8 Best Pre-Workout Without Beta-Alanine (No-itch) | Nutritionist Approved

This is our review of the best pre-workout without beta-alanine in . 

Pre-workout supplements are a great way to give you the push needed for a training session. Most people vouch for their energizing and focus-specific abilities. However, I am frequently told by my clients, “Please give me a pre-workout that will not make me itchy or tingly.”

Tingling, slight burning, and itchiness are common side effects of the pre-workouts that contain the amino acid, beta-alanine. Beta-alanine is a great performance-enhancer and excellent at improving muscle endurance. And although the uncomfortable tingling does not usually last beyond 30 minutes, it could divert attention away from your training session.

So here, I bring to you 8 amazing beta-alanine-free pre-workouts that give you the much-needed energy without the bother of itchiness and tingling. I consider 4 Gauge Fitness Pre-workout the best pre-workout without beta-alanine. It has a great ingredient profile with a transparent mention of individual dosage and has no artificial sweeteners. 

Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Overall	4 Gauge Fitness Pre-workout
Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Pump	Gorilla Mode Pre-workout
Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Nootropic	Cracked Rx Nootropic Energy
Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Stim-Free	PUMPSURGE Caffeine Free Pump & Nootropic Pre-workout
Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Women	Vega Sport Sugar-Free Energizer
Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Organic	Ora Organic Natural Pre-workout
Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Vegan	Organic Muscle Natural Superfood Pre-workout
Best pre-workout without beta-alanine – Taste	PEScience Prolific Pre-workout

Do read through the latter part of the article, where I give the lowdown about beta-alanine and how you can choose the product that suits you best. I will also answer other common questions that usually arise while buying a beta-alanine-free pre-workout.

Best Pre-workout without Beta-Alanine Reviewed

Note: All nutritional facts mentioned below are for a single serving as mentioned on the product label.

4 Gauge Fitness Pre-workout – Best pre-workout without beta-alanine (Overall)

4 Gauge Fitness Pre-workout gets my 100% thumbs-up for various reasons. What I appreciate the most about this supplement is that the creators have maintained complete transparency regarding ingredient usage and dosage. Every ingredient has been individually mentioned, and the combination used makes a lot of sense.

Firstly, it has a robust load of L-Citrulline. At 6g per serving, you can expect a great pump, better exercise capacity, and delayed fatigue. The presence of creatine monohydrate complements the citrulline well and helps increase muscle strength and mass quickly. It also continues its work by reducing the muscle soreness that usually happens post-workout. 

The caffeine content is at a modest 150 mg, which is a good thing. It gives a much smoother burst of energy and focus rather than a jittery and nervous one. 

What I also like is the presence of L-Theanine. This amino acid is amazing at reducing stress, promoting calmness, and giving you a more focused training experience.

Natural ingredients like red beetroot extract and rhodiola rosea powder give good support to improving brain focus and bringing down stress. This can be a key factor in maintaining the motivation and rhythm of a workout. 

Muscle hydration is taken care of by including coconut water powder.

Carnitine is a genius addition. While the formula is pretty well-rounded, the presence of acetyl L-Carnitine gives that extra edge. Carnitine is an excellent fat-burner, and the acetyl form is known to improve nerve function and prevent nerve damage and aging.

With no artificial sweeteners or unnecessary additives, I consider this supplement the best pre-workout in the beta-alanine-free zone.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Well-rounded, transparent formula	Available only in one flavor
No artificial sweeteners or additives
No proprietary blends

Customer Reviews

Customers love 4 Gauge Fitness for its clean delivery of focus and energy. They are particularly happy that it does not cause them to crash post-workout. 

Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout – Best pre-workout without beta-alanine for Pump

Many fitness enthusiasts look for a pump in their bodies after a workout. But the reasons are not only aesthetic. They worry about whether their muscles are receiving enough blood supply to sustain the quality and quantity of training. If muscles receive inadequate blood supply, fatigue sets in faster, and working out becomes an uphill task. 

To stand up to a hardcore workout, muscles need a good pump. Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout delivers a phenomenal pump thanks to its powerful pro-muscle formula. The pump matrix is formidable with the presence of L-Citrulline, glycerPump, betaine, and agmatine.

Each of these individually can very well increase blood supply to muscles. Put them together, and the pump quotient is exceptional. An increased blood supply to muscles and better hydration means better exercise performance and superb endurance.

This can also cut down or even eliminate the likelihood of developing delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), which could mess up a set, regular workout routine.

Gorilla Mode has a good stimulant matrix of caffeine and N-Phenethyl dimethylamine citrate to target focus and alertness. 

