However, you don’t need a gym membership to enjoy its benefits. While it may have not been a home gym staple years ago, the Smith machine has become a must-have for many fitness enthusiasts. Offering added protection without a spotter for your bench presses, back squats, deadlifts, and other strength exercises, the Smith machine is a wise investment for those trying to build the ultimate garage gym. 

With options spanning from traditional Smith machines to all-in-one home gym solutions, you might feel a bit overwhelmed about which direction to go. Luckily for you, our team of expert product testers did all the due diligence necessary to separate the cream from the crop. From analyzing the build materials to testing the smoothness of the bar path to assessing the value, we took the time to dissect each element in order to narrow down our list to just five.

In addition, we got some valuable insight from Mauro S. Maietta, district fitness and education manager for Crunch Fitness, on the benefits and what factors to consider when you’re shopping for a Smith machine.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Our Picks for the Best Smith Machines of 2025:

• Best Overall Smith Machine: Force USA G15 All-in-One Trainer
• Best All-in-One Smith Machine: Titan Fitness Smith Machine
• Best Compact Smith Machine: Bolt Fitness Supply Storm Series Stinger Attachment
• Best Budget Smith Machine: RitFit Smith Machine
• Best Smith Machine Attachment: Bulletproof VTS Lite Rack Attachment

Best All-in-One Smith Machine: Force USA G15 All-in-One Trainer

Force USA G15 All-in-One Trainer

4.1

• 3-in-1 at-home gym machine
• Weight stacks and plate-loaded cable towers 
• Half rack on the front
• Interchangeable 2:1 and 4:1 cable pulley ratios
• 18 functional attachments included
• Barbell or smith machine training

Check Price

If you’re searching for a multifunctional Smith machine that’s compatible with a ton of attachments, the Force USA G15 is the machine that can truly do it all — albeit at an expensive price point of around $5,500. However, there’s a reason it earned 4.5 out of 5 stars for versatility from our top product tester: you can perform a wide variety of exercises by taking advantage of all of its functionality. 

Tipping the scales at nearly 1,000 pounds, the G15 combines a functional trainer, half rack, and Smith machine into a single, sturdy unit. Measuring over 6 feet wide, over 4 feet deep, and about 7 feet tall, the G15 earns a 4-star footprint rating. While there are more compact options, it’s still a good option for folks with limited space, especially considering the versatility you get. 

Offering dual 289-pound weight stacks that keep it well-anchored, the G15 also scores 4 out of 5 stars for durability and construction. 

“This thing is like a tank,” our tester says. “Once it’s assembled, it’ll basically be stuck in place.” 

Unfortunately, our tester wasn’t as impressed with the cable pulley material. Asthey’re made from nylon instead of aluminum, they don’t move as smoothly and won’t be as durable as their metal counterparts. 

Something that separates the G15 from many competitors is its ability to go from a 2:1 or 4:1 pulley ratio. This gives you the ability to make the weight feel like half or a quarter of the actual weight. While our tester would prefer a 1:1 ratio for more effective resistance, he says the 2:1 or 4:1 ratios “will be adequate for most people working out from home.” 

The G15 comes with a lengthy list of attachments, including J-hooks, safety spotter arms, multi-grip dip handles, a multi-grip pull-up bar, band pegs, and a low row footplate. If you want to unlock even more training possibilities, the $700 G15 Upgrade Kit includes three additional strength training stations, three functional attachments, a TV mount, and four storage shelves. 

Two knocks against this ultra-versatile machine: assembly and value. 

Although some of the parts arrive pre-assembled, our assembly expert recommends budgeting “at least 20 man hours” to get the G15 fully put together. And if you want to leave it to the professionals, you’ll need to pay an additional $800. 

At nearly $6,000 on its own, the G15 certainly isn’t made for budget-conscious shoppers. Our top product tester gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars for value, noting that Force USA could use better quality components, cables, and accessories, including one of the key parts of this premium-priced unit: the built-in barbell.“The knurling is super passive and not going to allow for an adequate grip for the user if you were to go heavy on any Smith machine movements,” he explains.

Best All-in-One Smith Machine: Titan Fitness Smith Machine

Titan Fitness Smith Machine

4.0

• 600-pound weight capacity
• Very smooth and stable
• Features an angled design
• Counterbalanced

Check Price

Want to crush a full-body workout with a single piece of equipment? The Titan Fitness Smith Machine can be the all-in-one solution that allows you to train your upper body, lower body, and core in a safe, effective manner. 

Is it as versatile as the G15? No. Is it far more affordable? Yes. 

For less than a third of the price, you can still get an excellent workout experience from the $1,7000 Titan Smith Machine. One of our more seasoned product testers used it for a variety of strength training sessions, highlighting how impressed she was by the smooth glide of the barbell and the angled design. In addition, this Smith machine is counterbalanced so you don’t have to support the entire 45-pound barbell like you do on other machines. Beginners will appreciate this, as the bar only feels like 15 pounds. 

Unfortunately, like Force USA, Titan left our team wanting more out of the knurling. 

“It’s fine for a Smith machine, but it’s definitely not the most grippy bar,” our tester says. 

On the other hand, this machine earns high marks for its ergonomics. Our tester rated it 4 out of 5 stars in this category. She found the single-axis, angled design helped improve her muscle activation during lower-body weight training exercises like Smith machine squats and lunges. 

Most importantly, she felt completely secure using this Titan machine. Not only was there no wobbling or shaking, but the bar moved smoothly, leading her to give a 5-out-of-5 rating for stability. 

“This is a super stable machine; there was no give to it even when we were using heavy weights,” our tester says. “This was ultra-smooth.” While Titan priced this machine fairly, we’d like to see a better warranty. A one-year policy falls well short of what we expect from most brands. Plus, if you want to return a piece of equipment, you must pay the return shipping costs and a 20% restocking fee. That results in a disappointing customer experience score of just 2 out of 5 stars.

Best Compact Smith Machine: Bolt Fitness Supply Storm Series Stinger Attachment

Bolt Fitness Supply Storm Series Stinger Attachment

4.2

• Compatible with any 3" x 3" frame
• Includes 43-inch multi-grip pull-up bar
• 12 different positions
• Footprint: 27" L x 85" W x 91" H (94" with pull-up bar)

Check Price

Don’t want a standalone Smith machine? Bolt Fitness has a space-saving solution in the form of the Storm Series Stinger Smith Machine Attachment. Compatible with any 3” x 3” frame using 1” hardware, this universal attachment can seamlessly integrate with your existing squat or power rack, opening the door to even more training possibilities. 

We rate this Smith machine attachment a 4.5 out of 5 for versatility, as it offers 12 different positions totaling 60” of vertical adjustments. That means you can quickly go from a steep incline bench press to a Romanian deadlift, making your workouts more efficient, too. Plus, we also like that this attachment has a 43” built-in multi-grip pull-up bar, giving you the ability to develop your vertical pulling strength and endurance. 

Bolt also earns solid marks for construction, earning 4 out of 5 stars in this key category. However, our chief product tester warns not to expect quite the same level of craftsmanship as some better-known brands. 

“You won’t see the same quality welds or powder coats from Bolt as you will from Rogue or REP,” he says. 

Like several other nominees on this list, our tester was also disappointed with the Smith bar’s knurling. The passive knurl pattern won’t give you a particularly stable grip, especially when using heavier weights. 

“You definitely won’t mistake this for an Olympic barbell,” our tester says.

As for the price? At around $1,100 this is on the expensive side for a Smith machine attachment. For example, the Bells of Steel Smith Machine Rack Attachment is much more affordable at $800. We rate it a 3 out of 5 for value, especially since you already need a rack to use it. Otherwise, expect to invest a significant chunk of change to get a fully functioning setup.

Best Budget Smith Machine: RitFit Smith Machine

RitFit Smith Machine

3.9

• 13 accessories included
• 1,000-pound weight capacity
• 11 height adjustments
• Available in different packages with expanded options

Check Price

Just because you can’t afford to splurge on something like the G15 doesn’t mean you can’t find a Smith machine that fits within your budget. If you don’t have a ton of financial wiggle room, the RitFit Smith Machine is the most affordable option that earned our stamp of approval.

As our top product tester puts it, “If you’re looking for a Smith machine and you’re on an ultra-budget, this is it.” 

At about $500 on Amazon, this machine is less than a third of the price of the Titan Fitness Smith Machine and less than a tenth of the cost of the G15. Of course, it’s not the most durable option on the market, but it offers sufficient versatility at a very attractive price point to earn a near-perfect value rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

Dubbed the “sleeper pick” by our tester, he notes that “the low price covers so many sins.” 

Before we dive into some of RitFit’s shortcomings, let’s highlight some of the strengths of this machine. First, we rated it 4 out of 5 for versatility, as it offers built-in low row and lat pulldown capabilities using a plate-loaded cable pulley system that holds 165 pounds. The RitFit Smith Machine also comes with several attachments, including a pin-on landmine row and two multi-purpose pull-up handles. 

Secondly, it has a compact design that makes it suitable for home gym setups with limited  space. It also weighs just 140 pounds, making it easier to move than other options on this list. 

However, our tester had several callouts about the RitFit Smith Machine that deserve mentioning. With cheaper build materials and a lightweight design, it didn’t prove to be as stable as he would have liked, earning just 3.5 out of 5 stars for both construction and stability. Needless to say, this isn’t the best option if you want to lift heavy weights. Still, considering you could pay around the same price for a high-quality Olympic barbell, the RitFit Smith Machine is a solid option if you’re on a limited budget.

Best Smith Machine Attachment: Bulletproof VTS Lite Rack Attachment

Bulletproof VTS Lite Rack Attachment

4.0

• Transforms your squat rack into a Smith machine using your own barbell
• Includes two VTS Lite trolleys and two latch hooks
• Available in multiple versions to fit different rack sizes
• Optimized for Smith machine functionality and basic functional training

Check Price

Imagine if you could turn your squat rack into a Smith machine in a matter of minutes. That dream can be a reality if you’re willing to invest around $700 on the VTS Lite Rack Attachment from Bulletproof Fitness, a lesser-known fitness equipment manufacturer that’s caught our attention.

While we haven’t gotten our hands on this attachment just yet, it’s hard not to get excited about the concept and execution by Bulletproof. The Versa Trolley System (VTS) Lite allows you to convert your squat rack into a Smith machine using your own barbell. The rollers are made from UHMW plastic, an ultra-durable material we’ve seen used on other racks. This attachment only weighs 15 pounds, making the VHS Lite a more user-friendly alternative than the full-sized VTS, which weighs in at 24 pounds. From a construction standpoint, we feel comfortable giving the VTS Lite 4 out of 5 stars. 

In addition, we like that Bulletproof offers a wide range of options to accommodate different racks. You can choose between a 3” x 3” pair, a 2” x 3” pair, or a 2” x 2” pair. You also can choose different hook sizes based on the diameter of your barbell. This optionality, along with the added exercise variety you get from using the attachments, earns a 4.5 out of 5 for versatility.

Set to be released in May 2025, we’re excited to see this product in action. If you want a more streamlined solution than getting a standalone Smith machine, this is an attractive space- and money-saving solution. Based on the price and versatility, we give it a value rating of 4 out of 5 — though it could go higher once we get our hands on it.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Smith Machines

As Smith machines have become more popular among the home gym community, we’ve ramped up our efforts to test ones from a variety of brands. This has allowed us to develop a thorough evaluation process that examines a number of key factors that impact your workout experience.

With options ranging from standard Smith machines to all-in-one trainers with cable machines, here’s what we assess during testing using a 1-5 scoring system:

• Construction: What gauge steel are the uprights made from? Does the Smith bar have passive knurling or a knurl pattern that provides good grip? Does the design allow for a stable, secure weightlifting experience?
• Footprint: How much space does the Smith machine take up? While a large footprint isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, we understand that many home gym owners have limited space. A compact footprint gives you more room to store your adjustable dumbbells, weight bench, and whatever else you want to fit in your training space. 
• Versatility: One of the reasons bodybuilders rely on Smith machines is their versatility, as they allow you to train different muscle groups without having to move from machine to machine. Meanwhile, ones that have built-in functional trainers or offer a power cage combo give you even more versatility and functionality to accomplish your fitness goals.
• Value: Is the price justified by the build quality, durability, and functionality? Just like a high price tag doesn’t guarantee high quality, a low price point doesn’t mean you can’t get great bang for your buck. 

Benefits of a Smith Machine

What makes a Smith machine such a valuable training tool? If you’ve ever used one, you already know there’s added peace of mind knowing you have built-in support. Here’s an overview of the different benefits of utilizing this popular piece of equipment. 

Improved Stability and Safety 

Unlike when you use a barbell and squat rack, the Smith machine provides a fixed bar path. This can help reduce the risk of injury and ensure a stable lifting environment. 

“The Smith machine helps the athlete feel supported and gives them greater control and stability when performing an exercise,” says Mauro M. Maietta, district fitness and education manager for Crunch Fitness. 

In particular, new lifters can benefit from starting out on a Smith machine so they can focus on their form while being supported by the machine. 

“Maintaining correct form is important for avoiding injuries and maximizing the effectiveness of your workouts,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. “Beginners might benefit from working with a personal trainer initially or taking a beginner class to learn proper techniques.”

Can Be Used for Injury Rehabilitation

The guided motion and added stability of a Smith machine makes it an ideal training tool for those returning from injury or anyone with mobility issues. It encourages proper form and can be a safer way to increase your strength and joint stability before moving on to free weights. 

Maietta recommends starting with lighter weights to get a feel for the range of motion before progressing. “The fixed range of motion is not for everyone, so be sure to speak with your local fitness professional and listen to your body and joints if you feel any discomfort or pain during the planned movements,” he says.

Allows You to Train Without a Spotter

If you prefer to work out alone or don’t have a training partner available, the Smith machine can act as a “spotter” for you. These machines offer an extra layer of safety, as you can easily rack the bar or set the safety spotters to a specific point that will keep you out of harm’s way. 

In addition, this advantage allows you to safely follow progressive overload, a proven method for increasing muscle size and strength. 

“This continual challenge helps your muscles grow stronger,” says Mohr. “It’s important to start with manageable increments to prevent injury.” 

Versatility in Exercise Selection

You won’t find many machines that offer as much versatility as the Smith machine. Want to train legs? You can knock out squat and lunge variations. Want to grow your chest and shoulders? Grab an adjustable weight bench and work on your bench press and overhead press without having to worry about keeping the bar stable. A high-end option like the Force USA G15 gives you the ability to perform cable exercises like cable crossovers, chest flys, and overhead triceps extensions.  

“The Smith machine can be seen as the Swiss army knife of the weight room since it allows for several strength training exercises in its fixed vertical path, ranging from squats to overhead pressing movements,” says Maietta.

How To Choose the Best Smith Machine for Your Home Gym

What should you consider when choosing a Smith machine? Based on our experience as equipment experts and dedicated lifters, here’s what we recommend:

Size

Consider the machine’s footprint when determining if it is a good fit for your needs. One benefit of Smith machines is all-in-one trainers are available to consolidate the space needed for multiple workout stations.

Other Functions

Many of the home gym Smith machine options on this list are designed as all-in-one trainers designed to provide multiple workout functions with one convenient machine. The machine can include stations for a power rack, functional trainer, low-row attachment, chin-ups/pull-ups, dips, suspension trainers, and more.

Weight Ratio

Smith machines offer pulley systems with varying weight ratios, including 1:1 and 2:1. A 1:1 ratio means the weight you load is the exact weight you lift. A 2:1 ratio means you lift half of the weight you load. For instance, with a 2:1 ratio, if you load 100 pounds, you lift 50 pounds.

Some Force USA Smith machines, including the G15, allow users to easily switch between 2:1 and 4:1 ratios, which is helpful when people of various skills use the same machine.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacities vary depending on the functions offered by the machine. The weight capacities on this list start at 300 pounds. Be sure to confirm the machine’s weight capacity can accommodate your needs..

Best Smith Machine: Final Thoughts

If you are looking for versatile strength-building home gym equipment to achieve a full-body workout, a Smith machine can help you achieve your goals. Since the 1950s, this game-changing machine has allowed gym-goers to work out safely without a spotter. Today, there is a wide range of consumer options, allowing you to experience the benefits of the Smith machine in the comfort of your own home gym.

Smith Machine FAQs

The post The Best Smith Machine for Your Home Gym in 2025 appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Not far behind would be another supplement that can help you achieve your muscle-building and weight-loss goals: pre-workout. 

However, just like not all barbells are created equal, neither are supps. The strongest pre-workouts stand out from the pack because they are formulated with research-backed doses of four key ingredients — caffeine (at least 200 milligrams), L-citrulline (at least 4,000 milligrams), beta-alanine (at least 3,200 milligrams), and betaine (at least 2,500 milligrams) — for physical and mental performance enhancement. 

To save you the trouble of sipping on something that won’t give you an effective muscle pump, our team of expert product testers tried more than 80 pre-workouts and reported which supplements delivered the most focus, power, and tingles. Then, with some guidance from a few other experts, our squad of CPTs, CNCs, CrossFit enthusiasts, and dedicated weightlifters narrowed down the list to the eight strongest pre-workouts so you can select the perfect match for your goals and preferences. 

Medical disclaimer: This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Our Picks for the Strongest Pre-Workouts of 2025:

• Strongest Pre-Workout for Power: Transparent Labs BULK BLACK
• Strongest Natural Pre-Workout: Legion Pulse
• Strongest Budget Pre-Workout: Nutricost Pre-X
• Strongest Pre-Workout for Taste: Jacked Factory NitroSurge
• Strongest Pre-Workout for Pump: Gorilla Mode
• Strongest Pre-Workout for Tingles: Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train
• Strongest Pre-Workout for Focus: Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout
• Strongest Pre-Workout With Creatine: C4 Ultimate

Strongest Pre-Workout for Power: Transparent Labs BULK BLACK

Transparent Labs BULK BLACK

4.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.83
• Amount of caffeine per serving: 275 milligrams
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Black Cherry, Cherry Kiwi, Peach Mango, Sour Gummy
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

Check Price

If your goal is to improve your athletic performance and power output in the gym, then we recommend Transparent Labs BULK BLACK. This supplement contains a potent combination of 4,000 milligrams of beta-alanine, 2,500 milligrams of betaine anhydrous, and 10 other active ingredients. Beta-alanine, a nonessential amino acid, may improve potential power output by reducing muscle fatigue, allowing you to push out a few more reps while you exercise. And studies show betaine anhydrous may improve muscular endurance. These ingredients work together to enhance your training, paving the way for strength gains over time.

Each serving of BULK BLACK also contains 350 milligrams of caffeine, which is close to the recommended daily limit of 400 milligrams. Overall, the impressive formulation earns 4 out of 5 stars from our team, as we docked a point for the high caffeine content since it may be too intense for some people. 

However, this high-stim pre-workout is certainly effective. 

Cory Kessler, C.P.T., C.F.N.C., has tried more than 25 pre-workouts. He tested the Blue Raspberry flavor of BULK BLACK before a cardio workout, noting that he felt more energized and focused throughout his workout. “I started sweating almost immediately, and within five to 10 minutes, I had a boost of energy, a massive pump, and felt like I could lift harder and stronger,” he says. Cory also experienced the tingling sensation common with high doses of beta-alanine.

Cory also enjoys using BULK BLACK before bodybuilding workouts since it contains 8,000 milligrams of citrulline malate. While more research is needed, some studies suggest citrulline malate may boost exercise and muscular performance. 

Two other areas where BULK BLACK stands out: solubility and taste. Our team gave Transparent Labs perfect scores in both categories. 

“BULK BLACK completely dissolved in my shaker bottle in only a few seconds with no clumps, grittiness, or residue,” Cory says. 

Available in eight flavors ranging from Black Cherry to Watermelon Peach to Strawberry Mango, one of our other product testers chose the Blue Raspberry option, giving it 5 out of 5 stars for taste. However, there are some mixed reviews on Amazon about the taste, depending on which flavor you choose.

“It’s hard to describe the taste of Blue Raspberry, but that’s exactly what it tastes like. Not too sweet, which is a good thing,” he says.

Related: Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Review

Strongest Natural Pre-Workout: Legion Pulse Pre-Workout

Legion Pulse

4.3

• Number of servings: 10 to 20
• Cost per serving: $2.25 to $3.00
• Amount of caffeine per serving: 350 milligrams
• Flavors: Apple Cider, Arctic Blast, Blood Orange, Blue Raspberry, Blueberry Lemonade, Cherry Limeade, Frosted Cranberry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Green Apple, Mojito, Piña Colada, Peach Ring, Pink Lemonade, Rainbow Sherbert, Sour Candy, Strawberry Kiwi, Strawberry Margarita, Tropical Punch, Watermelon
• Third-party tested: Labdoor

Check Price

Legion Pulse is our pick for the strongest natural pre-workout because it’s free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors and contains six active ingredients that support enhanced energy. 

As a CPT and CNC, I look for four main ingredients in a high-quality pre-workout supplement: caffeine, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and L-citrulline. Each plays a key role in enhancing athletic performance. Research shows:

• Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system
• Beta-alanine may boost muscular endurance
• Betaine anhydrous can improve strength
• L-citrulline enhances oxygen and nutrient delivery to the muscles. 

Legion Pulse contains all four, including 350 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which is very close to the recommended daily limit of 400 milligrams. Keep in mind that if you decide to try Pulse, it’s a good idea to monitor your caffeine intake from other sources like coffee or tea. 

“To get the most out of pre-workout supplements without stomach issues, start with a lower dose to see how your body reacts,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD. “Choose supplements with fewer stimulants if caffeine bothers you, or go for stimulant-free options.” 

Luckily, if you’re new to pre-workout or are caffeine-sensitive, you can also choose the non-stim version of Pulse. So, even though we’d like to see creatine in the formulation, we still give this a strong score of 4 out of 5 stars, especially since there’s a caffeine-free version. 

One of our product testers has tried five different brands of pre-workout and puts Pulse atop her list because of its effectiveness. 

“I’ve been using Pulse three times a week for six months, and it always makes me feel energized and focused,” our tester says. “My goal is to improve my personal records and lift harder, so Pulse is my go-to when I train.” 

She reports that it typically takes 15 minutes for this high-stim pre-workout to kick in, and while it does give her tingles, it’s not overwhelming. “I never feel a drop-off, but rather a slow energy release,” she says. 

Pulse comes in 22 flavors, including Pink Lemonade, Cherry Limeade, and Strawberry Kiwi, so there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. That said, one of our testers gave Pulse 4 out of 5 stars for taste, noting that while it tastes sweet, there’s a “weird aftertaste.” 

While the formulation and flavor options make this a top-rated pre-workout, Pulse is by no means a budget-friendly option. At around $45 for a 20-serving tub, it earns the lowest score of 1 out of 5 stars for price per serving.

Strongest Budget Pre-Workout: Nutricost Pre-X

Nutricost Pre-X Xtreme Pre-Workout

4.3

• Caffeine: 300mg 
• Other Key Ingredients: L-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, taurine, L-tyrosine, alpha-GPC, theobromine, Nitrosigine, Huperzine A, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12
• Sweeteners: Sucralose
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Watermelon, Fruit Punch, Grape, Peach Mango
• Certifications: Third-party tested
• Servings per Container: 30 servings
• Price per Serving: $1.00

Check Price

While many strong pre-workouts cost around $2 per serving, Nutricost Pre-X is our pick for the strongest budget pre-workout because it costs less than half of that. At about $0.93 per serving, one tester called it “the best value on the market,” and I agree, giving this a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for price per serving. 

Although some budget pre-workouts lack key ingredients, Pre-X contains the four main ones we like to see in a pre-workout: caffeine, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and L-citrulline. “The price is better than most other pre-workouts I’ve tried, especially for a supplement this good,” says one tester.

Each serving of Pre-X has 300 milligrams of caffeine and 4,000 milligrams of L-citrulline, so you should feel energized and get a good pump with this pre-workout. “I got a decent pump and had a calm focus without feeling overstimulated,” one tester says.

 Some testers say Pre-X has a slightly lower dosage of beta-alanine than some other pre-workouts on our list, but others say they experienced noticeable tingles during their workout. 

While testers did not experience any negative side effects when trying Pre-X, this pre-workout is made with the artificial sweetener sucralose. Some health experts have raised concerns about taking sucralose in high doses. As a CPT and someone who pays close attention to everything I put in my body, I tend to steer clear of artificial sweeteners. Because of this, we docked a point off the formulation score, giving Pre-X 4 out of 5 stars. 

Nutricost Pre-X comes in five flavors, including Blue Raspberry, Peach Mango, and Watermelon. Collectively, our team gave this strong pre-workout 4.5 out of 5 stars for taste. 

“This tastes great ice cold or at room temperature. I look forward to drinking it before my workouts,” says one tester who tried Blue Raspberry.

Another tester who tried Peach Mango also gave Pre-X his stamp of approval. 

“No artificial sweetener taste at all. It has a nice flavor that’s not overly sweet.”

Strongest Pre-Workout for Taste: Jacked Factory NitroSurge Pre-Workout

Jacked Factory NitroSurge

4.2

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $0.93
• Amount of caffeine per serving: 180 milligrams
• Flavors: 11 available
• Third-party tested: No

Check Price

Whether you like a strong pre-workout that’s sweet, sour, fruity, or tart, Jacked Factory NitroSurge has a fit for you. With 11 options, you can stick to your favorite or keep a few flavors in rotation to keep your taste buds on their proverbial toes. Between the deep lineup and satisfying flavors, NitroSurge earned a perfect score for taste.

One of our testers tried Strawberry Margarita, and let’s just say she was more than satisfied with her sipping experience. 

“It’s wildly delicious. I’d drink this by the side of the pool over ice all day.”

Another tester prefers Jacked Factory NitroSurge to some other strong pre-workouts he’s tried. “I did not like the Pink Lemonade flavor of Legion Pulse, but I would definitely use the Grape NitroSurge again,” he says.

As for its effectiveness? For one of our product testers, it took about 20 minutes to feel NitroSurge kick in. At that point, he felt like he could lift harder. 

“I usually work out in the morning because I feel most rested then, but even after taking this in the afternoon, I felt ‘jacked up’ and ready to go,” he says, adding that he experienced tingles and a slight drop off, but neither was overwhelming.

Another tester who regularly takes strong pre-workouts doubled the dosage. He said he got “a bit of a boost from it” but nothing like what you’ll get from other strong pre-workouts. Ultimately, this makes NitroSurge a solid choice for beginners, as you can see how you respond to a single serving before upping it to two scoops. 

Besides the taste, I like that it’s budget-friendly while still including evidence-backed ingredients, like L-citrulline, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, caffeine anhydrous, L-theanine, theobromine, and AstraGin. AstraGin, also found in Transparent Labs BULK BLACK, is a plant-based compound formulated to enhance nutrient absorption. While AstraGin is safe at 0.5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, more research is needed on the potential performance-enhancing benefits.

Like some of the other pre-workouts on our list, NitroSurge is made with the artificial sweetener sucralose, which some health experts have raised concerns about taking in high doses. Also, Jacked Factory supplements do not undergo third-party testing, which ensures products include the ingredients listed on the label and nothing else. This is especially important for athletes who undergo drug testing for banned substances. We only gave Nitrosurge 3 out of 5 stars in this category since it is made in a Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP)-certified and FDA-registered facility.

Strongest Pre-Workout for Pump: Gorilla Mode

Gorilla Mode Pre Workout

4.0

• Caffeine: 400mg
• Other Key Ingredients: L-citrulline, creatine monohydrate, L-tyrosine, betaine anhydrous, HydroPrime glycerol powder, malic acid, alpha-GPC, huperzine A
• Sweetener: Sucralose
• Flavors: Orange Rush, Mouthwatering Watermelon, Tiger’s Blood, Bombsicle, Cherry Blackout, Fruit Punch, Cotton Candy Grape, Blackberry Lemonade, Jungle Juice, Strawberry Kiwi
• Certifications: Third-party tested
• Servings per Container: 20 two-scoop servings
• Price per Serving: $3.00

Check Price

For bodybuilders, a “pump” is a sign of a successful training session. Increased blood flow to the muscles makes them feel fuller and appear larger and more vascular during and after a workout. A pump also promotes muscle growth by delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the muscles as blood flow increases. While you can achieve a pump through high-rep sets, drop sets, and supersets, high-stim pre-workouts like Gorilla Mode are specially designed to improve your pump.

Gorilla Mode contains several pump-enhancing ingredients in each scoop, including 5,000 milligrams of pure L-citrulline (more per scoop than any other pre-workout on our list) and 2,000 milligrams of Hydro Prime glycerol powder. L-citrulline works to widen blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the muscles. Glycerol powder is rapidly absorbed by the muscles and draws in water, which can cause muscle cell swelling. 

If you’re caffeine-sensitive or budget-conscious, this intense pre-workout may not be the best for you. Although one serving only contains 200 milligrams of caffeine, you will need to take two servings to get research-backed doses of some key ingredients, including creatine monohydrate (only 2.5 gram per serving). At that point, you’d be at 400 milligrams of caffeine, which is the total amount the FDA says is safe for adults to consume per day. For this reason, we docked a point off the formulation, giving Gorilla Mode 4 out of 5 stars in this category. 

Don’t forget that this also impacts how much bang you get for your buck. A 40-serving tub costs $60, and you’ll end up going through it that much quicker if you take two scoops before your training sessions. That would bring the cost to $3 per serving. So, from a value standpoint, we can only give Gorilla Mode 2.5 out of 5 stars. 

On the other hand, this pricey supplement earned a strong score of 4.5 out of 5 stars for its effectiveness. One of our testers uses strong pre-workouts several times a week and tried Gorilla Mode before an upper-body workout. “Not only did I have a good pump, I also felt more focused. I knocked out a few more reps than usual during my workout,” he says. “I like the Fruit Punch flavor, although it was sweeter than I thought it would be.” 

While our tester enjoyed Gorilla Mode’s taste, he says the powder was gritty and difficult to mix properly. This is likely due to the glycerol powder, which absorbs moisture, leading to clumping.

Strongest Pre-Workout for Tingles: Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train

Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train

4.0

• Caffeine: 200mg
• Other Key Ingredients: Citrulline malate, beta-alanine, taurine, KSM-66 Ashwagandha, caffeine, EnXtra, piperine
• Sweetener: Sucralose
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Green Apple (caffeine-free)
• Certifications: Vegan 
• Servings per Container: 30 servings
• Price per Serving: $2.16 ($2 for caffeine-free)

Check Price

If you like feeling skin tingles after taking your pre-workout, check out Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train. I love the prickly skin sensation because it lets me know my pre-workout is kicking in and it’s time to train. This temporary side effect, called paresthesia, is caused by beta-alanine, which works to increase muscular endurance. 

Intensive Pre-Train has 3,500 milligrams of beta-alanine per serving, which is more per serving than almost all of the other pre-workouts on our list. “Beta-alanine is found in most pre-workout supplements, likely because it helps reduce fatigue and improve endurance in the short term,” says registered dietitian Alex Oskian. “This is because it reduces acidity in the body, which comes from lactic acid build-up.”

Our product tester used Crazy Nutrition Intensive Pre-Train before a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout and felt the tingles within 15 minutes. “These were strong compared to some other pre-workouts I’ve tried,” he says. “I felt good tingles in my hands and face, which lasted for about an hour.” 

Earning a 5 out of 5 for effectiveness, Intense Pre-Train is also available in a caffeine-free version for those who don’t want stimulants in their pre-workout. The non-stim version comes in Green Apple, which our tester says tasted more like a greens powder than a sour apple. 

“I’m rather caffeine-dependent, so I didn’t feel a burst of energy. I prefer caffeinated pre-workouts, but this is a great option for a late-night lifting session,” she says. Other testers who tried the Fruit Punch flavor say they enjoyed the tangy taste. To enhance the flavor, Crazy Nutrition is sweetened with the artificial sweetener sucralose. With some mixed reviews on the different flavors, we give this pre-workout a 3.5 out of 5 for taste.

Strongest Pre-Workout for Focus: Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout

Onnit Alpha Brain Pre-Workout

4.1

• Caffeine: 200mg
• Other Key Ingredients: L-citrulline, beta-alanine, African oil palm extract, NooGandha (ashwagandha extract), caffeine anhydrous, AlphaSize (alpha-GPC), theobromine, Dynamine (methylliberine)
• Sweetener: Stevia
• Flavor: Yuzu Peach, Tiger’s Blood
• Certifications: Gluten-free
• Servings per Container: 20 servings
• Price per Serving: $2.99

Check Price

Onnit Alpha Brain is designed to increase mental acuity and focus. Testers say that’s exactly how they felt after trying Onnit Alpha Brain, which is why it’s our pick for the strongest pre-workout for focus.“What makes this pre-workout stand out is the cognitive effects. I felt significantly more focused after taking Alpha Brain than any other pre-workout I’ve tried,” says one of our testers.

Other testers agreed, saying Alpha Brain helped them feel present and ready to work out without being overstimulated, leading to an effectiveness score of 4 out of 5 stars. 

