A month ago I decided it was time to do an Alpha Lion review. So, I went online and got two products from this lineup - Alpha Lion Superhuman and Alpha Lion Superhuman Extreme pre-workout.
The reason I decided this is the best approach to Alpha Lion pre-workout review is these two pre-workouts share the "Superhuman" name and similar formula, so I thought it would be a good idea to review them together.
That said, let's jump straight into Alpha Lion Extreme and Superhuman pre-workout review.
- Alpha Lion Pre-Workout Pros & Cons
- Alpha Lion Superhuman Pre-Workout Review
- Alpha Lion Extreme Pre-Workout Review
- Tips For Increasing Performance Using Alpha Lion pre-Workout
- Ingredients - Effectiveness & Amount
- How I Felt When I Took Alpha Lion Pre-Workout
- How Does It Compare To Other Pre-Workouts?
- What We Have Taken Into Consideration For Giving You A Final Verdict
- Frequently Asked Alpha Lion Pre-Workout Questions
- Final Words
Alpha Lion Pre-Workout Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Alpha Lion Superhuman Pre-Workout Review
To start my Alpha Lion review and testing, I spent the first two weeks trying out the Superhuman version of Alpha Lion pre-workout supplements, and what I learned is that this product will get the job done.
I wouldn't say this is the best product out there, but it agreed with me. Every time I used it, I performed rather well in the gym. My only issue was the price, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
All in all, Alpha Lion Superhuman pre-workout is a potent formula with a lot of caffeine, followed by clinically efficacious doses for every single ingredient, which I do not see often.
Alpha Lion Superhuman Pre-Workout
Alpha Lion Extreme Pre-Workout Review
Trying out the Alpha Lion Extreme pre-workout was the second portion of my Alpha Lion review and lasted two weeks.
After completing 8 workouts with Alpha Lion Extreme pre-workout, I can confidently say that it helped me push through every single workout.
I'll get into the details in a bit, but to sum up, I like Alpha Lion Extreme pre-workout. A very high dose of caffeine and clinically efficacious doses of other ingredients added up to a very pleasant workout experience that I genuinely enjoyed.
One thing I didn't enjoy here is the use of additional trademarked ingredients, but at least it didn't affect the price.
My Ratings Explained
Let’s start with the strongest point - effectiveness.
What I learned from my Alpha Lion Superhuman pre-workout review is that it is very effective. The same goes for Extreme. With 325 and 370 mg of caffeine, respectively, Alpha Lion Superhuman and Extreme offered more than enough kick even on the bluest days, so I have to give them props.
On the other hand, I had to deduct a few points for ingredients. I'm not sure why I would want an S7®, SantEnergy™ Nu and other trademarked ingredients in my pre-workout formula.
While there’s certainly a case to be made for them, the way I see it, trademarked ingredients are only used to jack up the price.
On that note, I can’t justify the price tag on this one. Paying nearly $2.5 for a single serving just doesn’t sit right with me. I'd need to see more citrulline, a potent dose of L-theanine, and probably 5 grams of creatine if I'm paying as much.
Key Details
Alpha Lion Superhuman | Alpha Lion Extreme | |
Servings Per Container | 21 | 21 |
Price Per Serving | $2.38 | $2.38 |
Unit Count (Ounces) | 12.07 oz | 11.62 Oz |
Flavors | 6 | 3 |
Calories (Per Serving) | / | / |
Carbohydrates (Per Serving) | / | / |
Calcium (Per Serving) | / | / |
Sodium (Per Serving) | / | / |
Potassium (Per Serving) | / | / |
Will My Performance Increase?
Yes, your performance will increase if you take Alpha Lion pre-workout. When taking Alpha Lion, I could easily finish each session with a little bit of gas left in the tank for cardio, so I don’t see why you wouldn’t feel the same.
One of the first things I noticed while I was doing my Alpha Lion review is that both products work equally well.
Theoretically, Alpha Lion Extreme pre-workout is more potent, but in practice, I didn’t feel any difference at all. If you want, you could blame that on my caffeine tolerance, but then again, a 45-milligram difference at these dosages is nearly impossible to gauge, no matter your tolerance.
Nevertheless, the important thing is that Alpha Lion pre-workout improved every aspect of my athletic performance.

My muscle endurance was noticeably higher, allowing me to perform 2-4 extra reps per exercise, depending on my target muscle group.