Creatine has also been sensibly added for quicker lean mass growth and post-workout recovery. 

There are 2 downers though. First, it has artificial flavors and additives which is disappointing for an otherwise impressive product. And second,  the product does not seem to blend well, leaving behind a grittiness in the mouth.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Phenomenal pump matrix for better intra-workout muscle nutrition and hydration	Contains artificial flavors and additives
Good focus complex minus the jitters	Poor mixability
Good range of flavors

Customer Reviews

Gorilla Mode Pre-workout receives a massive thumbs-up for its capabilities of enhancing training performance and delaying fatigue. However, customers would prefer better mixability.

Cracked Rx Nootropic Energy – Best pre-workout without beta-alanine (Nootropic)

We all know that the better the muscles are nourished, the more powerful their performance is during a workout. However, along with this, our brain and nerves also need to be in the loop. The drive to train harder and for longer starts in the brain and then passes to the muscles through nerves.

To enhance motivation, many pre-workouts contain nootropics. Nootropics are substances that help to increase mental performance, focus, and motivation. Among such pre-workouts, the Cracked Rx Nootropic Energy tops the nootropic quotient.

The best part about their nootropic matrix is that the ingredients are derived from natural sources. This gives a more stable mood enhancement and focus as opposed to a sudden euphoria and drastic slump. I would have preferred transparency in their individual dosages rather than an overall dosage of the blend.

Another significant factor is that this is one of the few supplements that is third-party tested and trusted. 

It also delivers an impressive energy complex. 5g of L-Citrulline, 2g of creatine, and 200mg of caffeine serve as good pick-me-ups for a strong training session.

Ashwagandha, turmeric, and ginseng present in this pre-workout are known immunity boosters. However, their definitive role cannot be judged because of the absence of dosages.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Strong nootropic matrix for a great brain boost and motivation	Lack of transparency in some dosages
Well-rounded formula for overall mental and physical performance	Contains added flavors
Good range of flavors

Customer Reviews

Most users love Cracked Rx Nootropic Energy’s energy-enhancing qualities and clean, no-jitter performance. However, some users commented on its poor mixability quotient.

PUMPSURGE Caffeine Free Pre-Workout Supplement – Best pre-workout without beta-alanine (Stim-Free)

Most pre-workouts contain a potent dose of caffeine, which is known to increase energy levels and enhance focus during a workout. However, caffeine is also a huge reason for many people rejecting a pre-workout supplement. This is because some people are sensitive to caffeine and have unpleasant side effects such as jitters, nervousness, dizziness, and sleeplessness. 

Another major reason to avoid caffeine is that many prefer working out late evenings or at night. If a caffeine-rich pre-workout is consumed at this point, falling asleep becomes a problem, and they end up staying awake for most of the night.

PUMPSURGE Caffeine Free Pre-Workout Supplement is a wonderful way to circumvent the caffeine conundrum. It is one of the few caffeine-free pre-workouts that delivers a great pump and promotes mental focus, and is a great way of complimenting your post-sunset workouts.

The combination of L-Citrulline, betaine, and taurine provides a perfect pump and endurance measure while completely eliminating jitters and itchiness. 

What I like the most about this supplement is that there are no proprietary blends. Instead, every ingredient has been individually mentioned and its dosage marked. A precise formula means better muscle performance.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Contains no caffeine	Underwhelming for people used to caffeine
Ideal for late-evening and night workouts	Contains additives and artificial flavors
Good range of flavors

Customer Reviews

Users recommend PUMPSURGE Caffeine Free Pre-workout for late-night workouts. However, they are not happy with the presence of fillers and artificial flavoring.

Vega Sport Sugar-Free Energizer – Best pre-workout without beta-alanine  for Women

A lot of people, especially women, often ask me for a pre-workout that is not “hardcore”. They prefer something made from natural ingredients whose effects are not as robust as a conventional pre-workout supplement. 

I recommend Vega Sport Sugar-Free Energizer, especially if you are just starting to work out and more so if you are a woman. This is because women’s metabolism works slightly differently than men’s. This is because, along with the routine body processes, hormones play a significant role in energy sustenance and overall fitness.

This supplement contains ingredients derived naturally from plants such as coffee berries, green tea leaves, and rhodiola. Therefore, the energy given out is cleaner and a subtle hit rather than a powerful jolt. That is why this product is ideal for women.