Onnit Alpha Brain’s formula differs from most other strong pre-workout supplements on our list — it contains nootropics, substances that enhance learning and memory. One of the key ingredients, NooGandha, is an ashwagandha extract that can reduce stress and enhance well-being by reducing cortisol levels in the body.

Another key ingredient, AlphaSize, may promote the production of acetylcholine, a powerful neurotransmitter that enhances cognitive function. However, studies demonstrating the effect of alpha-GPC on cognitive performance used 200 to 400 milligram doses per day, and a serving of Onnit Alpha brain has 125 milligrams.

The other unique ingredient in Onnit Alpha Brain is Dynamine. It works similarly to caffeine, by blocking the body’s adenosine receptors that cause you to feel tired. However, this ingredient is banned in all sports supplements in Australia. While Dynamine is still allowed for sports competitions in the U.S., it is possible it will be banned in the future. Competitive athletes may want to steer clear of this product. 

One of our testers says Alpha Brain is only middle-of-the-road compared to other strong pre-workouts when it comes to physical energy. “After taking other strong pre-workouts, I usually experience a boost in energy. After taking this pre-workout, the mental effects were much more noticeable than the physical ones,” she says. That may be in part because Alpha Brain lacks ingredients like betaine anhydrous, taurine, and creatine, which can support muscle growth and recovery.

We give the formulation 4 out of 5 stars thanks to the inclusion of nootropics, which are quickly becoming more prevalent in the supplement market. But be aware that this probably isn’t your best bet for boosting your physical energy levels.

Strongest Pre-Workout with Creatine: C4 Ultimate

Cellucor C4 Ultimate Pre-Workout Powder

4.1

• Caffeine: 300mg
• Other Key Ingredients: CarnoSyn beta-alanine, L-citrulline, L-arginine, BetaPower betaine anhydrous, creatine nitrate, L-tyrosine, Dynamine, TeaCrine, toothed clubmoss extract, rauwolfia vomitoria extract
• Sweetener: Sucralose
• Flavors: Hawaiian Punch Fruit Juicy Red, Frozen Bombsicle, Icy Blue Razz
• Certifications: Vegan
• Servings per Container: 20 servings
• Price per Serving: $2.50

Check Price

Long before the days of gummy and ready-to-drink (RTD) pre-workout options, the most popular choice was the original C4. The latest version, C4 Ultimate, is more concentrated than the classic formula, combining both exercise performance and cognitive-enhancing ingredients. 

One of our testers tried C4 Ultimate before a 30-minute HIIT workout, reporting that the caffeine blend got her zoned in before her training. 

“I felt great throughout the entire workout,” she reported, giving C4 Ultimate a perfect score for effectiveness.

This high-stim pre-workout is sweetened with sucralose, which some health experts have raised concerns about. While our tester doesn’t mind a very sweet pre-workout, the Icy Blue Razz flavor was a little too sugary for her liking. Mixing it in more water than recommended balances out the sweetness. 

However, another tester was blown away by the Sour Batch Bros flavor, saying it tasted “just like Sour Patch Kids.” Taking both of their experiences into consideration, we’ll meet in the middle and give C4 Ultimate a 4 out of 5 for taste, especially since it comes in multiple flavors. 

Another plus for this product: It contains creatine — a popular supplement among athletes and bodybuilders for its ability to boost strength, enhance recovery, and prevent injury. Because of its performance-enhancing capabilities, some people like to take creatine in addition to their pre-workout. If you want the best of both worlds, we recommend C4 Ultimate. 

Keep in mind that one serving contains 1.5 grams of creatine per serving, which is less than the recommended value of 3 to 5 grams daily. If you want to get the most performance-enhancing benefits from creatine, you should invest in a standalone supplement to help support your fitness goals.One final note: If you compete in a sport that requires drug testing, C4 Ultimate may not be the best strong pre-workout for you because it’s made with Dynamine, which is currently banned for use in Australia.

How We Tested The Strongest Pre-Workouts

Our team of expert testers includes certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and CrossFit enthusiasts. As dedicated lifters and lovers of all things health and fitness, we’ve collectively tried more than 80 pre-workouts, giving us a broad perspective of what’s available on the market. 

We tested each supplement before a workout, and in some cases, for several weeks or months, to evaluate its performance-enhancing benefits, taste, and whether the supplement had any negative side effects. 

Using a 1-5 scoring system, we rated each pre-workout on a variety of factors, including:

• Ingredients and dosage: Does research show the type and amount of each ingredient is effective? What amount of the pre-workout is needed for optimal results? Strong pre-workouts that include research-backed doses of key ingredients like citrulline, creatine, and beta-alanine earn high marks. 
• Stimulants: We looked at options with at least 200 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which we consider the minimum effective dose for a strong pre-workout. However, high-stim options don’t necessarily earn perfect scores, as there are limits to how much caffeine you should consume. 
• Third-party testing and certifications: Do independent labs or facilities test the pre-workout for efficacy? Is it NSF-certified or Informed Choice Certified? In addition to third-party testing, we appreciate brands that provide transparent ingredient lists. 
• Flavor and taste: How many flavors does the brand offer? What do those flavors taste like? Do they match what’s advertised? If your taste buds aren’t satisfied, there’s no chance this supplement will stick around for the long haul in your stack. 

At the end of the testing period, we compared feedback to whittle our list down to only the best of the best. We also received valuable input from nutrition experts on what makes a strong pre-workout.

What Makes a Pre-Workout ‘Strong’?

A strong pre-workout contains a combination of performance-enhancing ingredients in research-backed dosages. “Usually, the strength of a pre-workout is based upon the amount of stimulants it contains. High doses of caffeine (300+ milligrams) are usually a quick identifier of the pre-workout’s strength,” registered dietitian Alex Oskian says. 

However, the potency of a pre-workout goes beyond the caffeine content. Other active ingredients like L-citrulline, beta-alanine, and betaine anhydrous can impact energy, focus muscular endurance, and power output. 

“Stronger via the amount of caffeine isn’t always better. If the goal is a bigger pump in the gym, other ingredients like L-citrulline may be better,” says Alex. “Another common ingredient that can help a pre-workout feel stronger is beta-alanine, which may cause a tingling or ‘pins and needles’ sensation on the skin.”

It’s also important to remember that “strong” is a subjective term. For example, I can handle a full scoop of RedCon1 Total War without a problem, but I have friends who get too many tingles from a single serving.

“Everyone’s body reacts differently to various compounds, so what works for one person might not be best for another,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD.

Benefits of Strong Pre-Workouts

A strong, well-dosed pre-workout supplement may help you train harder by boosting your energy, focus, and endurance during intense workouts. 

“There are a few things that are really helpful when you are looking for a great gym session: energy to do the work, mental clarity to help focus on what you are doing (not just to work the muscle, but to prevent injury), and a great workout,” registered dietitian Alex Oskian says. “Using a pre-workout may just help you achieve all of these.” 

Let’s explore the potential benefits of taking a strong pre-workout before you start your training session.

Can Increase Energy Levels

Caffeine is one of the most popular stimulants used in pre-workout supplements to enhance energy levels and improve focus. Almost all of the pre-workouts on our list use caffeine and L-theanine. Studies have shown when paired with caffeine, L-theanine may improve cognitive performance.

“Most pre-workouts contain the stimulant caffeine in higher dosages. L-theanine helps counteract the unwanted effects of caffeine supplementation: jittery feelings and a post-caffeine crash,” Alex says. “You might see less mental fatigue, improved reaction time, and fewer headaches while regularly supplementing with L-theanine.”

Can Enhance Focus

I like taking a pre-workout to improve my focus because it helps intensify my workout and keep me #lockedin. Several pre-workouts on our list contain Alpha-GPC and tyrosine to give you that zoned-in feeling. Research suggests Alpha-GPC may improve cognitive function, and tyrosine may increase dopamine levels and cognition. One study found L-tyrosine helped improve people’s memory while they worked on a demanding task.

May Improve Endurance

A pre-workout may help you squeeze out a few more reps as you work to build strength and muscle. Two ingredients commonly used in pre-workout, beta-alanine and betaine anhydrous, may help reduce fatigue and support muscular endurance. 

“Research suggests betaine anhydrous can improve muscle strength and power via increased total work capacity and improved protein synthesis within the body. Simply put, you can do more work, which leads to increased strength and muscle growth,” says Alex. 

Another common ingredient, taurine, may improve your performance and power. 

Precautions When Taking a Strong Pre-Workout

Registered dietitian Alex Oskian says not every pre-workout is created equal, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s on the label. “Supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means the supplement might not contain all the ingredients you’re looking for and may even contain unwanted ingredients,” she says. Alex recommends looking for supplements that undergo third-party testing.

If you choose a high-stim pre-workout, be mindful of your caffeine intake from other sources like coffee, tea, or soda so that you don’t go over the daily recommended value of 400 milligrams. This will help prevent potential negative side effects like jitters, anxiety, or trouble falling asleep. 

“Consuming caffeine at the end of your day may cause sleep disturbances, which only hurts performance in the long run,” says Oskian.

No matter which pre-workout you choose, it’s important to follow the recommended intake guidelines. Remember, pre-workouts should not be taken more than once per day.

“Pre-workout supplements are generally safe for healthy adults, but they can have some potential side effects,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. “It is important to start with a low dose and talk to your doctor before taking them, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.”

How to Choose the Best Strong Pre-Workout for You

There are a number of important factors to consider when deciding which strong pre-workout is right for you, including:

Ingredients and Dosage

Many strong pre-workouts incorporate a variety of active ingredients. When choosing a pre-workout supplement, consider your goals. For example, a bodybuilder may prefer a pre-workout powder that’s highly caffeinated and contains ingredients such as L-citrulline, betaine anhydrous, and creatine to help improve performance. On the other hand, an endurance athlete may want a pre-workout that has less caffeine but includes beta-alanine, BCAAs, and mineral electrolytes.  

Third-Party Testing

Whenever possible, I choose supplements that are tested by a third party for purity and have transparent labeling. Athletes who undergo drug testing should look for certifications from Informed Choice and NSF, which ensure the product does not include any banned substances.

Customer Reviews

Although we test all of the products we recommend, it’s important to check out customer reviews, especially from people with similar fitness goals and preferences. They can provide valuable insights into the product’s overall effectiveness, potential side effects, and the most popular flavors.

“Recommended brands and products are ones that are highly rated by users and contain ingredients that have been backed by scientific research,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta.

Flavor Options

“Taste plays a big role in pre-workout selection. If you don’t like a particular flavor, then you likely won’t drink the pre-workout no matter its benefits,” Oskian says. It’s also important to consider the use of artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners.

Cost

The price of a pre-workout doesn’t necessarily reflect its effectiveness. Understanding the ingredients list and dosage levels is important to ensure you’re paying for a high-quality supplement and not just expensive marketing. 

What to Avoid in a Strong Pre-Workout

There are a few potential red flags you want to avoid when picking out a pre-workout.

Proprietary Blends

I like to avoid supplements made using proprietary blends. These blends are combinations of ingredients, but the individual doses are not fully disclosed. This lack of transparency makes it impossible to assess the effectiveness and safety of the supplement. 

Artificial Ingredients

Many fitness enthusiasts and athletes prefer all-natural ingredients and products free from unnecessary fillers or additives. “If sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners wreak havoc on your stomach, make sure those aren’t on the ingredient list,” registered dietitian Alex Oskian says.

Banned Substances

Athletes who compete in sanctioned organizations should make sure the supplements they use are third-party tested and certified banned substance-free. 

Final Thoughts: Is a Strong Pre-Workout Worth It?

If you have big fitness goals, choosing a strong pre-workout formulated with safe and effective doses of science-backed ingredients is worth it to deliver performance-enhancing effects. Keep in mind that even the strongest pre-workouts on the market won’t make you run faster, lift heavier, or exercise longer on their own. These supplements are designed to help you put in the work at the gym to make gains and enhance your performance over time. 

Ultimately, though, a strong pre-workout is only part of the equation to becoming the strongest version of yourself. At the end of the day, you have to put in the work, follow a sound nutrition plan, and prioritize rest and recovery to crush your fat-burning and muscle-building goals.

Strongest Pre-Workout FAQs

The post The Strongest Pre-Workout Powders to Fuel Your Training in 2025 appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

There are tons of creatine supplements on the market, including powders, pills, and gummies. These supplements use various forms of creatine (more on that later), and some contain other ingredients that aim to help you grow muscle, recover faster, or sharpen your focus in the gym. 

On one hand, having such a wide variety of options can be empowering. On the other hand, it can be a challenge to figure out which is right for you.

To narrow down the field to only the best of the best, our expert product testers tried dozens of creatine supplements ranging from standard powders to convenient capsules to flavorful gummies. We looked for creatine supplements that taste good, mix well (when applicable), use quality ingredients, contain enough creatine per serving, and are affordable. Along the way, we spoke with certified personal trainers and nutritionists for guidance. 

Below are our picks for the best creatine supplements for men. However, individuals of any gender can choose from this lineup with confidence.  

Disclaimer: While this article is intended for educational and informational purposes, it should not be viewed as a substitute for medical advice. Furthermore, we intend the term “men” to include all men, including trans men. However, we understand most research on this topic has focused on cis men (men who are not trans). When we reference gender-based research and nutritional recommendations, we will clarify by saying “cis men.” We encourage trans and nonbinary people of all genders to consult with a trans-competent nutritionist regarding their supplements and training needs.

The Best Creatine for Men in 2025:

• Best Creatine Monohydrate: Transparent Labs Creatine HMB
• Best Creatine for Athletes: Sports Research Creatine Monohydrate
• Best Creatine Gummies: Swoly Creatine Mono Gummies
• Best Value Creatine: Nutricost Micronized Creatine Monohydrate
• Best Flavored Creatine: Legion Recharge Post-Workout Creatine
• Best Creatine Pills: Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Capsules
• Best Creatine for Muscle Growth: Gnarly Creatine

Best Creatine Monohydrate: Transparent Labs Creatine HMB

Transparent Labs Creatine HMB

4.5

• Price per serving: $1.67 (30 servings)
• Creatine per serving: 5g
• Ingredients: Creatine monohydrate 5,000mg, β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) 1,500mg, Bioperine (black pepper extract) 5mg, vitamin D 12.5mcg, natural flavors 1,000mg, citric acid 810mg, malic acid 805mg, stevia extract 300mg
• Certifications: Informed Choice certified, gluten-free, non-GMO, artificial sweetener and color-free
• Best For: Those after serious strength gains; those who don’t like unflavored creatine

Check Price

Transparent Labs Creatine HMB is our pick for the best creatine monohydrate because it contains 5 grams of it per serving, which is the researched-backed dose for improved athletic performance. “This dose is a great recommendation for the general population, but some sports nutrition recommendations recommend a dosage based on kilograms of body weight, so some individuals may require more than 5 grams to see a benefit,” says Anna Marie Clear, M.S., R.D., C.P.T.

This dietary supplement contains β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB), which the body naturally produces when it breaks down the amino acid leucine. Although more studies are needed, some research suggests HMB promotes muscle growth. “Leucine is the primary amino acid that triggers muscle protein synthesis,” Clear explains.”HMB and leucine are very similar, but research shows HMB has no greater effect than leucine alone.” 

Transparent Labs also includes BioPerine, a derivative of black pepper that studies show increases nutrient bioavailability. “Bioperine may help enhance absorption of some nutrients, but research is limited on its impact alongside HMB and creatine,” says Clear.

Earning a perfect formulation score of 5 out of 5 stars, Creatine HMB also received high marks from our testing team for taste. Although it fell shy of another 5-star rating, this supplement earned a solid score of 4 out of 5 in this all-important category. 

Transparent Labs Creatine HMB comes in 13 flavors, including an unflavored version. This is a lot more flavor options than you’ll find in most creatine supplements and the most of any on our list. 

Pete Nastasi, C.P.T., C.S.N.C., tried this supplement. “I’ve tried both the Blue Raspberry and Strawberry Lemonade flavors, which are sweetened with stevia extract, and both tasted great,” he says. “I love having a flavored creatine supplement in the morning before my morning workout.” 

However, while Nastasi liked the flavor, other testers say this supplement has a slightly bitter taste, which they attribute to the BioPerine. 

“I tried Black Cherry and I wasn’t a huge fan of the taste of this one—it tasted a bit watered down, even with the right amount of water,” our product tester noted. “Some people may prefer this though!”

While another tester also noted some tartness due to the BioPerine, she’s still optimistic about the Tropical Punch flavor.

“I bought this at the end of winter but I’m looking forward to drinking it in the summer because I find something refreshing about it that I think will be nice during the hotter months,” she explained.

Best Creatine for Athletes: Sports Research Creatine Monohydrate 

Sports Research Creatine Monohydrate

4.9

• Price per serving: $0.28 (100 servings)
• Creatine per serving: 5g
• Ingredients: Micronized creatine monohydrate 
• Certifications: Informed Sport Certified, non-GMO, gluten-free
• Best For: People after the highest recommended dose of creatine, those who want a pure creatine supplement, budget shoppers

Check Price

We chose Sports Research Creatine Monohydrate as our top pick for athletes because it contains 5 grams of creatine per serving, which research shows is an optimal dose for muscle gain, muscle recovery, and overall improved athletic performance. For this reason, we rated the formulation a 5 out of 5. 

This creatine is also a great choice for athletes because it’s Informed Sport Certified—this third party tests for purity and banned substances. So, if you’re planning on competing in any events, you can feel good knowing this product is certified banned substance-free.

Another benefit of this supplement is that it uses micronized creatine. Micronized creatine is ground into finer particles than non-micronized so it dissolves much more easily in water. However, according to Nastasi, “micronized creatine is a bit of a marketing gimmick—it isn’t digested any better than standard creatine monohydrate.” 

Research supports Nastasi, as this 2022 study says there is “no evidence” that micronized creatine is more bioavailable than non-micronized creatine.  

However, using micronized creatine does contribute to excellent solubility. Our tester showed no hesitation giving Sports Research Creatine Monohydrate a 5-star rating in this category. 

“If you didn’t tell me there was creatine in this water I wouldn’t know—it’s truly tasteless and mixes easily,” our tester reported.

Unfortunately for your taste buds, this supplement only comes in an unflavored version. However, while some creatine powders can have a bitter aftertaste, this one doesn’t. 

“It tastes just like water,” our tester noted. One thing to consider about this creatine supplement is that it only comes as a powder. If you prefer creatine capsules (or a flavored powder), you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Related: The Best Pre-Workouts

Best Creatine Gummies: Swoly Creatine Mono Gummies

SWOLY Creatine Mono Gummies

4.3

• Price per serving: $1 (30 servings)
• Creatine per serving: 4g
• Ingredients: Creatine monohydrate 4g, sucrose, dextrose, pectin, maltodextrin, natural and artificial flavors, fruit and vegetable juice, stearic acid, citric acid, carnauba wax 
• Certifications: Third-party tested, gluten-free
• Best For: People who want a creatine gummy

Check Price

If you don’t like measuring out and mixing powders, you’re in luck. Swoly Creatine Mono Gummies are ideal for athletes on the go who don’t want to carry around an additional shaker bottle for their creatine. 

Although they only come in one flavor (Strawberry), Swoly knocked it out of the park from a taste perspective, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 from one of our most experienced product testers. 

“These are dangerously delicious — like, need-to-make-sure-my-child-doesn’t-find-these-or-she-will-eat-them all kind of delicious,” our tester eloquently described. “They remind me of the BEST fruit snacks.” 

Concerned about the texture? No need to worry about that, either. Our product tester also gave Swoly a 5-star rating for swallowability. 

“Super easy and delicious. I’d eat these every day,” she noted. 

As much as our tester enjoyed chowing down on these creatine gummies, be aware that one serving is five gummies, which can be a lot for some people. Plus, one serving only contains 4 grams of creatine monohydrate, which is a little shy of our preferred dosage of 5 grams. Our R.D. reviewer, Anna Marie Clear, notes that “larger individuals may need to take more of these gummies to get their research-backed dose of 0.1 grams of creatine per kilogram of body weight.” 

If that’s you, you may want to opt for a different option, since taking more than five gummies could “lead to GI symptoms because of the added sugar and gums,” she says. 

Unlike some other creatine supplements on this list, Swoly gummies contain more than a few added ingredients, including artificial ingredients. They also have 15 calories per serving and 2.5 grams of added sugar per serving from sucrose, dextrose, and maltodextrin. 

As a result, we give the formulation 4 out of 5 stars since we prefer 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving and the added sugar may not align with some consumers’ dietary preferences. 

Although Swoly says these gummies are third-party tested, there’s no information about through which organization. As a result, we could only give 3 out of 5 stars in this category.

Best Value Creatine: Nutricost Micronized Creatine Monohydrate

Nutricost Micronized Creatine Monohydrate

4.3

• Price per serving: $0.20 (100 servings)
• Creatine per serving: 5g
• Ingredients: Micronized creatine monohydrate
• Certifications: Third-party tested, gluten-free, non-GMO
• Best For: Those who want flavors, budget shoppers

Check Price

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly creatine supplement, you can’t do much better than Nutricost. At just $0.20 per serving, this supplement is the cheapest on our list. But cheap doesn’t equate to low-quality—Nutricost creatine is third-party tested, which is something you typically only find in more expensive supplements. 

However, there’s a caveat. 

“This company does not elaborate on its third-party testing,” Clear says. “It’s hard to determine the brand’s safety without a detailed explanation of its testing process.”

Although we docked a few points for the lack of transparency in third-party testing by giving 3 out of 5 stars, Nutricost earned a perfect formulation score. 

“It’s recommended to take 3-5 grams of creatine daily to enhance athletic performance, and Nutricost provides 5 grams daily, ensuring your muscle cells remain saturated,” says registered dietitian Perry Nix. 

Our product tester reported no adverse side effects when taking Nutricost. In fact, he was pleasantly surprised that he didn’t experience any bloating like he did with other creatine products.

Another benefit of this creatine supplement is that it comes in five flavor options, which is more than most brands offer for creatine supplements. Flavors include Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Pineapple Mango, Watermelon, and Unflavored. However, these flavors are sweetened with sucralose, which research shows may cause gut issues in some people when consumed in high doses.

One of the few knocks against this budget-friendly creatine is its solubility; or potentially, the lack thereof. Our tester only gave it 3 out of 5 stars, noting that “it settles quite a bit.” 

Amazon reviewers are pleased with this product, giving it 4.6/5 stars overall. Many praise its lack of additional ingredients and effective formula. “It has made a significant positive impact on my workout performance and recovery,” says Amazon reviewer Kurt. However, a few reviewers mention finding pieces of plastic in their containers, which is something to watch out for.

Best Flavored Creatine: Legion Recharge Post-Workout

LEGION Recharge Post-Workout Creatine

3.8

• Price per serving: $1 (60 servings)
• Creatine per serving: 5g
• Ingredients: Micronized creatine monohydrate 5g, L-carnitine L-tartrate 2.1g, corosolic acid 10.5g, natural flavors, stevia, calcium silicate, citric acid, red beet powder (for color; found only in fruit punch, watermelon, and strawberry lemonade flavors)
• Certifications: Labdoor tested for sport, made in an NSF-certified facility
• Best for: Those who want flavors

Check Price

Some unflavored creatine tastes chalky and a little bitter (no bueno!). If you drink your creatine with water, a flavored option like Legion Recharge should suit your taste buds better. Legion offers this supplement in six flavors, which although not as vast as Transparent Labs’ variety, taste better, according to customers and our team of experts.

Our product tester tried the Strawberry Lemonade flavor, giving it a perfect 5-out-of-5 rating for taste. 

“It’s pretty sweet but also tart. I really liked it” she noted. 

Many customers on Amazon attest to how good Legion’s flavors are, with a few noting that Strawberry Lemonade and Fruit Punch are particularly good. However, some reviewers mention the Unflavored version has an unpleasant, bitter flavor.

One thing you won’t have to worry about with Recharge is solubility. Our tester reported the power dissolved perfectly with no clumps or sediment at the bottom of her shaker cup, leading to another 5-out-of-5 rating.

Similarly, we’re also big fans of the formulation. Legion Recharge has a research-backed dose of 5g of creatine per serving. The creatine is micronized, which means it’s been processed to be finer. Legion says this makes it easier to blend and less likely to cause an upset stomach. However, our R.D. reviewer Anna Marie Clear notes, “While micronized creatine monohydrate is processed to be finer, the research does not support the micronized version to be more bioavailable.”

Legion Recharge also contains 2.1 grams of L-carnitine in each serving, which helps the body convert fat into energy, and 10.5 grams of corosolic acid, which research shows helps regulate blood sugar.

Unfortunately for budget-conscious shoppers, Recharge is one of the more expensive options on this list, checking in at $1.33 per serving. As a result, we could only give it 1.5 out of 5 stars for price. So, if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to go with something like Nutricost.

Related Post: The Best Non-Stim Pre-Workouts

Best Creatine Pills: Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Capsules

Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Capsules

3.8

• Price per serving: $0.60 (for two capsules)
• Creatine per serving: 2.5g
• Ingredients: Creatine monohydrate
• Certifications: Banned Substance Tested (not certified for sport)
• Best For: Athletes on-the-go

Check Price

If you don’t like the taste of creatine powder or find it a pain to mix, Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Capsules are a convenient and tasteless alternative. Plus, a bottle of these capsules will take up less room in your gym bag than a tub of creatine powder. 

Optimum Nutrition offers three sizes: 100 capsules for $30 ($0.60/serving), 200 capsules for $50 ($0.50/serving), or 300 capsules for $69 ($0.46/serving). Optimum Nutrition recommends you take two capsules twice daily since one serving (two capsules) only contains 2.5 grams of creatine. 

That may not be a deterrent for some folks, but our team docked a few points off the formulation, giving Optimum Nutrition 3 out of 5 stars in this key category. 

“You can always double the intake, but four pills is a lot and makes the serving size much more expensive,” our product tester noted. 

Furthermore, our R.D. reviewer Anna Marie Clear notes: “A larger athlete (ie. 100 kilograms) would need to take eight capsules (10 grams of creatine) in order to meet the 1 gram per kilogram of body weight recommendation.” So if you’re a bigger person, you may want to opt for a powder that’s easier to take more of. 

These capsules have a simple ingredient list: creatine monohydrate, gelatin, and magnesium stearate. Magnesium stearate and gelatin form the capsule. Gelatin is an animal product, so these supplements are not vegan.

As for how easy they go down? Our product tester rated the swallowability 5 out of 5 stars. 

“They are tasteless aside from a slight gelatin flavor,” he says. “And the pills are a bit large—about 1 inch long—but I didn’t have trouble swallowing them.”

Best Creatine for Muscle Growth: Gnarly Creatine

Gnarly Creatine

4.4

• Price per serving: $0.61 (90 servings)
• Creatine per serving: 5g
• Ingredients: CreaPure® creatine monohydrate
• Certifications: NSF Certified for Sport, NSF Content Certified
• Best For: Those competing in athletic competitions; people who want the most widely studied form of creatine

Check Price

If you’re trying to achieve some gnarly gains, you can’t go wrong with an affordably priced supplement made with the most widely used brand of creatine. Experts consider CreaPure®, a branded form of creatine monohydrate, the gold standard for purity and effectiveness. Nastasi agrees: “It’s manufactured in Germany and is super pure, so from a purity perspective it’s no. 1.” 

Gnarly is the only supplement on our list with this form of creatine. Each serving contains 5 grams of 100% CreaPure® creatine monohydrate, putting it ahead of the class and leading to a formulation score of 5 out of 5 stars. This research-backed dose can help support your physique-building efforts, as combining creatine supplementation with adequate resistance training is shown to be an effective muscle growth strategy.

In addition, Gnarly Creatine is NSF Certified for Sport and NSF Content Certified. This means it’s third-party certified to be pure and free from banned substances. This is great news for athletes who compete in drug-tested athletic competitions, since testing positive for banned substances, even if they’re consumed by accident, can lead to disqualification. So, if you’re an aspiring bodybuilder looking to pack on as much muscle as possible, you don’t have to worry about any issues with Gnarly.

“NSF Certified for Sport also indicates this supplement has undergone label claim testing (so the label is accurate) and contaminant testing for heavy metals, microbes, and pesticides,” says Clear. “This may be the most pure option on this list,” she adds.

While Gnarly earned a perfect third-party testing rating, it didn’t live up to our standards for solubility, leading to a disappointing score of 3 out of 5 stars. 

“It doesn’t mix very well and settles quite a bit,” our product tester noted. “I usually end up stirring it several times while I take it.”Many Amazon reviews echo similar sentiments, so if you’re searching for a smooth sipping experience, consider an alternative like Sports Research.

Other Creatine Supplements We Tested

Our team tested dozens of other creatines to come up with this list, with many of us relying on some form of this popular supplement for years. However, not every creatine product could make our list, so here are some honorable mentions that didn’t quite make the cut: 

• Muscle Feast Creapure Creatine: Produced in Germany and distributed by partners like Proteinfactory and BPN, this branded creatine monohydrate is touted to be high-quality. Yet upon closer inspection, there isn’t anything special about this product that separates it from another micronized creatine monohydrate. 
• Cellucor Cor-Performance Creatine Monohydrate: Another micronized creatine monohydrate powder at an affordable price point of less than 50 cents per serving. We’d call this a solid runner-up for sure. (We also love Cellucor’s C4 pre-workout.))
• Ghost Creatine: Although Ghost Creatine contains 5 grams of a branded type of creatine monohydrate and other ingredients that support increased muscle size and strength, the strong formulation wasn’t enough to overcome the expensive price per serving ($1.50).
• RedCon1 Tango Creatine: As one of the better-known sports nutrition brands, RedCon1 makes some solid products. However, while our tester enjoyed the effects of Tango Creatine, the high price tag precluded us from putting it on this list. 
• Swolverine Creatine Monohydrate: Similar to RedCon1 Tango, this unflavored creatine supplement missed the cut since we found more affordable options.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Creatine for Men

Our team has tried more than 43 creatine supplements in total, with more added on the regular. We evaluate each supplement for the following factors:

• Taste: If the creatine was flavored, did we enjoy the taste and think it was true to the advertised flavor? If it was unflavored, did we notice any bitter or unpleasant taste?
• Mixability: We mixed each creatine with the recommended amount of water. We noted whether or not it stayed mixed or settled to the bottom of the glass. We considered how long it took to mix and how long it stayed mixed. For gummies, we assess how easily it chews and goes down.
• Dosage: Although dose may vary by user, we looked for supplements with the general sports nutrition recommendation of 3–5 grams of creatine per serving.
• Form of Creatine: Almost every option on this list uses creatine monohydrate, which is the most widely researched form of creatine. 
• Price: We chose supplements that deliver results at an affordable price.
• Third-Party Testing: We looked for supplements with certifications like NSF-Certified Safe for Sport or Banned Substance free. We also looked for certifications like gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan to suit a range of diets and preferences.

How to Choose the Best Creatine for You

There are a few key factors you’ll want to consider when choosing a creatine supplement.

Creatine per Serving

Research shows the most efficacious dose of creatine is between 3 and 5 grams for most individuals. Look for supplements with servings within this range if you’re looking for maximum benefits, including increased muscle mass, faster recovery, and improved exercise capacity. Remember, larger individuals may require more creatine for maximum benefits—0.1 grams per kilogram of body weight is the research-backed recommendation.

Other Ingredients

Some supplements have additional ingredients to bolster the product’s effectiveness. Transparent Labs, for example, includes HMB, which some research shows promotes muscle growth, though more research is needed. Legion includes L-carnitine, which research shows helps metabolize fat into energy. Consider your goals and whether or not you want a pure creatine supplement or one with other athletic performance-enhancing ingredients. 

“I highly recommend collaborating with a sports dietitian to find the most optimal supplement for you based on your personal health, athletic, or physique goals and to ensure you are consuming an appropriate dosage from a safe and high-quality supplement,” says Anna Marie Clear, our expert reviewer and R.D.

Fillers and Additives

Some creatine supplements use artificial ingredients and fillers to help improve taste and mixability. While many of the products on our list contain creatine as their sole ingredient, some, like Swoly gummies, use some artificial ingredients. Consider whether or not it’s important for your supplement to be completely pure.

Third-Party Testing

Third-party testing is the best way to ensure that your supplement’s ingredients are pure and match what’s on the label. Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so third-party testing gives consumers confidence in their products. 

“It is also especially important to consider third-party testing for sport certifications from either Informed Sport or NSF Certified for Sport if you are a collegiate or professional athlete or if you are looking to compete in a weightlifting, bodybuilding, or other fitness competition to ensure you are consuming supplements free from banned substances,” says Clear. 

What is Creatine and How Does It Work?

Creatine phosphate (CrP) is a compound made of three amino acids: arginine, glycine, and methionine. The body produces creatine naturally in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, with about 95% of it found in skeletal muscle. “Through diet, creatine is found primarily in red meat and seafood, however, to get an extra creatine boost, a creatine powder or pill supplement can help,” says personal trainer and strength coach Will Duru.

Creatine supplies energy to muscles through the phosphocreatine system. “Creatine helps in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate)—the compound that provides energy to bodily processes such as muscle contraction,” nutritionist Rob Hobson says. “Creatine can help with the production of ATP during maximum-effort exercises, such as sprints or intense muscular effort lasting between five and 10 seconds. It can also help recovery between exercise bouts.” 

