sandra Bradley Becomes First Woman to Lift the 154-Kilogram Fullsterkur Stone]

[Related: Pavlo Kordiyaka Sets Conan’s Wheel World Record of 1,035 Degrees at the 2024 Strongman Classic]

Boat Pull

The boat weighed 100,000 kilograms. Athletes had 75 seconds to pull the boat 25 meters in the fastest time possible.

Ervin Toots — 39.78 seconds

Péter Juhász — 40.17 seconds

Adam Roszkowski — 40.35 seconds

Kane Francis — 42.67 seconds

Heikki Pohjonen — 43.15 seconds

Gunnar Gimbutas — 43.61 seconds

Kelin Mills — 44.7 seconds

Aivars Šmaukstelis — 45.47 seconds

Andrea Invernizzi — 45.57 seconds

Evans Nana Aryee — 46.35 seconds

Ilya Khazov — 51.24 seconds

Kevin Hazeleger — 54.48 seconds

Viking Press

With 165 kilograms, each strongman attempted as many overhead reps as possible within the 60-second time cap.

Adam Roszkowski — 18 reps

Péter Juhász — 16 reps

Aivars Šmaukstelis — 15 reps

Kane Francis — 14 reps

Andrea Invernizzi — 13 reps

Kevin Hazeleger — 12 reps

Evans Nana Aryee — 11 reps

Ilya Khazov — 11 reps

Ervin Toots — 10 reps (T-ninth)

Heikki Pohjonen — 10 reps (T-ninth)

Gunnar Gimbutas — 10 reps (T-ninth)

Kelin Mills — 10 reps (T-ninth)

Wheelbarrow & Shield Medley

Across a 40-meter course, each strongman had 75 seconds to traverse a 500-kilogram wheelbarrow and a 180-kilogram shield 20 meters each.

Evans Nana Aryee — 27.73 seconds

Kane Francis — 29.52 seconds

Adam Roszkowski — 30.27 seconds

Péter Juhász — 32.57 seconds

Kevin Hazeleger — 33.62 seconds

Ervin Toots — 35.04 seconds

Aivars Šmaukstelis — 36.15 seconds

Gunnar Gimbutas — 61.60 seconds

Andrea Invernizzi — 25.45 meters

Heikki Pohjonen — 26.4 meters

Kelin Mills — 20.7 meters

Ilya Khazov — 4.5 meters

Conan’s Wheel

Ervin Toots — 50.5 meters

Kane Francis — 49.4 meters

Evans Nana Aryee — 48.6 meters

Adam Roszkowski — 45.9 meters

Aivars Šmaukstelis — 36.7 meters

Kevin Hazeleger — 35.5 meters

Péter Juhász — 32.2 meters

Ilya Khazov — 18 meters

Gunnar Gimbutas — 10.5 meters

Andrea Invernizzi — 8.9 meters

Heikki Pohjonen — 7.8 meters

Kelin Mills — Six meters

Power Stairs

With 90 seconds on the clock, each athlete attempted to load four implements weighing 200, 220, 250, and 275 kilograms each up five steps.

Adam Roszkowski — 16 stairs (T-first)

Aivars Šmaukstelis — 16 stairs (T-first)

Kane Francis — 15 stairs (T-third)

Péter Juhász — 15 stairs (T-third)

Evans Nana Aryee — 15 stairs (T-third)

Kevin Hazeleger — 15 stairs (T-third)

Heikki Pohjonen — 15 stairs (T-third)

Gunnar Gimbutas — 15 stairs (T-third)

Andrea Invernizzi — 13 stairs (T-ninth)

Kelin Mills — 13 stairs (T-ninth)

Ervin Toots — 12 stairs (T-11th)

Ilya Khazov — 12 stairs (T-11th)

More Strongman Content

2024 Strongman Classic Results and Recap

Mitchell Hooper Breaks Axle Press World Record With 218 Kilograms (480 Pounds)

Unofficial Record: Hafthor Björnsson Launches 34-Pound Weight Over 26 Feet in the Air

Featured image: @rosco_strong on Instagram

The post 2024 Strongman Champions League Estonia Results appeared first on BarBend.

Jaba Sepiashvili, a lightweight Georgian bench press specialist, usually competes in the 59KG class. He has had some success in this class, most notably winning the Junior world title at the 2023 International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Bench Press Championships in Sun City, South Africa.

At the 2024 Euro Muscle Show (EMS) in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Sepiashvili dropped into the 53KG class, a weight class reserved only for junior and sub-junior athletes. The IPF keeps two sets of bench press world records—those performed as part of a full-power competition, i.e., between squat and deadlift, and those performed in a bench-only competition.

Sepiashvili claimed the single lift record with his first bench press at 140 kilograms and extended it to 150 kilograms on his second attempt. Check out the lift below, courtesy of the IPF’s Instagram page:

Sepiashvili benched without using any supportive equipment, not even wrist wraps. His arms shook a little as he pressed the barbell from his chest, but he locked it out successfully and was rewarded with three white lights from the referees.

The single lift bench press record in the Junior 53KG class was previously a standard at 135 kilograms. The IPF sets minimum standards for world records rather than allowing any weight achieved in the class to stand as an IPF world record, and up until the EMS, no one had met that standard.

The contest featured athletes from different weight classes. It was therefore scored on GL points, a formula designed to compare the lifters across different bodyweight categories used by the IPF and its affiliates. Sepiashvili’s performance secured him third place with 96.54 GL points, only 0.02 points behind second place. This also netted him a prize purse of 500 Euros.

2024 IPF Euro Muscle Show Results — Jaba Sepiashvili (Georgia), 53KG

Bench Press

140 kilograms

150 kilograms — IPF Junior Raw World Record

157 kilograms

Sepiashvili will be back in action at the European Powerlifting Federation (EPF) European Bench Press Championships (EBPC) in Istanbul, Türkiye. The competition will begin on August 5, 2024, and run for seven days.

Sepiashvili was nominated in the 59KG class at the 2024 EBPC, so he cannot extend his Junior world record. He is only one and a half kilograms away from the European Junior record in the 59KG class, though, so he may pick up another record at that contest.

Featured image: @theipf on Instagram

The post Jaba Sepiashvili (53KG) Breaks IPF Junior Raw Bench Press World Record With 150KG appeared first on BarBend.

As a registered dietitian, I know that many people struggle to eat enough leafy green vegetables. Eating on the go, having limited time for meal prep, and disliking how they taste are all legitimate obstacles to getting your greens in, and this is where products like Kiala Nutrition Super Greens aim to help. 

While they can’t completely replace the health benefits gained from eating your vegetables, the best greens powders can be helpful tools for boosting your intake of key micronutrients, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory polyphenols. Many brands promise improved digestion, less bloating, clearer skin, better overall health, and Kiala Greens are no different. To determine how these greens stack up, our BarBend expert product tester followed our comprehensive supplement testing methodology when testing them out. Overall, this is a great-tasting, budget-friendly option for people seeking a boost of antioxidants from a greens powder, but we found the label a bit lacking.

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.

Of course, everyone’s body is different, so it’s best to consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before trying any new supplements.

Main Takeaways

One of the most cost-effective greens powders on the market

Simple greens supplement with added antioxidants and electrolytes, sweetened with sucralose

Doesn’t contain probiotics or digestive enzymes

Kiala Greens Specs

Kiala Nutrition touts their super greens as an effective way to boost energy levels, improve digestion, reduce bloating, strengthen the immune system, and promote clear skin thanks to their blend of powdered green vegetables, grasses, and algae, in addition to other antioxidant-rich ingredients. 