Probably its biggest advantage is that it is completely sugar-free and contains just 10 calories. So, if you are on a targeted weight-loss journey, this is an excellent supplement for you.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Derived naturally from plants	Lower-than-average taste
Sugar-free	May be too mild for hardcore workout enthusiasts

Customer Reviews

Customers love Vega Sport Sugar-Free Energizer for its clean and pure hit of energy and natural ingredients. However, they are not very happy with its taste.

Ora Organic Natural Pre-Workout Powder – Best pre-workout without beta-alanine (Organic)

This has to be one of the most unique formulations among all the pre-workouts I have come across. It contains responsibly-sourced, clean ingredients. Ora Organic Natural Pre-workout Powder is a great supplement that is entirely organic and non-GMO.

It contains very interesting combinations of ingredients. 

Apart from the usual suspects such as green tea, rhodiola, ginseng and ashwagandha, it also contains more thoughtfully included ingredients like pomegranate, yerba mate, and maca root. Every ingredient has been strategically chosen to cover a particular function, be it energy, pump, focus, or endurance. 

Ashwagandha and rhodiola are also known to reduce stress and support anxiety relief.

The presence of an entirely organically derived ingredient list means delivery of cleaner energy, sustained exercise performance, and minimal withdrawal slump. 

Plus, the flavors are naturally derived, and there are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Organically and responsibly-sourced ingredients	Ingredients in the form of blends
Clean and sustainable energy delivery
No artificial flavors or colors

Customer Reviews

Customers love Ora Organic Natural Pre Workout Powder for its jitter-free workout delivery and organic formulation. However, a few users are not very happy with its taste.

Organic Muscle Natural Superfood Pre-Workout Powder – Best pre-workout without beta-alanine (Vegan)

There has been a general growth in preferences toward a vegan diet and lifestyle. While accessibility to vegan food has improved considerably, vegan supplements are few and good vegan supplements are quite far-between.

Organic Muscle Natural Superfood Pre-workout fits the bill perfectly for vegans who want clean energy without jitters or tingling. Additionally, it does not contain even a single synthetically derived ingredient. Which makes it among the most natural pre-workout supplements without beta-alanine. 

The pump factor comes from a combination of pomegranate, beetroot, blueberry, and goji berry. The focus and energy surge experienced is in the subtle zone, minimizing the chances of a “post-workout crash”. This is because the 150mg of caffeine comes from organic green coffee and green tea. 

What this formula also contains is a pro-metabolic blend. Ingredients such as turmeric, matcha green tea, acai, aloe vera, and berries are known antioxidants and boost metabolism safely and effectively. This works well to enhance energy in combination with the pump and focus components.

The one thing about this product I did not like was that it is made of blends. There are no individual dosages mentioned, so the scientificity behind the formula cannot be measured accurately.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Vegan-friendly	Ingredients in the form of blends
Clean energy delivery with organic ingredients	Low on taste
No artificial flavors or colors

Customer Reviews

Organic Muscle Natural Superfood Pre-workout is preferred by most vegans and those who want a cleaner energy hit. However, because the energy spike is subtle, it is not preferred by people into hardcore workouts.

PEScience Prolific Pre-workout – Best tasting pre-workout without beta-alanine

A flavorful and delicious supplement is always preferred over an unflavored one, provided their ingredient specifications are similar. PEScience Prolific Pre Workout is high on taste and has decent specs as well.

It delivers a good pump factor with 3g of citrulline and 1.25g of betaine anhydrous. In addition, 160mg of caffeine gives a clean energy focus without jitters. And the presence of L-theanine functions as a mood stabilizer, preventing mood slumps and sudden emotional crashes.

This supplement is available in 8 flavors, including some unique tastes like Cotton Candy, Sour Peach Candy, and Melon Berry Twist. While all the flavors are delicious, Tropical Twist and Melon Berry Twist top the taste meter.

The dosages could be underwhelming for some people, especially if they are into hardcore workouts. Here, a double scoop could be taken to double the dosage and impact. However, it is worth noting that this means a caffeine dose of 320g. This can give a massive energy burst but can also cause jitters and a more evident crash post-workout.

I want to point out though, that this supplement has artificial flavors and additives. A bit of a disappointment for an otherwise high-quality product.

Why do we like it	What you need to consider
Amazing taste	Contains additives and artificial flavors
Minimal chances of jitters

Customer Reviews

Users love PEScience Prolific Pre-workout for its tasty flavors, and subtle caffeine hit. However, the Mango flavor seems to be the least popular among customers.

What is Beta-Alanine and what does it do?

Beta-Alanine is one of the non-essential amino acids naturally produced in the human body. It helps to produce carnosine. Carnosine is naturally present in muscles and helps in maintaining muscle endurance. Together, beta-alanine and carnosine help delay muscle fatigue during exercise.