Hobson says creatine can improve performance in sports involving repeated sprints, such as rugby or football, and high-intensity bursts, like track or swim sprints. “Creatine can also help you train harder through being able to do more work over a series of training sets,” he adds.

As a certified personal trainer, former rugby player, and longtime lifter, I can attest to the impact that creatine has on both performance and recovery. It’s been a staple in my supplement stack for years, and despite myths about unwanted weight gain and water retention, I’ve never experienced those side effects.

Benefits of Creatine

As the most-researched supplement on the market, creatine has long been utilized by everyone from professional athletes to strength training enthusiasts to casual lifters. Let’s explore some of the positive potential effects of creatine supplementation:

May Improve Athletic Performance

“Research shows creatine supplementation helps muscle performance throughout a number of activities including soccer training, weight training, plyometric training, and even canoe training,” says Duru. Interestingly, this study also showed that muscle power output and muscle strength still increased with creatine supplementation, even when research subjects didn’t do any exercise. This is in comparison to subjects who took a placebo supplement.

“There are lots of studies showing how creatine supplementation can improve strength, power, and high-intensity exercise performance. This is due to the role it plays in energy production and its ability to increase ATP availability during short bursts of intense activity,” says nutritionist Rob Hobson.

Can Help Increase Muscle Mass

Want to build muscle? Creatine could be your go-to. “Creatine supplementation is often used to increase muscle mass. It can draw more water into your muscle cells, creating a cell volumization effect that may promote muscle growth,” says Hobson. “Additionally, creatine can enhance the effects of resistance training by increasing total muscle mass and strength gains.”

According to a 2023 meta-analysis on the effects of creatine supplementation combined with resistance training, this protocol can promote “a small increase in the direct measures of skeletal muscle hypertrophy in both the upper and lower body.” 

Duru says for maximum muscle-building results, creatine loading can help. “The first time you take creatine, take around 20 to 25 grams of creatine every day for up to a week, broken up into 5-gram servings across the day. Then drop to the recommended 3 to 5 grams the day after this.” 

Clear adds: “If you are looking to initiate creatine supplementation with a loading dose of 20 grams per day, I recommend breaking this large dosage into smaller servings throughout the day to minimize gastrointestinal distress (i.e., diarrhea).”

Can Promote Faster Athletic Recovery

Recovery is key when training. Not only does it help you avoid injury, but a speedier recovery means we can get back to exercise quicker. Research shows creatine supplementation may reduce recovery time between spurts of intense exercise by reducing muscle damage. 

Can Help Reduce Muscle Aches

Although supplementing with creatine does not entirely prevent muscle damage, studies show creatine reduces the immediate muscle damage that occurs after resistance training.

May Enhance Cognition

Studies show creatine can benefit brain function. “Creatine supplementation may have a beneficial effect on brain function, as the brain requires a significant amount of ATP for normal operation. It may be particularly beneficial in tasks requiring speed and quick thinking,” says Hobson.

May Improve Muscle and Bone Density

Creatine supplementation is also important for overall health and wellness as you age. According to a 2021 study led by renowned creatine researcher Dr. Darren Candow, one year of creatine supplementation and resistance training had favorable effects on bone area and muscle density in older adults. This included both male and female participants, suggesting no differences between sex when it comes to creatine’s impact. 

What Are The Different Types of Creatine?

Not all creatine is created equal. In fact, there are multiple forms. Here’s a brief overview of the different types of creatine so you understand what to look for and what might suit you best. 

Creatine Monohydrate

Creatine monohydrate consists of creatine paired with a water molecule. As nutritionist Rob Hobson notes, this is the most research-backed form of creatine, and it’s typically the primary form used in most of the best-selling supplements in this category.

Micronized Creatine Monohydrate

“Micronized creatine is processed to create smaller particles than the standard creatine powder,” Hobson says. “The intention of micronized creatine is to improve its solubility and absorption in the body so creatine is then used up by muscles more quickly.”

Creatine Ethyl Ester

In this form, creatine is bound to ester salts, which some studies show makes the creatine more easily absorbed within the body. However, research shows creatine ethyl ester is not as effective as monohydrate.

Creatine Nitrate

Creatine nitrate is derived from the same molecule as creatine monohydrate but with a nitrate added. Some studies suggest creatine nitrate is more bioavailable than monohydrate, but results are mixed and more research is needed. Currently, creatine nitrate is only approved by the FDA at a daily dose of 750 milligrams per day.

Buffered Creatine

This type of creatine is normally manufactured with added alkaline, so it has a higher pH than regular creatine monohydrate. However, research shows there is little difference between buffered creatine and creatine monohydrate when it comes to training gains.

What Is a Creatine Loading Phase?

A creatine loading phase involves taking a higher dose of creatine, typically between 20 and 25 grams, for up to a week, according to Duru. He recommends reducing to a dose of 3 to 5 grams a day after a week.

“A lot of people do a creatine loading phase to fully saturate the muscles when they first start taking creatine, and this can potentially speed up the benefits by a few days,” says Pete Nastasi, CPT, CSNC. “But if you take more than two to three days off from creatine, it’s likely that your creatine stores will go back down to baseline and you might want to do another loading phase,” he says. “That’s why I suggest people take it every day.”

Studies show creatine loading phases (e.g. 20 grams per day for five to seven days) can help increase muscle creatine storage by 10 to 30 percent. However, creatine loading phases aren’t necessary. Studies show that long term, you can achieve the same effects without a loading phase. But if it’s speed you’re after, loading phases are a safe and effective way to quickly improve gains.

Is Creatine Safe?

Studies show creatine supplementation is safe in both the short and long term for healthy individuals. Healthy people can safely take up to 30 grams per day for up to five years. However, as we’ll explain below, those with certain health conditions should avoid creatine supplements.

Precautions When Taking Creatine

“Since creatine is a safe supplement, there aren’t many precautions to take beyond sticking to the recommended dosage,” says nutritionist Rob Hobson. “Like all supplements, figure out if it is really necessary to suit your performance goals, as there is little point in taking it if it is not. If you are training for a marathon then it’s not really going to be of use to you but if you are looking to build more muscle and become stronger, then it’s a good choice.”

Who Should Avoid Creatine

Creatine works for most people, but those with certain pre-existing health conditions should avoid it. “Anyone with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions or impaired function should avoid creatine,” says Hobson. Experts say creatine supplements may prevent those with kidney or liver problems from producing their own creatine. “Anyone taking medications affecting kidney function should avoid creatine or speak to their GP first. This might include blood pressure medication or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on a regular basis,” Hobson adds.

Hobson also advises against creatine supplementation for those younger than 18. “With adolescents, while the research suggests it may be okay for this age group, I avoid recommending it as the long-term effects are not fully understood yet,” he says.

Best Creatine for Men: Final Thoughts

While myths exist about water retention, cramping, and even its legality, creatine is one of the most researched-backed supplements. If you’re a dedicated lifter looking to enhance your muscle gains, improve your performance in activities requiring short bursts of energy, or hasten your recovery, you shouldn’t hesitate to add one of the options from our list to your stack. 

All you have to decide is whether you prefer a powder, pill, or gummy and you’ll be well on your way to unlocking the benefits of this uber-popular supplement. 

FAQs

The post The Best Creatine Supplements for Men for Muscle Growth and Enhanced Recovery appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

If you are on the hunt for the best elliptical of 2025 but aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best elliptical machines and a comprehensive guide on what to consider before you make your purchase.

Our Picks for the Best Ellipticals of 2025:

• Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i
• Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness E95
• Best Elliptical for Joint Pain: Sole Fitness E35
• Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
• Best Under Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go
• Most Comfortable Elliptical: Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11

Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i

NordicTrack FS10i

• Weight Capacity: 375 pounds
• Resistance Levels: 24 levels
• Monitor: 10-inch HD touchscreen
• Stride: 32-inches, auto-adjustable
• Machine Dimensions: 58.5 inches (L) x 29.5 inches (W) x 74 inches (H)
• Warranty: Ten-year frame
• Price: $1,999

Check Price

The NordicTrack FS10i isn’t your average elliptical—it combines a treadmill, elliptical, and stair stepper all into one machine designed to give you the flexibility to switch up your cardio. The 32-inch adjustable stride adjusts based on your leg movements. In other words, if you use the FS10i as a stair stepper, your legs move up and down, but your stride goes back and forth in elliptical mode.

You can follow an iFIT class (with a $39/month subscription) on the 10-inch HD touchscreen, which tracks key stats such as time elapsed, speed, distance, and calories burned. Trainers can digitally adjust your incline up to 10 percent or tap into the 24 resistance levels based on the workout. If you’re working out manually, you can make these adjustments yourself via one-touch buttons next to the touchscreen.

Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness E95

SOLE E95 Elliptical

• Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
• Resistance Levels: 20 levels
• Monitor: Wi-Fi-enabled 13.3-inch touchscreen with screen mirroring
• Stride: 20 inches
• Machine Dimensions: 83 inches (L) x 34 inches (W) x 70 inches (H)
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame and flywheel, three years parts and electronics, and one year labor
• Price: $2,099

Check Price

If you’re on a fitness journey, a weight-loss diet and exercise are essential to achieving your goals. If you already have a favorite weight-loss program or weight-loss app, an elliptical can help you knock out your daily sweat session. While any elliptical will help you work toward your goal, the E95 stands out thanks to its free fitness app and integrated streaming services, perfect for when you need more motivation to get moving. Unlike some of the other ellipticals on our list, the E95’s companion app, Sole+, is free with your new machine. Sole+ includes more than 3,000 trainer-led workouts and classes for on and off your elliptical. For even more entertainment while you work out, the E95 is integrated with several streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more.

The Sole E95’s cushioned foot pedals are designed to keep your knees and ankles from feeling the brunt of an extended workout. The pedals adjust to fit your gait, but default to a two-degree inward angle. The Sole E95’s 20 resistance levels let you challenge yourself and can be easily switched via buttons on the handles. Sole’s drive system is engineered to stay quiet, but if you want to listen to your class or music on its built-in speakers, simply plug in your smart device and prop it up in the inserted tablet holder.

RELATED: Best Home Gym Equipment

Best Elliptical for Joint Pain: Sole Fitness E35

SOLE E35 Elliptical

• Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
• Resistance Levels: 20 levels
• Monitor: 10.1-inch touchscreen with screen mirroring
• Stride: 20 inches
• Machine Dimensions: 70 inches (L) x 31 inches (W) x 70 inches (H)
• Warranty: Lifetime frame, five years on parts, two years on labor
• Price: $1,599

Check Price

The Sole E35 Elliptical is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, simple elliptical with a smooth ride for joint comfort. It’s easy to set up and use and has everything you need to start working out in the comfort of your own home—no gym membership required.

The Sole E35’s ramp-like design allows users to simply step on and start moving. With this elliptical, you can get a full-body workout without having to worry about straining your back or joints. It is equipped with 20 different levels of resistance so users can adjust their workouts according to their fitness levels and goals. With 10 preloaded workout programs plus free access to the Sole+ fitness app, even beginners can start their training immediately. Even though it’s not as heavy-duty as other ellipticals, the  Sole E35 works for users up to 300 pounds.

And while it comes with all the features you’d expect from an elliptical, it also has some great extras that we love: built-in fans keep you cool during workouts, and a user-friendly, fully adjustable console ensures a comfortable workout.

RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Bowflex Max Trainer M6

• Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
• Resistance Levels: 16
• Monitor: 6-inch by 8-inch LCD/calorie burn meter
• Stride: 18 inches, adjustable
• Machine Dimensions: 46 inches (L) x 26 inches (W) x 64.2 inches (H)
• Warranty: Two years frame and parts, 90 days labor
• Price: $1,299

Check Price

If you’re short on space but looking to up your cardio workout with an elliptical, take a look at the Bowflex Max Trainer M6. Bringing together form and function, the M6 stamps out a footprint measuring just 46 inches long, 26 inches wide, and 64.2 inches high—quite a bit smaller than your average treadmill or other cardio machine. Its 15-inch stride length may not be a great fit for taller individuals, but it still supports a user weight of up to 300 pounds.

The M6 offers a great workout with 16 levels of resistance, a USB charging port, a water bottle holder, Bluetooth heart rate compatibility, and multi-grip moving handles with pulse contact grips to measure heart rate. It’s also equipped with a unique burn rate display to track how many calories you burn per minute and allows you to set activity level targets throughout the workout.

If interactive programming is your jam, you’re in luck. The JRNY digital fitness platform for Bowflex products houses tailored workouts, on-demand classes, real-time coaching, and personalized programming. Purchasing the M6 gives you a free membership to JRNY. Download the workout app, place your device in the magnetic media, and get pedaling.

Bowflex offers in-home assembly for an additional fee, which we recommend because assembly takes a few hours (according to reviewers). The warranty is a bit disappointing, offering only two years on the frame and parts. Most competitors cover the frame with a 10-year warranty, so you’ll want to make sure your Bowflex is assembled correctly.

Best Under Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go

Cubii GO

• Weight Capacity: 500 pounds while seated, 350 pounds of direct weight on the pedals
• Resistance Levels: 10
• Monitor: 2-inch LCD
• Stride: 6.125 inches for each foot 
• Machine Dimensions: ‎23.5 inches (L) x 17.5 inches (W) x 10 inches (H)
• Warranty: Two years
• Price: $299

Check Price

The little elliptical that could, the Cubii Go provides an elliptical experience for a fraction of the space and price. This portable elliptical fits seamlessly underneath your desk and can be taken on the go with its built-in wheels and retractable handle.

Unlike under-desk treadmills, you don’t have to stand to work out with the Cubii Go. Instead, you can stay seated and pedal during a meeting or while watching TV. Its large flywheel lets you go up to ten resistance levels while an illuminated display projects your stats back to you. Use the Cubii app to keep track of the details of your workout plus. The Cubii Go is also easy to take with you, thanks to built-in wheels and a double telescoping handle.

This compact elliptical currently has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on the Cubii website. Out of 238 reviews, only five give the Cubii Go one star. Negative ratings include criticism of the machine’s stability and design. Four-star reviews praise the Cubii Go as effective and easy to use.

RELATED: Best Cardio Machines

Most Comfortable Elliptical: Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11

Niceday Elliptical Machine

• Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
• Resistance: 16 levels
• Monitor: 5-inch digital display
• Stride: 15.5 inches
• Machine Dimensions: 62 inches (H) x 48 inches (L) x 25 inches (W)
• Warranty: One year
• Price: $499.99

Check Price

If you’re a first-time elliptical buyer who’s feeling a little intimidated by the whole process, you might find the Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 a comfortable option. Equipped with large pedals and constructed with steel, the Niceday Elliptical trainer can support users up to 400 pounds. It’s also designed to fit users between 4’9″ and 6’4″ tall, although it’s worth noting that the 15.5-inch stride length may feel restrictive to people on the taller end of that range. This elliptical also comes 90 percent pre-assembled, a feature sure to appeal to those less mechanically inclined. If you find quiet workouts comfortable, you’ll appreciate the Smart Elliptical CT11’s magnetic drive system. It’s designed to reduce noise and keep the sound of the machine below 20 decibels—about the same amount of noise as rustling leaves.

This elliptical trainer offers 16 levels of resistance, so you can use it for anything from light workouts to more intense leg and glute exercises. It’s also compatible with Kinomap and digitally records stats including speed, distance, calories, and heart rate.

The Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon with nearly 3,000 reviews. While most Amazon feedback is complimentary about the machine’s performance, criticisms include noise level and suitability for taller users.

Who Should Buy an Elliptical?

Elliptical machines are an excellent choice for people looking for a low-impact, total-body cardio workout of any intensity. “You’re using both your arms and your legs to propel yourself, and you can adjust the resistance based on what works for you,” says Samantha April, P.T., D.P.T., U.S.A.-W. They’re also great for people with balance issues. “Someone may use an elliptical over a treadmill if they’re looking for something that’s a little more controlled and they want to move with the machine and keep their feet stationary versus a treadmill where they’re required to move,” says April.

However, elliptical machines are not ideal for people with small home gym spaces. “If space is a concern inside of your home gym, ellipticals take up a pretty fair amount of space, so it’s important that you’ll actually have the space to accommodate that,” April says.

How to Use an Elliptical

Users can do a variety of workouts on an elliptical trainer, from slow, easy walks to fast and intense interval sessions.

Getting Started

Don’t forget to warm up with some deep breaths and stretching. When you’re ready, place your feet on the pedals and grab the handles. Begin moving your feet forward in a general walking motion.

Basic Workouts

Although you’re free to go at your own pace, a good baseline for elliptical workouts is 15-20 minutes. As you get more comfortable and build your endurance, you can increase your speed, resistance, and incline (if your machine has variable incline settings).

Interval Workouts

We asked Matt Petrillo, C.S.C.S., director of adult fitness at The Annex Sports Performance in Passaic, N.J., how to get a great workout on the elliptical.

“My clients utilize ellipticals through low-intensity interval training. To do this, choose a work interval ranging from 30-90 seconds and a rest interval between 30-60 seconds, making sure your work period is longer than your rest,” Petrillo says.

Work Intervals

He says when you are in your work period, you want to begin each round with your heart rate as close to 120 beats per minute as possible. By the end of your work period, you want your heart rate to be between 150-160 beats per minute.

Rest Intervals

“During your rest period, the goal is to drop your heart rate to as close to 120 beats per minute as possible,” says Petrillo. Don’t have a heart rate monitor? That’s OK, too. “Simply go at the fastest sustainable pace you can while only breathing through your nose during your work periods,” Petrillo says.

Depending on fitness level and time constraints, go through the work/rest process for 15-30 rounds. “This type of workout helps build our aerobic system, which can greatly improve our cardiovascular and overall health,” Petrillo says.

How We Chose the Best Ellipticals

To help you choose the best elliptical for your needs and goals, we evaluated dozens of machines and looked at several factors, including:

• Size and functionality. Covering ellipticals with different dimensions and designs, from full-size trainers to under-desk models
• Available workouts. Built-in routines and interactive or programmed workouts accessible online
• Features. From tech (wireless compatibility and stats monitoring) to comfort and convenience (cushioned pedals, bottle and device holders)
• Setup. How much assembly is required and whether in-home setup is offered
• Price. Ranging from budget-friendly machines to more expensive elliptical trainers
• User reviews and online ratings. Evaluating user experiences with equipment and manufacturers

What to Look For When Choosing an Elliptical Machine

Flywheel

The flywheel is the heavy, rotating wheel inside your machine. It provides stability and momentum while you pedal. A heavier flywheel offers a better, smoother ride and is generally more expensive.

Resistance

A range of resistance levels is important for workout intensity variability and training progression. Ellipticals function on a fixed track, so increasing speed is limited.

You’ll want an elliptical with enough resistance options for challenging workouts as your physical fitness improves.

Incline

Incline ranges on an elliptical are more of an added bonus than a must-have. They can add a level of variability to training. By increasing or decreasing the slope, you activate different muscle groups and change the intensity of the workout without necessarily changing speed or resistance. As the slope increases, more output is required from the user to generate speed, which will increase heart rate. It’s similar to walking up a hill versus walking on flat ground.

Stride Length

Stride length refers to how far apart the pedals move from one another when in use. The stride length most affects how comfortable and natural the stride feels for you. A short stride length will feel cramped to anyone with longer legs or particularly long strides. Conversely, a large stride length may feel awkward and clunky to someone with short legs. There is no universal best stride length since it’s highly dependent on your leg length and overall height. Most ellipticals feature a 20-inch stride length, which works for the vast majority of users.

Size

If you live in a small apartment or are equipping a tiny home gym space, you’ll want a compact elliptical that occupies minimal real estate. Measure out the space where you plan to use your elliptical before you start your search.

Tech and Features

If you’re a sucker for technology and place a premium on programming with top-of-the-line features and conveniences, make sure you find an elliptical that checks off all your boxes. Write out a list of your must-have technology specifications and features before you begin your search. This will help you narrow down your focus and streamline the process.

Cost

This may seem like a no-brainer, but knowing your budget is imperative when buying any type of home exercise equipment. Ellipticals come at a variety of price points, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

Final Thoughts

Elliptical cross trainers are a great way to improve your cardio fitness and strength. The combination of the resistance from the pedals and handlebars provides you with a full-body workout. 

FAQs

The post The Best Elliptical Machines for a Low-Impact Cardio Workout at Home appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Whether you have limited space or are looking for a budget-friendly power rack, there are options that may work for you. We compiled a list of the best power racks for your home gym with all the details you need to find the right equipment to take your fitness routine to the next level in 2024. Shane Sevcik—a USAW-1 (USA Weightlifting) certified coach, current USA Weightlifting Foundation board member, state record holder, and Masters Pan American and World title holder—also shares his insights into what to look for in power racks.

Our Picks for the Best Power Racks of 2025

• Best Overall Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack
• Best Folding Power Rack: Titan Fitness T-3 Series Folding Power Rack
• Best Short Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1050 Short Power Rack
• Best Space-Saving Power Rack: Fringe Sport Retractable Power Rack
• Best Power Rack with Lat Pulldown: Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Strength Rack Power Cage Squat Rack
• Best Power Rack for Garage Gym: Rogue Fitness R-3 Power Rack
• Best Squat Rack: Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Best Overall Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack

REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack

• Price: $400
• Dimensions: 58 inches W x 83.6 inches H x 48 inches D
• Weight Capacity: 700 pounds
• Best For: Value shoppers who want a sturdy and compact power rack

Check Price

The REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack has a four-post frame made from 14-gauge steel with laser-cut holes spaced two inches apart. There are two pull-up bars—one is 1.25 inches thick, and the other is two inches thick—so you can do accessory work such as pull-ups and grip exercises without using additional space or buying a separate piece of equipment. The pull-up bars are strategically placed on the rack, spanning the front and back posts, contributing to the overall stability. There are built-in weight storage pegs on the back base for additional sturdiness. You can customize the rack using multiple accessory options such as safety straps, a dip station, and more.

Tester Brandon Lunsford, C.P.T., CF-L1, used this rack to do exercises like squats, bench press, strict press, pull-ups, and more for almost two years. He describes it as an intermediate or beginner rack and noticed movement while un-racking 350 pounds. “The rack held the weight just fine, but there was some swaying after I removed the bar. I’d recommend it to a beginner or someone who doesn’t lift to that capacity because I was happy with it otherwise.”

We like that the PR-1000 comes with chrome-coated safeties extending past the rack, offering an additional place for a barbell. The numbered uprights allow you to adjust the safeties or J-hooks quickly and never have to worry about your bar being crooked. “The J-hooks were easy to move, and the hole spacing of one inch is adequate to get the bar lined up where you need it,” Lunsford says. “I can attest to the functionality of the safeties; they worked great for me when I failed a heavy bench over 250 pounds.”

Best Folding Power Rack: Titan Fitness T-3 Series Folding Power Rack

Titan T-3 Series Power Rack

4.3

• Dimensions: 46" outside width; 24" or 36" inside depth; 82" or 91" height
• Materials: 2x3, 11-gauge steel
• Weight capacity: 1,100 pounds
• Hole spacing: Westside

Check Price

The Titan Fitness T-3 Series Power Rack is a wall-mounted power rack that folds to a closed position, which only sticks out five inches from the wall. The bolt-down uprights and side bracings keep it stable, so you feel comfortable lifting weights to 1,100 pounds. Those who want to use the dual pull-up bars for dynamic movements such as kipping pull-ups or toes-to-bar benefit from the added stability the floor attachment provides. The rear pull-up bar is two inches thick, and the front pull-up bar is the industry standard of 1.25 inches thick.

This rack is made from 11-gauge steel and features two-inch by three-inch tubing. Typically, newer racks have three-inch by three-inch steel tubing, so attachments from other brands may not work. Lunsford says, “A rack is an essential piece of fitness equipment. What sets them apart is the build, value, and accessories. A full power rack of this style with a weight capacity of 1,100 pounds for around $400 is an excellent bang for the buck.”

Lunsford says the brand uses manufacturing processes to elevate the overall quality. “The holes are laser cut instead of punched, and the brand uses robot welders instead of guides operated by humans.” This technique allows for more efficiency, precision, and consistency in enhanced craftsmanship. The laser-cut holes are two inches apart, and the bench and clean pull zone have Westside hole spacing—holes in the upright that are closer together for more precise positioning.

Free shipping is available on all Titan products, and a one-year warranty covers manufacturing defects and issues that may arise while using the product. One callout we have is the rack does not come with safety arms, which range in price from $90 to $190, depending on which type you get. The rackable weight capacity is 1,100 pounds, but the included J-cups are rated up to 1,000 pounds, so if you want to move heavier weights, you’ll need to upgrade the J-cups.

Titan offers several accessories for purchase separately, including safety bars or straps, stabilizer feet, spotter arms, pin and pipe safety set, or an extension kit to upgrade to six uprights. Other customization options include choosing from a black, red, or blue rack color, two rack depths and heights, or adding a four-pack of weight plate holders.

Best Short Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1050 Short Power Rack

REP Fitness PR-1050 Short Power Rack

• Price: $359
• Dimensions: 58 inches W x 72 inches H x 48 inches D
• Weight Capacity: 700 pounds
• Best For: Small spaces and low ceilings

Check Price

At only 72 inches tall (six feet), the REP PR-1050 Short Power Rack is a solution for home gyms with low ceilings, such as garages or basements. This equipment has a sturdy yet compact footprint of 58 by 48 inches and supports up to 700 pounds.

While this power rack is short, it provides a solid range of features. It comes with dual pull-up bars (supporting up to 400 pounds), numbered upright holes spaced two inches apart, rear base weight horns, chrome-coated safeties, and plastic-lined J-cups. It’s also compatible with various add-on attachments, including cannonball grips for grip strength exercises and landmine attachments for exercises including landmine presses and rows.

Best Space-Saving Power Rack: Fringe Sport Retractable Power Rack

Fringe Sport Retractable Power Rack

• Price: $548
• Dimensions: 47.25 inches W x 91 inches H x 25 inches D
• Weight Capacity: 800 pounds
• Best For: Those tight on space who want an easily storable rack

Check Price

The Fringe Sport Retractable Power Rack is an excellent option if your garage or home gym is tight on space because it is compact and easily stored. This convenient home power rack can be retracted and folded inward or outward for storage. When retracted, it only sticks out five inches from the wall. It has a compact base and can support up to 800 pounds.

The uprights are two-by-three-inch 11-gauge steel and feature Westside spacing in the bench zone. You can set the rack’s 1.25-inch diameter pull-up bar to multiple heights. It’s 91 inches tall, which may not be ideal for low ceilings.

The unit comes with J-hooks coated with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW), a strong, abrasion-resistant material, to protect your barbell. Fringe Sport provides an installation video to help guide you through the installation of this power rack. It includes four mounting brackets and six detent pins to lock the rack in position.

Best Power Rack with Lat Pulldown: Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Strength Rack Power Cage Squat Rack

Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Strength Rack Power Cage Squat Rack

• Price: $968
• Dimensions: 65.1 inches W x 82.9 inches H x 50.4 inches D
• Weight Capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Best For: Value shoppers who want a rack with a lat pulldown

Check Price

The Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Strength Rack Power Cage Squat Rack has a pulley system attachment for lat pulldowns and adjustable resistance you can load with weight plates up to the 352-pound limit. You can use the lat pulldown attachment for exercises like upright rows and curls. When you aren’t using the attachment, built-in safety hook latches provide easy storage for the top long or short lever bar.

This power rack has features to help you get a well-rounded workout. The adjustable angled pull-up bar has four positions, including wide and narrow grips. The J-hooks have 18 vertical height settings, and the spotter bars with safety latches help you squat with heavier weights. There are six resistance band pins, for additional resistance against the bar.

Best Power Rack for Garage Gym: Rogue Fitness R-3 Power Rack

Rogue Fitness R-3 Power Rack

• Price: $795
• Dimensions: 53 inches W x 90 inches H x 34 inches D
• Weight Capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Best For: Compact spaces, including home or garage gyms with lower ceilings

Check Price

The Rogue Fitness R-3 Power Rack is the most compact option in Rogue’s R-Series and is an excellent option for a home garage gym. This power rack comes in two height options—90.4 inches or 84.4 inches—so it works in garages and home gyms with low ceilings.

This rack is made of heavy-duty 11-gauge steel with Westside spacing (a type of spacing that allows for granular control of bar placement, such as barbells and safety bars) through the bench in a one-inch pattern and two-inch spacing above and below the bench. The unit is compatible with various Rogue Infinity Series add-on attachments, such as the Rogue Matador, fully adjustable dip handles, or a bar hanger for barbell weight storage.

The unit has a 43-inch pull-up bar, infinity J-cups, pin/pipe safeties, and four band pegs. You can customize this rack by adding a bar, bench, or plates to your purchase on the Rogue Fitness website. This unit is versatile enough for various exercises, including low rows, pull-ups, chin-ups, squats, bench presses, powerlifting, CrossFit, and Olympic lifting.

Best Squat Rack: Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage

Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage

• Price: $299
• Dimensions: 50.5 inches W x 83.5 inches H x 46.5 inches D
• Weight Capacity: 800 pounds
• Best For: Value shoppers who want a sturdy squat rack and power cage combo

Check Price

The Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage has an official weight capacity of 800 pounds. This unit can help anyone hit their goals, from beginners to elite powerlifters.

Like all good squat racks, the Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage has solid steel safety arms rather than hollow tubes. It features two rear stability bars. Thanks to 19 adjustable height levels, you can use the unit for various exercises besides squats, including pull-ups, chin-ups, bench presses, and overhead presses. And it’s $299, the most affordable option on our list.

It has a multi-grip pull-up bar and two 23-inch safety bars with chrome locks. While it doesn’t come with J-hooks, dip bars, or plate storage attachments, one-inch holes allow you to use this equipment with standard-sized attachments.

What Is a Power Rack?

A power rack—or power cage—has four uprights designed to serve as a base for powerlifting, Olympic lifting, and other strength training. They are commonly used with a barbell but may have optional attachments for non-barbell exercises using cables or body weight. A full power rack allows athletes to lift inside or outside the cage. Half racks have two uprights, so athletes must lift outside the rack because there is less depth.

Why Buy a Power Rack?

Research links strength training, including weightlifting, to long-term health benefits like reducing disease.

A power rack provides equipment, like safety bars, to help you lift heavy weights safely without a spotter. Some power racks come with add-on attachments, such as pull-up bars and dip bars, to help you get a well-rounded workout. Additionally, most power racks are compatible with accessories you can buy for an extra price to customize your workout for your needs.

How to Use a Power Rack

Exercisers use a power rack for strength training, Olympic lifting, and powerlifting. Additional attachments, such as a dip station or pull-up bar, allow you to use it for bodyweight exercises. Some have pulley systems for other resistance exercises.

Correctly using a power rack can successfully enhance strength training. “It’s all about consistency,” Sevcik says. “Make sure you have some kind of progressive overload built into your programming.”

Power racks provide a safe lifting experience, which is of utmost importance, especially if you plan on training alone. The safety straps, pins, or arms—also called safeties—are a critical safety feature. “One of my biggest pet peeves is when I see people who don’t know how to set the safety arms the right way and have the pins set way too low,” Sevcik says. “The purpose of those safety arms is to give you a safe way to bail out of a lift. Otherwise, you’re just using a power rack as a big immobile squat stand.”

So, what is the correct way to set up the safety arms? “To set them up for squats, put the unloaded bar on your back and squat down to the deepest position you can get yourself into,” Sevcik says. “The safety bars should be about an inch and a half or one notch lower than your bottom position, so if you ever fail on a squat, all you do is sit your butt down to the very bottom.”

Many come with safety arms, pins, or nylon straps, but some budget options may require purchasing them separately. If you’re new to using a power rack, we recommend asking a fitness professional for guidance on different exercises and safety.

What to Look for in a Power Rack

Size

Before purchasing, measure your space and look at the rack’s total footprint. While measuring the floor and comparing it to the base is essential, ceiling height is another crucial factor. You may need a shorter option if you use your rack in a basement or a room with low ceilings.

You can retract and store a folding power rack if you’re limited in space or need room for other activities. It’s a good idea to consider your height and weight when looking at the dimensions, especially if you plan to use the pull-up bar or other attachments. You may want to leave space on each side for accessories so you can attach them on the sides if necessary. We recommend you keep the space around the rack clear of obstructions, particularly in front, so you can safely complete your lifts or bailout.

Style/Construction

Power racks come in a variety of styles, colors, and materials. Some construction and style factors to consider include:

• Whether you have room for a freestanding power rack or need a wall-mounted power rack to save space
• If you want to bolt the power rack to the ground for extra stability
• What add-on accessories come with the power rack, and what options are available for compatible accessories
• The type of steel the power rack is
• Whether there are different color choices available
• Whether the power rack features Westside spacing

Weight Capacity

The power racks on this list have capacities ranging from 700 pounds to 1,100 pounds. The lower and middle weight range will likely work for you if you are a beginner or intermediate exerciser. If you are an advanced athlete, you may want to opt for a power rack with a high weight capacity and heavy-duty steel. Attachments such as safety arms, J-hooks, or pull-up bars have varying weight limits. Always stay within the recommended weight range for your safety.