The strength difference was also noticeable, but truth be told, this past month was about increasing the total volume rather than the weight.
Focus improvements were also very noticeable. I was completely zoned in. My form and mind-muscle connection were impeccable, evident with “mini-compound” exercises like face pulls.
What I mean by that is - it’s easy to hone in on your biceps with preacher curls, but “isolating” your rear delts with face pulls is a whole ‘nother thing.
Finally, I can’t say the pump blew me away, but the difference was noticeable compared to training "clean".
At the same time, if you’re a fitness model and your job is posing for social media with a massive pump, you can definitely do better than Alpha Lion.
How Will I Feel Post-Workout?
I felt pretty good post-workout. While I was undoubtedly tired, it definitely didn’t feel like I was ready for a nap. My energy levels were always quite high after finishing, and my mind remained crystal clear for a few hours.
To be fair, some of it is undoubtedly due to that familiar “high” after completing a great workout, but then again, it was obvious that the effects of a pre-workout were still lingering.
Now, I can’t say crashing didn’t happen, but thankfully, they weren’t horrible.
About 4 hours after taking Alpha Lion Superhuman pre-workout and exercising, I felt like a break was in order. Lying on the couch and watching YouTube felt really good, but that’s about it.
I wasn’t struggling to stay awake or maintain my focus, but I did feel a bit lazier than usual.
What Are The Possible Side Effects
Some of the possible side effects of taking Alpha Lion Superhuman pre-workout can be:
Thankfully, the only side effect for me was tingling.
At 3.2 grams, many of you may feel the same, but as my experience is anything to go by, your itchy hands, neck, and bottom should subside in about 20-30 minutes.
Also, don’t take Alpha Lion pre-workout if you’re lifting at night. Whether Superhuman or Superhuman Extreme, both of these pre-workouts carry quite a bit of caffeine, so it’s entirely possible you’ll spend your night tossing and turning, struggling to fall asleep.
Learn More - Can Pre-Workout Cause Kidney Stones?
What Flavors Are Available And How Do They Taste?
Alpha Lion Superhuman is available in 6 different flavors plus one limited edition (Futuristic Fruit):
Alpha Lion Extreme is available in 3 flavors:
As a part of my Alpha Lion Superhuman review, I ordered Grapezilla for Extreme and Hulk Juice for regular, and I must say - I liked them both.
They are much more up my alley as they’re both more sour than sweet and don't leave an aftertaste like many pre-workouts I tried.
Another thing I can tell you is that a friend of mine uses Orange Gainsicle regularly.
According to his "tasty or not" Superhuman pre-workout review - Orange Gainsicle has a classic orange popsicle flavor, so if you like that, feel free to try it out.
As for mixability, Alpha Lion mixes perfectly - even in a smaller amount of water than recommended. This isn’t usually the case, but since these scoops are barely over 15 grams, you shouldn’t see any clumps.
Is It A Fair Price?
I wouldn’t call Alpha Lion Superhuman or Alpha Lion Extreme pre-workout a fair price.
While Alpha Lion Superhuman pre-workout is quite tasty and potent - which is what most people look for in a pre-workout - paying 50 bucks for 21 servings is way too much, in my opinion.
Then again, I don’t know your budget or what is the most important factor for you, so you may feel differently.
But in the interest of delivering you with a completely objective Alpha Lion Superhuman pre-workout review, you could do a lot better for a lot less, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
Who Is It Best For?
Based on what I’ve seen and felt, Alpha Lion pre-workout is generally a good fit for those who engage in high-intensity workouts, such as weightlifting, CrossFit, or endurance sports like long-distance running.
Also, the Alpha Lion pre-workout is ideal for everyone who loves a good-tasting product. We’ll take a deep dive into the flavors another time, but if you’re willing to take my word for it, I’d say Alpha Lion has to be the top 5 most delicious pre-workouts I’ve ever tried.
Who Is It Not Good For?
Alpha Lion pre-workout isn’t good for anyone on the lookout for the best price-to-performance pre-workout on the market.
Despite being objectively good, my official Alpha Lion review verdict is that this product isn't exactly a cost-effective pre-workout supplement.
On a more general note, Alpha Lion is not good for:
Learn More - Is Pre-Workout Bad For Teens?
