We all have those days when we’re just downright tired and feel unmotivated. Those feelings can set in at any time, before you get out of bed or when you’re on the way to the gym after work. As you push to follow your workout regimen and reach your goals, a good pre-workout supplement can give you an extra boost to help you make the most of your valuable time. If you've browsed pre-workouts before, you've probably heard of the brand GHOST.
GHOST pre-workout has gotten the supplement market buzzing due to their unique flavors, branding, and transparent labels, all of which keep people coming back for more. GHOST’s products can give you the energy, focus, and motivation you need to take your workout to the next level. They can also help you concentrate during a study session or a grueling day at the office. Here at ACTIVE.com, we've reviewed a number of GHOST products to help you decide which pre-workout is right for you.
Why Trust Us?
The health and safety of ACTIVE’s readers is of the utmost importance to us. To ensure your well-being when consuming dietary supplements, the ACTIVE.com editorial team prioritizes products that are independently tested by a third party. We’ve consulted with a team of nutritionists and dieticians to ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. This helps us create the most accurate, authentic review content for our readers.
GHOST Pre-Workout Review - Our Top Picks
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GHOST Legend
SPECS
- Price (rating scale): $$$
- Flavor options (rating scale): 1
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Other ingredients: Malic acid, citric acid, natural and artificial flavors, tartaric acid, calcium silicate, silicon dioxide, gum acacia, sucralose, FD&C yellow #5, FD&C blue #1
One scoop of GHOST Legend contains only five calories and one gram of carbohydrates. This formulation includes two ingredient blends: GHOST Legend and GHOST Smart energy. GHOST Legend combines amino acids like L-tyrosine and L-norvaline that can help you focus. GHOST Smart Energy, on the other hand, has stimulant properties. It contains 250 milligrams of caffeine per serving, roughly double the amount in a cup of coffee. If you're worried about the amount of caffeine, we recommend you start with a low dose to see how it affects you.
We like GHOST pre-workout for its mental and physical benefits. It combines pump and energy with nootropic benefits like increased focus, and it can even help you outside of the gym. GHOST Legend is gluten, soy, and sugar-free, so this is an optimal choice if you have allergies or sensitivities.
What We Like
- Vegan-friendly
- Can be used outside the gym
- Reviews call the flavors very tasty
- May promote focus
- Taurine balances the caffeine content for jitter-free energy
What We Don't Like
- More expensive than other GHOST pre-workout supplements
- Traditional serving size may be too much caffeine for those just starting out
BUY: GHOST Legend
GHOST Gamer
SPECS
- Price (rating scale): $
- Flavor options (rating scale): 3
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Other ingredients: Natural and artificial flavors, citric acid, silicon dioxide, calcium silicate, malic acid, sucralose, FD&C blue #1 contains: tree nuts (coconut)
GHOST Gamer is formulated for a range of activities: studying, working, or gaming. There are 800 milligrams of nooLVL, a patented, non-stimulant ingredient that is said to boost cognitive performance and energy. That explains why it has only 75 milligrams of caffeine, a welcome fact for those trying to limit their caffeine intake.
We love that there are seven vegan friendly flavors to choose from. Advanced users may prefer to double scoop, but we recommend you start with one scoop and consult your doctor about any dosage questions. Since GHOST Gamer has less caffeine than other GHOST supplements, it’s a great place to start if you're new to pre-workout.
What We Like
- 7 flavor options available
- Can help with focus while working, studying, or gaming
- Gluten, soy, and sugar-free
- Less caffeine than other pre-workout options
What We Don't Like
- Reviews report powder particles at the bottom after mixing
- Not suitable for workouts
BUY: GHOST Gamer
GHOST Pump
SPECS
- Price (rating scale): $
- Flavor options (rating scale): 2
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Other ingredients: Citric acid, malic acid, natural and artificial flavors, silicon dioxide, calcium silicate, tartaric acid, xanthan gum, sucralose, vegetable juice powder (color)
Looking for a caffeine-free pre-workout? Check out GHOST Pump. Rather than use caffeine, this formulation uses ingredients like L-citrulline to boost energy. And the patented NO3-T Arginine Nitrate may support nitric oxide production to help boost strength and endurance. Our immune systems also love that it contains vitamin C.
For maximum pump and more caffeine, you can combine this pre-workout with GHOST Legend.
What We Like
- Non-flavored option available
- Stimulant-free
- Can be paired with GHOST Legend
- Contains vitamin C
What We Don't Like
- Fewer flavor options than other GHOST pre-workout
- Flavors may not blend well with GHOST Legend
BUY: GHOST Pump
GHOST Burn
SPECS
- Price (rating scale): $$
- Flavor options (rating scale): 1
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Other ingredients: Polydextrose, citric acid, malic acid, natural and artificial flavor, tartaric acid, silicon dioxide, calcium silicate, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, concord grape juice powder, fruit and vegetable juice powder, salt, spirulina
GHOST Burn has 300 milligrams of caffeine, making it the most caffeinated pre-workout that GHOST offers. We imagine the name “Burn” comes from the ingredient GBB (Gamma-Butyrobetaine), which may support fat burning. Since this is a thermogenic ingredient, it could cause you to sweat more.
The purpose of this pre-workout is to improve your basal metabolic rate, or the number of calories your body burns when you are sedentary. These claims have not been evaluated by the FDA, so it's always good practice to assess if a supplement is helping you reach your goals when taken consistently.
What We Like
- May have thermogenic qualities to help you burn fat
- Vegan
- Contains 0 net carbs
What We Don't Like
- Larger amounts of caffeine may not be suitable for evening workouts
- Some reviews mention jitters and spiked heart rates
BUY: GHOST Burn
Who Should Try GHOST Pre-Workout?