Cost

How much you’re willing to spend depends on your budget and training style. Many racks on this list include a basic setup, with the option to add accessories as needed, which cuts the cost. Other racks come fully loaded with accessories, so they are incredibly versatile. However, these options cost more, so it is crucial to consider the features and whether or not they are helpful for your workout style and goals. The racks on this list range from around $299 to $965, and many brands offer free shipping.

Features

Power racks come in various styles and features. The following sections break down Sevcik’s power rack must-haves.

Material

Sevcik says to look for thick, heavy-duty steel such as 11-gauge. “A rack made out of thicker steel creates more leverage on the uprights. Especially when you add those attachments.”

J-Cups/J-Hooks

“I think a big must-have a lot of people overlook is to make sure your J-cups, or J-hooks, have some coating on them to preserve the knurling on your bar,” Sevcik says. “If you’re doing a bench press or deadlift, [knurling] is no big deal, but if you’re an Olympic weightlifter, that’s where my snatch grip is holding onto, and I want it to be as sharp and aggressive as possible.”

Hole Spacing

“I would make sure you have enough hole patterns to make a lot of adjustments. Sometimes, they’re too spaced out, for example, in two-inch increments instead of one,” Sevcik says. “I like to have the added adjustability, especially for those heavier weights.”

Pull-Up Bar

Sevcik says having the option to do pull-ups is a good idea. “They’re one of the most basic, fundamental movements. Plus, if you dedicate the square footage to put the rack in there, you’ll want to get as much utility as possible because you are sacrificing some real estate.”

Attachments

“It’s important to have the option to add accessories,” Sevcik says. “You might not want a dip bar right now, but down the road, you may decide to incorporate more dips in the training program, and it sure is nice to have your power rack as your one central piece of equipment.”

Many power racks come with attachments, though certain brands require you to purchase add-on attachments separately. Some of the power racks on this list come with pull-up bars (chin-up bar), safeties, and J-cups included, while others do not. It’s important to read the details of what comes with your unit to know what additional purchases you’ll need to make to achieve your desired power rack workout.

How We Chose the Best Power Racks

We considered the following while choosing each product on this list:

• What is the quality of the steel and other materials used in construction?
• Does the design and weight capacity suit a variety of training styles?
• What do our in-house fitness experts and reviewers have to say?
• What does the rack come with? Does the price justify the quality and cover everything you’ll need, or do you need to purchase other accessories?
• Is shipping and assembly a complicated process? Are there additional costs?

We chose budget-friendly and high-end options suitable for any fitness level and listed several compact and folding options for those with limited space. We also spoke to Shane Sevcik, a USAW-certified coach and competitive athlete, about essential add-ons and safety features.

Final Thoughts

Research suggests 30 to 60 minutes a week of muscle-strengthening exercises can benefit your health. With the help of a power rack, you can achieve a wide range of strength training fitness moves without needing a spotter. A power rack can add convenience to your workout by enabling you to get a safe weightlifting workout anytime from the comfort of your home gym.

FAQs

The post The Best Power Racks of 2025: Our Top Picks for Strength Training appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

There are a variety of sauna styles available, from the traditional barrels to more modern cube designs with electric heaters, infrared heaters, or wood-burning stoves. Some newer models have high-tech features like surround-sound speakers, added LED light therapy, and charging docks for your electronics. However, all you need to reap the potential benefits of your sauna experience is a high-quality product you’ll actually use.

We found six of the best outdoor saunas and included a comprehensive guide for picking the right sauna for you. We also tapped Saloni Sharma, M.D., Medhat Mikhael, M.D., and Earric Lee, a postdoctoral researcher studying exercise science and Sport and Health Sciences faculty member at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland (a.k.a., sauna central), to help us understand how sauna use can benefit athletes during training.

Our Top Picks for the Best Outdoor Saunas of 2025 

• Best Overall Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna
• Best Outdoor Sauna Kit: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna
• Best Two-Person Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna
• Best Outdoor Barrel Sauna: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Barrel Sauna
• Best Outdoor Sauna for Cold Climates: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin Sauna

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Best Overall Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna

Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna

• Type: Infrared sauna
• Number of People: 5
• Material: All-season carbonized cedar
• Dimensions: 82 inches W x 82.5 inches H x 51.5 inches D
• Temperature Range: 95–167 degrees Fahrenheit
• Extra Features: Built-in chromotherapy, panoramic glass exterior, mobile app remote control, Bluetooth-enabled surround sound speakers
• Cost: $11,699

Check Price

If you’re seeking a more technology-forward sauna experience, Sun Home’s Luminar outdoor infrared sauna is an excellent model to invest in. This five-person model uses an infrared heating system, which you can control through your phone via a mobile app. Indoor saunas often have infrared heat, but Sun Home claims its Luminar model is more than 12.5 times more powerful at 500 watts than competitors. This sauna includes Bluetooth speakers and soothing LED chromotherapy, making sitting in a hot room more enticing to beginner bathers. Yes, it’s a pricey model, but it has ample features and floor-to-ceiling windows for a panoramic view of the outdoors.

Best Outdoor Sauna Kit: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna

SweatTent Outdoor Sauna

• Type: Tent sauna
• Number of People: 1–3
• Material: Insulated, weather-proof Oxford 210D fabric
• Dimensions: 72 inches L x 72 inches W x 84 inches H
• Temperature Range: Up to 180–200 degrees Fahrenheit
• Extra Features: Waterproof cover, ergonomic fire poker, heat resistant gloves, 20 pounds of sauna rocks with basket
• Cost: $1,600

Check Price

According to SweatTent, you can set up the SweatTent Outdoor Sauna in about three minutes. It is somewhat portable because it is simple to put up and take down. The material is durable, insulated, and weather-proof, so you can leave the sauna outdoors indefinitely.

A wood-fired stove heats the SweatTent and comes with 20 pounds of sauna rocks, a fire poker, and heat-resistant gloves to feed the fire safely. The SweatTent is our favorite option for a complete sauna kit. It’s easy to set up, comparatively inexpensive, portable, and works well.

Best Two-Person Outdoor Sauna: Sun Home Luminar 2-Person Infrared Sauna

Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Infrared Sauna

• Type: Cube sauna
• Number of People: 2
• Material: Grade-A carbonized wood exterior, cedar wood interior
• Dimensions: 57 inches W x 82.7 inches H x 51.5 inches D
• Temperature Range: 95–167 degrees Fahrenheit
• Extra Features: Low EMF/ELF shielding, app-enabled control system, Bluetooth surround sound speakers
• Cost: $10,299

Check Price

The Sun Home Luminar Sauna is a cube sauna with a carbonized wood exterior and dura-glass windows built to withstand any climate conditions. Luminar has a compact footprint compared to other two-person cube saunas. It uses a combination of infrared and full-spectrum heaters positioned to maintain optimum heat regardless of exterior conditions.

The choice of grade-A carbonized red cedar wood and thick double-pane glass throughout the sauna ensures durability and insulation. With nine heaters, including three far-infrared heaters under the bench and six full-spectrum heaters surrounding the cabin, the Luminar Outdoor Sauna guarantees an efficient and effective sauna session. Sun Home places these heaters strategically to envelop the users in 3D healing wavelengths from all angles.

You can control the Luminar temperature from an app to start heating your sauna before you get home. It has Bluetooth surround-sound speakers and a panoramic view through the dura-glass windows.

Best Outdoor Barrel Sauna: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Barrel Sauna

Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Barrel Sauna

• Type: Barrel sauna
• Number of People: 4–6
• Material: Thermowood
• Dimensions: 71.75 inches L x 84.5 inches W x 87.5 inches H
• Temperature Range: Up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the heater
• Extra Features: Bucket and ladle, backrest, sauna rocks, light fixture
• Cost: $5,899

Check Price

The Redwood Outdoors Barrel Sauna is a traditional barrel sauna made with Thermowood. It has all the features you need with nothing extra. We appreciate that you can customize several parts of this dry sauna, from the heating mechanism (you can go the Finnish sauna route with a Harvia electric heater or a wood-burning stove) to add-ons like a weather-resistant shingled roof and even a cold plunge tub. It has a spa-like sauna scent and dry heat, and comfortably fits four to six people.

One benefit of a Thermowood sauna is its durability and resistance to the elements. Redwood Outdoors says that, when properly cared for, this sauna should have an outdoor lifespan of 20 years.

Best Outdoor Sauna for Cold Climates: Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin

Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin

• Type: Electric sauna
• Number of People: 4
• Material: Scandinavian thermowood
• Dimensions: 78.75 inches L x 59 inches W x 96.75 inches H
• Temperature Range: 180–230 degrees Fahrenheit
• Extra Features: Scandinavian design, Harvia electric heater, sauna rocks
• Cost: $6,999

Check Price

The Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Cabin Sauna is our best outdoor sauna for cold climates because of its robust, weather-resistant construction. This sauna has a traditional Scandinavian design with Scandinavian softwood treated with intense heat to provide exceptional insulation. This design enhances its longevity and contributes to its energy efficiency, ensuring even heat distribution throughout the interior.

The Thermowood Cabin Sauna package includes a Harvia electric heater, wooden heater guard, water bucket and ladle, sauna rocks, and interior seating benches, providing all the necessary components for an authentic sauna experience.

Why Buy an Outdoor Sauna?

If you’ve spent quality time in the locker room sauna, you’re committed to the wellness practice, and you live somewhere with outdoor space, a sauna might be an excellent investment for your health. “Researchers have found several possible health benefits from sauna use; most importantly, they have shown to help cardiovascular diseases—particularly high blood pressure and heart diseases—as well as acute and chronic pain and neurological diseases,” Mikhael says.

Putting a sauna inside can create some logistical challenges, though, from installation to insulation and more. An outdoor sauna might be easier to install, and it gets you closer to nature, as many of them have spacious windows. “One big bonus of outdoor saunas specifically is they exist outdoors,” Sharma says. “There is a problem in our society labeled Nature Deficit Disorder, which means we aren’t spending enough time outside. There are many proven benefits of being outdoors, and these saunas allow you to combine them with the potential benefits of heat therapy.”

How to Use an Outdoor Sauna

Depending on your model, once your outdoor sauna is installed and ready to go, you can set the temperature via a manual dial, Bluetooth-enabled app, or touchscreen. The heat comes from sauna heaters or wood-burning stoves. Some outdoor saunas allow you to set the timer up to 36 hours in advance. From there, all you need to do is open the door, climb in, and relax.

As for timing, “Two to three 15- to 25-minute sessions per week are ideal,” says Mikhael. “After 15 to 25 minutes, people can benefit the most without feeling like they’re getting dehydrated or dizzy.”

Bring a book, crank up your music, or bring a friend to sweat it out with you—and remember to stay hydrated.

“You want to ensure you’re hydrated before and after,” says Sharma. “A sauna induces a lot of sweating, so you can get dehydrated very easily.” We recommend an electrolyte powder after use if you sweat a lot.

The Benefits of an Outdoor Sauna

Ideally, you should be heading to your sauna soon as part of your post-workout routine, Lee says. “We found not only is a combination of exercise and sauna bathing stronger in its effects, but many cardiovascular benefits, like lower blood pressure, were sustained for a longer period afterward.”

What to Look for in an Outdoor Sauna

Power

Most saunas use electricity to run the lights and heaters. Low-tech wood stove-heated saunas might not need any power if there are no lights. There are some solar-powered saunas, too, if you want less strain on the environment (and your electric bill). You’ll just need to make sure you have a battery as a backup.

Portability

Given their size and weight, saunas are not very portable. So we’d recommend buying an outdoor sauna once you’re living in a permanent residence rather than an apartment or rental. But even then, life happens, and sometimes you need to move. You can move a constructed outdoor sauna, but it would likely need professional equipment to hoist it into a truck bed. There are very portable tent saunas—much more affordable than the outdoor ones on our list.

Cost

The outdoor saunas we recommend cost between $1,599 and $9,799. Based on our research, the lower end of the spectrum offers plenty of heat but fewer bells and whistles. The more pricey saunas can typically seat more people, have more temperature adjustments, provide more comfortable accommodations, and are made with higher-quality materials.

Outdoor Sauna Accessories

Many outdoor saunas on this list offer additional accessories a la carte. While these aren’t integral to your new sauna routine, they might make it more fun, luxe, and/or comfortable. Some standard accessories we noticed are outdoor showers, cold plunge tubs such as the Plunge, and wooden recliners. Nothing’s stopping you from DIY-ing those accessories, though.

Final Thoughts

Many wellness fads are short-lived trends (and even potentially harmful). But saunas have been staples in Scandinavian life for centuries, showing significant promise in improving your well-being. Our experts say regular sauna use can improve muscle soreness and even chronic pain.

If you’ve dabbled in heat therapy in the past and want to make it more of a long-term lifestyle (and you have the budget to match), an outdoor sauna can be a valuable and beneficial tool. But, like any significant investment in your health, our experts say you should always consult your doctor before purchasing an outdoor sauna or starting a sauna routine—especially if you have severe cardiovascular or lung issues.

FAQs

The post The 5 Best Outdoor Saunas for Getting Your Sweat On in 2025 appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Protein plays a multifaceted role in weight management, influencing factors like hunger levels, metabolism, and muscle preservation. While heavy resistance training provides the necessary stimulus, signaling to the body that existing muscle should be retained, a high-protein diet ensures the body has an ample supply of amino acids. This prevents your body from metabolizing muscle tissue for energy.

The best protein powders provide a convenient and lean source of the muscle-building macronutrient, helping you hit your daily protein goals while also maintaining a calorie deficit. We tested more than 100 protein powders and selected nine products we think are best for weight loss.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

How We Chose Our Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss

We chose these products based on a number of factors, including:

• Testing and expert analysis: We tested all of the protein powders and shakes on this list and received input from our panel of expert contributors, which includes registered dietitians and highly credentialed experts in sports nutrition and exercise science.
• Protein content: All the products we’ve highlighted contain at least 25g of protein per serving, a good benchmark for the typical consumer.
• Protein-to-calorie ratio: The ideal ratio is at least 15g of protein per 100 calories, and all the products on our list exceed that mark.
• Taste: We’ve accounted for flavor, texture, mixability, and flavor options.
• Third-party testing and certifications: Products that have undergone testing by independent labs and received quality certifications reflect a brand’s commitment to quality and purity.
• Consumer criteria: We took into account prices, subscription discounts, and other factors that determine the product’s overall value.

Our Picks for the Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss in 2025:

• Best Overall Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey
• Best Affordable Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic Iso 
• Best Plant-Based Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ka’Chava 
• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss on Amazon: Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Meal Replacement Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Huel Black Edition
• Best Clean Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Promix Grass-Fed Whey
• Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Legion Athletics Casein+
• Best Unflavored Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Naked Grass-Fed Whey
• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss and Muscle Gain: Sports Research Whey Protein

Best Overall Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

4.9

• Price per serving: $2.00 per serving
• Protein per serving: 28 grams
• Protein type: Whey protein isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Calories per serving: 120 to 150
• Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, French Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Mocha, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Strawberry, Unflavored, Vanilla Peanut Butter
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

Check Price

I chose Transparent Labs as the best protein powder for weight loss because it has a very high ratio of protein to the total number of calories: 28 grams to 130 calories. This helps you maximize protein consumption during a caloric deficit, which helps prevent you from losing muscle while you’re losing weight. It’s also third-party tested, Informed Choice certified, and completely artificial ingredient-free. And it comes in 15 flavor options.

I’ve tried a number of different flavors from Transparent Labs and Chocolate Peanut Butter is by far my favorite, followed closely by Mocha. I found they mixed easily in both a blender and a conventional shaker bottle. Whenever I’m trying to cut weight, I find this delicious protein powder helps curb my sweet tooth and tide me over between meals.

While I didn’t personally experience this, some customer reviews mention it can be challenging to get in contact with Transparent Labs’ customer service team.

Best Affordable Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic Iso

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate Powder

4.0

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.20 to $1.33
• Calories per serving: 110 to 130
• Protein per serving: 25 grams, depending on the flavor
• Flavors: Cookies & Cream, Unflavored (if you buy from Amazon)
• Third-party tested: No

Check Price

Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is the cheapest option on our list and, one of the best whey protein options, with certain flavors, like Cookies & Cream and Peanut Butter, costing just $1.05 per serving as of this writing. And while this protein powder may be cheap, it has the nutrient profile you need for weight loss and tastes great, too, according to testers.

Jacked Factory Authentic Iso has 25 grams of protein per serving, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and just 0.5 grams of fat, which is the least amount of fat of any powder on our list. If you’re looking to lose weight, this macronutrient profile will help keep you on the right track. However, something to keep in mind: This protein powder is sweetened with sucralose, which is an artificial sweetener—studies link these sweeteners to increased cancer risk. Additionally, unlike most brands on our list, Jacked Factory doesn’t do third-party testing on its products. This means there isn’t a guarantee the ingredients are pure and match the ingredient label.

Kessler tried Jacked Factory Authentic Iso and was impressed. “This is the only protein powder I’ve tried that didn’t settle at all,” he says. “I found it a bit too sweet, but if you’re looking for a powder that tastes like dessert, you should opt for this one.”

Best Plant-Based Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ka’Chava

Ka’Chava

3.8

• Price per serving: $4.66
• Protein per serving: 25g
• Nutrition facts: Vary slightly by flavor. For Chocolate: 240 calories, 25g carbohydrates, 7g fat
• Certifications: Third-party tested, vegan
• Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Coconut Acai, Chai, Matcha

Check Price

If you’re looking for one of the best vegan protein powders that also works with a weight loss diet, Ka’Chava is a great choice. This vegan protein powder is marketed as a “whole-body meal,” which means it’s designed as a meal replacement rather than an addition to a meal or snack, like the other protein powders on our list. That’s why the calorie, carbohydrate, and fat counts (240, 25 grams, and 7 grams, respectively), are higher. The carb count is high for those on a low-carb diet, so that’s something to look out for. However, it packs in 25 grams of plant protein, derived from a combination of peas, brown rice, and quinoa, which will help preserve muscle while on a weight loss diet. 

Tester Zoe Ettinger, a C.N.C.-in-training, uses this protein powder often. “I’m a big fan of Ka’Chava. It tastes delicious mixed in a smoothie with some frozen blueberries,” she says. “I also like that it also has adaptogens, probiotics, greens, and probiotics. I notice a difference in how good I feel when I take Ka’Chava regularly,” she says.

One thing to note about Ka’Chava is that it is the most expensive option on our list at $79.99 for a 15-serving bag. While the price reflects the fact that this protein powder is intended as a meal replacement, it’s still a big investment. 

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss on Amazon: Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

• Price per serving: $1.75
• Protein per serving: 25g
• Nutrition facts: Vary slightly by flavor. For Vanilla: 130 calories, 2g carbohydrates, 2.5g fat
• Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free
• Sweeteners: Sucralose, acesulfame potassium
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored

Check Price

I chose Nutricost as the best protein powder for weight loss available on Amazon because its calorie and macronutrient profile is ideal for shedding pounds. Nutricost has a high protein content per serving, which is important for weight loss as protein can help enhance satiety and preserve muscle mass while in a deficit. With minimal fat and carbohydrates, this protein ensures you get the maximum protein intake without the added calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to lose weight efficiently.

The taste and mixability of this protein are also top-notch. I tested the Vanilla flavor; it blended excellently in both milk and water and had an authentic vanilla taste profile. Despite using artificial sweeteners, which often make products sickly sweet, I found the sweetness level to be on point. However, if you’re trying to avoid artificial sweeteners, choose Promix or Transparent Labs, which use natural sweeteners.

Best Meal Replacement Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Huel Black Edition

Huel Black Edition

4.0

• Price per serving: $2.50
• Protein per serving: 40g
• Nutrition facts: Vary slightly by flavor. For Chocolate: 400 calories, 24g carbohydrates, 17g fat
• Certifications: Third-party tested, non-GMO, vegan
• Sweeteners: Coconut sugar, steviol glycosides
• Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Banana, Strawberry Shortcake, Chocolate Caramel, Cookies & Cream, Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Roll, Unflavored & Unsweetened

Check Price

Huel is our favorite meal replacement for weight loss because it has a great protein-to-carb ratio. Huel has 40 grams of protein per serving, the most of any protein powder on our list, and 24 grams of carbs. While this might be more carbs than ideal for those on a keto diet, it’s a solid portion for most. Carbs are an essential nutrient and according to experts, you can consume 100 to 150 grams a day and still lose weight.

Kessler tried Huel in Chocolate and Vanilla. “The Chocolate flavor was great, probably because it uses real cocoa powder, which gave it an authentic chocolate flavor,” he says. “The Vanilla wasn’t as good—it didn’t really taste like vanilla and had an artificial aftertaste.” He notes that it doesn’t mix very well, but says it made him feel great. “Other similar products, like Transparent Labs Mass Gainer, give me an upset stomach. But I felt great after taking Huel Black Edition,” he says.

Best Clean Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Promix Grass-Fed Whey

Promix Grass-Fed Whey

4.0

• Price per serving: $1.63
• Protein per serving: 25g
• Nutrition facts: Vary slightly by flavor. For Vanilla: 135 calories, 7g carbohydrates, 1.5g fat
• Certifications: Third-party tested, gluten-free, artificial ingredient-free
• Sweeteners: Coconut sugar
• Flavors: Raw Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Unflavored, One Ingredient Whey

Check Price

Promix is our favorite clean protein powder because it’s third-party tested and results are easily viewable on Promix’s website. Those results show this product is tested for heavy metals and verified gluten-free. And beyond these positive results, this protein powder has one of the most simple formulas on our list. Vanilla, for example, has just four ingredients, and Promix doesn’t use any artificial ingredients.

This protein powder, like others on our list, has a solid protein-to-carb ratio for weight loss (25 grams to 7 grams, respectively). A 2020 study found consuming a higher portion of protein versus carbs helped participants lose weight and prevented them from gaining the weight back.

I tried the Vanilla flavor of this protein powder. I enjoyed it for the most part, but it wasn’t quite sweet enough for my taste. And I wish it mixed a little better—there were some clumps after mixing. 

One thing to note about Promix is that while it has been third-party tested, it hasn’t been third-party tested for sport specifically. This means it hasn’t been tested for substances banned in athletic competitions. So if you’re an athlete planning to compete, opt for a powder that’s Informed Sport Certified or NSF Certified for Sport.

Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Legion Athletics Casein+

Legion Athletics Casein+

• Price per serving: $1.99
• Protein per serving: 25g
• Nutrition facts: Vary slightly by flavor. For Dutch Chocolate: 110 calories, 3g carbohydrates, 0.5g fat
• Certifications: Non-GMO, artificial ingredient free
• Sweeteners: Stevia leaf extract
• Flavors: Dutch Chocolate, Cinnamon Cereal, French Vanilla, Strawberry

Check Price

One of my favorite casein protein powders is Casein+ from Legion Athletics. I chose Casein+ because it’s all-natural, meaning it’s free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, and it’s third-party tested by Labdoor for purity and potency. This product provides 25 grams of protein per serving and only contains 110 calories, regardless of the flavor you choose. This protein-to-calorie ratio is ideal for weight loss.

Along with whey, casein is a type of protein found in milk and is characterized by its slow digestion and absorption. This prolonged digestion makes it an ideal option for people looking to manage hunger levels and maintain a consistent supply of amino acids over an extended timeframe—such as during sleep or when going a long time between meals. By providing a steady stream of protein to the muscles, casein helps mitigate the risk of muscle breakdown that often accompanies calorie restriction. As a result, incorporating a casein protein powder into your diet can be a strategic move to help support your weight loss goals.

Tester Brandon Lunsford, C.P.T., tried the Dutch Chocolate flavor, saying it reminded him of a dark chocolate bar that isn’t too rich or too sweet. The only downside is that casein protein has a different consistency than whey. It’s generally thicker and often takes longer to dissolve. Lunsford noticed this during his testing, saying the product had a “slightly chalky aftertaste.”

Best Unflavored Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Naked Grass-Fed Whey

Naked Grass-Fed Whey

4.5

• Price per serving: $1.25
• Protein per serving: 25g
• Nutrition facts: Vary slightly by flavor. For Unflavored: 120 calories, 3g carbohydrates, 2g fat
• Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, artificial ingredient-free
• Sweeteners: Coconut sugar is used for flavored options
• Flavors: Unflavored, Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Double Chocolate

Check Price

Naked Whey’s Unflavored protein stands out for its simplicity and purity; its single-ingredient formula consists of whey protein concentrate sourced for grass-fed cows. This simplicity aligns with the brand’s commitment to transparency, priding itself on avoiding additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients in its products.

With its neutral taste profile, this protein powder is very versatile, letting you integrate the protein powder seamlessly into your favorite recipes or smoothies without altering the flavor profile. Kessler tried the Unflavored version and says it “has a very slight vanilla taste to it.” He also detected a note of earthiness, but says “It would be really good mixed into a smoothie.” However, he mentions the two-scoop serving size can feel like a lot, so he recommends using extra liquid when blending it.

If you’re someone who prefers a flavored protein powder, you’ll be happy to know Naked also offers five flavored options, including Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Double Chocolate. Naked only uses coconut sugar to sweeten its protein supplements, which isn’t nearly as sweet as artificial sweeteners like sucralose or acesulfame potassium.

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss and Muscle Gain: Sports Research Whey Protein

Sports Research Whey Protein

4.7

• Price per serving: $1.36 per serving (25 servings); $1.06/serving (60 servings)
• Protein per serving: 25 grams
• Nutrition facts: 140 calories, 25 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbs, 3.5 grams of fat
• Protein source: Whey protein isolate
• Sweeteners: Stevia, sucralose
• Flavors: Dutch Chocolate, Creamy Vanilla
• Subscription: Monthly, subscribe and save 10 percent

Check Price

We chose Sports Research as our best protein powder for weight loss and muscle gain because it has a solid protein-to-calorie ratio (25 grams to 140 calories), is Informed Sport Certified, is fairly priced at $1.20 per serving, and tastes great, according to testers.

From a nutritional standpoint, Sports Research stacks up well against many of its competitors. The per-serving content for protein (25 grams), calories (140), and carbs (2 grams) compares favorably with most of the choices on our list, although the fat per serving (3.5 grams for Vanilla and 4 grams for Dutch Chocolate) is on the high side. Other ingredients include vitamin D, which has been linked to muscle health in recent research.

Tester Cory Kessler, C.N.C., C.P.T., tried the Creamy Vanilla flavor. “When I mixed it with milk it almost tasted like vanilla ice cream,” he says. “But when I mixed it with water it diluted the flavor, and all I could taste was the sweetness,” he warns. He also notes that it mixed very well, and “wasn’t gritty or clumpy at all.”

What Does Protein Powder Do for Weight Loss?

Whether from powder or whole food sources, protein aids weight loss mainly by:

• Enhancing satiety: In less clinical terms, satiety simply means feeling full. Research has found that the potential benefits of a high-protein diet include increasing your body’s secretion of certain hormones that promote a feeling of fullness, which could in turn help you better regulate your appetite.
• Preserving fat-free muscle mass: Eating more protein could have positive effects not just on body weight but also on body composition. Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue.

Protein powder can be an effective tool in helping you achieve your weight loss goals. Drinking a protein powder shake or smoothie provides a quick, easy way to consume high amounts of protein with a limited amount of calories, fat, and carbohydrates. One of the main benefits of protein powder is that it’s often extremely lean, with a very high ratio of protein to total number of calories. This makes protein powder an efficient way to hit your daily protein target while adhering to your calorie guidelines.

How to Choose the Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for You

Protein Content and Quality

Choose a protein powder with a significant amount of protein, typically around 25 grams per serving. If you have weight loss goals, a whey, soy, or pea protein isolate is likely your best bet since they are ultra-filtered to remove excess carbohydrates and fats.

Calories per Serving

When you have weight loss goals, it’s best to choose a protein powder with a moderate calorie count per serving, e.g., 100 to 160 calories. You should also ensure the majority of those calories come from protein, as this will best support your weight loss progress. Remember, protein is four calories per gram, so you can expect a supplement that has 25 grams of protein to have around 110 to 120 calories if it’s extremely lean.

Ingredient Quality

It’s important to check the ingredients list of the supplement to ensure the product is free from added sugars or unnecessary fillers. Although these ingredients may contribute to the flavor, sweetness, and creaminess of the supplement, they often come with added calories. It’s generally best to select protein powders with minimal ingredients.

Occasionally, protein powders contain ingredients such as creatine, probiotics, or branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). While these aren’t necessary, it’s important to assess whether these added ingredients align with your health and fitness goals, and whether it’s worth choosing a protein powder that offers these options.

Taste and Mixability

Regardless of your goals, choose a protein powder with a flavor and consistency you enjoy. I know this seems obvious, but if you dislike the taste, then you’re far less likely to use the protein powder on a consistent basis, if at all.

Third-Party Testing

As a certified nutrition coach, I advise my clients to choose a protein powder that’s been third-party tested for quality, purity, and safety, especially when I’m working with athletes. This ensures your supplement is free from contaminants, including banned substances, and is deemed safe for consumption. Third-party testing also holds supplement companies accountable, providing assurance that the ingredients in the product align with the information provided on the supplement facts label.

What to Avoid in a Protein Powder for Weight Loss

Whenever you’re purchasing a dietary supplement, you should look for one that aligns with your specific health and fitness goals. With weight loss in mind, it’s typically recommended to avoid products with added sugars, or excessive amounts of carbohydrates and fats. Some consumers may also choose to avoid products with artificial additives, such as sweeteners, flavors, and colors, which are routinely found in protein powder supplements. If you’re looking for an all-natural protein powder with minimal ingredients, consider Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey or protein powders from Naked Nutrition.

Final Thoughts: Is Protein Powder for Weight Loss Worth It?

As a certified nutrition coach, I think it’s important to emphasize that a protein powder isn’t a necessity for weight loss success. However, due to its convenience and effectiveness, it does offer some notable benefits when used as part of a holistic approach to weight loss that includes resistance training, quality sleep, and healthy lifestyle habits. Consuming a high-protein diet, especially during a weight-loss phase, helps manage hunger levels and improves muscle preservation. If a protein powder can help you hit your daily protein targets while still maintaining a calorie deficit, then I think it’s worth incorporating into your regular routine.

Protein Powder for Weight Loss FAQs

The post The Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss, According to a Certified Nutrition Coach appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

During our search for the best compact rowing machine, we found an array of excellent standalone options and options that fit in well with other top-rated home gym equipment. We considered the overall footprint and other key features, and scoured the reviews to see what users had to say about each product. Below is our list of the best compact home rowing machines available.

How We Chose the Best Compact Rowing Machines

The rowing machines included in this list were carefully selected based on what most users would want out of a rowing machine, keeping in mind that they needed to have a smaller footprint and folding or upright storage options. We evaluated each choice based on size, portability, cost, high-tech features, versatility, and durability. We also scoured the reviews to see what users had to say about each rowing machine.

Our Picks for the Best Compact Rowing Machines in 2025:

• Best Overall Compact Rowing Machine: Hydrow Wave
• Best Compact Rowing Machine With Trainer-Led Workouts: NordicTrack RW700
• Best Foldable Compact Rowing Machine: ProForm Pro R10
• Best Compact Rowing Machine for Cross-Training: Echelon Row-s
• Best Value Compact Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW600

Best Overall Compact Rowing Machine: Hydrow Wave

Hydrow Wave Rower

4.0

• Dimensions: 80″ L x 19″ W x 43″ H
• Storage: Stores upright
• Resistance: Magnetic
• Weight capacity: 375 pounds
• Display: 16-inch HD touchscreen
• Available programming: Live and on-demand workouts, scenic rows

Check Price

On the Hydrow website, the Hydrow Wave is rated 4.6/5 stars with over 9,000 reviews at the time of writing. It’s the brand’s compact, budget-friendly option for those who want to elevate their at-home workout routine. The length is just 80 inches, which is the shortest on this list, and the overall size is 30 percent shorter than the original Hydrow Rower. You cannot fold it, but there is the option to store it upright using The Hydrow Wave Vertical Anchor. This is a wall-mounted strap that holds the rower upright. It costs an additional $190, which is a bit on the pricey side.

The frame is made of aluminum and steel. It has a flat anthracite polymer body, which is a durable and lightweight material. The handle has an ergonomic design for a low-stress grip, and the strap is made from water- and rot-resistant polyester webbing. It also has a patented electromagnetic drag system that mimics the experience of rowing on open water.

Overall, the reviews on the Hydrow website are positive, and many mention how quiet the machine is and how much they like the small footprint. One review says, “The machine is such great quality. It’s quiet and sleek looking.” The critical reviews make up 3 percent of the overall reviews and state issues like non-working parts being delivered. However, Hydrow has responded to each review to resolve any issues.

Best Compact Rowing Machine With Trainer-Led Workouts: NordicTrack RW700

NordicTrack RW700

4.2

• Dimension: 87" L x 22" W x 47" H
• Type of Resistance: Magnetic
• Subscription: Not required; compatible iFIT membership is $39/month
• Storage: Can be moved using the front wheels
• Weight Limit: 250 pounds

Check Price

The NordicTrack RW700 has a 10-inch HD touchscreen you can tilt and pivot to follow along with an iFIT workout led by your favorite trainer on or off the rower. An iFIT subscription is $39 per month, and you’ll have access to live and on-demand classes. Membership to the fitness app is not required to use the rower; however, you won’t have access to trainer-led classes without it.