Kiala Greens is surprisingly affordable for a greens powder at less than $2 per serving for a container that lasts the whole month. Consisting of powdered greens, an antioxidant blend, and electrolyte-rich coconut water powder, this is a relatively simple, nutrient-dense greens powder that can help boost your intake of key micronutrients, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory polyphenols. Notably, it’s available in nine unique fruit or dessert-based flavors — a dream come true for anyone who doesn’t want their greens to taste like greens.

Kiala Greens with shaker bottle

With only 20 calories per scoop, these greens are a great option for a strict cut or calorie deficit. While the packaging lists each individual ingredient, they’re included as proprietary blends so the actual amounts aren’t specified. Unfortunately, macros and micronutrients aren’t included in the nutrition facts either. 

Our product tester liked the product’s formulation overall, with one caveat. “I can drink this plain without any qualms, apart from the use of sucralose as a sweetener,” they noted.

[Related: Greens Powders vs. Multivitamins]

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Kiala Greens

We know that while a supplement could be a good fit for one person, it may not fit the needs of another. To help you decide whether Kiala Super Greens is right for you, we’ve listed our suggestions as to who this product is best suited for below. 

Recommended for:

People who want an extra boost of antioxidants

Those who struggle to eat enough leafy green vegetables

Anyone looking for a budget-friendly greens powder

Not Recommended for:

Anyone trying to avoid caffeine or artificial sweeteners

Those who want a greens powder with added probiotics and digestive enzymes

People with Celiac disease, as wheatgrass and barley grass may not be 100 percent gluten-free (1)

Our Experience Using Kiala Greens

This greens powder is easy to prepare — all you have to do is mix it with water. Kiala Nutrition suggests drinking it in the morning on an empty stomach, which is what our product tester did. 

They didn’t notice any obvious improvements in energy, skin appearance, or digestion, although many customers have reported these benefits in online reviews. However, it was a great-tasting way to get a head start on hydration for the day. 

Ingredients and Formulation

The ingredients in Kiala Nutrition Super Greens are fairly simple compared to other greens powders:

Organic Greens Blend: Organic alfalfa grass, organic wheatgrass, organic barley grass, organic lemon juice, organic kale, organic astragalus, organic spirulina, organic oat grass, organic chlorella

Organic Coconut Water Powder

Spectra Antioxidant Blend: Coffea arabica extract, green tea extract, broccoli sprout, onion extract, apple extract, quercetin, tomato, broccoli, camu camu, maltodextrin, acerola extract, acai, turmeric, garlic, basil, oregano, cinnamon, carrot, elderberry, mangosteen, black currant extract, blueberry extract, sweet cherry, raspberry, spinach, chokeberry, kale, blackberry, bilberry extract, brussels sprout, sunflower lecithin

Other ingredients: Citric acid, natural flavors, silica, sucralose

A significant distinction between this product and most other greens powders is the lack of probiotics and digestive enzymes. These ingredients are often added for their purported gut health benefits. Considering the lack of scientific evidence showing that these ingredients provide significant benefits for healthy people, this isn’t necessarily a problem. Still, many people prefer to have them in their greens powder.

Our tester mixing up a serving of Kiala Greens

Of note, the greens and superfood antioxidant blends are both proprietary blends. We asked registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois for her thoughts on the formulation. “If you like to know exactly what and how much of it is going into your body, this probably isn’t your jam,” she advised, rating the formulation a disappointing 1 out of 5.  

Additionally, because the macros and micronutrients aren’t listed on the nutrition facts label, it’s impossible to tell how many vitamins and minerals you’re getting.

The use of sucralose, an artificial sweetener, could also be an issue for some. “I’m sensitive to sucralose, so I did experience a little bloating after drinking this greens powder. That said, I didn’t have any unwanted GI distress or other side effects, so I can’t really complain,” our product tester noted.

While sucralose is safe to consume in moderation, some people prefer to avoid it. Preliminary research suggests potential problems with artificial sweeteners, such as sucralose negatively impacting the gut microbiome and increasing glucose and insulin levels in the blood, although more studies are needed. (2) 

Keep in mind that one serving contains 12 milligrams of caffeine, the amount in about an eighth of a cup of coffee.

Our tester drinking a mix of Kiala Greens

Overall, it’s nice to have a budget-friendly greens powder option, and the added electrolytes could make this a better choice for rehydration in hot temperatures than other greens powders depending on their micronutrient content. However, it has some significant limitations. “The proprietary blends and lack of evidence-based information on the website gives me pause,” said Bourgeois. “Customers are expected to trust the hype surrounding greens powders and consume this product without nutrition facts available.”

Taste

After a slight modification, our product tester ended up loving the Tropical Splash flavor. 

“I really enjoyed it once I fine-tuned the water-to-powder ratio. For me, the recommended 8 ounces of water was too sweet, but mixing this greens powder with 12 ounces was right on the money,” they said.

Because it was one of the best-tasting green powders we’ve tried and didn’t need to be blended with juice or a smoothie to be palatable, we rated it a 5 out of 5 for taste.

Keep in mind that Kiala Super Greens comes in nine different flavors. If you try the Tropical Splash and aren’t in love with it, another flavor may suit your preferences better.

Solubility

We’ve tried our fair share of gritty greens powders, so our product tester was pleasantly surprised by how well Kiala Greens dissolved with water in a shaker cup. 

“This Kiala offering mixes easily and I had no issues with gritty textures or leftover residue. Some customer reviews have reported otherwise, but I had no complaints from my experience,” they said, rating it a 5 out of 5 for solubility.

Price Per Serving

Kiala Greens start out at $1.25 per serving if you sign up for a subscription, which saves you 25% on every order. Otherwise, it’s priced at $1.67 per serving for a one-time purchase.

It’s a little pricey for a daily supplement, but is one of the most affordable greens powders we’ve found. Other brands that include ingredients like prebiotic fibers, probiotics, and digestive enzymes can cost upwards of $2 per serving or more. Kiala Greens is likely cheaper since it omits these ingredients and isn’t certified USDA Organic, gluten-free, or vegan.

Third-Party Testing

Because the FDA doesn’t assess the safety or purity of dietary supplements, third-party testing is the best way to ensure that your greens powder is free from dangerous contaminants.

On their website, Kiala Nutrition states that their supplements are third-party tested for contaminants like heavy metals, microbes, and allergens, although they don’t specify which labs conduct the testing. Because of this, we rated this greens powder a 4 out of 5 in the third-party testing category. 

Kiala Greens

Their supplements are also manufactured in facilities certified by the National Sanitation Foundation, adding another level of safety. 

What to Consider Before Buying Kiala Greens

After testing 39 different greens powders, we’re pretty familiar with what makes a good product. Finding a supplement that fits your budget, tastes great, and is made with an ingredient list you’re comfortable with can make all the difference in taking it consistently and reaping the most benefits of greens powder.

Flavors: Kiala Greens is available in 9 different flavors, so it could be a great choice if you need to mix up your flavors to keep from getting bored.

Probiotics and digestive enzymes: Kiala Greens doesn’t contain probiotics or digestive enzymes; they aren’t necessary, but many people prefer them especially when seeking to improve digestion.

Price: Starting at $1.25 per serving, Kiala Greens is more affordable than many other greens powders. Products with more certifications and that include probiotics, enzymes, and prebiotic fibers usually cost between $1.40 to $2.50 per serving, sometimes more. 