GHOST pre-workout is a strong choice for anyone looking for a supplement that may boost energy and focus during workouts or throughout the day. There are varying levels of caffeine in each of GHOST’s products, so it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before increasing your intake. We recommend starting with a smaller serving and making note of how you feel.
GHOST Pre-Workout Nutrition and Ingredients
The nutrition facts for each GHOST pre-workout are different. GHOST Gamer has five calories per serving and less than one gram of carbs. GHOST Burn has five calories per serving and two carbs. GHOST Legend has five calories and one gram of carbs, and GHOST Pump has zero calories and less than one gram of carbs. None contain sugar. All are sweetened artificially.
Each GHOST pre-workout has its own combination of ingredients, and it's good practice to research each one. It’s also good practice to consult your doctor before starting a pre-workout regimen. Below is a breakdown of some of the major ingredients and their potential benefits.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that can help you focus and help you feel more alert and awake if you are tired. Most pre-workouts contain caffeine unless they specifically state they are stimulant-free.
Taurine
Taurine is a beta-amino acid that may reduce caffeine jitters by neutralizing the cardiovascular effects. Taurine may also promote muscle recovery by reducing inflammation.
nooLVL
This is a patented non-stimulant that may boost energy and brain performance. This supplement is used widely in E-sports because of its potential to increase energy and focus without negatively affecting heart rate and blood pressure.
L-tyrosine
L-tyrosine is the amino acid form of tyrosine, and it may give your mind and body a boost. It can work to help your body retain energy which can help improve your focus. Some studies claim it can help you stay mentally sharp if you're sleep-deprived.
Cognizin
Like nooLVL, Cognizin is a branded nutrient that can potentially enhance concentration, mental performance, and attention. This is because it could support levels of several important neurotransmitters that regulate these cognitive processes.
AstraGin
Many believe AstraGin can help nutrient intake, which is why it's a popular ingredient in supplements. AstraGin is a compound derived from Chinese ginseng. Studies have shown that it could increase the absorption levels of several beneficial nutrients and superfoods.
L-carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that is best known for its potential to burn fat. Studies claim this ingredient increases the production of a fat-burning nutrient in the liver and kidney. It also can support heart and brain function, muscle movement, and other body processes.
Gamma-butyrobetaine (GBB)
Much like L-carnitine, GBB is believed to help burn fat by increasing thermogenesis. This process may help release fatty acids into the bloodstream that can then be burned for energy. Some studies also claim that GBB may act as a vasodilator, which means it could allow your blood vessels to expand so you get a better workout pump.
KSM-66 Ashwagandha
KSM-66 ashwagandha is said to promote enhanced memory and cognitive function, promote endurance, and improve muscle recovery rates. Ashwagandha is an herb that people claim relieves stress, increases energy and concentration levels, and boosts strength for thousands of years. It could potentially benefit athletic performance because it is said to enhance oxygen consumption during intense activity.
L-citrulline
L-citrulline is an amino acid that is said to remove ammonia from the body. Ammonia is a waste product produced during exercise that can make you feel fatigued. This may help you work out longer and feel less tired. Some studies also claim that it can increase exercise capacity and boost your endurance by helping your body use oxygen more efficiently.
Beta-Alanine
This is an amino acid that can help offset the build-up of lactic acid, which can delay fatigue and improve your performance. Research claims beta-alanine may aid in the production of carnosine, which can allow muscles to perform longer before becoming exhausted.
Benefits of GHOST Pre-Workout
The potential benefits of GHOST pre-workout products depend on which formulation you choose. Each type is designed to help you feel energized and focused during a specific activity.
No matter which supplement you choose, GHOST pre-workouts may provide you with the energy and stamina you need, along with other healthy nutrients. Before taking a pre-workout, it's a good idea to consult with your primary care provider to see if the supplement is right for you. It's also important to note that these claims are not backed by the FDA, so pay attention to how your body responds when taking supplements.
How We Rate Supplements
Price/Affordability (scale of $-$$$)
Prices depend on a number of factors and tend to fluctuate over time, so we've kept our affordability rating scale simple so you can easily see how products compare:
$ = under $1 per serving
$$ = $1–2 per serving
$$$ = over $2 per serving
Flavor Options (scale of 1-3)
When it comes to dietary supplements, flavor options are important. A great flavor can make reaching your fitness and health goals easier.
N/A = Unflavored
1 = 1–2 flavor options
2 = 3–4 flavor options
3 = 5 or more flavor options
FAQs About Ghost Pre-Workout
Is GHOST a good pre-workout?
It depends on your needs. We do like the variety of flavors, transparent ingredients, and potential benefits, and GHOST pre-workout has generally positive reviews online.
How long does it take for GHOST pre-workout to kick in?
It's been reported that GHOST pre-workout can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes to kick in, or up to 90 minutes. Generally, drinking a pre-workout 30 minutes before your target activity is a good idea.
Does GHOST pre-workout make you jittery?
It depends on the person. Some may feel jittery and on edge while others may feel focused and energized. It's always a good idea to start with a half serving and increase or decrease the dose based on how it makes you feel.
Is GHOST energy drink the same as pre-workout?
The GHOST energy drink can boost energy and increase focus. However, it is not formulated with ingredients that are specifically geared toward improving exercise performance and pump like a GHOST pre-workout supplement.
How much caffeine is in GHOST pre-workout?
That varies depending on which GHOST pre-workout you choose. GHOST Burn has 300 milligrams per serving, GHOST Legend has 250 milligrams per serving, GHOST Gamer has 75 milligrams per serving, and GHOST Pump doesn't have any caffeine.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
About the Author
Rachael Gonzalez is a Staff Writer for ACTIVE. She spent five years in education before she joined the ACTIVE team in 2022. In this role, she is still able to make a positive impact on others by writing about something she loves: health and wellness.
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