A trainer-led rowing workout gives you the option to row on the open water for a more scenic experience, and there are also studio sessions. The resistance is adjusted automatically among 26 resistance levels during each class, so you don’t need to worry about stopping to make changes. The oversized foot pedals have adjustable nylon foot straps with quick release, which is excellent for those who want to incorporate movements off the rower into their workout.

The rail is 87 inches long and made from durable steel. It has an inertia-enhanced flywheel, so it should maintain a smooth rotation. If you have a shared space, the NordicTrack RW700 rower has a magnetic resistance system that creates tension against the flywheel without touching, making it a quieter option. After your workout, this magnetic rowing machine can be moved using the front wheels, but it can’t be folded.

Best Foldable Compact Rowing Machine: ProForm Pro R10

ProForm Pro R10

4.0

• Dimensions: 86.5" L x 22" W x 45.5" H
• Type of Resistance: Magnetic
• Subscription: Not required; compatible iFIT subscription is $39/month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight Limit: 250 pounds

Check Price

The ProForm Pro R10 can collapse into a more compact size by lifting the handle, and the front-mounted transport wheels make it easy to move. It comes equipped with a 10-inch HD touchscreen you can use for iFIT workouts if you choose to subscribe, or you can track your watts, calories burned, time, strokes, and distance in the manual mode. There are 24 resistance levels to choose from, and your workout intensity is adjusted using the brand’s trademarked Silent Magnetic Resistance system. This gives the user the option to have a more cardio- or strength-focused workout.

The flywheel has been designed to maintain inertia and rotate smoothly, and the steel rail is oversized to help keep you stable. The large, pivoting foot pedals with adjustable nylon straps keep your feet in place, and the seat is molded with comfort in mind.

Best Compact Rowing Machine for Cross-Training: Echelon Row-s

Echelon Row-s

4.2

• Dimensions: 84" L x 21" W x 47" H
• Type of Resistance: Magnetic
• Subscription: Not required; Echelon Fit subscription is $35/month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight Limit: 300 pounds

Check Price

If you like to incorporate other movements into your rowing workout or train off of the rower, the Echelon Row-s has a 22-inch HD touchscreen that can be flipped 180 degrees. While an Echelon Fit subscription is not required, the extra $35/month workout app gives you access to over 40 live classes and more than 1,000 on-demand workouts from its library, including rowing, biking, running, and functional training classes.

The ergonomic design of the seat and the ability to adjust the foot platforms to a comfortable position help you maintain proper posture and alignment. If you’re short on space, the length goes from 84 inches long to just 41 inches long when folded. On the Echelon website, this rower is rated 4.6/5 stars. “The machine looks great, operates very quietly, and gives a great workout no matter your level,” says reviewer Brett P.

Best Value Compact Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW600

NordicTrack RW600

Dimensions: 87.02" L x 22.0" W x 47.24" H

Storage: Folds in half for vertical storage

Resistance: Air and magnetic

Weight capacity: 250 pounds

Display: 10-inch smart HD touchscreen

Available programming: Live and on-demand workouts, scenic rows

Check Price

The NordicTrack RW600 balances great tech features and an accessible price, making it a great value. The 10-inch screen is an excellent option for those who want to take instructor-led classes using an iFIT membership. NordicTrack’s patented Silent Magnetic Resistance can be adjusted up to 26 levels automatically in an iFIT class or manually as needed.

The pivoting foot pedals are oversized, and the nylon straps keep your feet secure. The handlebar has a soft grip, and the molded seat is designed to help you feel comfortable. When your workout is finished, the NordicTrack RW600 can be folded and stored out of the way.

How to Choose the Best Compact Rowing Machine for You

What factors should you consider before you pull the trigger on a rower? Here’s what we’d recommend you take into account as you ponder your purchase decision:

Footprint

Once you’ve decided on your rower location, it’s a good idea to measure the length, width, and height of your space to determine what size machine works best. You’ll want to measure height to see if you have enough clearance for rowers to be stored upright.

Budget

After measuring, think about how much you’re willing to spend. Take into consideration any additional costs such as a monthly subscription. Some rowers also have add-ons for purchase, such as a lumbar support system or seat upgrade.

Features

Ask yourself: How many levels of resistance do I need? Am I looking for an HD touchscreen with trainer-led classes or do I prefer a more simplistic display? Other features such as a magnetic resistance system may be important if you’re in a shared space and need a quieter machine. The rower’s maximum height and/or weight capacity may also play a role in your decision as well.

Benefits of a Rowing Workout

Rowing allows you to implement low-impact, cardio-based training, and you can adjust the resistance for a strength-focused session. It’s a full-body workout that uses 86 percent of your muscles. With each stroke, you’re using your core and legs for the initial pull and finishing the rowing movement by using your upper body. Since you’re in a seated position, there’s less pressure on your knee and ankle joints.

Getting all four types of exercise (endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility) has benefits, according to The National Institute of Health (NIH). A rowing machine can be utilized for two types: endurance and strength. Many rowing machines have built-in programs or subscriptions that offer classes geared toward building strength and endurance.

Final Thoughts

Rowing is a great way to build strength and endurance while working various muscle groups. There are choices to suit a variety of budgets with different storage options and sizes. Figuring out how much space you have, your price range and the features you’d like will help you choose the best compact rowing machine for you.

FAQs

The post The Best Compact Rowing Machines for Small Spaces in 2025 appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Whey is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids our bodies need to build muscle. Whey protein also supplies the body with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), like leucine, which help promote muscle growth (1).

We consulted Pete Nastasi, a certified nutrition coach (C.N.C.), to help us find the best whey protein powders on the market. 

Here, we break down the different types of whey protein powders available (concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate), which types will work best for you, and what nutrition information to look for. Plus, we’ve tested over 50 protein powders to help us create the list of our top picks.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best Whey Protein Powders

We chose products for our list of the best whey protein powders based on a number of factors reflected in our whey protein powder scoring methodology. These include:

• Protein source: Whey protein is available as a concentrate, isolate, hydrolysate, or blend. We rank whey isolates and hydrolysates higher than concentrates because they are easier to digest and filtered to remove carbs and fat.
• Macronutrient calories per serving: We prioritize whey protein powders with the most calories from protein—as opposed to fat or carbs.
• Total protein per serving: While everyone has varying protein needs, 25–30 grams of protein is generally recommended with each snack or meal. This amount is also the best value per serving of protein powder.
• Price per gram of protein: While price isn’t always indicative of quality or value, we do reward whey protein powders that are more affordable, though we give this category less weight than the others.
• Sweeteners: We consider research about common sweeteners when assessing which whey protein powder formulas provide the least health risks to users.
• Bonus credits: Whey protein powders can earn small bumps in their overall score by having third-party testing credentials, no proprietary blends, an organic certification, sustainable packaging, and the addition of digestive enzymes.

We also receive input from our panel of expert contributors, which includes registered dietitians and highly credentialed experts in sports nutrition and exercise science. 

Our Picks for the Best Whey Protein Powder of 2025:

• Best Overall Whey Protein Powder: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Chocolate Whey Protein: Sports Research Whey Protein
• Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate
• Best Vanilla Whey Protein: Legion Whey+
• Best-Tasting Whey Protein: Gainful Protein Powder

Best Overall Whey Protein Powder: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

4.9

• Price per serving: $2.00 per serving
• Protein per serving: 28 grams
• Protein type: Whey protein isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Calories per serving: 120 to 150
• Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, French Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Mocha, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Strawberry, Unflavored, Vanilla Peanut Butter
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

Check Price

No sugar, all protein—that’s what Transparent Labs set out to accomplish with its grass-fed whey protein isolate. This whey protein undergoes filtration (2), taking out the excess sugar, fat, carbs, and lactose so you’re giving your body the pure protein it needs to rebuild. Whey isolate has the highest protein concentration of the different types of protein powders, and this protein is a good option if you’re trying to reduce your carb and fat intake.

Transparent Labs’ Whey Protein Isolate packs 28 grams of protein into each serving—one of the highest on our list. We also like the flavor variety, including unique flavors like Cinnamon French Toast. Bonus: This protein isn’t too sweet, so you can mix it with fruit juice or add it to a fruit smoothie without feeling like you’re drinking a shake made with Fun Dip.

Best Chocolate Whey Protein: Sports Research Whey Protein

Sports Research Whey Protein

4.7

• Price per serving: $1.36 per serving (25 servings); $1.06/serving (60 servings)
• Protein per serving: 25 grams
• Nutrition facts: 140 calories, 25 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbs, 3.5 grams of fat
• Protein source: Whey protein isolate
• Sweeteners: Stevia, sucralose
• Flavors: Dutch Chocolate, Creamy Vanilla
• Subscription: Monthly, subscribe and save 10 percent

Check Price

Sports Research Whey Protein is formulated with 6.9 grams of BCAAs, including 1,000 milligrams of L-leucine. Studies show leucine may help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Depending on flavor, this Informed Sport Certified protein powder is sweetened with stevia or sucralose, so those sensitive to these ingredients may need to steer clear.

Rachel Pasche says she has a protein shake for dessert some nights using the Dutch Chocolate flavor. “It might be too sweet for some people, but I honestly love the taste so much,” she says. “It’s my favorite flavor of protein powder I’ve ever tried.” She says the powder mixes well with water alone, with both a handheld mixer and in a shaker cup, noting there is some foam at the top that doesn’t last long and no clumping.

Additionally, Pasche says she sometimes feels bloated after whey protein shakes, but after six months of using Sports Research Whey, she has not experienced any bloat.

Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate

Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate

4.2

• Price per serving: $1.74 per serving (2-pound container)
• Protein per serving: 25 grams
• Nutrition facts: 140 calories, 25 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fat
• Protein source: Grass-fed whey protein concentrate
• Sweeteners: Stevia
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Unflavored
• Subscription: Monthly, subscribe and save 10 percent

Check Price

Why is grass-fed whey protein better? Studies show that dairy sourced from grass-fed cows has a higher concentration of whey proteins and amino acids (3), which may further support muscular training adaptations.

This Nutricost protein powder is non-GMO, gluten-free, and third-party tested. Whey protein concentrate, like this one, is often made with sunflower lecithin, an ingredient to help promote mixability. Testers also enjoy the taste and say this protein powder mixes well. “The taste was nostalgic; I’d liken it to Nesquik,” says tester Grant Smith. “And the mixability was on par with some of the better proteins I’ve had previously.” Smith was pleasantly surprised by the mixability of Nutricost Whey Protein, noting he didn’t find any small chunks of undissolved protein floating in his shake when mixed with milk.

After drinking most of his shake, Smith let a bit of the mixture sit for almost 10 minutes after initially mixing to test for separation. He noticed some slight separation between the protein and skim milk he mixed it with, but says it wasn’t enough to make the drink any less appealing.

Best Vanilla Whey Protein: Legion Whey+

Legion Whey+

4.6

• Price per serving: $1.54 to $2.00
• Protein per serving: 21-24 grams
• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30 to 78
• Calories per serving: 100 to 130
• Flavors: Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Cinnamon Cereal, Dutch Chocolate, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, French Vanilla, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappucino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored
• Third-party tested: Labdoor

Check Price

The protein in Legion Athletics is certified to contain no banned substances by Labdoor, the gold standard of third-party lab testing. This helps ensure the protein isolate is in its purest, most nutritionally dense form without any interference from pesticides and growth hormones.

Additionally, Legion Athletics whey is filtered to remove extra carbs and fat, so you’re only getting the good stuff with every serving. The removal of these elements is geared toward bloat-free digestion.

Testers say it also tastes great, giving especially high marks to the French Vanilla flavor. “I really like the flavor of this one. It tastes like a vanilla creamer!” says Kayla Godfrey. “This is delicious. Great vanilla taste,” says Carlo Barajas.

Best Tasting Whey Protein: Gainful Protein Powder

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

4.2

• Price per serving: $3.21
• Protein per serving: 19–27 grams (varies based on your personalized formula)
• Protein source: Depends on your formula, and may include whey protein isolate or concentrate, micellar casein, organic pea protein, or organic brown rice protein
• Sweeteners: Monk fruit or stevia leaf extract
• Flavors: Strawberry Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Chocolate, Caffè Mocha, Cookies and Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Matcha Green Tea, Cinnamon Toast, Sea Salt Caramel

Check Price

You’ve probably seen that one of the biggest general complaints about protein powder is it can taste “chalky” and leave you with an off-putting aftertaste. Our testing team tried Gainful’s Caffe Mocha flavor, and liked the subtle, not-too-sweet flavor profile. “This reminds me of an at-home cappuccino mix,” says Barry Bridges. “The coffee flavor is very light—I’d say it’s more of a chocolate flavor,” adds Rachael Harris.

If you’re not a fan of coffee flavors, Gainful offers nine total flavors in individual-use packets, so you can pick and choose what you’re craving each day. Nastasi, who has tried many different Gainful Protein Powder flavors, says the Chocolate Peanut Butter, Caffe Mocha, and Sea Salt Caramel are his favorites.

What Is Whey Protein?

Whey protein is a concentrated protein source derived from cow’s milk, which contains two major proteins called casein and whey (4). Whey accounts for 20 percent of milk protein, and is considered a high-quality protein source. Cow’s milk protein is considered a complete protein because it contains all nine essential amino acids required by the body (5).

Beyond basic nutrition, whey protein (6) may offer specific health benefits, such as enhanced immune function (7) and cardiometabolic health (8). Usually, whey is sold in powder form, which can be blended with water or other liquids or added to soft foods. Also, people use whey protein powder in cooking, which adds nutritional value to baked goods. Food manufacturers use whey formulations rather than cream, butter, or egg ingredients to make high-protein, low-fat products.

What Are the Three Types of Whey Protein?

When you browse online or at your local nutrition shop for whey protein products, you’ll probably notice different forms of whey. The main difference in the types of whey protein is how they’re processed. The three most common forms of whey protein are concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate (hydrolyzed whey).

Concentrate

Whey protein concentrate (WPC) is the least processed form of whey, so it contains the highest levels of lactose (milk sugar), fat, carbohydrates, and nutrients. Food manufacturers use WPC (9) to replace fresh dairy and eggs in products like sauces, soups, and baked goods because it adds flavor, color, and texture and extends shelf-life (10). However, it has the lowest protein content out of the three—typically 70 to 80 percent.

Isolate

Whey protein isolate (WPI) is made when whey is filtered and processed. It contains the most protein, 90 percent or more, and less lactose. Because of its higher protein content, sports nutrition companies often prefer WPI for use in supplements, protein bars, and other protein products (11). However, it lacks some of the beneficial nutrients found in the concentrated form (12).

Hydrolysate

Whey protein hydrolysate (WPH), also known as hydrolyzed whey, is produced by a process called partial hydrolysis, which breaks down whey protein for easier absorption (13). WPH is digested faster than WPC or WPI (14), so it causes a 28 to 43 percent increase in blood sugar levels (15). Diabetics don’t have to worry about this, though. Protein digestion is slow. In fact, recent research suggests that whey protein improves glycemic (blood sugar) control (16).

Benefits of Whey Protein Powder

The real benefit of a whey protein powder is that it’s an incredibly convenient and high-quality source of dietary protein. However, if you consume enough dietary protein through meat, dairy, legumes, and other foods, then you don’t need a protein powder to achieve your health and fitness goals. However, if you’re having trouble consuming enough protein through your diet alone, then adding a protein powder to your daily routine can have some real benefits.

Building Muscle

Whey protein is rich in essential amino acids, including BCAAs, which can be beneficial for supporting muscle integrity and growth with training (17). Adding a protein powder for muscle gain to your daily diet can be a great way to help maximize your dietary protein intake and stimulate muscle growth.

Preserving Lean Muscle Mass

When you’re in a caloric deficit with the goal of losing weight, you want to ensure that the weight you’re losing is primarily fat and not muscle. Eating a diet rich in protein helps preserve the lean muscle mass you’ve worked hard to achieve and enables your body to prioritize burning fat for energy.

Weight Loss

Consuming whey protein has a satiating effect, meaning that it helps you feel full for a longer period of time. High protein diets help with weight loss by regulating your hunger levels and therefore reducing the amount of total calories you consume throughout the day.

How To Use Whey Protein Powder

In order to properly use a whey protein powder, you should first determine how much protein you should be eating on a daily basis. The amount of protein you consume is dependent on your fitness goals and current body weight, activity level, and physique. A simple way to calculate your daily protein intake is by multiplying your body weight by 0.8. The resulting number is how many grams of protein you should consume each day. This should provide most active individuals with sufficient protein intake. Remember that whey protein powder is a supplement and shouldn’t be your main source of dietary protein.

As far as how to consume this protein powder, you should follow the instructions on the supplement label. This usually entails mixing one scoop of protein powder with 10 to 12 ounces of your favorite beverage. It can also be mixed in a smoothie or foods like oatmeal and pancake batter. Whey protein powder can be consumed at any time of the day, but it’s usually utilized as a post-workout supplement to begin repairing muscle tissue.

Potential Side Effects of Whey Protein Powder

When used in moderation, protein powder is free of side effects and generally considered safe for healthy adults. However, consuming large amounts of protein powder can lead to digestive issues, dehydration, and (potentially) nutrient deficiencies. It’s important to use whey protein powder as part of a balanced diet and not as your main source of dietary protein. If you experience any unusual symptoms after using protein powder, stop use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Who Should Use Whey Protein?

A whey protein powder will benefit anyone who is looking to increase their daily protein consumption and has trouble doing so through their diet alone. This is especially relevant for very active individuals, such as athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts who have increased protein demands due to their workouts and training.

Another segment of the population that may benefit from using a whey protein powder is older adults. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing protein from food (18). Using protein supplements can be an easy way for older adults to meet their daily protein needs and support muscle health.

How To Choose the Best Whey Protein for You

When picking a whey protein product, there are a few factors to consider, including the type of protein, taste, nutrition, additives/allergies, and price.

Type of Protein

Check the ingredients list to see what type of whey the protein powder contains. Some brands will use a blend of whey forms.

• Whey concentrates have the most nutrients, but slightly less protein. They also contain more lactose, which may trigger lactose sensitivities.
• Whey isolates have more protein, but less fat and carbs, so they’ll likely be lower in calories. They may also be more expensive, since they require more processing.
• Whey hydrolysates may be easier to digest and absorbed faster, so if you’re looking for a post-workout recovery shake, a hydrolysate might be the best choice to deliver muscle-building proteins.

Taste

Whey proteins come in a wide variety of flavors. You’ll find options from unflavored to vanilla, chocolate orange, and summer berries, to name a few. Taste is important because you want a protein supplement you’ll enjoy. When just starting to supplement your protein intake, try a small container or buy samples of flavors you might enjoy and get creative with your add-ins. You can try fruits, flavored milks, or juices to create new flavors that fit your taste preference.

Nutrition

Check the whey protein label for the amount of protein per serving, and factor it into your daily protein intake. Most protein powders have around 25 grams per serving, which is an ideal dosage to maximize muscle protein synthesis (19). Also look for calories, fats, carbs, fiber, vitamins, and minerals and even amino acid profiles. Make sure that the supplement you choose gives you the maximum benefit without unnecessary add-ins.

Additives/Allergies

Read the ingredients section, too. Look for additives or allergens that you want or need to avoid. For example, labels warn you if the whey powder contains soy or was processed in a facility with nuts.

Price

The protein powders on our list give you a good idea of the price range for whey supplements. Our top picks vary from $1.16 to $3.41 per serving or $34 to $95 per container, so there’s an option for most budgets.

FAQs

References

1. Kimball SR, Jefferson LS. Signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms through which branched-chain amino acids mediate translational control of protein synthesis. J Nutr. 2006 Jan;136(1 Suppl):227S-31S. doi: 10.1093/jn/136.1.227S. PMID: 16365087.
2. Patel, S. (2015). Functional food relevance of whey protein: A review of recent findings and scopes ahead. Journal of Functional Foods, 19, 308–319. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.09.040
3. Alothman M, Hogan SA, Hennessy D, Dillon P, Kilcawley KN, O’Donovan M, Tobin J, Fenelon MA, O’Callaghan TF. The “Grass-Fed” Milk Story: Understanding the Impact of Pasture Feeding on the Composition and Quality of Bovine Milk. Foods. 2019 Aug 17;8(8):350. doi: 10.3390/foods8080350. PMID: 31426489; PMCID: PMC6723057.
4. Davoodi SH, Shahbazi R, Esmaeili S, Sohrabvandi S, Mortazavian A, Jazayeri S, Taslimi A. Health-Related Aspects of Milk Proteins. Iran J Pharm Res. 2016 Summer;15(3):573-591. PMID: 27980594; PMCID: PMC5149046.
5. Miller, D. G., Jarvis, K. J., & McBean, D. L. Dairy Foods and Nutrition. https://books.google.com.br/books?
6. Shah NP. Effects of milk-derived bioactives: an overview. Br J Nutr. 2000 Nov;84 Suppl 1:S3-10. doi: 10.1017/s000711450000218x. PMID: 11242440.
7. Ha, E., & Zemel, M. B. (2003). Functional properties of whey, whey components, and essential amino acids: mechanisms underlying health benefits for active people (review). The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 14(5), 251–258. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0955-2863(03)00030-5
8. Fekete ÁA, Givens DI, Lovegrove JA. Can milk proteins be a useful tool in the management of cardiometabolic health? An updated review of human intervention trials. Proc Nutr Soc. 2016 Aug;75(3):328-41. doi: 10.1017/S0029665116000264. Epub 2016 May 6. PMID: 27150497.
9. USDA’s National Organic Program. Whey Protein Concentrate. https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media
10. United States Dairy Export Council. 2004. Reference Manual for U.S. Whey and Lactose Products. U.S. Dairy Export Council; Arlington, VA. Retrieved on May 31, 2016 from: http://usdec.files.cms-plus.com/PDFs/2008ReferenceManuals/Whey_Lactose
11. Hoffman, J. R., & Falvo, M. J. (2004). Protein – Which is Best?. Journal of sports science & medicine, 3(3), 118–130. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3905294/
12. Patel S. (2015). Emerging trends in nutraceutical applications of whey protein and its derivatives. Journal of food science and technology, 52(11), 6847–6858. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-015-1894-0
13. Morifuji, M., Ishizaka, M., Baba, S., Fukuda, K., Matsumoto, H., Koga, J., Kanegae, M., & Higuchi, M. (2010). Comparison of different sources and degrees of hydrolysis of dietary protein: effect on plasma amino acids, dipeptides, and insulin responses in human subjects. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 58(15), 8788–8797. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf101912n
14. Nakayama, K., Tagawa, R., Saito, Y., & Sanbongi, C. (2019). Effects of whey protein hydrolysate ingestion on post-exercise muscle protein synthesis compared with intact whey protein in rats. Nutrition & metabolism, 16, 90. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-019-0417-9
15. Power, O., Hallihan, A., & Jakeman, P. (2009). Human insulinotropic response to oral ingestion of native and hydrolysed whey protein. Amino acids, 37(2), 333–339. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-008-0156-0
16. Chiang, S. W., Liu, H. W., Loh, E. W., Tam, K. W., Wang, J. Y., Huang, W. L., & Kuan, Y. C. (2022). Whey protein supplementation improves postprandial glycemia in persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.), 104, 44–54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2022.04.002
17. Stokes, T., Hector, A. J., Morton, R. W., McGlory, C., & Phillips, S. M. (2018). Recent Perspectives Regarding the Role of Dietary Protein for the Promotion of Muscle Hypertrophy with Resistance Exercise Training. Nutrients, 10(2), 180. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10020180
18. Baum, J. I., Kim, I. Y., & Wolfe, R. R. (2016). Protein Consumption and the Elderly: What Is the Optimal Level of Intake?. Nutrients, 8(6), 359. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8060359
19. Phillips, S. M., & Van Loon, L. J. (2011). Dietary protein for athletes: from requirements to optimum adaptation. Journal of sports sciences, 29 Suppl 1, S29–S38. https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2011.619204
20. Kårlund, A., Gómez-Gallego, C., Turpeinen, A. M., Palo-Oja, O. M., El-Nezami, H., & Kolehmainen, M. (2019). Protein Supplements and Their Relation with Nutrition, Microbiota Composition and Health: Is More Protein Always Better for Sportspeople?. Nutrients, 11(4), 829. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11040829
21. Hulmi, J. J., Laakso, M., Mero, A. A., Häkkinen, K., Ahtiainen, J. P., & Peltonen, H. (2015). The effects of whey protein with or without carbohydrates on resistance training adaptations. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12, 48. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-015-0109-4
22. Vasconcelos, Q. D. J. S., Bachur, T. P. R., & Aragão, G. F. (2021). Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review. Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme, 46(1), 27–33. https://doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2020-0370

The post The Best Whey Protein Powders of 2025, According to a Certified Sports Nutrition Coach appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Despite packing an efficient punch, the best exercise bikes cost similar to rowing machines —  as little as $300 to well over $2,500. Imagine the horror of spending thousands of dollars just to find out you don’t love your shiny new cardio equipment?!

Lucky for you, I’ve done the research for you and gathered a list of the 13 best exercise bikes, so you can pick the right one for you.

How We Chose the Best Exercise Bikes

The Breaking Muscle team comprises a passionate squad of fitness aficionados, including conditioning coaches, spin instructors, competitive triathletes, and home gym owners. Altogether, our team has tested and reviewed 50+ exercise bikes — from the cheapest to the most expensive — putting them through rigorous a 13-point protocol.

From there, we chose the best exercise bikes by category rating each from 1 to 5 based on criteria like:

• Adjustability: Are the handlebars and the seat adjustable to fit various body sizes?
• Customization: Can you swap in your own pedals, saddle, and handlebars for a more custom riding experience?
• Tech capabilities: What interactive tech is available, if any? Is there Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity available?

We have lots to cover… so gear up and let’s dive in!

Our Top Picks for the Best Exercise Bikes

• Best Exercise Bike Overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
• Best Air Bike: Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X
• Best Exercise Bike With Classes: Echelon EX-8s
• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike
• Best Spin Exercise Bike: Diamondback 1260sc
• Best Portable Exercise Bike: Concept2 BikeErg
• Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: CAROL Bike
• Best Magnetic Exercise Bike: Bowflex VeloCore
• Best Affordable Exercise Bike: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike
• Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike
• Best Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces: Cubii Move
• Best Exercise Bike With a Screen: Peloton Bike+

Best Exercise Bike Overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

4.5

• Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H
• Resistance levels: 24
• Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription)
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

The NordicTrack S22i is hands-down the best exercise bike overall. We had three product testers take this bike for a ride to tell us why it won our top pick.

This NordicTrack bike’s programming, screen, and connectivity are excellent. Our product testers love the complimentary one-year iFIT membership because you can do live coach-led workouts, on-demand studio classes, and outdoor courses. 

Plus, the 22-inch touchscreen is high-definition, so it looks like you’re riding through a trail in Hawaii or taking a spin class in person.  It also swivels, so you can do other iFIT workouts off the bike without needing to see the screen from the rest of your home gym. 

RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

With 24 smooth-adjusting, magnetic resistance levels, our Breaking Muscle staff members found the riding experience on the S22i impressive.

They were pleasantly surprised that this bike inclines up to 20 percent grade and declines down to -10 percent, which is rare for a spin bike — the angle can even be auto-adjusted during your workouts by your iFIT coaches. The resistance and incline levels adjust digitally, which feels higher-end than push buttons.

NordicTrack included a series of convenient accessories on the S22i. For starters, our product testers like the dual water bottle holders and the built-in fan to keep you hydrated and comfortable during your rides. Plus, the media shelf helps hold your smartphone, and there’s even an easy-access storage tray for the two (complimentary) three-pound dumbbells.

When it comes to mobility, the S22i is more cumbersome than you’d expect. Our product testers found the front wheels helped it move, but there’s no handle at the back, so you have to awkwardly lift it from the rear stabilizer beam for the wheels to kick in. They also noticed you need to be careful with the big screen knocking into things as you reposition it. Combined with its 205-pound in-box weight, a second person can be helpful when moving the bike.

Unfortunately, the S22i’s programming is limited if you don’t have an iFIT membership. Without it, you essentially just have the machine in manual mode. There are a few free bike workouts in iFIT that you can access without the recurring subscription, but even the live chat agent couldn’t confirm this and suggested we call their Customer Service team.

With the impressive build quality and tech of this NordicTrack Studio Bike, it’s no surprise that it commands a higher price. At the time of publishing, it retails at $1,999 — making it comparable to the Peloton Bike+. Remember, you’ll also need an ongoing iFIT subscription to use the bike to its full potential. That said, I think it’s well worth the cost, considering the bike’s features and the value of the iFIT membership.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.5 out of 5 stars for its excellent classes and courses with iFIT, smooth resistance with incline/decline capability, and convenient accessories.

Best Air Bike: Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

4.4

• Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H
• Weight: 125 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: High-contrast LCD screen

Check Price

The Pro X is a beast of an air bike. Our product tester loved its belt drive because it’s smoother than their more affordable Assault Bike Classic and the previous model (the Assault Bike Pro), both of which have chain drives. 

At first use, its 125-pound weight stood out, as it’s incredibly sturdy even when pedaling and pushing as hard as possible. Almost everything on this unit is metal; a full-metal construction means it’s seriously rugged and should last years, even when used by heavier and stronger athletes.

Assault Fitness uses the same “Elite” monitor on all their air bikes, and after testing 10+ air bikes, it’s become our product tester’s favorite. The physical buttons are easy to touch and colored, which is an underrated feature you’ll appreciate if you’ve done a HIIT workout on an air bike. The console’s high-contrast LCD screen also displays all the essential metrics: heart rate, calories, distance, RPM, and more. The included programming intervals and Bluetooth connectivity are a great benefit as well.

Having reviewed dozens of cardio equipment pieces over the past three years, I’m personally impressed by Assault’s warranty on their Pro X. The frame is covered by a seven-year warranty, with a three-year warranty on moving parts. 

Many companies try to pass the majority of frustrating part repairs on to their customers by only covering “non-wear and tear” parts. However, Assault breaks the mold by explicitly covering “moving” parts for the first three years. Knowing you can put the Pro X through brutal workouts day after day while being covered on parts delivers serious peace of mind.

One of our Breaking Muscle staff members has extensive experience repairing air bikes and says swapping a belt or changing internal components can be a nightmare. Bike repairs often need special parts and are best done by a certified technician, so expect any significant repairs to take multiple hours, with most of your help coming from how-to/troubleshooting videos. To be fair, this applies to air bikes bought from any company — not just Assault Fitness.

Because the Pro X is large, it can be cumbersome to move. One of our product testers found the easiest way to transport it is to lift it from the rear stabilizer until the wheels contact the floor. Still, the 125-pound weight with its 52-inch x 24.5-inch footprint makes this air bike challenging to move compared to the Concept2 BikeErg, and it might be too much for some users.

In general, fan bikes might not be the best choice for home gyms that have to be careful of noise levels. As a fan-based bike, the Assault Bike Pro X is loud. 

That said, the fan-blade system of the Pro X appears to be a regular bike hub with fan blades welded to it — making it much smaller than what you’d find on the Rogue Echo bike. This smaller size means less air displacement, and some Breaking Muscle team members were surprised by how quiet it was in comparison.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.4 out of 5 stars for its rugged design, excellent console capabilities, and impressive warranty.

Best Exercise Bike With Classes: Echelon EX-8s

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

3.6

• Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H
• Resistance levels: 32
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

One of our product testers took the Echelon Connect bike for a ride and was immediately impressed. 

It features an oversized 24-inch curved touchscreen, which feels enormous but immersive when working out. Combine that with the high-definition quality and LED lights that sync to your workout metrics, and it feels like you’re cycling in a live studio class — which is super motivating. The dual-facing speakers offer great sound, and the screen flips 180 degrees, so you can easily view it for Echelon Premier workouts.

By joining their Echelon Premier Membership at $39.99 monthly, you unlock daily live classes and over 15,000 various, on-demand classes. Premier members receive exclusive discounts, a more comprehensive range of class difficulties, and up to five user profiles. With this membership, you can also view a leaderboard and compete against others, see when your friends are online, and check other users’ stats worldwide. Finally, the Echelon app syncs your console with your Strava, Zwift, Apple Health, FitBit, and Spotify profiles and data.

Alternatively, Echelon offers a more affordable “Fit Pass” at $11.99 monthly. This plan is best if you want to work out anywhere, anytime, without needing any equipment. Fit Pass includes 60+ instructors, 40+ daily live classes, challenges, and more. I like their range of workouts; they have everything from cardio and core training to meditation and barre. They even have a travel-the-world-fitness class option, which reminds our product tester of JRNY and iFIT. 

Despite the massive class selection, our product tester finds the quality could be better for the monthly price, even if you sign up for a two-year plan ($29.16 monthly). She notes that the price seems high for what it is because it isn’t as produced as Peloton’s live and on-demand classes, but it isn’t bad — the production quality just isn’t quite there yet.

