When it comes to pre-workout supplements, finding a product that delivers on both performance and quality can be a challenge. With so many options on the market, it’s important to look beyond the marketing claims and dig into the ingredient profiles. Factors like dosage levels, clinical effectiveness, and potential side effects play a crucial role in determining if a pre-workout supplement is worth adding to your routine.
In this review, I’ll break down the ingredients in Xwerks Ignite and explain how each one contributes to its potential performance-boosting benefits. I’ll also cover dosage levels and how the supplement performed during real-world workouts. As a certified sports nutrition coach, I put Xwerks Ignite to the test across multiple training sessions to see how well it enhances focus, workout stamina, and overall performance.
If you’re searching for a new pre-workout to elevate your fitness routine or simply wondering if Xwerks Ignite lives up to its claims, this review will help you decide if it’s the right product to help support your health and fitness goals.
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.
Key product features
What you should know
Xwerks Ignite features all the primary active ingredients you’d expect from a quality pre-workout supplement, including caffeine, L-citrulline malate, and beta-alanine. However, the dosage levels are approximately half of what you’d find in the strongest pre-workout powders on the market. While this might be a drawback for some, it makes Ignite an excellent option for individuals new to pre-workout supplements or those who are sensitive to caffeine.
- Available in four flavors, Xwerks Ignite is among the best tasting pre-workout supplements available. Our testers particularly enjoyed the green apple and orange varieties, highlighting the perfect balance of sweetness and excellent solubility as key factors for their ratings.
- Ignite is priced competitively for a 30-serving pre-workout supplement, costing $1.63 per scoop. This provides solid value for those seeking a quality pre-workout supplement without breaking the bank.
- Xwerks Ignite is a moderately dosed pre-workout supplement that’s geared more toward beginners than advanced athletes and bodybuilders.
- This pre-workout contains BioPerine black pepper extract, which has been shown to enhance the bioavailability of the other active ingredients in the formulation. (1)
Our take on Xwerks Ignite
Xwerks is a performance-focused supplement company offering a range of products, including protein powder, electrolytes, creatine, and its Ignite pre-workout. This supplement lineup is designed to help optimize performance, promote muscle growth, and improve recovery for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Ignite pre-workout features 11 ingredients including vitamins B6 and B12, the minerals magnesium and calcium, and pre-workout staples like caffeine, L-citrulline malate, and beta-alanine. What sets Ignite apart, however, is its inclusion of two lesser-known but increasingly popular nootropic ingredients—rhodiola and DMAE bitartrate—which are backed by emerging scientific evidence supporting their potential to enhance athletic performance.
Rhodiola has been shown to improve power output and reduce post-exercise muscle damage, with benefits seen at doses over 200 milligrams for endurance activities. (2) Ignite contains 500 milligrams, meeting clinical standards for this ingredient. (3)
DMAE bitartrate has been shown to promote improvements in alertness, overall mood, and even sleep quality. (4) This is because DMAE bitartrate helps the body make more choline, which boosts the production of acetylcholine in the brain. (4) Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter involved in memory, focus, and muscle control, making it a valuable compound for both mental and physical performance. (5) However, research indicates that an effective dose of DMAE bitartrate falls between 500-2,000 milligrams. (4) Ignite pre-workout contains only 200 milligrams per serving, which may limit its full potential in delivering these cognitive and mood-enhancing benefits.
Ignite also falls short in the dosages of key ingredients like caffeine, L-citrulline malate, and beta-alanine. Although these components are well-established for their effectiveness, the amounts in Ignite are below the levels recommended by scientific research for maximizing performance benefits.
For example, L-citrulline malate is typically dosed at 6-8 grams to fully support nitric oxide production and improve muscle pumps, but Ignite only provides 3 grams per serving. (6) Similarly, beta-alanine is most effective at doses around 4-6 grams to effectively buffer lactic acid and delay muscle fatigue, yet Ignite contains just 1.5 grams—about half of the clinically recommended dose. (7) Caffeine, while effective in smaller doses, is also on the lighter side, with just 150 milligrams per serving. This is significantly lower than the 250-300 milligrams of caffeine found in higher stimulant pre-workouts. (8) While these lower dosages may appeal to beginners or those sensitive to stimulants, Ignite may not deliver the full performance enhancing benefits sought by experienced athletes or bodybuilders.