During a strenuous workout, fatigue sets in when lactic acid starts collecting inside the muscle. The acid buildup starts slowing the muscles down, bringing down their output. Here, carnosine acts as a buffer to the acid buildup and increases ATP stores (energy molecules of the cell).

As a result, it reduces the burn we usually experience from lactic acid buildup and minimizes the onset of DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness).

What are the side effects of Beta-Alanine?

Pre-workouts generally do not cause any adverse effects. However, some people could experience irritating symptoms like jitters, nervousness, tingling, and an itchy sensation. 

The main side effects experienced while consuming a pre-workout with beta-alanine are:

Paresthesia

While caffeine sensitivity is responsible for a jittery feeling, the onus of tingling and itchiness falls upon beta-alanine. This side effect is called paresthesia, and it happens because beta-alanine sensitizes the nerves on the skin, causing them to become hyperactive and hypersensitive.
Although this feeling is transient and typically goes away within 20 minutes, it could be distracting in a training session. 

Interference with Taurine

Beta-alanine may also interfere with the uptake of the amino acid taurine within the muscles. Taurine is key in improving energy levels during workouts and delaying fatigue.

Benefits of a Pre-Workout without Beta-Alanine

Here are the benefits of a beta-alanine free pre-workout:

No paresthesia/tingling feeling

The elimination of beta-alanine in a pre-workout guarantee that you will not experience any unpleasant tingling, numbness, or itchiness.

Better focus

When there are no tingling side effects to tackle, you can focus better on a great workout and get great results.

Steady taurine levels

A beta-alanine-free pre-workout leaves space for taurine to be easily taken up by muscles for a longer and stronger workout.

Do I need Beta-Alanine in my pre-workout supplement?

A pre-workout should essentially contain a combination of nutrients that bring out the best in your exercise performance. 

While beta-alanine does contribute to promoting endurance, it is not the be-all and end-all of a great pre-workout. So, you can definitely consider taking one without beta-alanine.

Instead, there are other nutrients that are more essential to a pre-workout. Citrulline and betaine take care of pump and endurance, while caffeine and theanine boost energy and promote focus. Theanine, along with taurine, helps to maintain calm and relieves stress. 

Many pre-workout formulae are also made from purely natural sources that are as effective as the nutrients mentioned above.

Buying Guide: What should I look for while buying a Pre-workout without Beta-Alanine?  

Whenever you need to decide on the pre-workout that would suit your needs and health, consider these points:

Check the ingredients list

This is most important because knowing what you are about to consume gives you the power to consider or eliminate a product. 
If you are a hardcore exercise enthusiast, look for a pre-workout that contains Creatine. This will help you workout for longer. On the other hand, if you are caffeine-sensitive or do not like stimulants of any sort, go for a stim-free pre-workout.

Prefer transparency

Time to look at the ingredients again. Always pick a supplement that gives you precise doses of every major ingredient featured in it. This shows due consideration for the user on the brand’s part. When blends are mentioned, tread with caution. 

Product Quality

Prefer third-party tested supplements or ingredients sourced from local, organic, and authentic starting points.

Price

While buying a quality product with premium ingredients is essential, do not ignore cost. After all, you will repurchase a product only if you feel it is affordable and worth the price.

Conclusion

Itching and tingling can easily distract you during a workout. 4 Gauge Fitness pre-workout is the best pre-workout without beta-alanine as it has a great ingredient profile with a transparent mention of individual dosage. 

FAQs

Are pre-workouts without beta-alanine less effective?

Not at all. Many other nutrients besides beta-alanine are more important to ensure a sustained and effective workout. These include L-citrulline, caffeine, taurine, betaine, and theanine, among others.
Pre-workouts with creatine are also super effective. 

How do I make sure a pre-workout supplement does not contain beta-alanine?

Read the supplements table at the back of the bottle/packet carefully. It mentions the list of ingredients within the product. If you do not see beta-alanine mentioned, the supplement does not contain it.

Do all pre-workouts contain beta-alanine?

No. Many pre-workout supplements are free from beta-alanine. Check the list above to find which one suits you the best. 

Is beta-alanine a BCAA?

No. Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid. There are 3 BCAAs – leucine, isoleucine and valine.

Does C4 have beta-alanine?

C4 is a product line by the brand Cellucor. Under this umbrella, they offer various pre-workout supplements, all of which contain beta-alanine in varying dosages.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a doctor or nutritionist before starting the consumption of any supplements. Always check the label before purchasing a product for potential allergic reactions.