Sweeteners: Kiala Greens uses sucralose (Splenda), an artificial sweetener, which some people may be sensitive to.

Micronutrient content: If you want a greens powder to help you get more vitamins and minerals, be aware that the amounts of these aren’t listed on the nutrition facts label, which is unusual.

Kiala Greens Vs. Competitors

With so many super greens powders on the market, finding the right one for your needs can be difficult and confusing. To help, we’ve compared Kiala directly to a few of the most popular, top-rated greens powders available. 

As you can see below, Kiala Greens have the lowest price per serving, are available in the most flavors, use sucralose instead of stevia or sugar alcohols like erythritol, and contain the least calories, which could be due in part to the smaller serving size.

[Related: Athletic Greens AG1 Review]

Places to Buy Kiala Greens

Kiala Greens can be purchased from the following online retailers:

Kiala Nutrition 

Amazon

Walmart

Customer Experience and Brand Reputation

Overall, the product and brand are rated highly with over 4.5 stars on the Kiala Nutrition website and 4.2 stars on Amazon. Of note, Kiala Nutrition offers free shipping on all US orders.

Unfortunately, multiple customer reviews on the Kiala Nutrition website mention being put on a subscription without their knowledge and having a difficult time canceling. It’s possible that some customers didn’t realize they were choosing the “Subscribe & Save” option when ordering, so make sure to pay close attention to whether you’re choosing a one-time purchase or automatic deliveries.

Our tester shaking up their serving of Kiala Greens

That said, many customers appreciated the quick delivery times. Experiences with health benefits were mixed; some said the product helps reduce bloating, abdominal cramps, and constipation, assists with weight loss, and improves energy levels, while others said they didn’t notice any such improvements. 

Our Final Verdict on Kiala Greens

Kiala Greens is a tasty, simple choice for a greens powder, if a little sweet. It can help you get more antioxidants and electrolytes, but it lacks the probiotics and digestive enzymes provided by most of its competitors. It’s also sweetened with an artificial sweetener, sucralose, which could pose digestive issues for some. 

The antioxidants, electrolytes, and vitamin C could help you feel more energized if you aren’t getting enough of them from your diet, but it’s unlikely to do much more for your health than eating more fruits and veggies would. That said, it’s worth trying out if you want a convenient, quick way to get more plant-based nutrients — as long as you are not opposed to proprietary blends. 

Kiala Greens FAQs

References

Dennis, Melinda. Do wheat grass and barley grass contain gluten? National Celiac Association website. Accessed 7/12/24. https://nationalceliac.org/celiac-disease-questions/do-wheat-grass-and-barley-grass-contain-gluten/.

Schiffman SS, Rother KI. Sucralose, a synthetic organochlorine sweetener: overview of biological issues. J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2013;16(7):399-451. doi:10.1080/10937404.2013.842523. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3856475/#R300. 

United States Food & Drug Administration. Facts about dietary supplements. FDA website. Accessed 7/12/24. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/rumor-control/facts-about-dietary-supplements. 

United States Food & Drug Administration. Spilling the beans: how much caffeine is too much? FDA website. Accessed 7/16/24. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much. 

The post Kiala Greens Review (2024): RD Reviewed and Expert Tested  appeared first on BarBend.

While we’re not at the “senior citizen” status just yet, we still feel we understand what makes a great stationary bike. No matter your tenure on this planet, you’ll want a bike that’s supportive, durable, and (above all else) enjoyable to train on. So, we’ve gotten hands-on with dozens of cycles and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this round-up of the best exercise bikes for seniors available today.

The 9 Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors of 2024

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors Overall: NordicTrack Commercial R35

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Back Problems: Sole LCR Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors for Live Classes: Peloton Bike

Best Budget Exercise Bike for Seniors: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002

Best Air Bike for Seniors: Concept2 BikeErg

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Arms: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RBE420049

Best Folding Exercise Bike for Seniors: FitNation Flex Bike Ultra

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Seniors: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

Best Under-Desk Exercise Bike for Seniors: DeskCycle2 Under Desk Bike

How We Tested and Chose the Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best exercise bikes for seniors, we got hands-on with 50 different equipment silhouettes from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

Exercise Bike Type: Indoor cycling bikes can come in a variety of silhouettes, each with its own perks and drawbacks. To cater to as wide an audience of older athletes as possible, we included profiles that fall under a range of exercise bike types including recumbent bikes, spin bikes, air bikes, folding bikes, and more.

Adjustability: Everyone’s body is different, so having an exercise bike that can be adjusted to your liking is key. All of the included stationary bikes in this guide feature multiple adjustment points along with ergonomic toggles that can make finding that perfect setup a less complicated endeavor.

Available Programming: Pedaling along and watching your time, speed, and calories can be somewhat boring, especially if you’re turning to your exercise bike daily for your training regimen. As such, we made sure to include profiles capable of streaming popular fitness programs, or at least those that featured an integrated tablet holder for DIY streaming setups in tandem with the present LCD displays.

Product Footprint: Not every older athlete has the same space available to house high-quality gym equipment. We made sure to include the product dimensions of every exercise bike featured in this round-up for a clearer illustration of the floorspace required and also included some compact silhouettes boasting added storage features like foldable frames or under-desk positioning.

Resistance Levels: To achieve hypertrophy — the term referring to muscle growth via physical activity — you need to pose a challenge to your abilities every now and again. (6) As such, we looked for exercise bikes offering different levels of resistance, which can be useful when trying to change up your training intensity from one session to the next.

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors Overall: NordicTrack Commercial R35

For older adults wanting a stellar home workout, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial R35. We’ve previously ranked this among the best recumbent bikes available and really like the setup for older individuals given the more comfortable seat, ergonomic front pedals, and stellar dynamic programming available through NordicTrack’s integration with iFIT.

Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, rated the available programming at 5 out of 5 praising the platform’s robust library of over 16,000 on-demand courses and real-world rides powered by Google Maps. “Plus, I really appreciate the AutoAdjust technology that makes toggling through the 26 levels of resistance a breeze,” they added. “When following along to an iFIT workout, the machine automatically adjusts your resistance in accordance with your on-screen road conditions or trainer’s instructions.”

Recumbent bikes fully support your body as opposed to more traditional stationary bikes, making them an excellent pick for older adults wanting some extra security and coziness. (2) Our tester, who had their ankle reconstructed prior to trying this R35, was very appreciative of the more inviting setup. “I’m not sure I’d be able to train as efficiently if I were looking to use a regular spin bike,” they stated.

To add to the approachable makeup, the R35 is rounded out with a comfortable seat with added back support. Plus, we scored the adjustability at 4 out of 5 thanks to the ergonomic lever that allows you to seamlessly slide the seat back and forth along the rail for that perfect positioning.

The NordicTrack Commercial R35 weighs in at 192 pounds, which can be heavy and cumbersome to get into position for a workout. While the machine does feature front transport wheels, we did rate the portability at 3.75 out of 5 given that there are no other storage features like a foldable frame to help with managing the silhouette. If you need a bike that can be easily toted from room to room or tucked neatly away in between workouts, it may be best to look elsewhere.

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial R35 Recumbent Bike Review.

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Back Problems: Sole LCR Exercise Bike

For older athletes looking for a type of exercise bike that lessens the strain across their back, recumbent bikes can be a great option. These silhouettes fully support your frame while also swapping out your traditional bike saddle for a backed chair. (2) While we’ve become fans of many recumbent bikes over the years, we feel the Sole LCR Exercise Bike is the best of the bunch when it comes to giving your spine that much-appreciated comfort.