The EX-8S retails for $3,079.50, but it’s on sale for $1,699.99 at the time of publishing. The sale price is way more reasonable, but the original cost seems expensive for the actual specs of the bike. Considering the Peloton Bike+ is more affordable and offers a better warranty, I wouldn’t be surprised if more customers jump ship.

Echelon’s warranty on the Connect EX-8S is flat-out disappointing at just one year. Their 30-day return policy and financing option are typical, but our product tester couldn’t believe the warranty is only one year, especially for such a steep retail price. If you’re an active Echelon Premier member, you can enjoy the benefit of full warranty coverage for up to five years. However, this requires an ongoing monthly membership for 60 months, costing you a whopping $1,700 over those five years in subscription fees.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.8 out of 5 stars for the outstanding 24” HD touchscreen, along with the workout subscription options offered through Echelon Premier and the more affordable Fit Pass.

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

Check Price

The Horizon 5.0R is excellent for seniors due to its mobility-friendly design. For example, the low, step-through frame helps you access the seated position even if you struggle with mobility or leg strength. Once you’re ready to sit down into the seat, there are front handlebars that you can hold for support as you sit down — they also make it easier to stand up after your workout. 

I’m impressed by the sturdiness of the 5.0R, which is a blessing because most seniors have trouble with their balance. 

The large 66-inch by 25.2-inch footprint and lower seat position result in a more stable machine. The flywheel, however, weighs just 15.4 pounds, which makes it easy to pedal at first and is gentler on your joints. That said, 100 magnetic resistance levels are available, so you can still get a smooth but seriously intense workout.

I’m also glad to see toe clips on the pedals; they help keep your feet from slipping out, which is more likely on a recumbent bike due to the reclined angle of your feet. The extra-large, adjustable seat includes a backrest and handlebars along the sides. Even though you have a near-zero chance of slipping out of the seat during your workout, holding the handlebars for extra support and peace of mind is nice.

Finally, I’m pleased with this exercise bike’s simple controls and convenient features. For one, the screen and control buttons are easy to see and reach while seated. Further, a built-in fan and an included water bottle holder keep you comfortable and hydrated during your rides. All of these features add a nice touch for older populations. 

Unfortunately, the bike does require some assembly. There’s a helpful assembly video, but according to Horizon, lifting the main frame out of the box requires two people. Because of the box size, weight, and assembly, this might be too much work, depending on your strength and mobility. 

Horizon does have an in-room delivery option for an extra $199 if you’re experienced with basic tools and would prefer to assemble it yourself but want the large box brought in by another person. Alternatively, they offer white glove delivery and assembly for $239, including room-of-choice delivery, complete setup and assembly, and packaging removal.

At 123 pounds, this exercise bike might be too heavy for a senior to move. There is a carrying handle at the bottom rear of the machine, and once you lift it from the handle, you can wheel it to another location. Indeed, you’re not lifting the entire bike — some of the bike’s weight will be resting on the wheels — but combined with its large footprint, you might find it unmoveable without some help.

Finally, the touchscreen console requires basic tech skills. You’ll be okay with the console if you can operate a smartphone or tablet. That said, some seniors rely only on analog (push) buttons and might find the touchscreen and controls too confusing to use if they’re not tech-savvy.

All the above considered, we rank this 4 out of 5 stars for its mobility-friendly access, sturdy and stable design, and simple yet intuitive controls.

Best Spin Exercise Bike: Diamondback 1260sc

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

3.9

• Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H
• Weight: 130 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

Check Price

The Diamondback Fitness 1260sc is a fantastic spin-studio-quality bike. The rear-mounted 31-pound flywheel gives it extra smoothness, similar to riding a bike outside. Even better, Diamondback Fitness uses a belt to drive the flywheel — making it significantly smoother and quieter than a chain-driven system. Although our product tester didn’t think she’d like the magnetic resistance lever, she grew to love its premium-like clicking sound. All these finer touches make the 1260 comparable to an exercise bike from a commercial gym studio.

To add to the studio feel, the 1260 is highly adjustable. The handlebars are two-way adjustable (up, down, forward, and back) and have plenty of grips, so you can find a comfortable hand position whether riding in or out of the saddle. The two-sided pedals have toe clips for maximum safety and cycling efficiency, while the other is a classic flat pedal. Thanks to the two-way adjusting seat and the variety of available heights, our five-foot, four-inch tall product tester fit perfectly with a couple of inches to spare.

This Diamondback Fitness bike connects to many ANT+ apps and wearables so that you can pair it with Garmin and Wahoo products. Our product tester enjoys the vast range of apps connecting via Bluetooth FTMS (Fitness Machine Service protocol). This latest tech lets you connect your fitness equipment to popular apps like Zwift, Rouvy, Myzone, SPIVI, and others — tracking your watts, time, distance, rpm, heart rate, and more.

Our product tester doesn’t love where they put the water bottle holder and vertical adjustment levers on this bike. Since the water bottle holder is mounted in front of the post, she has to awkwardly lean forward and reach around the front post to grab water while riding. The adjustment levers also don’t open easily, so they require a lot of force to pry them open. Once opened, adjustments are no problem — but the initial sticking point of the levers is no joke.

The console on the 1260 is as simple as you can get, and it lacks any interactive features you’d see on a Peloton+. The console doesn’t provide any programming, so you must do your workouts manually, pair the console with an app, find free online classes, or join a subscription service like iFIT.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.9 out of 5 stars for its spin-studio quality, impressive adjustability, and wide range of console connectivity.

Best Portable Exercise Bike: Concept2 BikeErg

Concept2 BikeErg

3.9

• Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5"
• Weight: 68 pounds
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Display: PM5 monitor

Check Price

The BikeErg is extremely easy to move, making it the best portable exercise bike due mainly to its materials and construction. Built mostly from aluminum,  it’s lightweight and compact (48 inches long by 24 inches wide), which minimizes excess weight while retaining durability. It also weighs only 68 pounds when fully assembled, making it lighter than most exercise bikes and a little over half the weight of the Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike. 

The C2 BikeErg includes caster wheels that make moving it a breeze. Once the machine tips up for the wheels to kick in, you can roll it smoothly to wherever you want it to go. You can fit it into most vehicles by removing the seat and handlebar posts, making it easier to haul to another CrossFit box or gym.

Its high portability is heightened further by its adjustability, customizability, and versatility. The handlebars can be adjusted up, down, forward, and back. Similarly, you can raise or lower the seat and tilt it to +/-15-degrees. I’m impressed the BikeErg is compatible with most cycling parts — letting you change the saddle, handlebars, and pedals as you see fit.

One of our Breaking Muscle staff members has used the Concept2 BikeErg extensively and is continually impressed by its versatility. They enjoy it for long endurance rides and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Unlike an air bike like the AssaultBike Pro X, the Concept2 is a jack-of-all-trades.

There are a few downsides to the Concept2 BikeErg. First, it’s rather noisy. Like the other Concept2 cardio machines, the BikeErg is also fan-based, so a loud whooshing sound is made when you pedal. Compared to a quiet electromagnetic bike like the BLANK, I could see some users being annoyed by the noise from the fan. The higher damper settings restrict airflow, reducing the loudness, but you might still need headphones or earplugs if it bothers you.

If you enjoy using interactive consoles, you might be slightly disappointed by Concept2’s Performance Monitor (PM5). It lacks the engaging and interactive aspects of the NordicTrack S22i’s iFIT membership console. The screen is small and lacks speakers. Plus, it doesn’t offer live or on-demand workout classes — you must pay for a separate subscription service.

Finally, the BikeErg isn’t cheap by any means. It’s a quality spin bike (technically fan-based, but it doesn’t count as an air bike due to the lack of moveable handlebars), so you can expect it to cost a pretty penny. You’ll save some money going with a more economical brand, but whether you’re willing to sacrifice on performance and the power of the PM5 is up to you.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.9 out of 5 stars for its easy portability, highly adjustable components, impressive customizability, and versatility.

RELATED: Concept2 RowErg Review

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: CAROL Bike

CAROL Bike

4.1

• Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W
• Resistance levels: Not listed
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

When you lead a busy life, keeping a regular exercise habit is easier said than done if it takes 30 minutes to an hour — enter the CAROL. 

Quick note: our product testers trialed the original CAROL bike, but this review is based on the 2.0 version of the CAROL. We’ll note any updated features of the 2.0 version below.

This bike is the best for weight loss because it gives you an effective workout in just five minutes, so you can easily fit it into your busy schedule. There’s no excuse with the CAROL because your workout takes just five minutes. This means you can do it any time during your day, making it much more likely that you’ll stick with your new exercise habit.

The CAROL is also ideal for weight loss because the workouts use an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to calculate your optimal resistance. Simply choose one of 18 different workouts and fitness tests; the upgraded console 2.0 will walk you through it without any confusion, making it suitable for any age and fitness level. You even get access for up to eight riders with the home membership, so you can help others in their quest to live healthier, too.

This bike also supports weight loss through data-driven results. The first model of the CAROL had heart rate monitors built into the handlebars, whereas the 2.0 model includes a chest-strap heart rate monitor to track your training. Each workout refines what it’s learned to tailor workouts to your fitness level, then shows your progress using precise data like your overall fitness score, heart rate metrics, peak power, energy output, and global and local leaderboard stats. Seeing your fitness improve with nearly every workout will entice you to return.

Unfortunately, you’re locked into paying for the ongoing $15 monthly membership if you want a fully functioning bike. Without the membership, you can still do a manual ride, but the resistance will stay at the starting resistance and never change — making it practically useless for a real workout. For this reason, changing the intensity and using the bike to its maximum potential requires a recurring membership.

Next, the CAROL is relatively expensive. Based on the bike specs alone, it doesn’t live up to the price because it costs more than the Peloton Bike+ and doesn’t include live or on-demand classes like iFIT. Further, it’s roughly ten times the price of our most affordable exercise bike, the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike. Remember, though, this bike isn’t made for interactive fitness classes or enjoyable rides — it’s for people who want the best results from the shortest workout possible.

Sadly, the warranty falls short based on its $2,500 price tag. Like the Echelon EX-8s, it only has a one-year warranty, leaving much to be desired. Our product tester doesn’t think you’ll have any issues with the bike breaking down. and there’s a 100-day home trial if you change your mind. Still, she wishes the warranty was much longer, and I couldn’t agree more.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.1 out of 5 stars for its AI-controlled motorized resistance, detailed and data-driven console, and beautifully sleek design.

Best Magnetic Exercise Bike: Bowflex VeloCore

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

4.2

• Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

The Bowflex VeloCore has a sleek and modern look, and our product tester was impressed with its high-quality build, finding it fun and easy to use. She appreciates the smooth-feeling 33-pound flywheel with 100 levels of magnetic resistance for quiet but intense workouts. This bike’s belt drive requires minimal maintenance and delivers a consistent performance. It has an adjustable seat, two-way adjusting handlebars, and dual-sided pedals that accommodate regular or SPD shoes — essential features for optimal comfort, especially if you’re a triathlete.

The bike comes with a choice of two screen sizes, 16-inch or 22-inch, and each is an HD, responsive touchscreen that connects to the JRNY app for live and on-demand workouts. Based on your level, an initial fitness assessment determines what classes JRNY recommends for you to try. There are also options to “explore the world” by biking around different destinations. The JRNY subscription even lets you stream entertainment like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney+.

The bike’s most distinctive feature is the ability to lean from side to side, creating a more dynamic and engaging riding experience. The leaning feature claims to activate muscles, burn more calories, and improve balance and coordination. The bike also has a stabilizer bar that can lock the bike in place for a more traditional ride. The leaning feature works with the JRNY app, which offers scenic rides and interactive games that challenge you to lean and steer along the route.

One downside to the VeloCore is the price, ranging from $1,799 to $2,199 based on the screen size chosen. Going off the price alone, the Diamondback 1260sc is a better choice if you’re not interested in being able to lean as part of your workouts. 

The bike also requires a monthly subscription to the JRNY app, which costs $11.99 monthly or $99 per year. However, the bike’s functionality is severely limited without the subscription because you can only use the manual mode, and you can’t stream anything. 

The bike’s leaning feature is the main selling point of the bike, but it may not be as beneficial or enjoyable as it sounds. It claims to activate more muscles, burn more calories, and improve balance and coordination, yet no scientific evidence on the product page supports these claims. Plus, more moving parts and sensors than a regular bike make it more prone to wear and tear. It might not be worth the extra cost and hassle for users who prefer a more stable and less gimmicky ride.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.2 out of 5 stars for its excellent spin bike design, highly adjustable components, and innovative bike-leaning feature.

RELATED: Best Jump Ropes

Best Affordable Exercise Bike: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 270 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

The YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike is a highly affordable exercise bike, on sale for $249.99 at the time of writing. Compared to many other bikes in this article, it’s the most budget-friendly option. Despite its economical price, I’m pleasantly surprised by its great reviews on Amazon: 4.⅘ stars based on feedback from 21,788 customers.

Our product reviewer is impressed with several features of this bike typically found on spin-studio-quality bikes. First, the flywheel is 35 pounds for a smooth riding experience that rivals cycling outdoors, and the steel frame feels heavy-duty for peace of mind while riding. The belt-driven system also minimizes noise and, combined with the mechanical (friction) resistance, is quiet enough to operate without disturbing sleeping kids or neighbors. 

Like the NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike, the Yosuda also offers two-way adjustable handlebars and a four-way adjustable seat to ensure it fits as many cyclists of different sizes as possible. The built-in transportation wheels make moving it around easier, and the bike includes a device and water bottle holder.

However, the YOSUDA bike has some drawbacks that may make you think twice before buying it. The bike’s console has no programming, so you’re on your own for making or sourcing structured workouts. It also lacks Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, so you can’t sync it with cycling apps like Zwift or fitness devices like a heart rate monitor. Further, our Breaking Muscle team member’s LCD monitor was wobbly and seemed like it was about to fall off. It appears that Yosuda invested in some quality parts but cut corners on the rest.

For example, during testing, our product reviewer’s Yosuda had some pieces breaking off, such as the pedal strap. The bike seat was comfortable only for the first few minutes and already started to experience small tears, and the water bottle holder felt flimsy. Many reviews claim it’s a common experience for many parts to wear out or break off after a few months of use.

Finally, he provided some clear guidance on its durability. At around $300, it’s a great price but not a durable bike — it will likely need replacing in about two years. The Yosuda is fine if you’re looking for a quick short-term fix, but it’s not a forever bike. 

Suppose you prefer to make your exercise bike investment once. In that case, you may want to save for a more expensive and reliable bike that offers a better value and riding experience, like the Diamondback 1260sc.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.8 out of 5 stars for its affordability, value, adjustability, and high praise on Amazon.

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H
• Resistance levels: 25
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

Check Price

I’m pleasantly surprised with the Schwinn 290’s console and connectivity. You can use the JRNY® app on the 7″ LCD screen to access 200+ virtual courses that automatically adjust your bike’s resistance to the course’s terrain. 

Alternatively, there are trainer-led classes for a workout with a more human touch. There are many workout durations and class types, so you’ll most certainly find an intensity and trainer matching your preferences. Best of all, you get a two-month free trial to JRNY® when you buy the 290 Recumbent Bike. 

If you’re a ZWIFT fan, the console is compatible with that platform, so you can virtually interact, train, and compete against others worldwide. The speakers and console even have Bluetooth capability to connect to your smartphone or tablet easily. If you prefer to play your own music playlist or sync your heart rate monitor, both are possible on the 290.

While almost twice as expensive as our choice for the best affordable exercise bike (Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike), the Schwinn 290 packs impressive features to make this an excellent value exercise bike. 

The console includes a media shelf and USB charging port to rest your smartphone or tablet on within view for a hands-free workout without worrying about battery life. It also features a water bottle holder attached to the side of the backrest for easy hydration access, whether you like water or the best electrolyte powders during your rides. Due to its 107.6-pound weight, the transport wheels are super convenient for moving, especially if you plan on storing it away between workouts.

Regarding downsides, I don’t like how the foot pedals adjust. You can tighten and loosen them quickly, but you must push the selector tab into your desired strap notch to lock a size in place. Securing the tab is shockingly tricky, even more so if you have big feet or struggle with mobility. 

You’re better off getting a rough estimate of the notch you need, dismounting the bike, and adjusting them with both hands. Based on my experience with these, I feel like a classic cinching strap of the Concept2 BikeErg or a plain velcro strap would be more user-friendly. 

Further, the step-through area is just too cramped for my liking. It’s so small that you must angle your foot to pass it through the step-through area. As a result, I could see this being a tripping hazard for anyone with mobility or weight challenges. I’m surprised to see this area redesigned because the Schwinn 270 Recumbent — the model that the 290 has replaced — featured a much larger area for you to step through. Because of this safety oversight, I’d recommend the Horizon 5.0R over this recumbent for seniors.

Sadly, you won’t get a great labor warranty with the 290. The parts are free if anything breaks on this exercise bike within the first two years. However, the labor warranty is only 90 days — ridiculously short. This means you’ll have to figure out how to replace the part(s) yourself or pay a technician out-of-pocket to repair your bike.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its JRNY® + ZWIFT apps, Bluetooth speakers and connectivity, and convenient accessories.

Best Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

4.3

• Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H
• Resistance levels: Seven
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Type: Recumbent (foldable)

Check Price

This foldable upright bike collapses inward to a compact 21.5-inch depth, and the backrest folds down, so the height is only 47 inches. This means it can easily be tucked away in a closet when not in use. Although it didn’t make our top choice list, a Marcy upright bike can fold. While snagging the best upright exercise bike overall spot is unlikely, the folding feature is underrated if you work out in a small space.

Marcy’s folding bike is relatively portable. It features transport wheels, making it easy to move from one corner to another without lifting and carrying the entire bike. Depending on your strength, you could carry it up or down a flight of stairs if needed because it only weighs 37 pounds — making it one of the lightest exercise bikes featured in this article.

The features of this folding exercise bike surprised me. It boasts a 250-pound weight capacity, which is great for its lightweight frame. When folded out, the 14-gauge steel feels sturdy, so I’m confident it’ll hold up to its listed weight limit. The pedals have foot straps like the Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike, and they’re also weighted, which makes getting your feet inserted much easier. The two-year warranty was higher than expected for a budget-friendly folding bike like this.

One downside is that the  Marcy foldable bike’s console is pretty barebones, displaying only the distance, time, speed, odometer, and burned calories. It has no built-in programming, meaning you’re stuck with the manual mode and might need a subscription to vary your workout. Unsurprisingly, the console also lacks Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity, so no apps or fitness devices will pair or sync with it. If tracking your workout data is crucial, find an alternative method or bike.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its folding feature to save space, portability, and multiple surprising features like sturdiness, pedals, and warranty.

Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces: Cubii Move

Cubii Move

3.8

• Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H
• Resistance levels: Eight
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Type: Under desk

Check Price

The Cubii Move has six adjustable resistance levels using the knob in the center of the machine, so you can customize your workout intensity and challenge yourself as you progress. 

The LCD screen displays the metric you’ve selected, and this under-desk exercise bike can track a surprising number of metrics, from stride count and mileage to duration and calories burned. The reset button is large enough to press it with your toe without bending down and using your finger.

This under-desk machine is free and compatible with the Cubii app, which lets you manually add your data, join challenges, and access 300+ expert-guided workout classes. Through it, you can connect with other Cubii users and share your achievements and goals.

The Cubii is lightweight and portable, weighing only 18 pounds. Thanks to its glass-filled nylon construction, you can quickly move it from room to room. This means it’s not difficult to bring it home from your office, so you can continue to use it while watching TV after your workday — storing it under your bed or in a closet when not in use.

This under-desk elliptical isn’t suitable if you’re looking for a high-intensity or full-body workout. It only targets your lower body muscles: quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. However, the range of motion is significantly smaller compared to a recumbent exercise bike. It also doesn’t provide much cardiovascular or calorie-burning benefits compared to other exercise machines.

The Cubii may not work well on thick carpets as the rubber feet might sink, causing the unit to wobble and shift out of place. Also, it might not fit under some desks or chairs, depending on the height and clearance. You may need to adjust your chair or desk height to avoid hitting your knees on the underside of your desk. Lastly, you may also need to wear comfortable shoes or socks to prevent blisters or discomfort on your feet.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its low impact, good metrics, free app, and portable build.

Best Exercise Bike With a Screen: Peloton Bike+

Peloton Bike+

4.4

• Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 297 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

The screen on the Peloton Bike+ is amazing. It is a 23.8-inch HD (1080p) touchscreen that rotates 360 degrees, so you can easily switch between your cycling workouts and exercising off the bike. The screen also has a high-fidelity sound system, a front-facing camera, and a microphone so that you can interact with other riders and instructors with crystal-clear quality. The camera even has a privacy cover, which many camera-shy people can appreciate.

I like the screen’s responsiveness and how easy it is to navigate. It displays all the metrics you need to track your performance, like cadence, resistance, output, heart rate, and calories burned. It even features a reduced-reflective and anti-smudge coating, so your fingerprints won’t end up all over the touchscreen.

Peloton offers various live and on-demand classes to suit your preferences and goals. I love the availability of classes and the huge selection of music choices like pop, hip hop, rock, R&B, the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and Broadway. The classes range from five to 75 minutes, though from what I’ve seen, most classes fall in the 20- to 30-minute range. Sometimes, if I’m in the mood for a longer workout but can’t find a 45-minute class that interests me, I’ll “stack” two shorter classes together. 

I particularly enjoy the Power Zone classes, where different parts focus on staying within a certain heart rate zone, and the climb or HIIT rides, where the intensity is slightly higher than regular classes. There are also many beginner classes, and even though I consider myself more advanced in fitness, I enjoy the beginner classes occasionally for active recovery.

Unfortunately, the bike is expensive. The Peloton Bike+ costs $2,495, a lot of money for an exercise bike. 

You also have to pay for the accessories, such as the shoes, the mat, the weights, and the heart rate monitor, which can add up to another few hundred dollars. The bike also requires a monthly subscription of $39 to access the classes and features, another recurring cost you must factor in. If you are on a tight budget, the Peloton Bike+ might not be your best option.

The Peloton Bike+ only works with the Peloton app and the Apple Watch, which means you cannot use it with other fitness apps or devices you might already have or prefer. 

For example, you can’t use the bike with Zwift, Strava, Garmin, Fitbit, or any other third-party app or device. You also can’t export your workout data to other platforms unless you use a workaround involving screenshots or third-party apps. This can be frustrating if you want to integrate your Peloton workouts with your other fitness activities or track your progress on other platforms.

It’s also important to realize that you won’t jive with every instructor. As you ride the bike more and familiarize yourself with their personalities and styles, you learn who you connect best with. 

For example, I’m not a big fan of over-the-top cheerleading or motivational talk when exercising, so I avoid the instructors who tend to lean that way during their classes. Several instructors were once competitive cyclists or Ironman/triathlon athletes. They provide a lot of insight into the mindset of an athlete, which I like a lot better, so I take their classes more often. The key is to test out many instructors and stick with who you enjoy most.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.25 out of 5 stars for its outstanding quality console, high-tech screen, and massive range of classes and music.

What Are the Benefits of Exercise Bikes?

Low-Impact Training

Unlike running or jumping, cycling places less stress on your joints, bones, and muscles. This reduces injury risk and makes exercise bike training suitable for all ages and fitness levels, especially seniors and those struggling with excessive weight.

Improved Cardiovascular Conditioning

Cycling increases your heart rate and blood circulation, strengthening your heart, lungs, and blood vessels over time. This allows them to handle higher cardio demands than they could have previously tolerated. Additionally, improved cardiovascular conditioning can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Can Support Weight Loss Goals

Depending on the intensity and duration of your workout, you can burn anywhere from a couple hundred to nearly a thousand calories per hour on an exercise bike. This can help you create a calorie deficit essential for losing weight.

Reduced Stress

Using an exercise bike can help you reduce stress and anxiety, as it releases endorphins and serotonin, which are natural chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. 

Lower Body Strengthening

Exercise bikes work out your lower body muscles, such as your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves. This can improve your muscle strength and endurance, as well as your balance and coordination. Stronger lower body muscles can also prevent or alleviate lower back pain, knee pain, and other common ailments.

What to Consider When Buying an Exercise Bike

Exercise Bike Type

There are four exercise bike types: upright, recumbent, spin, and air.

• Upright: An upright bike allows you to sit upright with the pedals directly below you. The handles are elevated and are closer to you than on a spin bike, and the seat is usually wider and more comfortable. This conventional riding position is great if you like longer rides that focus on your legs, but it’s less effective for high-intensity training than an air bike.
• Recumbent: This style of bike has a seat with a back pad to support your middle and lower back, placing you in a reclined riding position. Unlike other styles, the pedals are at the front on a recumbent bike. The recumbent style distributes your weight evenly between the seat and the back pad, making it excellent for longer rides. Since you can relax your upper body more than an upright bike, it’s great for riders with back and joint issues. This style is also lower to the ground, so getting on and off the bike is easier — a major selling point if you struggle with mobility.
• Spin: A spin bike, also known as an indoor cycling bike, is the closest style to outdoor cycling. The narrower seat and lower bring your upper body forward, giving your upper body a workout instead of just your legs. This style is less comfortable than an upright and recumbent bike but offers better performance, which is vital for those wanting to train at higher intensities.
• Air bike: This fan-based bike style is sometimes called “dual-action.” Air bikes feature moving handlebars that you can operate separately or simultaneously with the pedals and provide resistance by the fan blades displacing air. The seat tends to be broader, and the pedals are below it, like on an upright bike. An air bike isn’t the best for long rides because it’s harder to maintain consistent resistance, but this style is unmatched for high intensity.

Cost

Exercise bikes can range from hundreds to a few thousand dollars. Generally, the higher-priced bikes include more features like high-tech consoles, more resistance levels, and better build quality. If you go too cheap, you can miss out on key features that prevent an enjoyable and safe cycling experience.

Dimensions

You want to ensure the bike fits comfortably in your room and doesn’t obstruct your movement or other furniture. You also want to check the weight and portability of the bike in case you need to move it around or store it away.

Remember, you’ll likely need one to two feet of open space on either side of your bike to get on and off and not feel cramped while riding.

Build Quality

The overall build quality of an exercise bike should be top of mind when shopping. Look for a steel frame over aluminum — it’ll be more robust and sturdier. High-quality exercise bikes often feature a higher weight capacity, so you can usually use the bike’s total capacity as a proxy for its build quality.

Noise 

If you’ll be using your exercise bike at home, you’ll want to be mindful of how noisy the bike will be, especially if you’ll be working out when kids or neighbors might be sleeping. Noise level depends mainly on the resistance type of the bike. 

Air bikes are by far the loudest because they’re fan-based, followed by mechanical-tension bikes since they apply resistance using friction pads. The quietest exercise bikes will be those that use electromagnetic resistance due to magnets applying tension to the flywheel.

You’ll also want to consider whether you’ll be watching live exercise classes or follow-along workouts on your console. These will project sound with speakers, but you can usually use headphones or earbuds to minimize the noise from any tech you use.

Seat and Handlebar Adjustability

The adjustability of your seat and handlebars is paramount to avoid injury, even more so if you’re taller or shorter than average.

Typically, you’ll want a bike that lets you adjust the seat in four ways: up, down, forward, and back. Seats with upward and downward angling are also beneficial for a more customized fit. Look for two-point adjustability at a minimum for the handlebars, which means they can be adjustable forward and back.

Console

Like all of the best cardio machines, exercise bikes vary widely in design, so it’s no surprise that consoles can be ultra-basic, high-tech, or even lacking altogether. Although rare, some exercise bikes don’t have a console.

The key is that not every console will show your revolutions per minute (rpm), distance traveled, heart rate, or calories burned — all of which aren’t mandatory for a workout but can be highly motivating for your long-term adherence and progress. Just remember that more detailed displays tend to come with a higher price.

Pedals

Typically, you’ll find three main types of pedals on exercise bikes: flat, cage, and clip-in.

• Flat: This is your classic type of pedal, also known as the “platform” pedal in the cycling world. Flat pedals are precisely as they sound — flat. You just put your feet against them and pedal, making them incredibly easy to use. Unfortunately, they’re harder to control on the ascent of each revolution when you’re pedaling fast, and if your feet slip, you can bang your ankles or scrape your shins against the pedals. 
• Cage: This type of pedal is a flat pedal with toe clips attached to the front, which are flexible “cages”  that slide over the toe box of your shoes. Toe clips hold your feet in place and make biking more efficient because you can apply force upwards without having your foot come off the pedal — allowing you to transfer that force back into the downward stroke. Since you can pull up on the pedal and push down, you can work your legs more to burn more calories.
• Clip-in: Lastly, there are clip-in pedals. Exercise bikes built for serious cyclists will tend to feature clip-in pedals connecting to cyclists’ special shoes. Not to worry though, you can upgrade the pedals of most bikes to clip-in pedals if you like the bike itself, but they only have flat or cage pedals.

Available Programming

Exercise bikes with consoles can have all kinds of built-in workouts. The most popular are hill climbing, cardio, fat burning, and strength training. 

Some bikes don’t include programming, like the Diamondback 1260sc. If you’re using your smartphone or tablet, a console lacking programming might be fine. If not, make sure the bike has Bluetooth connectivity at a minimum.

Bluetooth connectivity is the most popular connectivity method, allowing you to use apps like Peloton and Zwift. AMP+ is another type of connectivity, but it’s mostly limited to heart rate monitors, so I’d recommend using Bluetooth instead. It’s a bit more money upfront but opens up the available connections for apps, workouts, and more.

Available Conveniences

Exercise bikes can come with several convenient accessories to make your workouts more comfortable and enjoyable. Not all bikes include these, but you can often buy them separately to customize your exercise bike later.

• Phone/tablet holder: If you have an exercise bike with a console lacking in streaming service and classes, then a media shelf is a convenient plus. A media shelf is just a hard plastic ridge that sticks out from the console to lay your device without it falling off. Without one, you’ll have to hold your device for the duration of your workout.
• Water bottle holder: Having a water bottle holder is seriously underrated whether you’ll be doing shorter HIIT classes or longer endurance rides. The last thing you want is to interrupt your workout just because your water bottle isn’t within reach. One of our Breaking Muscle staff members runs into this problem every workout — they have an upright bike without a water bottle holder. While it’s possible to buy the holder separately, its absence from the stock version of the bike is an annoying omission by the manufacturer.
• Built-in fans: Built-in fans are more common on the best treadmills than on exercise bikes, but some bikes, like the NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike, include them. If you sweat heavily, live in a hot or humid climate, or enjoy the added comfort of built-in airflow, it can be a convenient add-on for your bike. Remember, if your bike doesn’t include this feature, you can buy and mount a mini fan separately.
• Weight rack: Some riders like combining bike rides with weight lifting using the best dumbbells. Similar to the water bottle holder, having a small weight rack to keep them within reach will save you from getting off your bike whenever you need to use them.
• Wheels: If you’ll be moving your bike often, having wheels built into the bike is a nice feature. It means you don’t have to drag your bike and risk ruining your floor, making it easier to transport bikes over 100 pounds. 
• Heart rate handles: Most bikes are compatible with heart rate monitors, but it’s even more convenient to have handles with heart rate reading capability. Unfortunately, you’ll tend only to see these on upright or recumbent bikes in the premium price range.

Resistance Types

There are three types of resistance for exercise bikes: fan-based, electromagnetic, and mechanical. 

• Fan-based: An air bike is fan-based and creates resistance by the fan blades displacing air. This style offers a (theoretically) unlimited amount of resistance because the harder you pedal and push, the more air the blades will displace, causing greater resistance. 
• Electromagnetic: These bikes work with magnets on either side of the flywheel. As the magnets get closer to the flywheel, they apply more resistance. Because they use magnets, these bikes are smoother, quieter, have lower maintenance, and are easier to select during workouts but more expensive. 
• Mechanical: This style uses mechanical resistance in the form of friction pads made from wool or rubber. Most are designed so that you physically twist the resistance knob to add or remove the tension placed on the flywheel. Because of the friction, these bikes are noisier and often need more maintenance as pads wear out and become misaligned with heavy use — however, they are cheaper as a result.

Drive Type

When you turn the pedals on an exercise bike, the “drive” is connected to the flywheel; when that moves, you’ll feel resistance. There are two types of drives: chain and belt. 

A chain-driven exercise bike will be more durable because the chain is metal, which makes maintenance cheaper in the long run. Unfortunately, it requires regular lubrication to ensure metal parts glide smoothly along each other. Also, chains are noisier than belts and feel rougher, so they’re often in fan-based and mechanical bikes.

Belt drives are quieter and smoother, so they’re usually in magnetic resistance bikes. The downside to a belt-drive bike is that the belt can loosen over time with heavy use and won’t last nearly as long as a chain — costing you more over time.

Resistance Levels

Exercise bikes have a vast range of resistance levels. Because there are also different types of resistance, there’s no universal standard or comparison method.

While knowing how many resistance levels there are on the exercise bike is helpful, the best way to see whether it offers the rate resistance range is to test it in person.