I tested Xwerks Ignite over a week of workouts, which included several CrossFit classes and a cardio day featuring a three-mile run. Overall, I felt more engaged and focused during my training, which enhanced my overall performance. However, I found that the muscle pumps I usually experience with other pre-workout supplements were notably milder. As a result, Ignite may be better suited for athletes participating in skill-based sports rather than bodybuilders seeking intense muscle pumps.
In terms of taste, Xwerks Ignite comes in four distinct flavors, and the brand is known for delivering great-tasting products. Our team had the chance to test some of these flavors, including green apple and orange. While they are on the sweeter side, likely due to the inclusion of sucralose, we found the flavors to be authentic, closely matching their descriptions. If you enjoy a bit of sweetness in your pre-workout, Ignite delivers a flavorful experience without being overwhelming.
Xwerks Ignite ingredients
Caffeine (150 milligrams)
Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that enhances alertness, focus, and overall energy levels, making it a staple in pre-workout supplements. (9) With 150 milligrams per serving, Xwerks Ignite provides a moderate dose that can help boost workout intensity without the risk of negative side effects like jitteriness. For reference, the FDA recognizes 400 milligrams of caffeine per day as the safe upper intake level for most healthy adults. (10) People who ingest caffeine in sports supplements like pre-workouts should consider the amount they take in through other sources, such as coffee, tea, and soda.
L-citrulline malate (3 grams)
Citrulline is known for its ability to increase endogenous nitric oxide production, which can improve blood flow and increase endurance during workouts. (11) Citrulline malate is a compound that combines the amino acid L-citrulline with malic acid. The malic acid may contribute to the overall benefits of citrulline malate by assisting in energy production and enhancing exercise performance. (6) The scientific research suggests that a dose of around 6-8 grams of citrulline malate is recommended to see the performance enhancing benefits. (6)
CarnoSyn beta-alanine (1.5 grams)
CarnoSyn beta-alanine is included for its ability to increase muscle carnosine levels, helping to buffer acid in muscles and delay fatigue. (12) The International Society of Sports Nutrition recommends a dose of 4-6 grams per day for at least two to four weeks to improve exercise performance. (12)
BioPerine black pepper extract (5 milligrams)
BioPerine is a patented black pepper extract that helps enhance the bioavailability of nutrients, improving absorption and effectiveness. (1) The inclusion of 5 milligrams in Ignite may help the body utilize the supplement’s other active ingredients more efficiently.
L-tyrosine (2 grams)
L-tyrosine is an amino acid that supports cognitive function by increasing neurotransmitter levels, which can improve focus and mental clarity during workouts. (13) The 2 gram dose in Ignite is intended to help athletes maintain peak mental performance, even during intense training sessions.
DMAE bitartrate (200 milligrams)
DMAE bitartrate is a source of choline that is believed to enhance cognitive function, mood, and overall mental performance. (4) At 200 milligrams, it aims to promote alertness and concentration, although the dosage level may be too low to elicit its full benefits.
Rhodiola (500 milligrams)
Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb known for its potential to reduce fatigue and improve endurance by modulating the body’s stress response. (2) The 500 milligram dose in Ignite is aimed at supporting stamina and recovery, making it a valuable addition for athletes engaged in demanding workouts.
Xwerks Ignite potential side effects
While adverse effects are generally uncommon with a moderately dosed pre-workout like Xwerks Ignite, it’s important to be aware of any potential side effects. For example, some users may experience a side effect known as paresthesia, a tingling or prickly skin sensation associated with beta-alanine. (12) Although harmless, this feeling can be somewhat uncomfortable for certain individuals. Additionally, it’s possible the caffeine content in Ignite could result in an increased heart rate or jitters, especially for those who are sensitive to stimulants. However, with only 150 milligrams of caffeine per serving, most people should find this amount of caffeine manageable.
If you’re worried about any negative side effects, it’s smart to start with a half serving to assess your tolerance. If everything goes well, you can advance to the recommended serving size, ensuring a safe and side effect-free experience.
What customers are saying
Xwerks Ignite has a 4 out of 5 star rating on Amazon, with customers saying they enjoy the taste and overall effectiveness of the product. However, there are mixed opinions on the overall value Ignite provides for the money.
“Great tasting flavor (green apple) and delivers on energy needs for a tennis match. I use this w/o fail and it lasts enough for a 2-hour+ match. I have energy from beginning to end. I don’t take it all at once but will sip on it throughout the match.”