Unlike other recumbent bikes that feature molded, ventilated plastic across the seat for added airflow, the Sole LCR boasts a padded seat that gives every workout a heightened sense of plush. “It’s seriously one of the most comfortable recumbent stationary bikes I’ve ever used,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer, who rated the ergonomics at 5 out of 5. “I also enjoyed the padded foot pedals for (literal) head-to-toe comfort.”

The Sole LCR also features a 10.1-inch LCD touchscreen capable of streaming your favorite fitness apps and entertainment services (even Netflix). This can be excellent for a wide range of older athletes whether you prefer to follow along with trainer-led workouts or want to take in a few miles while catching up with your favorite television show.

That said, we did rate the tech features at 4.5 out of 5 given the smaller LCD monitor. At 10.1 inches, it’s got a smaller screen size than the latest iPad Pro. If you want a more immersive display, you’ll need to look elsewhere. (3) There is an included tablet holder, though, if you want to try your luck with a DIY streaming setup.

From a durability standpoint, we scored the Sole LCR at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to its impressively sturdy steel frame capable of supporting up to 350 pounds. This can be excellent for larger athletes, but be mindful that there’s a direct correlation between weight capacity and product weight. Our tester noted, “While the 152-pound listed product weight isn’t as high as other recumbent bikes, I still had to muscle up when trying to get this machine into position.”

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors for Live Classes: Peloton Bike

If you’re an older athlete that enjoys tuning into trainer-led courses designed to keep you energized from start to finish, it’s tough to look past the Original Peloton Bike. While other upright bikes have caught up to this iconic brand in terms of machine capabilities, the available programming offered through Peloton’s All-Access membership is still the driving factor when comparing this to other exercise bikes with screens.

Our tester scored the available programming at 5 out of 5, stating that the “Peloton Experience” was one of the best digital fitness services they’ve had in recent memory. “Every trainer brings a spark of liveliness to their streams,” they noted. “I also really love the shout-outs they pepper in throughout the sessions. You truly feel like you’re in the studio with them.”

An All-Access Peloton membership (which costs roughly $44 monthly) also gives you access to the brand’s other training regimens beyond the classic bike workouts. Peloton has modules for HIIT, strength training, yoga, and more. However, we rated the available tech at 4.5 out of 5 since the 21.5-inch HD touchscreen does not pivot or rotate for easier viewing in these off-bike training sessions. It could be troublesome to find the ideal setup behind your bike, especially when your intense workouts call for a lot of movement.

As far as the ergonomics are concerned, we scored the Original Peloton Bike at 4 out of 5. Naturally, this spin bike silhouette will place more strain across your back than, say, a recumbent bike, but the main issue lies in the pedal design. You’ll need Delta-compatible cycling shoes that lock you into your pedals in order to use this machine. Older adults just wanting exercise equipment for quick, convenient workout sessions throughout the week may see this extra expense as an unnecessary burden.

Lastly, it may go without saying, but a Peloton membership is practically required to get the most out of this bike. Be sure your finances can support the machine cost as well as the monthly subscription before considering this exercise bike for your home gym setup.

Read our full Peloton Bike Review.

Best Budget Exercise Bike for Seniors: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002

Sure, exercise bikes can be viewed as some of the best home gym equipment, but that doesn’t overshadow the costs of owning one of these machines. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $860 for a high-quality indoor cycle, and that doesn’t include any additional subscription fees you may need to sign up for. The SF-B1002 from Sunny Health and Fitness, though, comes in at just under $400 making it a high-value pick for budget-conscious athletes.

Having used this machine in the past, I can attest to the value at play, which I rated at 5 out of 5. I also appreciate how you can purchase this upright exercise bike from Amazon, which could potentially open the doors to even more savings and coupons.

Now, for less than $400, you cannot expect to get the most tech-riddled exercise machine. The SF-B1002 does not feature a center console, meaning there’s no way to stream on-demand workout programs or even track vital metrics such as time, calories burned, resistance, and more.

That said, the brand still delivers in terms of durability. I scored the SF-B1002 at 4.5 out of 5 for the category as I experienced no shakiness or jostling while pedaling through my workouts. The durability was also noteworthy given the price — I’ve trained with other budget-friendly fitness equipment and the sturdiness is lacking more often than not.

This exercise bike’s 49-pound flywheel also bolsters the bike’s integrity. This hefty component is above the industry standard of 40 pounds, creating a smooth pedaling experience that’s easy to maintain. A lighter flywheel can call for you to pedal harder to keep up with certain paces.

This budget-friendly indoor cycle uses friction resistance, meaning intensity is created via a leather patch that’s tightened or loosened across the flywheel. I scored the resistance at 3.75 out of 5 since this system can begin to wear out over time. Plus, the rubbing across the leather can be noisy at times more so than exercise bikes operating with magnetic resistance.

[Related: Sunny Health and Fitness Exercise Bike Review]

Best Air Bike for Seniors: Concept2 BikeErg

Air resistance can be a unique (albeit loud) way to give your at-home workouts some upgraded intensity. Rather than relying on magnets or friction, these bikes have you work against your performance with the flywheel serving as a large fan blade. Essentially, the harder you train, the more intense your workouts will be. While many of the best air bikes can be excellent for these needs, we like the Concept2 BikeErg for older athletes as the silhouette is reminiscent of a traditional upright bike.

Other air bikes often feature swinging arms, which can be great for upper body training but does impact the machine’s overall footprint. Thankfully, the BikeErg measures in at 48 inches long by 28 inches wide, or 9.33 square feet. For reference, that’s smaller than your average coffee table. (4)

We also like the BikeErg thanks to its motorless design and electricity-free makeup. This — combined with the lightweight 68-pound frame — can allow you to set this exercise bike wherever you please. We rated the portability at 4.5 out of 5, as such.

There is a small LCD display at the center of this upright bike, which can be useful when tracking your workout performance and other metrics like speed, time, calories, and more. “I also appreciate the Bluetooth connectivity features,” says our tester in reference to their 3 out of 5 tech rating. “While the LCD screen isn’t as immersive as other exercise bikes, I did like how I could connect the console to my heart rate monitor as well as other fitness apps like Zwift.”

The Concept2 BikeErg can be a great air bike for older athletes as there are multiple adjustment points across the seat and handlebars giving you the power to truly customize your setup. Unfortunately, though, we did have to drop our adjustability rating to 4 out of 5 as there are no toggles for forward or backward saddle movement. If you need to have a setup closer to the handlebars, you may come up a little short.

[Related: SkiErg vs Rower vs Air Bike]

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Arms: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RBE420049

Want more of a full-body workout when it comes to your indoor cycling routine? The SF-RBE420049 can deliver with swinging arms that compliment the recumbent bike-elliptical hybrid frame to create a low-impact, enjoyable training setup that gives you the power to engage all of your musculature in one fell swoop.

I’ve trained with the SF-RBE420049 before and do feel it’s a worthwhile pick for older adults as it gets everything moving in a singular profile. I also think this equipment can be great for older athletes thanks to the multiple adjustment points, which I rated at 4 out of 5. Sliding the seat with its included backrest is simple across the rail, and I also enjoyed the oversized foot pedals that reminded me of my experience atop some of the best ellipticals — no need to worry about precise foot placement to achieve a proper revolution.