Once you have an exercise bike in mind, look for a local store where you can test it out in their showroom. Remember to bring your athletic attire and cycling shoes if you have them.

Warranties 

There’s a massive range of warranties for exercise bikes, from as little as 30 days to as long as 15 years. I wouldn’t recommend settling with any less than a one-year warranty. 

Based on the exercise bikes included in this article, ten years on the frame, three years on parts, and one year on labor is a solid warranty to look for if you value peace of mind from your purchase.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is an essential factor that affects the safety and durability of the bike because it reflects the craftsmanship and quality of the materials and parts used to build it. Choosing a bike with a higher weight capacity usually means getting a more robust frame and more durable parts like the pedals and flywheel. 

Exercise bike weight capacities range from 200 pounds to over 400 pounds. 

If you’re a heavier user, I’d recommend choosing a bike with a weight limit of at least 125 percent of your body weight. The closer you are to the bike’s weight capacity, the higher the risk of damaging it or injuring yourself. The bike can also become unstable, noisy, or shaky, reducing the quality of your workout.

Flywheel Weight 

If you’re investing in the best exercise bike overall, flywheel weight should be one of the top things you consider. The flywheel is the heavy wheel at the front or back of the bike that spins when you pedal to create momentum. It’s linked to the pedals by a chain or a belt, similar to one in your car’s engine.

Flywheel weights can vary widely, from as little as six pounds to as much as 50 pounds. Most people will have a better biking experience with a heavier flywheel because it closely simulates riding a bike outside. I recommend looking for a flywheel between 14 and 20 kilograms (about 30 to 44 pounds). Typically, a heavier flywheel offers a smoother ride. 

Suppose you’re working with a tight budget. In that case, I encourage you to sacrifice some bells and whistles like a sleek built-in tablet or a monthly class subscription because the flywheel weight is crucial for an enjoyable riding experience.

As a caveat, one Breaking Muscle staff member has used the Keiser M3i Bike extensively, with a flywheel weight of just eight pounds. It’s positioned at the bike’s rear to provide a different feel, but it can still offer an intense workout.

Final Thoughts

Exercise bikes have transformed home fitness, offering amazing exercise variety and adjustability in a small space.

The best exercise bikes combine interactive tech and powerful metric tracking without going overboard on the price.

At the end of the day, the best exercise bike for you depends on your budget, the size of your workout space, and the exercise bike features you value most.

Best Exercise Bikes: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Exercise Bike Overall

Best Air Bike

Best Exercise Bike With Classes

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors

Best Spin Exercise Bike

Best Portable Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss

Best Magnetic Exercise Bike

Best Affordable Exercise Bike

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike

Best Folding Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces

Best Exercise Bike With a Screen

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

Concept2 BikeErg

CAROL Bike

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

Cubii Move

Peloton Bike+

Primary Rating: 4.5

Primary Rating: 4.4

Primary Rating: 3.6

Primary Rating: 4.0

Primary Rating: 3.9

Primary Rating: 3.9

Primary Rating: 4.1

Primary Rating: 4.2

Primary Rating: 4.0

Primary Rating: 4.0

Primary Rating: 4.3

Primary Rating: 3.8

Primary Rating: 4.4

Description: Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H Resistance levels: 24 Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription) Weight capacity: 350 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H Weight: 125 pounds Weight capacity: 330 pounds Display: High-contrast LCD screen

Description: Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H Resistance levels: 32 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 300 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 300 pounds Type: Recumbent

Description: Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H Weight: 130 pounds Weight capacity: 300 pounds Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

Description: Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5" Weight: 68 pounds Weight capacity: 350 pounds Display: PM5 monitor

Description: Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W Resistance levels: Not listed Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 330 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 325 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: No Weight capacity: 270 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H Resistance levels: 25 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 330 pounds Type: Recumbent

Description: Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H Resistance levels: Seven Available programming: No Weight capacity: 250 pounds Type: Recumbent (foldable)

Description: Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H Resistance levels: Eight Available programming: No Weight capacity: Not listed Type: Under desk

Description: Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 297 pounds Type: Spin

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Check Price

Best Exercise Bike Overall

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H
• Resistance levels: 24
• Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription)
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

Best
Air Bike

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H
• Weight: 125 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: High-contrast LCD screen

Check Price

Best Exercise Bike With Classes

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

Primary Rating:

3.6

Description:

• Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H
• Resistance levels: 32
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

Check Price

Best Spin
Exercise Bike

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

Primary Rating:

3.9

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H
• Weight: 130 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

Check Price

Best Portable Exercise Bike

Concept2 BikeErg

Primary Rating:

3.9

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5"
• Weight: 68 pounds
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Display: PM5 monitor

Check Price

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss

CAROL Bike

Primary Rating:

4.1

Description:

• Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W
• Resistance levels: Not listed
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

Best Magnetic Exercise Bike

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

Best Affordable Exercise Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 270 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H
• Resistance levels: 25
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

Check Price

Best Folding Exercise Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

Primary Rating:

4.3

Description:

• Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H
• Resistance levels: Seven
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Type: Recumbent (foldable)

Check Price

Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces

Cubii Move

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H
• Resistance levels: Eight
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Type: Under desk

Check Price

Best Exercise Bike With a Screen

Peloton Bike+

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 297 pounds
• Type: Spin

Check Price

FAQs

The post 13 Best Exercise Bikes for Home Gyms (2025) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

As we age, our NAD levels drop, leading to a decline in these functions. Not surprisingly, this contributes to the aging process. This is why people are trying to maintain or boost their NAD levels. Experts believe maintaining higher levels of NAD can potentially slow down aging and promote longevity. (18)

One of the ways to increase NAD levels is with NMN supplements. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor to NAD, meaning it’s a substance that the body can convert into NAD. It’s like a raw material that cells can use to create more of the NAD ‘currency’ they need to function optimally.

With two decades of experience as a personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist, I’ve witnessed a shift in client inquiries from how to get six-pack abs to a desire for longevity and improved quality of life. People don’t just want to live longer; they want to feel better too. While exercise and diet are important, NMN supplements offer a promising way to naturally boost NAD levels. For my review, I tested several options to help you find the best NMN supplement.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best NMN Supplements

I’d argue that choosing the best NMN supplement is more difficult than most other supplements because it hasn’t been on the market for very long. With limited time for rigorous scrutiny, finding products that truly align with the science can be a challenge.

Here at Breaking Muscle, there are several factors that we consider to ensure you get the best NMN supplements for your budget and lifestyle.

Science-Based Formulas

We give priority to products featuring ingredients backed by proven scientific evidence. 

Ingredients such as NMN, resveratrol, and vitamin D have consistently demonstrated anti-aging benefits in studies. (5)(8) (14)

What’s more, we evaluate the dosage of each ingredient, aiming to closely align it with the quantities shown in these studies for maximum effectiveness.

Third-Party Verification

Let’s face it: Supplements that undergo third-party testing instill greater confidence. 

We’ve favored products that have been through legitimate testing by independent laboratories, assuring purity and potency.

Real-World User Feedback

Real-life experiences offer invaluable insights. We’ve conducted a thorough review of user feedback, meticulously examining reports of effectiveness, benefits, and any potential drawbacks to provide you with a comprehensive assessment.

Company Reputation

The track record of a brand matters. We’ve chosen companies with a reputation for integrity, transparency, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Balancing Value

Our aim is to recommend supplements that strike the right balance between cost and effectiveness, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment.

Safety

Above all, your well-being is our top concern. We’ve focused on supplements that incorporate proven, safe ingredients without unnecessary additives or fillers. 

Naturally, products associated with a long history of adverse effects have been excluded from our list.

Our Top Picks for the Best NMN Supplement

• Best NMN Supplement Overall: Lifeforce Peak NMN
• Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement: Wonderfeel Youngr NMN
• Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement: Omre NMN + Resveratrol
• Best Budget NMN Supplement: Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+
• Best Pure NMN Supplement: partiQlar Pure NMN

Best NMN Supplement Overall: Lifeforce Peak NMN

Lifeforce Peak NMN

4.5

• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving
• NMN per serving: 375 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium
• Third-party testing: No

Check Price

I’ve been a big fan of Lifeforce since I tried the brand in my search for the best testosterone booster. Once again, they didn’t disappoint. In fact, the team and I were so impressed with Peak NMN that we assigned it as our best NMN supplement overall.

What clinched it for us? 

A combination of science-backed ingredients at doses that work, all without breaking the bank. Plus, Peak NMN targets something special: it not only supports long-term cellular health but also takes on blood sugar — a key factor in aging. Consistently elevated blood sugar can damage mitochondria or cellular ‘powerhouses’ and contribute to age-related diseases. (1)

Lifeforce tackles this with two key ingredients: Berberine HCl (660 milligrams) and White Mulberry Extract (200 milligrams), both proven to support healthy blood sugar levels. It also includes spermidine, which helps with cellular growth and renewal. It’s known for aiding in autophagy, the body’s way of cleaning out old cellular junk to make way for new, healthier cells. (2)(3)(4)

Naturally, Lifeforce’s star ingredient is NMN, which has been shown to boost NAD levels, helping to keep your cells strong. NAD plays a significant role in all cellular processes, most notably, energy production, DNA repair, and the regulation of cellular aging. (5)

For me, one of the features of Peak NMN that stands out from other NMN supplements is its quality and stability. It contains HPLC-tested NMN boasting 99 percent purity and a 24-month shelf life. 

Not only are you getting the highest quality form of NMN but it’s also going to last much longer than most other NMN supplements. For context, most brands of NMN have a three-month shelf life when stored at room temperature. To get around this, simply put your NMN supplement in the refrigerator.

Finally, one of my favorite features of Lifeforce supplements is the option to add a specialized home blood test that evaluates dozens of biomarkers focusing on aging and longevity. This test, supported by telehealth consultations and individualized guidance from a healthcare professional, aims to provide insights into biological age, cellular health, and factors influencing lifespan. Taking these tests before and several months after consistently using the supplement (and following the advice of the telehealth experts) can showcase how your cellular health is improving.

One of the team members at Breaking Muscle went through this Lifeforce Diagnostics test, and he was amazed at the professionalism of the team as well as the preciseness and quality of the information he received from it. He especially liked the convenience factor of having a phlebotomist come to the location of his choice. It’s very easy to schedule and the whole process takes less than 10 minutes from the comfort of your home.

Why didn’t Peak NMN get a perfect score? My only gripe with the supplement is the dosage of NMN. Sure, it provides 375 milligrams per serving, which may be enough if you’re new to NMN and want to avoid potential side effects like digestive issues and skin irritation. But what happens when your body adjusts, and you want to take a dosage closer to 1,000 milligrams (the higher end of the recommended daily dose)? 

Compare the 375 milligrams of NMN in Peak NMN to the 900 milligram serving in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN – A huge difference. If you want to get close to this when taking Peak NMN, you’ll have to either double the dose or take a separate NMN supplement. If you choose the latter, I’d recommend going with our choice for the best budget NMN supplement, Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+, to save some cash.

Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement: Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

4.5

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving
• NMN per serving: 900 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

On a list of NMN supplements all claiming to reduce the impacts of aging, how does one stand above the rest as the best anti-aging NMN supplement?

For us, it’s all about a multi-targeted approach to fight the signs of aging. In other words, we want to see a supplement with multiple ingredients known for longevity benefits. And that’s what sets Wonderfeel Youngr NMN apart from the rest.

NMN is one of several anti-aging ingredients in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN. Let’s break down the ingredient list, starting from the top with vitamin D3. This is one of my favorite vitamins and one that I believe most people are lacking in.

Vitamin D3 is often associated with bone health, but it does so much more than that. When it comes to anti-aging benefits, vitamin D3 enhances immune function, supports cardiovascular health, and staves off cognitive decline. (14)

For men, vitamin D3 is especially important for hormonal health as it acts as a building block for testosterone. Low levels of testosterone are associated with weight gain, muscle loss, mood swings, and fatigue – All things that are pro-aging. (15)

Most importantly for our purposes, vitamin D3 is particularly useful because it seems to help stop the build-up of certain proteins that are commonly found in older people. Also, taking extra vitamin D3 may help reduce signs of aging at the cellular level, which suggests it might help to slow down how quickly we age biologically. (14)

There is one issue with the inclusion of vitamin D3 and it’s the exclusion of vitamin K2. When you take supplements, you want to try to pair or group ingredients that have a synergistic effect. In this case, vitamin K2 improves the bioavailability of vitamin D3. I’m not saying your body won’t see any benefit from the vitamin D3 in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN, but some level of bioavailability and potential benefit could be lacking thanks to the absence of vitamin K2.

NMN is the next ingredient on the list. What I love about Wonderfeel Youngr NMN is that it provides a dosage level that’s on the higher side at 900 milligrams per serving. As mentioned above, this is close to what David Sinclair takes on a daily basis.

Next up, we have trans-resveratrol. Again, this is another homerun ingredient. Trans-resveratrol is better than traditional resveratrol because it is the more bioavailable and biologically active form of the compound. While it is the preferred form of resveratrol, it is lacking in dosage at only 100 milligrams per serving. For reference, the standard dosage starts at 250 milligrams.

The next ingredient is olive fruit extract, which contains hydroxytyrosol, a powerful antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health by promoting healthy cholesterol levels and blood flow (circulation). It also has a lot of polyphenols and these compounds offer protective effects against oxidative stress—a key factor in aging—and inflammation, contributing to overall longevity. (16)

Finally, the ingredient list caps off with a super antioxidant known as ergothioneine, offering benefits for anti-aging, vascular health, and neuroprotection. It combats oxidative stress and inflammation, which reduces age-related cellular damage. It’s also thought to preserve telomeres, the chromosome endcaps that typically shorten with age. (17)

Cementing its place as the best anti-aging NMN supplement, is there anything that could make this supplement better? 

You bet! It is the first supplement on our list that focuses on earth-friendly packaging. Your first order will arrive in a durable and refillable glass bottle. After that, you’ll receive your supplement in completely recyclable and biodegradable pouches. Simply refill the glass bottle and recycle the pouch. Even if the pouch winds up in the garbage, it will break down within six to 42 months, leaving behind no trace of microplastics.

Do something positive for yourself while doing something productive for the environment.

Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement: Omre NMN + Resveratrol

Omre NMN + Resveratrol

4.5

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine 
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

When the longevity trend started, the abbreviations “NMN” and “NAD” were virtually unheard of. Instead, everyone was talking about resveratrol. Just because NMN is now taking center stage within the cellular health and longevity movement doesn’t mean resveratrol is obsolete. In fact, we recommend taking them both together. And that’s why our pick for the best NMN and resveratrol supplement is Omre NMN + Resveratrol.

What exactly is resveratrol?

A type of antioxidant known as a polyphenol, resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and berries as well as cocoa. Antioxidants fight against oxidative stress in your body, which is caused by an excess of free radicals. These are molecules that can damage cells and they are linked to several chronic diseases along with aging.

And this is where resveratrol comes in as an all-around longevity supplement. 

From a cardiovascular standpoint, resveratrol has been shown to support heart health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. Some research even suggests it can support healthy blood sugar levels. (Remember what we said above about blood sugar levels and aging?) (6)(7)

For our purposes, the most important benefits of resveratrol are its anti-aging properties, which include:

• DNA repair: Activates proteins called sirtuins, aiding in DNA repair and cellular health. (8)
• Antioxidant properties: Protects cells against oxidative stress, which contributes to aging. (9)
• Cognitive protection: Offers neuroprotective effects that may slow neurodegenerative diseases. (10)
• Cellular health: Improves mitochondrial function, leading to increased energy production and cellular vitality. (11)

Combining resveratrol with NMN may offer synergistic benefits. Most notably, the antioxidant activity of resveratrol complements the role of NMN in supporting mitochondrial (cellular) function.

I love the idea of combining two longevity heavy hitters. This is something you don’t see in many NMN supplements. And the fact that Omre uses trans-resveratrol earns it extra points. Why? Trans-resveratrol is the more bioavailable form of resveratrol meaning your body can properly ingest and assimilate the ingredient.

What’s more, both ingredients are dosed at 500 milligrams per serving, well within the same range used in studies and research. If you are interested in gradually building up to a higher dose, you can simply double your dose and you’ll be within the same range as longevity expert, David Sinclair.

Best Budget NMN Supplement: Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

3.5

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving
• NMN per serving: 250 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: No

Check Price

If there’s one thing that you’ll quickly notice about NMN supplements, it’s the price tag. The sticker shock is going to naturally lead to the question of whether the best budget NMN supplement exists and if it’s worth buying. Thankfully, that can be answered with a double “yes.”

Introducing Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+.

There are three major differences between Genuine Purity NMN and the rest of the options on this list: price, dosage, and bioavailability.

Let’s start with the obvious one: price. Even if you purchase a single bottle of Genuine Purity, you’re only paying $1.17 per serving, which is half of what some of the other brands are charging. If you want an insanely good deal for inexpensive supplements, you can’t beat buying one year’s worth upfront.

But there’s a reason for the lower price point and it has to do with ingredients and dosage. The only ingredient you’ll find in Genuine Purity is NMN. So, if you want those other ingredients that support longevity and cellular health, you’ll have to buy them separately and build your own stack. This is something I highly recommend. Not only can it be more cost-effective, but you’re guaranteed to get the proper dosage.

Speaking of dosages, you’ll see that it’s on the lower end of what the major studies used. Most of the studies mentioned above used anywhere from 250 milligrams to 1,250 milligrams. Genuine Purity provides 250 milligrams of NMN, which is among the lowest on our list. It isn’t bad if you’re just starting out and you want to see how your body responds to NMN, but for the long term, you’ll need to double or triple the dosage. 

Here’s the thing about that: At this price point, that’s still a good deal! If you buy a year upfront, you can easily triple your dosage and it’ll still end up being cheaper than most of the other NMN supplements out there.

Finally, let’s talk about bioavailability, which might be a double-edged sword for Genuine Purity. On one hand, it uses liposomal delivery technology, which can significantly enhance the absorption of NMN into the bloodstream. Liposomal delivery means that the NMN is encased in a sort of protective bubble made from lipids (fats). As a result, the NMN can bypass the harsh acids in the digestive system and get delivered directly into the cells where it’s needed most. (12)

On the other hand, not all liposomal products are created equal. The quality and size of the liposomes, as well as the stability of the liposomal structure, can greatly affect the uptake of NMN. Luckily, Genuine Purity claims to use high-quality liposomal encapsulation to ensure that you’re getting the most out of each serving.

One final point about bioavailability involves the shelf stability of the product. NMN supplements are notorious for having a poor shelf life. Yes, brands do spend the extra cash to ensure a longer shelf life like Lifeforce: Peak NMN. However, Genuine Purity doesn’t mention anything about an extended shelf life. As I mentioned above, if your aim is to take double or triple the serving size, shelf life isn’t something you’ll need to worry about.

Best Pure NMN Supplement: partiQlar Pure NMN

partiQlar Pure NMN

4.0

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

It should come as no surprise that the quality of supplements can range drastically. Take protein supplements as an example. If you buy whey protein concentrate, you might be getting a product that’s only 60% protein. If you buy whey protein isolate, you’ll get a hyper-filtered product that can deliver over 99% protein per serving. Both are protein supplements, but one is vastly superior to the other in terms of purity.

And the same goes for NMN supplements.

Purity or how much NMN you’re getting in every serving can vary wildly depending on the brand. On our list, we made sure to find products that had no less than 96% purity, which is the minimum you should always look for when shopping for an NMN supplement. With a product that pure, does it really matter which one you choose? 

Absolutely. Those last few purity points can really make a difference especially if it’s paired with a bioavailability delivery system ensuring optimal uptake.

When it comes to the best pure NMN supplement, partiQlar Pure NMN gets our vote for three reasons: a pure product, a knack for transparency, and an awesome team.

partiQlar’s NMN boasts an industry-leading purity that exceeds 99% and that’s a huge deal. This isn’t just some marketing ploy, it’s a claim that’s backed up by independent third-party laboratory testing. If you visit the official website, you’ll see that all the test results are right there on the homepage. (13)

Aside from the absurdly high purity of partiQlar’s NMN, one of the factors that I noticed is how transparent they are about the team behind the product. Not only is this pretty uncommon for NMN supplements, but you’d be hard-pressed to find this transparency with any supplement.

Knowing who is making your product means you can become a Google investigator and do your research for your own peace of mind (and to appease your supplement OCD). Very long story short: partiQlar sources their NMN from Effepharm. According to the official website, they are supposedly renowned for their research and development team of U.S. specialists along with their rigorous testing process.

Continuing with the idea of transparency and testing, partiQlar upholds rigorous standards to align with USP (United States Pharmacopeia) quality benchmarks. Also, the production facilities responsible for crafting partiQlar’s NMN are recognized by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL), reflecting adherence to the stringent Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines.

Now, with that said, adhering to GMP guidelines is commonplace even if a supplement doesn’t specifically mention it on their website. Supplement manufacturers in the United States must adhere to GMP standards in order to operate. So, while it’s not exactly unique, it is nice to know that your supplements are in good hands.

In short, with an elite team, production facilities, and third-party testing, partiQlar is serious about the purity and effectiveness of its NMN.

What Is NMN?

Aside from being almost impossible to pronounce correctly on the first try, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) has an essential role in all cellular functions. 

The catch is that NAD levels naturally decline as you get older. This can lead to a variety of age-related health issues like slowing metabolism and cellular dysfunction. In a vicious cycle, the less NAD you have, the worse these issues get and the faster you age.

Enter nicotinamide mononucleotide, or NMN, a precursor to NAD. 

Put simply, NMN is what your body uses to make more NAD. Recent studies and praise from longevity experts like David Sinclair have sparked interest in NMN supplements to naturally boost NAD levels. 

The goal? To fight back against age-related decline in cellular health while improving overall longevity.

Benefits of Taking NMN

As a precursor to NAD, research suggests several potential health benefits associated with NMN supplementation:

Anti-Aging and Longevity 

NMN has exhibited numerous potential benefits against aging in different animal studies, including better metabolism and protection against diseases that come with age. Research suggests it may boost energy management within the body and enhance the body’s response to insulin as well as overall blood fat levels. (19)

Increased Energy Metabolism and Physical Activity

Supplementation with NMN has been suggested to improve energy expenditure and physical activity. A study indicated that NMN supplementation enhances neuronal function and physical activity, suggesting it may prevent the decline in energy metabolism associated with aging​​. (20)

Enhanced Physical Endurance and Metabolism

Continuing with the point above, research has found that NMN supplementation can improve endurance capacity, particularly in amateur runners, by enhancing oxygen delivery to muscle tissue and bringing energy to cells that are depleted during exercise​​. (20)

Cognitive and Cardiovascular Health

NMN supplementation has been linked to improved neuronal function in the brain and is suggested to have preventive and therapeutic potential in vascular cognitive impairment. (21)

How Long Does It Take for NMN to Start Working?

The one thing that I can’t stress enough is that NMN supplements are not like your favorite pre-workout supplements. You’re not going to feel them kick in with a bang after 20 minutes.

While several prominent biohackers suggest that you can use NMN as a nootropic (cognitive focus) supplement, I don’t agree with this. I believe the idea with NMN supplements is to promote improved cognitive function over the long term.

Besides, most nootropic-focused NMN supplements also contain other fast-acting ingredients that you’ll feel right away like caffeine and theobromine. Be sure not to confuse longevity supplements with nootropics.

It’s important to keep in mind that NMN is a long-term investment in your cellular health and overall longevity. So, don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Stay consistent with your NMN supplement. The best way to determine if NMN is working for you is to take a biological age test once every several months and compare the differences. As mentioned above, we highly recommend Lifeforce Diagnostic, which measures more than 40 biomarkers and includes a personalized plan to optimize your health.

What Is the Best Way to Take NMN?

Hands down, the gold standard of absorption is intravenous. If you have the money and the time, you can find NAD drips at your local health spa. The results are immediate with many people citing a difference in how they feel the same day and throughout the week. The catch? NAD drips are notorious for making you nauseous. They are also extremely pricey. 

The simpler and more affordable way is with the NMN supplement.

NMN can be a bit finicky when it comes to how it’s best absorbed. The consensus is that sublingual (under the tongue) absorption is the way to go. This method allows NMN to bypass your digestive system and head straight into your bloodstream for faster results.

How Much NMN Should I Take Per Day?

This really depends on how comfortable you are with taking a “David Sinclair dose.” Some people jump right into taking 1,000 milligrams per day. 

But if you want to play it safe, many beginners start with around 250 milligrams to 500 milligrams per day. This is a good baseline to see how your body responds. As you continue to take the NMN supplement, you can gradually increase the dosage, but only if it makes sense for your goals and budget. 

What To Consider When Looking for an NMN Supplement

When shopping for an NMN supplement, here are some of the key factors to keep in mind:

Your Goals

When looking for an NMN supplement, I suggest asking yourself, “What do I want to accomplish by taking this?” 

• Do you want to support long-term longevity in your body and brain? 
• Are you looking to lower your biological (cellular) age?
• Or are you looking for something fast-acting that can help you focus?

If the first two goals sound like what you’re after, then an NMN supplement can be a great complement to a healthy diet and exercise program.

If you’re more interested in that third goal, an NMN supplement isn’t going to give you what you’re after. As I mentioned above, although NMN is sometimes marketed as a nootropic, it’s not going to give you a feeling comparable to caffeine. Only stimulants will do that and NMN is not a stimulant.

So, before you buy an NMN supplement, make sure it aligns with what you’re trying to accomplish in your health journey.

Recommended Dosage

The typical dosage for NMN supplements ranges between 250 milligrams and 1,250 milligrams. 

Should you start with a lower dosage? That really depends on your comfort level. 

Plenty of people jump right into taking 1,000 milligrams per day without any issues. If you’re someone who is new to NMN or supplements in general, consider starting out with 250 milligrams. If your body responds well to this dosage for a few weeks, gradually increase it. You can do that by simply doubling the serving that you’re currently taking.

With all that said, always consider speaking with a healthcare provider to help tailor your choice of the proper dosage based on your medical history and goals.

Ingredients and Ingredient Quality

You know you want to take an NMN supplement and you’re confident about the dosage. Now it’s time to make sure you’re getting quality ingredients. 

Here are several factors to look for when buying an NMN supplement:

• Purity: Buy an NMN supplement that contains at least 96 percent purity.
• Third-party testing: Look for products that have been third-party tested for quality assurance.
• Certifications: Certifications such as GMP or NSF signify a product’s high-quality manufacturing.
• Complementary ingredients: Check that added ingredients enhance efficacy and offer additional health benefits.
• Additives and fillers: Avoid supplements with unnecessary additives, fillers, or any low-quality ingredients.
• Product reviews and company reputation: Research the manufacturer’s reputation and read customer reviews to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of the product.

Safety

NMN supplements shouldn’t be a gamble. You should be able to confidently take your choice of supplement without worrying about your safety. 

Here are some tips to keep yourself safe when shopping for NMN supplements:

• Check for interactions with medications. If you are currently taking medication, it’s crucial to understand how NMN might interact with those medications. Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure there are no potential negative interactions.
• Ensure the supplement is backed by clinical research. Look for supplements that have been supported by clinical research. While research on NMN is still emerging, some products may have more scientific backing than others.
• Ensure the brand adheres to safe manufacturing standards. Check to see if the supplement is produced in facilities that follow high safety standards, such as GMP-certified facilities. This ensures that the product is made with a high degree of consistency and control.

Potential Side Effects

NMN supplements are usually very safe and easy to handle. Still, some side effects have been reported, including the following:

• Digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating and indigestion
• Skin irritation and allergic reactions
• Flushing and headaches

If you experience any of these, reducing the dosage or discontinuing use may be necessary. Either way, I’d recommend speaking with your doctor. Also, be sure to check the ingredient label to ensure the side effects are coming from the NMN and not another ingredient.

If you’re concerned about the potential side effects of NMN supplements, start with a lower dosage like 250 milligrams, and gradually increase it to gauge your body’s tolerance. Keep a close watch on your body’s reactions after starting NMN supplementation. Any new or unexpected symptoms should be taken seriously and discussed with a healthcare provider.

How To Get the Best Results from an NMN Supplement

There’s more to throwing a supplement capsule in your mouth and going about your day. If you want to get the most from your NMN supplement, here are several tips to consider:

Be Consistent

Above all, if you want to see results, you need to be consistent with taking your supplement. When taken at the same time each day, NMN supplements can help maintain stable levels of NAD in the body. 

In addition to consistency, the timing of your NMN dose might play a role in its efficacy. (And I stress the word “might.”)

There’s some evidence to suggest that taking NMN in the morning could align with your body’s natural rhythms for producing NAD. 

On the other hand, I’ve read that some experts recommend taking NMN at night to help with sleep. 

Does it matter? Overall, I’d recommend finding a time that works best for you and sticking with it. Better to be consistent with taking the supplement than trying to time it perfectly amidst a chaotic schedule and missing doses.

Remember That Diet and Exercise Come First 

Don’t forget, supplements are just part of the equation. As I always say to my clients, “Supplements are supplemental.” They should never be the star of the show – That privilege belongs to diet and exercise.

Eating right and staying active are essential if you want to see the best results. Before considering supplements, I’d suggest reviewing your current fitness and meal plan. Could they use some work? If so, then focus your time, energy, and money on those first.

Once your foundations with food and fitness are solid, then you can bring supplements into the mix.

Consider Synergistic Supplements

Assuming your diet and exercise program are all taken care of, you can look at longevity supplements beyond NMN.

While incredible on its own, NMN can be part of a broader supplement strategy. For example, combining NMN with resveratrol, a compound that also supports cellular health, may enhance the effects of NMN.

This isn’t a requirement but something to consider if your goal is to optimize anti-aging benefits and longevity.

Monitoring Progress and Adjust

Finally, I’d recommend keeping track of how you feel before and after starting the NMN supplement. Use the notepad on your phone and track any changes in energy levels, cognitive function, and overall wellness to gauge the supplement’s effectiveness.

Outside of noting how you feel, if you’re serious about tracking your results, I’d suggest a biomarkers panel test like the one Lifeforce offers. Doing this every quarter or every six months will give you the best idea of how you’re progressing and the changes you might need to make, especially if you’re chatting with a longevity expert.

Final Thoughts

I’m glad that longevity is finally a big focus in the industry. I’m ecstatic when clients ask me questions about living a longer life AND feeling better during those extended years.

Most importantly, I believe that NMN supplements have the potential to play an important role in achieving those anti-aging goals.

However, I’m still a big believer in the basics. 

There’s no “magic pill” that’s going to keep you young forever — at least, not yet there isn’t. Until that day arrives, I can’t stress this enough: Focus on mastering your nutritional choices, get consistent with an exercise program, and consider mental health exercises like meditation so you can live a well-balanced, healthy life. Once these are in order, you can complement your lifestyle with NMN supplements.