Frank Schycker, Amazon
Another reviewer with the username “Amazon customer” wrote, “I opted for XWERKS Ignite because I wanted a more natural and mild pre-workout supplement. Ignite delivered how I had hoped: good boost of energy, light tingling from the beta alanine (which I like), and I wasn’t left feeling nauseous or like my heart was in overdrive. No artificial coloring either! Green apple flavor is good, but it’s more sweet than sour which was a small letdown for me. Overall, I like the product and plan on sticking with it.”
Justin Gurr purchased the blue raspberry flavor and said, “Need minimum two scoops to get the focus. Average and pretty pricey for what you get.”
Specs
| Key ingredients | Caffeine, L-citrulline malate, CarnoSyn (beta-alanine), L-tyrosine, rhodiola, DMAE bitartrate, BioPerine (black pepper extract) |
| Servings per container | 30 |
| Serving size | 10.36 grams |
| Price per serving | $1.63 |
| Caffeine per serving | 150 milligrams |
| Flavors | Green apple, orange, blue raspberry, watermelon |
| Third-party testing | Yes |
Compare Xwerks Ignite
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| Xwerks Ignite | Jacked Factory Nitrosurge | Legion Athletics Pulse | Legion Athletics Pulse Stim-Free | Transparent Labs Bulk | Nutricost Pre-X | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Cost per serving | $1.63 | $0.93-$1.87 | $2.25 | $2.25 | $1.67 | $0.70 |
| Serving size | 10.36 grams | 8.4-16.8 grams | 23.5 grams | 21.9 grams | 21.2 grams | 15 grams |
| Caffeine per serving | 150 milligrams | 180-360 milligrams | 350 milligrams | 0 milligrams | 200 milligrams | 300 milligrams |
How we test pre-workout supplements
Our pre-workout scoring methodology builds upon our broader nutrition product and supplement evaluation criteria. Each product is assigned a score out of five for each category we test. These scores are then weighted based on importance and averaged to produce a cumulative score out of 5 for each product, with one being the lowest rating and five being the highest.
Stimulant ingredients–35%
The key ingredient in most pre-workout formulas is a stimulant, typically a form of caffeine. In non-stimulant formulas, B vitamins and plant extracts are often used to support metabolism and improve endurance. We categorize energy sources into two types: stimulant and non-stimulant. We consider the following ingredients:
- Caffeine anhydrous
- PurCaf
- Di-caffeine malate
- Theobromine
Non-stimulant ingredients–10%
In the realm of stim-free pre-workout supplements, non-stimulant ingredients play a crucial role in enhancing performance. Our team evaluates these ingredients based on their research-backed efficacy and potential benefits. Here’s some common non-stimulant ingredients we assess:
- Taurine
- Vitamins B12 and B6
- Niacin
Endurance–10%
In addition to boosting energy and hydration, pre-workout formulas often include ingredients designed to enhance mental and physical endurance during workouts.
Here’s the most common endurance-boosting ingredients we evaluate:
- Beta-alanine
- Ancient peat and apple extract
- Rhodiola rosea
- L-carnitine
- Eleuthero root
- Astragalus root extract
- Astragin
- Senactiv
Nitric oxide production–10%
This category is similar to endurance but specifically focuses on muscular fatigue. We focus on two key ingredients:
- Citrulline malate
- Beetroot
Lean muscle support–10%
We evaluate 11 key ingredients in pre-workout formulas to determine their effectiveness and contribution to building muscle:
- Creatine
- Betaine
- Leucine
- Taurine
- Isoleucine
- Valine
- Zinc
- Vitamin D
- BCAA
- Boron
- Calcium
Sweeteners–10%
Sweeteners may improve the taste profile of a pre-workout supplement, but they don’t add nutritional value beyond sometimes being a fast-burning energy source. We prefer to see minimal sweeteners in pre-workout formulas, and we prefer some over others. Here are the sweeteners we evaluate:
- Sugar
- Honey, agave
- Maltodextrin
- Dextrose
- Sucralose, aspartame, acesulfame
- Erythritol, xylitol
- Stevia
- Monk fruit
Focus–5%
Focus-enhancing ingredients can significantly boost the intensity and intentionality of your workout. While many ingredients in pre-workout formulas require more research to confirm their effectiveness, those backed by solid evidence earn higher scores in this category. We focus on the following:
- L-theanine
- Alpha GPC
- Tyrosine
- Huperzine A
- Choline bitartrate
Hydration–5%
Hydration is crucial for muscle performance and recovery, which is why many pre-workout formulas include electrolytes. When evaluating these supplements, we prioritize formulas containing the following key electrolytes or their sources:
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Coconut water powder
Cost per serving–5%
Price is a crucial factor for consumers and can often (though not always) reflect the quality of a product. There are high-quality pre-workout supplements that cost below average and low-quality ones that are more expensive. Due to this potential discrepancy, this category carries less weight in the overall score.