Like other Sunny Health and Fitness products, the SF-RBE420049 doesn’t feature the most tech-heavy design. The included center monitor can track key metrics like calories, speed, time, and more, but the features stop there. Don’t expect to purchase this exercise bike for seniors and be engulfed in a wide array of available programming. However, I still gave the tech a 3 out of 5 as the readings are legible enough and there is an included tablet holder for streaming your own digital workouts.

As you may expect from an exercise bike with arms, the SF-RBE420049 does not feature a compact footprint. You’ll need roughly 15.19 square feet of space to properly house this machine, which is about the same as your standard loveseat. (5) If you’re on the fence about whether this bike can fit within your space, it may be best to think of it as furniture — can your floorplan support another loveseat or sofa?

Finally, I rated the value at 3.5 out of 5 since there aren’t many conveniences included across the silhouette. You can likely find a more interactive machine for slightly more money if you’re honed in on total-body training.

Best Folding Exercise Bike for Seniors: FitNation Flex Bike Ultra

Exercise bikes can be excellent for low-impact workouts, but there’s a definite impact when it comes to your floorplan. Especially recumbent bikes, these machines can take up a good chunk of space across your home gym. As such, it can be nice to have an exercise bike with built-in storage features such as the FitNation Flex Ultra. This foldable indoor cycle can compress down to 2.54 square feet and stores easily in a corner of your room or even in a nearby closet.

The Fitnation Flex Bike Ultra is also one of the best folding exercise bikes thanks to its included tech. Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, stated, “I like how clear the readouts are across the LCD display,” in reference to their 4 out of 5 tech rating. “Plus, the included tablet holder allowed me to stream my regular workouts without any issues.”

With these included digital features, though, as well as the convenient resistance bands for added upper body training, the Flex Bike Ultra does cost more than other folding bikes we’ve trialed. However, in comparison to standard upright bikes and recumbent bikes, it can still be a worthwhile option for budget-minded athletes.

When it comes to durability, we scored the Flex Bike Ultra at 3.5 out of 5. We experienced a bit of jostling and wobbliness during rides, which was somewhat expected given the machine’s more compact footprint and lighter frame. If you’re worried about balance when atop your fitness equipment, it could be wise to opt for a sturdier silhouette.

Lastly, the FitNation Flex Bike Ultra features multiple adjustment knobs for the resistance intensity as well as the seat. While we enjoyed the toggles, we had to pause and confirm which component would be adjusted at each knob. This unintuitive layout may be annoying at the start of your fitness journey, hence our 4 out of 5 adjustability rating. Over time, though, we’re sure you can become accustomed to the settings.

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Seniors: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

This Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike can be an excellent pick for older athletes thanks to its lightweight frame, low price point, and comfortable seat design that features padding across the entire profile. Plus, the eight available magnetic resistance levels can provide plenty of intensity without giving you too many options that may not ever fit within your training scheme.

At less than $200, the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike (marketed under the ME-709 product name) does feature a good bit of plastic across its silhouette. “I’ve come to understand that even the best budget home gym equipment relies on plastic components, though,” says our tester who rated the durability at 3 out of 5, “So, I wouldn’t critique the design too much.”

All that plastic (and the 14-gauge steel) does lend itself to keeping this machine lightweight, however. At just 61 pounds, this recumbent bike can be easily transported from room to room without much hassle — provided you can comfortably lift 61 pounds. We did knock the portability score down to 4 out of 5, though, since there are no front transport wheels to make for easier maneuverability.

The Marcy ME-709 does feature a center LCD display capable of tracking time, speed, distance, and calories burned. According to our tester, the readouts are clear and visible, but those looking for a tech-heavy exercise bike may feel underwhelmed. “There aren’t any preset programs to choose from, and there’s no tablet holder built into the console for DIY streaming setups,” they added. As such, we scored the available tech at 1 out of 5.

We also appreciate the adjustability displayed across the seat design which allows older athletes to fine-tune their positioning. However, we did find that the lumbar support across the backrest is non-adjustable, meaning the back padding is consistent regardless of your setup. If you need a bike with a toggleable saddle, it may be best to opt for a more robust machine.

Read our full Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike Review.

Best Under-Desk Exercise Bike for Seniors: DeskCycle2 Under Desk Bike

Looking to maximize your time by getting in some training while answering emails or watching television? Thanks to its compact design that fits neatly underneath an office desk or coffee table, we think the DeskCycle2 Under Desk Bike is perfect for these needs regardless of your fitness level.

The DeskCycle2 features an adjustable height between 9 and 10 inches making it usable with desk clearances as low as 27 inches. For reference, that equates to older athletes 5’10” or shorter — we’re assuming that taller athletes would require more legroom if they’re looking for as comfortable a working area as possible.

While the overall dimensions of this under-desk bike are noteworthy — the total footprint measures in at 1.71 square feet — we do wish that DeskCycle placed a carrying handle somewhere along the silhouette. You need to bend down fully to grab hold and move this machine from its set position, which may be more of a chore when trying to rearrange your under-desk layout.

There are also eight magnetic resistance levels, which our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated at 4 out of 5. “The higher resistance levels definitely pose a challenge, and I’m grateful that I can maximize my time in between meetings with a heart-pumping pedal session,” they added. Additionally, we like how the LCD display is removable, allowing you to monitor your time, speed, and other metrics without crooning your neck to see your feet. This detachable display is also beneficial as the basic black and white console would otherwise be illegible from a seated position.

The DeskCycle2 weighs in at 23 pounds but can support up to 270 pounds. This rock-solid composition surprised our tester who had previously found other best mini exercise bikes to be somewhat frail. “It felt really stable with no movement underneath my workstation,” they said in reference to their 5 out of 5 durability rating. “The whisper-quiet operation was also a plus, especially when trying to attend Zoom meetings or answering the phone mid-workout.”

Benefits of Exercise Bikes for Seniors

According to Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, “Cycling brings an impressive collection of health benefits to the table: cardiovascular health, endurance, stamina, and muscular endurance are all improved with cycling, to name a few.” 

[Related: Benefits of Exercise Bikes]

These perks can be reaped regardless of your age or fitness experience. Below are a handful of perks that can also come from the best exercise bikes for seniors.

Low-Impact Training: Unlike treadmills or other fitness disciplines, exercise bikes offer a low-impact training experience where your entire body is supported by the machine itself. This can help cut down gravity’s influence across your joints leading to less shock absorption and impact with each progressive step (err, pedal stroke).

No Weather Influence: Capritto states, “Indoor exercise bikes provide access to cycling no matter the weather or outdoor conditions. Many people do not feel safe cycling outside — an exercise bike eliminates traffic as a reason to skip your session, so it can be someone’s golden ticket to exercising more frequently.”

Accommodating Seat Profiles: For older athletes dealing with mobility issues or nagging back pain, there are plenty of accommodating exercise bike silhouettes that can help you stay comfortable in training. For example, recumbent bikes feature seats with a backrest for better lumbar support, while under-desk bikes can be set up virtually anywhere you have a cozy chair to rest in during sessions.

How Much Do Exercise Bikes for Seniors Cost?

Whether you’re looking for exercise bikes good for weight loss, high-intensity profiles capable of streaming the best trainer-led workouts, or simple machines that can help you stay active and mobile, you can expect to find a wide range of price points when searching for exercise bikes for seniors. On average, though, you can expect to pay roughly $860 for a top-notch machine. Read below to see the price comparisons of each profile featured in this round-up.

What to Consider Before Buying Exercise Bikes for Seniors

Your purchasing journey when buying an exercise bike for seniors is fairly similar to determining what to look for when buying an indoor cycle. You’ll need to consider your exercise bike type, its included tech features, structural integrity, and (of course) price before adding a silhouette to your online cart. Here are some of our recommended factors worth keeping in mind when trying to find the best older-athlete-approved exercise bike for your training space.