Best NMN Supplement: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best NMN Supplement Overall	Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement	Best Budget NMN Supplement	Best Pure NMN Supplement	Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement
Lifeforce Peak NMN	Omre NMN + Resveratrol	Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+	partiQlar Pure NMN	Wonderfeel Youngr NMN
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.5
Description: Daily dose: Three capsules Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving NMN per serving: 375 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium Third-party testing: No	Description: Daily dose: Two capsules Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving NMN per serving: 500 milligrams Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine  Third-party testing: Yes	Description: Daily dose: One capsule Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving NMN per serving: 250 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide Third-party testing: No	Description: Daily dose: One capsule Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving NMN per serving: 500 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide Third-party testing: Yes	Description: Daily dose: Two capsules Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving NMN per serving: 900 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine Third-party testing: Yes
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best NMN Supplement Overall

Lifeforce Peak NMN

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving
• NMN per serving: 375 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium
• Third-party testing: No

Check Price

Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement

Omre NMN + Resveratrol

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine 
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

Best Budget NMN Supplement

Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving
• NMN per serving: 250 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: No

Check Price

Best Pure NMN Supplement

partiQlar Pure NMN

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement

Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving
• NMN per serving: 900 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

FAQs

Research

1. Rungratanawanich, W., Qu, Y., Wang, X. et al. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and other adducts in aging-related diseases and alcohol-mediated tissue injury. Exp Mol Med 53, 168–188 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s12276-021-00561-7.
2. Liang Y, Xu X, Yin M, Zhang Y, Huang L, Chen R, Ni J. Effects of berberine on blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic literature review and a meta-analysis. Endocr J. 2019 Jan 28;66(1):51-63. doi: 10.1507/endocrj.EJ18-0109. Epub 2018 Nov 3. PMID: 30393248.
3. Thondre, P.S., Lightowler, H., Ahlstrom, L. et al. Mulberry leaf extract improves glycaemic response and insulaemic response to sucrose in healthy subjects: results of a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutr Metab (Lond) 18, 41 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-021-00571-2.
4. Kiechl S, Pechlaner R, Willeit P, Notdurfter M, Paulweber B, Willeit K, Werner P, Ruckenstuhl C, Iglseder B, Weger S, Mairhofer B, Gartner M, Kedenko L, Chmelikova M, Stekovic S, Stuppner H, Oberhollenzer F, Kroemer G, Mayr M, Eisenberg T, Tilg H, Madeo F, Willeit J. Higher spermidine intake is linked to lower mortality: a prospective population-based study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2018 Aug 1;108(2):371-380. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy102. PMID: 29955838.
5. Igarashi, M., Nakagawa-Nagahama, Y., Miura, M. et al. Chronic nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation elevates blood nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels and alters muscle function in healthy older men. npj Aging 8, 5 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41514-022-00084-z.
6. Tomé-Carneiro J, Gonzálvez M, Larrosa M, Yáñez-Gascón MJ, García-Almagro FJ, Ruiz-Ros JA, García-Conesa MT, Tomás-Barberán FA, Espín JC. One-year consumption of a grape nutraceutical containing resveratrol improves the inflammatory and fibrinolytic status of patients in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Am J Cardiol. 2012 Aug 1;110(3):356-63. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2012.03.030. Epub 2012 Apr 19. PMID: 22520621.
7. Zhu X, Wu C, Qiu S, Yuan X, Li L. Effects of resveratrol on glucose control and insulin sensitivity in subjects with type 2 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2017 Sep 22;14:60. doi: 10.1186/s12986-017-0217-z. PMID: 29018489; PMCID: PMC5610395.
8. Baur JA, Sinclair DA. Therapeutic potential of resveratrol: the in vivo evidence. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2006 Jun;5(6):493-506. doi: 10.1038/nrd2060. Epub 2006 May 26. PMID: 16732220.
9. Leonard SS, Xia C, Jiang BH, Stinefelt B, Klandorf H, Harris GK, Shi X. Resveratrol scavenges reactive oxygen species and effects radical-induced cellular responses. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2003 Oct 3;309(4):1017-26. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2003.08.105. PMID: 13679076.
10. Jang JH, Surh YJ. Protective effect of resveratrol on beta-amyloid-induced oxidative PC12 cell death. Free Radic Biol Med. 2003 Apr 15;34(8):1100-10. doi: 10.1016/s0891-5849(03)00062-5. PMID: 12684095.
11. Lagouge M, Argmann C, Gerhart-Hines Z, Meziane H, Lerin C, Daussin F, Messadeq N, Milne J, Lambert P, Elliott P, Geny B, Laakso M, Puigserver P, Auwerx J. Resveratrol improves mitochondrial function and protects against metabolic disease by activating SIRT1 and PGC-1alpha. Cell. 2006 Dec 15;127(6):1109-22. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2006.11.013. Epub 2006 Nov 16. PMID: 17112576.
12. Gopi S, Balakrishnan P. Evaluation and clinical comparison studies on liposomal and non-liposomal ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and their enhanced bioavailability. J Liposome Res. 2021 Dec;31(4):356-364. doi: 10.1080/08982104.2020.1820521. Epub 2020 Oct 6. PMID: 32901526.
13. “Quality.” partiQlar, 6 Jan. 2023, partiqlar.com/quality/.
14. Fantini C, Corinaldesi C, Lenzi A, Migliaccio S, Crescioli C. Vitamin D as a Shield against Aging. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Feb 25;24(5):4546. doi: 10.3390/ijms24054546. PMID: 36901976; PMCID: PMC10002864.
15. Pilz S, Frisch S, Koertke H, Kuhn J, Dreier J, Obermayer-Pietsch B, Wehr E, Zittermann A. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Horm Metab Res. 2011 Mar;43(3):223-5. doi: 10.1055/s-0030-1269854. Epub 2010 Dec 10. PMID: 21154195.
16. D’Angelo C, Franceschelli S, Quiles JL, Speranza L. Wide Biological Role of Hydroxytyrosol: Possible Therapeutic and Preventive Properties in Cardiovascular Diseases. Cells. 2020 Aug 21;9(9):1932. doi: 10.3390/cells9091932. PMID: 32825589; PMCID: PMC7565717.
17. Paul BD. Ergothioneine: A Stress Vitamin with Antiaging, Vascular, and Neuroprotective Roles? Antioxid Redox Signal. 2022 Jun;36(16-18):1306-1317. doi: 10.1089/ars.2021.0043. Epub 2021 Dec 7. PMID: 34619979; PMCID: PMC9221166.
18. Shade C. The Science Behind NMN-A Stable, Reliable NAD+Activator and Anti-Aging Molecule. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2020 Feb;19(1):12-14. PMID: 32549859; PMCID: PMC7238909.
19. Mills KF, Yoshida S, Stein LR, Grozio A, Kubota S, Sasaki Y, Redpath P, Migaud ME, Apte RS, Uchida K, Yoshino J, Imai SI. Long-Term Administration of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Mitigates Age-Associated Physiological Decline in Mice. Cell Metab. 2016 Dec 13;24(6):795-806. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2016.09.013. Epub 2016 Oct 27. PMID: 28068222; PMCID: PMC5668137.
20. Liao B, Zhao Y, Wang D, Zhang X, Hao X, Hu M. Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation enhances aerobic capacity in amateur runners: a randomized, double-blind study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021 Jul 8;18(1):54. doi: 10.1186/s12970-021-00442-4. PMID: 34238308; PMCID: PMC8265078.
21. Tarantini S, Valcarcel-Ares MN, Toth P, Yabluchanskiy A, Tucsek Z, Kiss T, Hertelendy P, Kinter M, Ballabh P, Süle Z, Farkas E, Baur JA, Sinclair DA, Csiszar A, Ungvari Z. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) supplementation rescues cerebromicrovascular endothelial function and neurovascular coupling responses and improves cognitive function in aged mice. Redox Biol. 2019 Jun;24:101192. doi: 10.1016/j.redox.2019.101192. Epub 2019 Apr 10. PMID: 31015147; PMCID: PMC6477631.

The post Best NMN Supplement: Fountain of Youth in a Bottle? (2025) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

But not all wrist wraps are created equal. Depending on your goals, preferences, and type of training, you’ll need a different style of wrist wrap. Some wraps are longer and stiffer, while others are shorter and more comfortable. Whether you’re into bodybuilding, powerlifting, weightlifting, or CrossFit, you’ll find the ideal pair of wrist wraps on this list for you.

How We Chose the Best Wrist Wraps

We’re a diverse team of certified fitness experts, exercise enthusiasts, and knowledgeable product testers. We have dozens of years of combined experience using wrist wraps for various activities and sports, and we tried out more than a dozen different pairs of wrist wraps specifically for this guide.

To help you choose the best wrist wraps for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the eight top-rated wrist wraps on the market. We’ve reviewed their features, benefits, pros, and cons and compared them. During testing, we judged wrist wraps on their materials and construction, length and stiffness, closure mechanism, price, and more — rating each wrist wrap with a score between 1 to 5.

Our Top Picks for the Best Wrist Wraps

• Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps
• Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps
• Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

The Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps offer great wrist support. They’re 18 inches long, which gives you at least two wraps around your wrist if you have an average build. I find the 18-inch length to be just right; it’s not so long that there’s a ton of bulk on my wrists due to the extra material, and their support is adequate for most weight training exercises.

Their three-inch width provides plenty of wrist coverage, covering enough of the base of your hand and wrist area for the wrap to do its job. Also, the cotton-elastic blend gives enough stretch for solid compression and wrist support in your workouts. I especially like the blended material of these wraps  — they’re soft, and the cotton breathes enough to help avoid excess sweating in the first place.

Moreover, the Velcro closure system of the Classic Wrist Wraps is intuitive and easy to use. The thumb loop offers an excellent anchor point to help put them on tightly, and, unlike other brands, the double-stitching is high quality. I especially like how the Velcro section is sticky and well-sized. Some brands use such a long strip that can cause the extra material to hang off the end, which can get caught on things and unravel your wraps. Plus, the thumb loop makes it easy to hang over a hook to dry between workouts. 

One of my favorite features of the Iron Bull wraps is their multi-functionality. They’re suitable for various training styles, from bodybuilding and Olympic weightlifting to CrossFit and powerlifting.  Their 18-inch length and cotton-elastic blend make them lightweight on your wrists for the dynamic workouts of CrossFit and supportive enough for heavier powerlifting. This means that you can continue using them when you want to switch up your training styles without having to buy a different pair of wrist wraps.

Unfortunately, the Iron Bulls aren’t perfect. The 18-inch length is a solid general length, but most people with average wrists will only be able to get two revolutions of the wraps around their wrists. This means you’ll have less support on heavier lifts, which might be noticeable if you’re at an advanced level in powerlifting.

On that note, these wrist wraps are USPA, IPL, IWF, and USAW-approved… but they aren’t approved for use in the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). Suppose you’re a competitive powerlifter or aspire to compete in the highest level of powerlifting in the future and want to use wrist wraps in competition. In that case, this means you’d have to buy a separate pair that’s approved for IPF use — you might want to consider the SBD Wrist Wraps instead if that applies to you.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their great wrist support, easy-to-use Velcro closure system, and multi-functionality for different training styles. 

RELATED: Best Home Gym Equipment Essentials for Cardio, Strength Training, and More

Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

The standout feature of the SBD Wrist Wraps is that they’re IPF-approved. Investing in a pair of wrist wraps that you can practice with allows you to push your training harder, so you can (hopefully) get even stronger while getting comfortable using them before a competition. This way, you’ll step on the platform confidently in your support wear — letting you focus entirely on executing your attempts instead of worrying about your gear and how it’s fitting.

If you live and breathe powerlifting, these wrist wraps will not disappoint. They’re designed specifically for excellent wrist support; the thumb loop is heavy-duty and attached along industrial-grade fastening. But they didn’t stop there. 

SBD crafted them to match the maximum allowable width of 8 centimeters/3.15 inches, so you’ll get the best coverage between your hand and wrist for a solid cast-like level of support. They even have proprietary wide elastics in these wraps. One customer who bought the stiff mediums said they took a few times to break in, but after that, they give you the best protection from heavy weights. I’m seriously impressed and confident that whether you’re pushing new bench press PRs or back squat records, these wraps will help you hit them safely.

What surprised me the most about the SBDs is their range of lengths and stiffnesses. On their product page, they have three different lengths available: small (15.7 inches long), medium (23.6 inches long), or large (39.4 inches long). Combined with their detailed sizing chart, this means that whether you have small, average, or large wrists, you can find a wrist wrap length that will work great for you. 

Their two stiffness options, flexible or stiff, are built with varying amounts of polyester and rubber (elastic). For example, the flexible wraps have a 70% polyester-30% rubber blend that allows some wrist flexion and improved comfort due to the higher amount of polyester. The stiff wraps are woven with significantly more rubber, giving them more stretch and compression to fully immobilize your wrists. SBD mentions that most athletes will prefer the medium-length flexible wraps, but use their size guide to determine the ideal length for you.

These wrist wraps might be uncomfortable, especially if you choose their “stiff” option. One reviewer mentioned that their large-sized stiff wraps are excellent but can get really tight and start to cut off blood circulation to their wrists. 

When I didn’t see the material specs on their product page, a Breaking Muscle staff member reached out through their live chat and discovered that the stiff wrist wraps are 56 percent rubber (elastic) and 44 percent polyester blend. With over half the wraps’ material being elastic and zero cotton included, it’s no surprise these can be a tad uncomfortable.

It should come as no surprise that excellent quality comes at a price. At the time of writing, the SBDs retailed for $42.50. This makes them the most expensive wrist wraps out of all those featured in this article and possibly out of the budget of financially constrained lifters.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their IPF approval, excellent build quality and durability, and various length and stiffness options available.

Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps

DMoose Fitness Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Despite their affordable price, the DMOOSE Wrist wraps have a solid quality construction. The thumb loop features double stitching, so it will stand up to the rigorous Olympic lifts you’ll be performing with them. I found the Velcro fastening strip to be of good quality, so it won’t wear down within a couple of months as the poor-quality wrist wraps do.

These wrist wraps from DMOOSE are the best for weightlifting because, unlike other wrist wraps featured in this article, these have no polyester included. When woven with elastic, cotton is more flexible compared to polyester, and this pays off big time for the Olympic lifts. 

This lack of restriction allows you enough wrist mobility for your wrists to rotate freely in the snatch and to extend fully in the front rack portion of the clean and jerk. Despite its flexibility, the cotton-elastic blend still gives noticeable wrist support when the bar is extended overhead in the final step of both exercises.

I appreciate that these wrist wraps are offered in a 12-inch and an 18-inch option. The latter will fit and work well for average-sized wrists, but the former is still useful. Even though they’ll outgrow them, 12-inch long wrist wraps would be the ideal length for most teenagers because their bones are still growing, and the wrist wrap length they need is significantly smaller than that of the average adult. 

However, you might also find the 12-inch length useful if you are petite and/or have extremely small wrists – make sure to use the sizing chart before ordering a 12-inch size just to be sure it’s the right fit.

Although the 12-inch length is an option, I wouldn’t recommend it if you have average-sized wrists. 12 inches won’t give you enough length on the wraps to get an adequate number of revolutions for the wraps to provide significant support.

Sadly, it doesn’t look like these wrist wraps are approved for any weightlifting federations. This means that if you want to wear wrist wraps in a future weightlifting competition, you’ll have to invest in a separate pair to use them in both your training and your competitions.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their Olympic lifting-friendly design, two length options, and comfortable material.

Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps

2POOD Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

These are the best wrist wraps for CrossFit due to their lightweight, supportive design. Out of all the wrist wraps in this round-up article, this pair of 12-inch wraps is the shortest we’ve featured, but that’s good for CrossFit. 

The typical WOD can be up to 30 minutes of continuous movement, so the last thing you want to do is constantly tighten, loosen, and otherwise fiddle with your 18 to 24-inch wrist wraps. Thanks to their 12-inch length, you can’t apply the 2POODs super tight in the first place, so they’ll stay comfortable and non-constricting during the entire workout. 

Plus, the secure hook and loop closure means these wrist wraps won’t randomly fly off during your WOD, whether you’re crushing some dumbbell power snatches or butterfly pull-ups. One of our product testers explained that they could see these being an asset because you can set and forget them. 

Their cotton-polyester-elastic material is great for exercises like thrusters, where some extra wrist support can be helpful, but they won’t hamper the wrist mobility needed for handstand walks. Further, the Velcro part of the fastening system is easy to apply and adjust, so using these for the first time is a piece of cake even for beginners.

Sponsorships aren’t always an indicator of quality, but it’s hard to deny the influence that the 2POOD wrist wraps have on the CrossFit community. After all, these wrist wraps became the official wrist wraps of the NOBULL CrossFit Games. This means that they got a large amount of publicity from the athletes, who presumably ended up wearing them during the events, and the fans who attended in person or those who watched online.

Surprisingly, some customers have left reviews about how the Velcro isn’t quite what they had hoped for. Instead of the Velcro strip being higher quality and sticky, several customers mention that it didn’t last more than a month on their wrist wraps before it began deteriorating and losing its adhesiveness. For example, one customer left a note saying that the wrist wraps perform great, but they’ve been experiencing Velcro issues with one of them, so it’s not gripping as it should and is leaving them slightly disappointed.

Finally, the 2POOD wrist wraps aren’t IPF-approved, but I don’t think that matters much. Unlike the SBD wrist wraps, these aren’t designed to help you excel at powerlifting — they were made to assist your CrossFit performance.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their lightweight support, security, and easy-adjustability tension system.

Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

The Classic Wrist Wraps from Gymreapers are excellent for benching. They feature a heavy-duty thumb loop, so you can use your thumb to anchor the wrap down before cinching it tight. I especially appreciate the 30/70 elastic-polyester blend; this is stiffer than a cotton-elastic blend. The former is what you want when trying to bench press as much weight as possible because the more rigid polyester material will provide more stiffness. 

One customer said that these wraps have a lot of elasticity, which helps provide better support on heavy pushing movements because they’ll offer better support due to the amount of stretchiness in the material. Also, the three-inch width is generous and offers plenty of hand & wrist coverage for maximal support. 

Gymreapers has made a serious push to get their support wear certified by well-known federations, and it shows. Their wrist wraps are IPF, IPL, and USAPL-approved, which means that if you’re competing in any of these federations, you can practice with the same gear in your training as you’ll compete with on the platform for a competitive edge.

I’m blown away by their warranty, which offers a lifetime replacement — this is practically unheard of for wear-and-tear items. The benefit is that whether they fail due to a factory defect or regular old wear and tear, you have total peace of mind about getting a replacement for free. 

One commenter explained that even when they had a small issue with one of their wrist wraps, Gymreapers just sent another set. So, if you want complete peace of mind, I think these are worth it. Another reviewer mentioned that they used them all the way up to a 385-pound bench press, and they did the job. If they can hold up to a near-400-pound bench press, they can hold up to almost anything.

It’s great that they’re approved in multiple federations, but seriously strong bench pressers might not find the Gymreapers wrist wraps supportive enough. Due to their 18-inch length, these will only wrap around average-sized wrists twice instead of the three revolutions you’ll get with a 24-inch wrist wrap. Because you get one less revolution, these wraps will feel less supportive. On an elite bench press attempt, that lack of stability is not something you’ll typically want.

Compared to cotton wrist wraps, the elastic-polyester blend of the Classics is noticeably less comfortable. If you have sensitive skin or you bruise easily, you might not enjoy using these as much as you would a cotton-elastic wrist wrap like the DMOOSE Wrist Wraps.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their durable materials and construction, their approval for the IPF, IPL, and USAPL federations, and their lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

This is the second time we’ve featured the SBD Wrist Wraps in this article. Compared to the Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting section, we’ve included why they’re also our top choice for premium wrist wraps below.

First, the build quality of the SBD Wrist Wraps is excellent. From the extra-thick thumb loop with commercial-grade stitching to their proprietary wide elastics, these wrist wraps live up to the hype. That’s why we’ve named them twice on this list—their quality makes them worth the premium price point.

I’m impressed that they took note of the maximum allowable width from the IPF rules on wrist wrap dimensions and matched it. The 3.15-inch width means that your hands and wrists will get the most robust support on the market. But the story is far from over; SBD offers their wraps in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to fit as many lifters as possible while even catering to their wrap stiffness preferences. 

Yes, that’s right — they offer two stiffnesses to their wraps: “flexible” to allow more wrist movement and “stiff” to immobilize your wrist completely. With this quality and range of choice, it’s clear that they’re the premium wrist wrap option.

Many brands source their products from developing countries because it’s cheaper. Unfortunately, these savings often come at the expense of worse workers’ rights and unsafe manufacturing processes. The SBDs are designed and manufactured in Great Britain, so you’re supporting local manufacturing and jobs, which adds to the list of reasons these are the best premium wrist wraps.

Regarding support wear, SBD is the cream of the crop. Even though “SBD” means “Squat, Bench, Deadlift”, which refers to the power lifts themselves, the quality and workmanship that backs this brand could be why many of the top athletes in powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and Strongman/Strongwoman decide to sport this gear. 

With that in mind, it’s hard to go wrong with these wrist wraps when the SBD brand is trusted by many athletes at the top of their sport. Oh, and being approved by the most stringent powerlifting federation in the world (the IPF) is a nice touch, too.

For how well-made these are, I’m amazed at their affordability. The SBDs retail at just $42.50 and they have everything you expect in a premium wrist wrap: a sturdy yet flexible material with a secure closure system — all of which is manufactured in Great Britain. Coupled with their IPF approval, two stiffness options, and three lengths, they’re the ultimate choice for anyone who wants the best wrist wraps on the market.

Unfortunately, shipping fees are not waived. I wasn’t expecting the shipping to be free, but considering the premium price and small packaging compared to larger home gym equipment items, shipping could disappoint some shoppers. Full disclosure: I did a mock checkout with these wraps, and the 3-6 business day option with USPS was only $5.00 — nothing to get worked up about.

Lastly, these wrist wraps from SBD are all in metric sizes only. For instance, the lengths are 40, 60, and 100 centimeters for the small, medium, and large wraps — respectively. This may seem trivial, but as the premium wrist wrap option in this article, it would be great to see imperial sizes offered as well for American shoppers.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their excellent quality, sizing, and stiffness options, local manufacturing, and brand trust.

Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

These wrist wraps from Gymreapers are your ticket if you want a stiff level of wrist support. First, they’re made from more rigid cotton that’s less flexible than the Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps. There’s also a reinforced elastic material woven into the cotton that strengthens the main body of the wraps. The end features a longer, flexible area with the Gymreapers logo in silicone so that maximal compression can be applied to your wrist. Even the thumb loop is thicker and has more durable stitching to avoid tears and maximize durability. 

I’m glad there are multiple length options offered for these wrist wraps. Four sizes are available: 12-inch, 18-inch, 24-inch, and 36-inch. This means that whether you have a petite wrist, an average-sized wrist, or a larger wrist thickness, you can find an ideal fit for your wrist wraps. 

However, the extra-long 36-inch wrap also allows regular lifters to size up if they want. Doing so would let you get one or two additional revolutions around your wrists with the wraps, making them even tighter and maximizing their stiffness.

Similar to the Gymreapers Classics, the stiff wraps are backed by an impressive warranty — the lifetime replacement guarantee. This warranty stipulates that you can get a free replacement for your wrist wraps throughout their life. Defect issues are also covered at no cost.

The major downside to these wraps is that they’re simply not as comfortable as standard cotton wrist wraps because of the specific cotton and reinforced elastic materials. Discomfort is just the beginning, though. In the worst-case scenario, an over-zealous wrapping job could cause bruising or minor cuts in your skin.

Honestly, I’m shocked that these aren’t IPF-approved. The Classics from Gymreapers are certified for competition use in the IPF and have less robust specs than these, so I thought for sure the same would go for their stiff wrist wraps. Their compression and material would be ideal for competitive powerlifting, warranting a submission to the IPF-approved gear application process… maybe next year?

Lastly, these wrist wraps aren’t the most affordable. They retail closely to the other most expensive pair of wrist wraps in this list, around $30 at the time of writing, but you do appear to be able to save 10 percent on your order by entering your email address into the pop-up window on their website.

All the above considered; we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their stiff, heavy-duty construction, four length options, and lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

3.5

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

These Harbinger wrist wraps are the best budget option I found. It should come as no surprise that they’re widely affordable, roughly $16 at the time of publishing. Compared to the most expensive pair of wrist wraps on our list, the SBD Wrist Wraps, these budget-friendly ones cost you about a third of their price — before shipping fees. 

Speaking of shipping fees, these wrist wraps are sold on Amazon, which means that if you’re a Prime member, you can save even more! Two-day (or faster shipping) is often available to Prime members while shopping through Amazon, giving you access to their generous and convenient return policies.

For how well-priced these are, I’m pleasantly surprised with the features they have. They have what appears to be a decent-quality thumb loop, a durable elastic body, Velcro that looks like it will work for at least a few months, and an 18-inch length that will be suitable for most weight-lifting activities.

What caught my eye on the product page was the amount of praise these wrist wraps have received from customers. Harbinger is a well-known brand that’s been in business for years, but it’s comforting to know that most customers are happy with the quality of these wrist wraps. For example, they achieved a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon with over 4,400 reviews. 

One Breaking Muscle staff member also saw a special notice when viewing the page that said, “Customers usually keep this item” and explained that compared to similar products, the Harbinger wrist wraps had fewer returns than average. Perhaps that’s a testament to their excellent quality.

Unfortunately, I had no luck finding their construction material on the product listing. While I wouldn’t be surprised if these were made with an extra-cheap material to cut costs even further to generate a profit, they look like a cotton-elastic blend like many wrist wraps in this list. I think it’s pretty far-fetched to expect these to be IPF-approved, considering their budget-friendly price, so don’t expect to step on a competition platform with them any time soon.

All the above considered, we rank these 3.5 out of 5 stars for their budget-friendly price, inclusion of useful wrist wrap features, and availability of Amazon perks for Prime members.

Benefits of Using Wrist Wraps for Lifting

Wrist Stability and Support

The main benefit of using wrist wraps is stability. When worn correctly around the base of your hand and wrist, the stiffness and compression from the wrist wrap material prevent your wrist from moving — similar to how a cast immobilizes an injured limb. This effect is most noticeable in free-weight pressing exercises like the barbell bench press or barbell overhead press, where they limit wrist flexion and extension even when the weight is heavy.

However, wrist wraps will continue to support your wrists even if they flex or extend under load. For example, some lifters use wrist wraps to keep the wrists extended on their low-bar back squat, holding the barbell in the correct spot across their rear delts. Despite being bent backward with hundreds of pounds pushing down on them, powerlifters continue to set world records with extended wrists while squatting — and their wraps continue to keep their wrists safe even under these extreme loads.

Additional Support After Injury

Injuries to the hand, wrist, or forearm can sometimes prevent you from holding a barbell or dumbbell correctly, even after you’ve healed. In extreme cases, even a slight deviation from a neutral wrist position under heavy weight could cause severe pain and/or further injury. In these situations, wrist wraps may provide enough wrist stability, compression, and support for you to continue to exercise. Always consult your medical doctor to ensure you can train safely after an injury.

After breaking their wrist years ago, one of our Breaking Muscle staff members finds it still bothers them when they perform the barbell overhead press, even though it’s technically healed. Using wrist wraps on their heavier sets allows them to push the movement hard without wrist pain. 

Weight May Feel Lighter in Your Hands

The weight of a barbell in your hands can feel lighter or heavier depending on how tight you grip it. This is because of proprioception, which is how your body senses itself and the world around it. Proprioception is triggered by receptors in your skin, muscles, tendons, and joints that send signals to your brain. The more you squeeze the barbell, the more signals you send, and the more aware you are of the weight and body position. 

When applied tightly, the compression on your forearm muscles from wrist wraps can make your fingers curl inward, making your grip stronger than usual. This is why some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. They make you feel more confident and strong — so wrist wraps can provide a psychological benefit that might encourage you to lift heavier or push for more reps than you would without them.

When Should You Use Wrist Wraps?

Generally, you’ll want to wear wrist wraps on exercises where force pushes down into your wrist joint — the most common examples are below.

Pressing exercises

Bench presses and overhead presses are the most popular lifts to use wrist wraps for. During these exercises, maintaining a neutral wrist position is helpful to transfer force more efficiently into the implement you’re lifting. Wrist wraps are often used with the free-weight variations of these pressing exercises, but they can still provide noticeable benefits when used on their machine variations, too.

Back squats

Surprisingly, wrist wraps can also be an asset on back squats — particularly low-bar back squats. Since the low-bar position requires the barbell to be placed lower on your back across your rear delts, this style sometimes forces lifters to hold their wrists in extension to keep the bar in place. Unfortunately, this position can be painful with hundreds of pounds pushing downward — wrist wraps can help absorb the load and make the position painless.

Olympic lifts 

You should also consider wearing wrist wraps on Olympic lifts like snatches and clean & jerks. Although the first part of each lift is a pull from the floor, both movements finish overhead in a position that will put downward pressure on your wrists. The issue is that both exercises, especially the clean and jerk, require a significant amount of wrist mobility during the initial parts of the movement. For this reason, consider using a shorter wrist wrap and/or experiment with the tightness and technique of how you put them on.

Deadlifts

As mentioned previously, some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. This is because the compression on your finger-flexing muscles can cause your hand to close, which can trick you into thinking you have a stronger grip. The key is to make a fist and wrap the wrist wraps as tightly as you can.

Most of the time, you’ll find lifting straps more helpful on deadlifts than wrist wraps. However, they might be worth practicing with and using if your federation allows them to be used in competition — because wrist straps almost certainly won’t be permitted. 

What to Consider When Buying Wrist Wraps

Materials and Construction

Wrist wraps are usually made of a thumb loop on one end, an elastic body, and a Velcro closure system on the other end. The thumb loop helps to secure the wrap around your wrist, while the elastic body provides support and stability for your wrist joint. The Velcro closure system allows you to adjust the tightness and fit of the wrap according to your preference and comfort.

There are different types of materials used for wrist wraps, such as a cotton-elastic blend or a tri-blend of elastic, polyester, and cotton. Cotton and elastic wraps are softer and more breathable, but they may stretch over time and lose their elasticity. Elastic, polyester, and cotton blends are more durable and resistant to stretching, but they may be less comfortable and more prone to causing skin irritation.

Another important factor to consider is the construction of the wrist wraps, especially the seams. Since wrist wraps are subjected to a lot of pulling and tension during use, they should have strong and sturdy seams that can withstand the stress. Double-stitched seams are recommended at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, the anchor point that gets the most tension when you put on the wrist wraps. You should also check the quality of the Velcro and make sure it is not too rough or too weak.

Similar to knee sleeves, there’s a significant amount of pulling and tension involved in using wrist wraps. They should have double-stitched seams at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, because that’s the anchor point that gets the most tension when the wrist wraps are being put on.

Length

The length of wrist wraps can range from 12 inches up to 36 inches long. Here are the most common lengths.

• Twelve inches is a good length for teenagers due to their still-developing bones and for adults with extremely small wrists. Additionally, 12-inch lengths are suitable for CrossFit because they provide lightweight support without compromising the high degree of wrist mobility needed in the sport.
• Eighteen inches can be great for those with smaller wrists and Olympic weightlifting; because of the shorter length, they won’t wrap around your wrists as many times, which can give you more mobility in your snatches and cleans while still giving some support for your jerks.
• Twenty-four inches is the sweet spot for most people because this length allows for about three wraps around the average person’s wrist, which is just right for providing a noticeable level of support.
• Thirty-six inches is starting to get excessively long. Ordinary people will find these wrap around your wrists a lot, which can add too much bulk to your wrist area. That said, some folks with large wrists may find that the 36-inch length gives enough revolutions to provide adequate support. Also, experienced powerlifters can sometimes prefer four to six wraps around their wrists than the standard two to three that 20-inch wraps will offer.

Stiffness

One of the main factors to consider when buying wrist wraps is stiffness, which depends on two things: the material and the length. 

Wrist wraps with a blend of cotton, elastic, and polyester will provide more tension than those only made from cotton and elastic. This means they will support your wrists better and prevent injuries, but they will also limit your range of motion and flexibility. 

Longer wraps also allow you to perform more wraps around your wrist, increasing stiffness and stability. However, too many wraps can cut off blood circulation and cause discomfort. Therefore, you should choose the stiffness level that suits your goals and preferences.

Type of Training

Different types of training will require different types of wrist wraps. Depending on your goals and preferences, choose wrist wraps that suit your specific needs. Here are some common types and the corresponding wrist wraps that may work best for them:

• General fitness: If you’re doing general fitness exercises, such as push-ups, dumbbell presses, or kettlebell swings, you won’t need heavy or stiff wrist wraps. You can opt for lighter and more flexible wrist wraps that provide enough support that you’d find in a 12-inch length.
• Powerlifting: If you’re doing powerlifting exercises, such as the back squat and bench press, you’ll need more rigid and supportive wrist wraps to handle heavy loads and prevent wrist injuries. You should opt for thicker and stiffer wrist wraps with more elasticity and less give. 24-inch is a great length or 36-inches for advanced powerlifters.
• Olympic lifting: If you’re doing Olympic lifting exercises, such as snatch, clean, or jerk, you’ll need more flexible and dynamic wrist wraps that can allow you to move your wrists freely and quickly. Opt for thinner and softer wrist wraps made from a cotton-elastic blend and are no longer than 18 inches.
• CrossFit: If you’re doing CrossFit exercises, such as thrusters, burpees, and pull-ups, you’ll need shorter and less compressive wrist wraps that can handle different movements and extended workout periods. You should opt for lightweight wrist wraps that are made from cotton and are between 12 to 18 inches long.
• Strongman/Strongwoman: If you’re doing strongman/strongwoman exercises, such as atlas stones, farmer’s walk, or log press, you’ll need durable and resilient wrist wraps that can withstand extreme pressure and abrasion. Choose stiff wrist wraps made from a tri-blend for high elasticity and low give — the 24 to 36-inch length is ideal for this sport.

Competition Approval

If you plan to compete in powerlifting meets, you may need to check if the governing bodies approve your wrist wraps for those sports. Different federations may have different rules and regulations regarding the specifications and usage of wrist wraps.

For example, the IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) is the world’s leading powerlifting federation that organizes international events like the World Powerlifting Championships. The IPF has strict rules on the size, material, design, and brand of wrist wraps that can be used in competitions. The maximum length of wrist wraps is one meter (39 inches), and the maximum width is eight centimeters (three inches). The IPF also has a list of approved brands that can be used in its competitions.

You should always check with the competition organizers before using wrist wraps to ensure they comply with their rules.

Final Thoughts

Wrist wraps are a valuable accessory for anyone who wants to improve their performance and protect their wrists from injury. They come in different sizes, colors, styles, and stiffness levels. When buying wrist wraps, you should consider the material and the length of the wrap, as they affect the tension and support the wrap provides.

Best Wrist Wraps: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Wrist Wraps Overall	Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit	Best Wrist Wraps for Benching	Best Stiff Wrist Wraps	Best Budget Wrist Wraps
Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps	SBD Wrist Wraps	DMoose Wrist Wraps	2POOD Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps	Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 3.5
Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff) Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L) Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 12 or 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend Length: 12 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend  Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Not listed Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps Overall

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting

SBD Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting

DMoose Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit

2POOD Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for Benching

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

Best Stiff
Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

Best Budget Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price