We rate each pre-workout based on the price per serving. Here’s the breakdown:
- Less than $1.00 per serving
- $1.00-$1.49 per serving
- $1.50-$1.99 per serving
- More than $2.00 per serving
Certifications
Nearly all reputable supplement companies conduct in-house testing for safety and label accuracy. However, many brands also opt for additional certifications to further ensure quality and safety. We award bonus credits to brands that undertake this additional step. The certifications we look for include:
- Third-party testing
- Informed Choice (ICFS)
- NSF
- U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP)
- USDA Certified Organic
Bonus points
Since the supplement industry—especially pre-workout supplements—is constantly evolving, we pay attention to products and brands going above and beyond to stand out. That’s why we incorporate bonus credits into our pre-workout supplement scores to recognize innovation and encourage healthy competition among all brands.
Pre-workout formulas are awarded bonus credits for:
- No proprietary blends
- Sustainable packaging
- Added antioxidants
- Organic ingredients
- Non-GMO ingredients
How to choose the right pre-workout for you
There are a number of important factors to consider when deciding which pre-workout is right for you. It’s essential to look at the active ingredients and dosage levels in the formulation, however, it’s also beneficial to consider the brand’s reputation, third-party testing, customer reviews, flavor options available, and the cost of the product.
Ingredients and dosage
The effectiveness of a pre-workout supplement goes beyond its caffeine content. In order to remain competitive in today’s market, a pre-workout supplement should include a range of active ingredients at clinically effective dosages backed by scientific research.
When selecting a pre-workout, consider your specific goals. For instance, bodybuilders may prefer highly caffeinated formulas with L-citrulline, betaine anhydrous, and creatine for improved performance and muscle growth. In contrast, endurance athletes might opt for lower-caffeine options that include beta-alanine, branched-chain amino acids, and mineral electrolytes to support their training.
Third-party testing
We advise choosing supplements with transparent labeling and third-party testing, especially for athletes competing in drug-tested sports. This ensures that the products are free from banned substances and contain dosages that match the supplement facts label.
Customer reviews
When it comes to dietary supplements, customer reviews often come from individuals with similar fitness goals and preferences. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the overall effectiveness of the product, any potential side effects to consider, and the best flavor options to choose from.
Taste
Although the flavor of a supplement doesn’t affect its effectiveness, many people prefer a pre-workout powder that tastes great. When it comes to taste, it’s important to consider how you feel about using artificial ingredients, such as flavors, colors, and sweeteners in your products.
Cost
Remember that the cost of a pre-workout supplement doesn’t necessarily reflect the overall quality or effectiveness of the product. It’s important to review the ingredients list, dosage levels, and third-party testing protocols, to ensure you’re paying for a quality supplement and not just expensive marketing.
FAQs
Is Xwerks Ignite worth it?
Whether Xwerks Ignite is worth it ultimately depends on your specific fitness goals and personal preferences. If you’re seeking a pre-workout that enhances energy, focus, and endurance, Ignite does deliver on those fronts, making it a solid choice for those engaged in skill-based sports or high-intensity workouts. However, if muscle pumps and vascularity are your primary objectives, you may find Ignite lacking, as it doesn’t provide the same level of L-citrulline compared to other pre-workout options.
How much does Xwerks Ignite cost?
Xwerks Ignite is priced at $49.00 for a 30-serving container, which comes to approximately $1.63 per serving—consistent with the average cost of pre-workout supplements on the market. For those interested in ongoing savings, Xwerks offers a 5% discount through their subscription plan, bringing the price down to $46.55 per container.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD
Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD is a plant-based registered dietitian, freelance writer, and content strategist for health and nutrition brands. She completed her nutrition education at Colorado State University, her dietetic internship through Michigan Medicine, and holds a Master of Public Health degree from Michigan State University. Lauren has been working in the wellness industry for over 15 years, including time spent in project management, public health standards, dietary supplement testing, inpatient and outpatient nutrition therapy, and child education. She has followed a plant-based lifestyle for over a decade and is passionate about helping others enjoy a healthier and more meaningful life.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is a contributing editor and writer who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Pete Nastasi, CPT, CSNC
Fortune Recommends Fitness and Nutrition Writer
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