Exercise Bike Type

One of the first considerations worth thinking through is which type of exercise bike you’d prefer in your living space. Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, states, “Recumbent bikes allow people with mobility limitations or injuries to enjoy cycling, as they are reclined and take pressure off the hips and back. Upright bikes are your typical stationary bikes, which are excellent for high-intensity exercise and tech-savvy cyclists who love to take fitness classes.”

Our tester riding the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike.

There are also air bikes, under-desk bikes, and foldable bikes that could be potential winners for your home gym setup. Of course, you should take your personal comfort and training goals into consideration, but it can also be wise to break out a tape measure and determine how much space you have available before getting too deep into your search. After all, a machine is only useful if you can actually store it comfortably within your abode.

Durability

Your exercise bike should also be durable enough to withstand regular use. While opting for a profile featuring steel framing and other rugged components can be a great starting point, a good indicator of a bike’s resiliency is in its listed weight capacity. This is the maximum load your machine can handle without compromising performance.

[Related: Best Exercise Bikes for Heavy People]

On average, most exercise bikes can support 270 pounds or more, with many upright exercise bikes capable of holding between 300 and 350 pounds. Think about your body composition and opt for a profile that you won’t be maxing out from the start.

Adjustability and Ergonomics

It can be a pain to try and adjust your exercise bike to your desired conditions, so it can be helpful to look at your profile’s toggle points before getting your unit delivered to your doorstep. Look for multiple adjustment points that can allow you to change your body positioning without much strain, especially along the saddle or seat area. If you’re looking for a recumbent bike or other profile with an included backrest, we recommend making sure that this area can be adjusted to your liking as well.

In addition to having multiple adjustment points, it can also be wise to look at how those adjustments are made. For older athletes, we recommend taking a good look at the toggle ergonomics — are the levers and knobs graspable mid-workout, or will all changes need to be made before hopping into the saddle for a workout?

Available Programming

Every athlete — regardless of age — has their own preferred training style. While some live and breathe off engaging trainer-led sessions, others can be fine with just pedaling along as they catch up on their favorite television programming. When browsing for an exercise bike, be sure that its included tech features match your workout style.

Our tester mounting their smartphone across the Sole LCR Exercise Bike’s featured media holder

For those that do prefer to follow along to the best fitness apps and online coaches, you’ll also want to consider your viewing preferences. If you want a hassle-free display, look for exercise bikes that come equipped with large TV-like displays capable of streaming your favorite platforms. If you’re okay with creating your own console setup, take a gander to ensure that your fitness equipment boasts a convenient tablet holder for on-bike viewing.

Price

Price should always be a top consideration when searching for the best exercise bikes for seniors. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $860 for a high-quality silhouette, but there are plenty of noteworthy profiles both below and above this median cost.

You should also consider if you’ll need an additional subscription to access your bike’s library of available workouts. These services are typically billed monthly, so they can become forgotten investments at the time of your initial purchase. Crunch the numbers and ensure your budget can support the machine itself along with any added memberships that may be required to get the most out of your machine.

Exercise Bikes for Seniors FAQs

References

Lee, C.-W., & Cho, G.-H. (2014). Effect of stationary cycle exercise on gait and balance of elderly women. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 26(3), 431–433. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3976019/

Cronkleton, E. (2019, July 12). Stationary bike workout benefits and exercise plans. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/stationary-bike-workout

IPad Pro – Technical Specifications. Apple. (n.d.). https://www.apple.com/ipad-pro/specs/

Cocreativeinteriors. (2022, March 17). Standard Furniture Size Guide. CoCreative Interiors. https://cocreativeinteriors.com/2022/03/standard-furniture-size-guide/

Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/

Damas, F., Phillips, S. M., Libardi, C. A., Vechin, F. C., Lixandrão, M. E., Jannig, P. R., Costa, L. A., Bacurau, A. V., Snijders, T., Parise, G., Tricoli, V., Roschel, H., & Ugrinowitsch, C. (2016). Resistance training‐induced changes in integrated myofibrillar protein synthesis are related to hypertrophy only after attenuation of muscle damage. The Journal of Physiology, 594(18), 5209–5222. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27219125/ 

The post The Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors, Hand-Chosen By Our Team of Experts appeared first on BarBend.

The 2024 Musclecontest Brazil Pro took place in Curitiba, Brazil, on July 21, 2024, and it included four IFBB Pro League divisions: Classic Physique, Men’s Physique, Figure, and Wellness. The winners qualified for the 2024 Olympia in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 10-13, 2024.

Junior Javorski (Classic Physique), Emerson Costa (Men’s Physique), Leticia Ramos (Figure), and Daniele Mendonca (Wellness) were the champions.

2024 Musclecontest Brazil Pro Results

The final standings for all four contests in this show are below.

Classic Physique

Junior Javorski (Brazil)

Lua Souza (Brazil)

Jhone Souza (Brazil)

Rogerio Zardo (Brazil)

Diego Alejandro Galindo Garavito (Brazil)

Filipe Marins (Brazil)

Francisco Silva (Brazil)

Wanderson Chaves (Brazil)

Mateus Lopes (Brazil)

Men’s Physique

Emerson Costa (Brazil)

Emmanuel Costa (Brazil)

Rafael Oliveira (Brazil)

Mailson Araujo Santos (Brazil)

Lucas Viudes (Brazil)

Aroucka De Oliveira (Brazil)

Nicholas Rangel (Brazil)

Vando Silva (Brazil)

Figure

Leticia Ramos (Brazil)

Simei Pimentel (Brazil)

Luciana Cardoso (Brazil)

Kamilla Alencastro (Brazil)

Bruna Vieira (Brazil)

Karina Lima (Brazil)

Grazi Hadade (Brazil)

Daiane Aparecida De Freitas (Brazil)

Heloiza Cordeiro (Brazil)

Luciana Alves (Brazil)

Lorena Luciani (Argentina)

Daiane Carvalho (Brazil)

Heloisa Divardin (Brazil)

Luciana Rufino (Brazil)

Silva Tamires (Brazil)

Tied for 16th

Jeska Barros (Brazil)

Cristiane Cris (Brazil)

Elaine Vitta (Brazil)

Wellness

Daniele Mendonca (Brazil)

Julia Caceres (Brazil)

Michelle Ibata (Brazil)

Pamela Rodrigues (Brazil)

Debora Boff (Brazil)

Simara Walter (Brazil)

Debora Paula (Brazil)

Larissa Aparecida Silva (Brazil)

Cris Alves (Brazil)

Debora Pereira (Brazil)

Claudia Magalhaes (Brazil)

[Related: Bodybuilding Coach Says This Ab Exercise Is Best for Getting a Six-Pack]

[Related: Sadik Hadzovic’s 2,200-Calorie Shredding Diet That Led To His 6th-Place Finish at the 2024 Chicago Pro]

Classic Physique Winner — Junior Javorski

Javorski was fourth in this contest in 2023, but he took top honors this time around. He can now make his third consecutive Olympia appearance thanks to taking the win. He finished outside the top 15 in 2023.

Men’s Physique Winner — Emerson Costa

This is Costa’s first pro win and Olympia qualification. He won this contest with a perfect score over runner-up Emmanuel Costa and third-place finisher Rafael Oliveira. This was the winner’s second pro show ever. His first came earlier this year at the 2024 Musclecontest Brasilia Pro, where he placed second to winner Vinicius Mateus Viera Lima.

Figure Winner — Leticia Ramos

The Figure division was the largest of the show, with 18 athletes. Ramos jumped from third in the 2023 edition of this contest to champion in 2024. This is also her first Figure Olympia qualification. Runner-up honors went to Simei Pimentel, and Luciana Cardoso rounded out the top three.

Wellness WInner — Daniele Mendonca

Mendonca made her 2024 season debut at this event, and she wasted no time locking up her second Olympia qualification in as many seasons. She got a perfect score from the judges.

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Featured Image: @juniorjavorskipro on Instagram

The post 2024 Musclecontest Brazil Pro Results appeared first on BarBend.

In this collection of 23 easy sugar-free desserts, you can indulge in sweet delights without worrying about added sugar. These luscious options provide you with guilt-free pleasure, whether you’re seeking a healthier lifestyle or managing dietary restrictions.

From decadent chocolate creations to fruity masterpieces, this compilation redefines sugar-free treats. You’ll wonder why you didn’t discover them sooner.

Embrace a universe of flavors that nourish your body and tantalize your taste buds simultaneously.

1. Keto Chocolate Mousse

Experience the velvety delight of this keto chocolate mousse that offers a rich and creamy flavor without any guilt. This sumptuous dessert caters to your chocolate cravings while maintaining a commitment to taste, providing a satisfying indulgence that won’t compromise your keto lifestyle.

Click here to get full recipe

2. Creamy Chocolate Sex In A Pan 

Indulge in this heavenly sugar-free dessert, where layers of rich chocolate, velvety cream, and crunchy nuts intertwine to create a sinfully delightful experience. Each bite will leave you longing for another taste of this delectable treat.

Click here to get full recipe

3. Sugar Free Coconut Cream Pie 

Indulge in a tropical delight that harmonizes the velvety smoothness of coconut cream with a buttery, crumbly crust. This sugar-free coconut cream pie fulfills the sweetest dreams of dessert enthusiasts, offering a guilt-free pleasure that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor.

Click here to get full recipe

 

4. Healthy Gluten Free Sugar Free Carrot Cake

Indulge in the timeless flavors of carrot cake without compromising your health with this wholesome, gluten-free, and sugar-free rendition. This guilt-free alternative is destined to become a cherished favorite.

Click here to get full recipe

5. Keto Snickers Bars 

Indulge in the guilt-free pleasure of these keto-friendly Snickers bars, a delectable harmony of sugar-free chocolate, rich caramel, and crunchy peanuts. Each bite transports you to candy heaven without compromising your health goals.

Click here to get full recipe

 6. Sugar-Free Chocolate Cupcakes 

Savor the exquisite taste of these sugar-free chocolate cupcakes, a delightful indulgence suitable for any celebration. These delectable treats challenge the notion that desserts cannot be both delicious and nutritious.

Click here to get full recipe

 7. Vegan Matcha Cheesecake 

Indulge in the invigorating and guilt-free pleasure of this vegan cheesecake, infused with the vibrant notes of matcha. Prepared with plant-based ingredients, this delectable treat offers a harmonious balance of earthly flavors that will captivate your taste buds and soothe your conscience.

Click here to get full recipe

8. Sugar Free Pineapple Lush Cake 

Indulge in a tropical paradise with this sugar-free pineapple lush cake, a guilt-free twist on a timeless dessert. Layers of creamy goodness blend harmoniously with the vibrant sweetness of pineapple, creating a symphony of flavors without the addition of refined sugar.

Click here to get full recipe

9. Vegan Carrot Cake Truffles 

Indulge in the delectable taste of carrot cake in a convenient and guilt-free form with these bite-sized vegan carrot cake truffles. Ideal for satisfying sudden cravings or as a nutritious on-the-go snack, these truffles offer a healthier alternative to traditional carrot cake without compromising on flavor.

Click here to get full recipe

10. The “Better Than Pie” Paleo Apple Crisp 

Indulge in a delectable paleo apple crisp that stays true to its name. Savor the warmth and comfort of this dessert, knowing that it’s both a treat for your taste buds and a healthier choice, free from refined sugars and grains.

Click here to get full recipe

11. Sugar Free Chocolate Cake 

Relish the delectable Sugarless Chocolate Cake, a sumptuous and moist delight that will gratify your cravings without the guilt or extra sugar.

Click here to get full recipe

12. Lemon Cupcakes 

Indulge in the delight of these sugar-free lemon cupcakes, a vibrant blend of tangy and refreshing flavors. Each bite offers a joyful treat that caters to your dietary needs while brightening your day with its zesty charm.

Click here to get full recipe

13. Sugar Free Low Carb Keto 

Introducing the ultimate guilt-free indulgence: Fudgy, rich, and packed with healthy fats, these sugar-free avocado brownies are a revolutionary treat. Tailored for those seeking a low-carb and keto-friendly dessert, these brownies offer a delectable experience that won’t break your diet.

Click here to get full recipe

14. Healthy Homemade Oreos 

Indulge in a guilt-free delight with these healthier homemade Oreos, a delightful alternative to the classic treat. Crafted with a sugar-free recipe, these delectable cookies promise to satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste, leaving you craving more.

Click here to get full recipe

15. Sugar Free Keto Chocolate Cupcakes 

Experience the ultimate indulgence with these sugar-free keto chocolate cupcakes, a culinary masterpiece that combines rich flavors and a fudgy texture. Perfect for any occasion, these delightful treats shatter the notion that desserts cannot be both delicious and healthy.

Click here to get full recipe

16. No Bake Grasshopper Pie 

This no-bake grasshopper pie offers a cool and minty delight, uniquely sugar-free and effortless to prepare, making it an ideal dessert for the sweltering summer months.

Click here to get full recipe

17. Three Ingredient Paleo Vegan Coconut Crack Bars 

Indulge in these paleo and vegan coconut crack bars, crafted with a mere three ingredients! These delectable treats offer a delightful balance of simplicity and satisfaction, promising to become a beloved addition to your snacking repertoire.

Click here to get full recipe

18. No Bake Cheesecake 

Discover this creamy and luxurious no-bake cheesecake that caters to specific dietary needs. With zero added sugar and no gluten, it offers a delightful dessert option for individuals with dietary restrictions.

Click here to get full recipe

19. Snickers Ice Cream 

Indulge your sweet cravings with our delightful Snickers ice cream, a keto-friendly and sugar-free rendition of the beloved candy bar. Get ready for a new favorite dessert experience.

Click here to get full recipe

20. Vegan Cinnamon Rolls 

Indulge in these delightful vegan cinnamon rolls, crafted with warmth and comfort in every bite. Perfect for any time of day, they offer a guilt-free treat with their sugar-free goodness. Experience the bliss of satisfying your sweet tooth without compromise.

Click here to get full recipe

21. Copycat Girl Scout Samoa Cookies 

Savor the delectable copycat Girl Scout Samoa cookies, a sugar-free and healthier rendition of the cherished treat. Delight in this reimagined version as it seamlessly integrates into your favorite household dessert options.

Click here to get full recipe

22. Vegan & Paleo Blondies 

Discover a healthier alternative to the classic treat with these delectable vegan and paleo blondies. Perfectly crafted for individuals with dietary restrictions or those seeking a guilt-free indulgence, these blondies offer a delightful balance of taste and nutrition.

Click here to get full recipe

23. Sugar Free Coconut & Raspberry Cake 

Indulge in a captivating culinary creation where coconut and raspberry flavors dance playfully on your taste buds. Crafted without any added sugar, this delightful cake offers a vibrant, fruity explosion that will tantalize even the most discerning dessert enthusiasts.

The 2024 Colombia Pro was held in Medellin, Colombia, on the weekend of July 20-21, 2024. It was a 2024 Olympia Weekend qualifying event for the Classic Physique, Men’s Physique, Figure, Bikini, and Wellness divisions. If they were not already, the winners of those contests qualified for the 2024 Olympia in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 10-13, 2024.

The winners were Andres Eduardo Taveras (Classic Physique), Guilherme Gualberto (Men’s Physique), Yamina Herrera (Figure), Ivi Escandar (Bikini), and Eduarda Bezerra (Wellness).

2024 Colombia Pro Final Results

The final standings for all five divisions are below:

Classic Physique

Andres Eduardo Taveras (Dominican Republic)

Jean Guerrero (Colombia)

Anthony Barbera III (United States)

Angel Pena (Peru)

Juan Ellis Batista (Dominican Republic)

Denis Batalla (Panama)

Alfredo Anaya (Mexico)

Franklin Valverde (Ecuador)

Daniel Dudley (Panama)

Miguel Angel Cartaya Kuischmajec (Ecuador)

Men’s Physique

Guilherme Gualberto (Brazil)

Juan Manuel Gochez (Colombia)

Steven Fiervil (Dominican Republic)

Mauro Fialho (Spain)

Joshua Guidry (United States)

Jorge Hernandez (United States)

Beto Castrillon Castrillon (Colombia)

St. Michael Moodie (Jamaica)

Juanfit Florez (Colombia)

Diego Garcia (Mexico)

Denis Morillo (Dominican Republic)

Alvinson Soliana (Netherlands Antilles)

Sebas Henao (Colombia)

Diego Orea (Mexico)

*Hugo Carmona (Mexico) was disqualified. 

Figure

Yamina Herrera (Peru)

Danielle Rose (United States)

Linda Judith Cantu Gonzalez (Mexico)

Natalia Sharapova (Russia)

Monica Alzate (Colombia)

Susana Serrano (El Salvador)

Laura Raquel Saccomani-Ojeda (Paraguay)

Maria Alejandra Ayala (Mexico)

*Katherine Molina (Costa Rica) was disqualified.

Bikini

Ivi Escandar (Spain)

Mariana Menezes (Brazil)

Rania Stamatiadou (Greece)

Roxana Marquez (Mexico)

Daniela Bracho (Venezuela)

Andreina Marquez (Venezuela)

Greice Fornazin (Brazil)

Ana Carolina Souza (Brazil)

Judith Ceballos (Mexico)

Daniela Portillo (Mexico)

Lorena Garcia Araya (Chile)

Wellness

Eduarda Bezerra (Brazil)

Raeli Dias (Brazil)

Paola Ibarguen (Colombia)

Karol Dahiana Borrero Palacios (Colombia)

Kihara Martinez (Chile)

Alejandra La Fonseca (Puerto Rico)

Yuridia Morales (Mexico)

Paula Dominguez (Spain)

[Related: Bodybuilding Coach Says This Ab Exercise Is Best for Getting a Six-Pack]

[Related: Sadik Hadzovic’s 2,200-Calorie Shredding Diet That Led To His 6th-Place Finish at the 2024 Chicago Pro]

Classic Physique Winner — Andres Eduardo Taveras

Taveras turned pro in 2022 but waited two years to debut. The extra time paid off because he is one-for-one in the pro ranks. He won this show and Classic Physique Olympia qualification with a perfect score on the scorecards over runner-up Jean Guerrero and third-place finisher Anthony Barbera III.

Men’s Physique Winner — Guilherme Gualberto

Gualbarto was coming off a second-place finish to Sidy Pouye at the 2024 Mr. Big Evolution Pro. Gualbarto secured his first win and Olympia qualification in Colombia. Second place went to Juan Manuel Gochez, and bronze went to Steven Fiervil.

Figure Winner — Yamina Herrera

There have been multiple occasions where amateurs earned their pro cards and won their pro debut on the same weekend this season. The latest is Yamina Herrera, who turned pro in the pro qualifier the day before this show and won her first pro show in an upset win over runner-up Danielle Rose. Herrera is set to enter the 2024 Figure Olympia.

Bikini Winner — Ivi Escandar

Escandar already qualified for the 2024 Olympia thanks to her win at the 2024 Mr. Big Evolution Pro. Her win in Colombia kept another rival from qualifying.

Mariana Menezes and Rania Stamatiadou took second and third place, respectively. They and the rest of the lineup for this show have until Sept. 15, 2024, to win a pro show to qualify for the Olympia.

Wellness Winner — Eduarda Bezerra

Bezerra was the third athlete to win her debut pro show. She turned pro in 2023 at that year’s Arnold South America Amateur event but held off on entering the pro ranks until now. The move paid off for.

More Bodybuilding Content

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Why 4X Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler’s Shoulder Training Prioritizes Joint Health at Age 50

The Chest Workout “Trick” Chris Bumstead Is Using To Win the 2024 Olympia

Featured Image: @guilhermegualbertopro on Instagram

The post 2024 Colombia Pro Bodybuilding Show Results appeared first on BarBend.

Alice Rocha is the 2024 Patriots Challenge Pro champion. Rocha was one of 17 competitors onstage at the show in Las Vegas, NV, on Saturday, July 20. Rocha stood tall as champion over three-time Bikini Olympia winner Ashley Kaltwasser, who finished second, and Tamekia Carter, who rounded out the top three.

2024 Patriots Challenge Pro Results

The full results for the contest are below, courtesy of the IFBB Pro League website.

Alice Rocha (United States)

Ashley Kaltwasser (United States)

Tamekia Carter (United States)

Yume Kurokawa (Japan)

Brianna Campardo (Canada)

Kiki Cunningham (United States)

Selina Stansbury (United States)

Kimberly Bonilla (United States)

Samantha Bartley (United States)

Treasure Boston (United States)

Erika Devera (United States)

Sammy Jo Childers (United States)

Mandy Watanabe (United States)

Karla Grijalva (United States)

Tina Tran (United States)

Tied for 16th

Kyla Long (United States)

Aspen Ranz (United States)

[Related: Dorian Yates Says Hormone Doctor Turned Him Away in the ‘90s: “You Know More Than I Do”]

[Related: Bodybuilding Coach Says This Ab Exercise Is Best for Getting a Six-Pack]

Winner — Alice Rocha

Rocha is a third-year pro, and this was her 2024 season debut. It ended with her first win, and she is now qualified to enter the 2024 Bikini Olympia, also in Las Vegas, on Oct. 10-13. If she competes, it will be her Olympia debut.

Second Place — Ashley Kaltwasser

Kaltwasser was already Olympia-qualified but wanted to extend her record for the most wins by an IFBB Pro League athlete to 49. However, that will have to wait until her next show, whenever that will be. She has finished no lower than second in her eight shows this season. Kaltwasser is trying to become the first athlete to score 50 pro wins.

Third Place — Tamekia Carter

This was Carter’s third show of the 2024 season and her highest ranking thus far. She remains not qualified for the Olympia but has until Sept. 15, 2024, to win a show and change that. Only pro-show winners advance to move on to the Olympia.

Other Notes

This was one of three Bikini division shows held on this particular weekend. Reijuana Harley won the 2024 Chicago Pro, and Ivi Escandar was the champion of the 2024 Colombia Pro.

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