Other Online Reviews
Online Store | Superhuman | Number Of Reviews | Extreme | Number Of Reviews |
---|---|---|---|---|
Amazon | 4.3/5 | 4000+ | 4.4/5 | 1200+ |
Brand Website | 4.8/5 | 2300+ | 4.9/5 | 50+ |
Average Online Rating | 4.5/5 | 6300+ | 4.7/5 | 1200+ |
Tips For Increasing Performance Using Alpha Lion pre-Workout
If I had learned anything while testing the products for this Alpha Lion Extreme and Superhuman pre-workout review, it is that both are quite potent, so there really isn’t a lot you can do to elevate their effects and improve your physical or mental performance.
However, if you’re just getting started, it’s probably best to take half a scoop Alpha Lion pre-workout. You should do that to see how you react to it. Otherwise, you might be overwhelmed or anxious to even get a workout in.
Apart from that, just do what I did.
Focus on getting enough rest, eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and don’t take your Alpha Lion pre-workout late at night.
Ingredients - Effectiveness & Amount
Key Ingredient | Superhuman Dosage/Serving | Effectiveness | Extreme Dosage/Serving | Effectiveness | Clinically Effective Dose |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Caffeine per serve | 325 mg | Very effective | 370 mg | Very effective | 3-6 mg/kg |
Citrulline per serve | 4 g | Moderately effective | 4 g | Moderately effective | 6-8 g |
L-Tyrosine | 1.5 g | Very effective | 1 g | Effective | 500-2000 mg |
L-Theanine | 0 mg | 0 mg | 100-200 mg |
Caffeine
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant commonly found in dietary supplements to enhance focus, energy, strength and physical performance, as well as burn body fat.
High caffeine doses, such as 325mg and 370mg, will provide a significant boost in alertness and physical performance. [1]
One thing I don’t really like here is that we don’t really know precisely how much fast-acting caffeine anhydrous we’re getting as opposed to ZumXR extended and delayed-release caffeine.
But anyway, at these levels, increased endurance, power, energy, and laser-sharp focus are unavoidable.
As said, there's also a chance this much caffeine will help accelerate calorie burning, fat burning and fat loss, but don’t expect that effect to be overly significant.
Learn More - How Much Caffeine In Pre-Workout?
Citrulline
Citrulline is an amino acid that's frequently included in pre-workout formulas for its role in the production of nitric oxide, a compound that improves blood flow.
At 4 grams, which is the standard dose for a pre-workout, citrulline can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to working muscles, helping to delay the onset of muscle fatigue and improve exercise performance, in addition to giving you a fairly decent pump. [2]
Personally, I’d like to see at least 6 grams of citrulline in a pre-workout formula, as that would be the minimal clinically efficacious dose for improving performance and delaying fatigue, but even at 4 grams you should experience some of the effects.
L-Tyrosine
L-tyrosine is another amino acid found in pre-workout supplements and is known for its cognitive-enhancing effects. It is one of my favorites, and I wish more products had it.
At dosages of 1g and 1.5g, L-Tyrosine can help improve mental focus and clarity, which is particularly beneficial in complex or very intense workouts that require a strong mind-muscle connection. [3]
Also, tyrosine is believed to act as a precursor to neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, improving mood and potentially reducing the perception of effort during exercise or similarly stressful situations.
Stimulants
Stimulant | Included | Clinically Effective Dose | Effectiveness |
---|---|---|---|
Theobromine | 0 mg | 250-500 mg | |
Theacrine | 0 mg | 50-300 mg | |
Synephrine/Bitter Orange Extract | 0 mg | 10-20 mg t.i.d. | |
DMAE | 0 mg | 100-300 mg | |
SantEnergy™ Nu | 400 mg | n/a | Highly unlikely |
Dynamine* | 100 mg | 50-150 mg | Moderately effective |
Alfabin* | 1 mg | n/a | Not effective |
* - Extreme only
Alpha Lion pre-workout supplements include 400 mg of SantEnergy™ Nu (Eriodictyon californicum extract), 100 mg of Dynamine (methylliberine), and 1 mg of Alfabin (the last two found only in Extreme pre-workout).
Now, I wouldn’t call SantEnergy™ Nu a stimulant, strictly speaking, because, as far as scientific literature is concerned, this one does not affect your central nervous system.
However, this Yerba santa extract is presumed to aid in weight management and sports performance by mimicking caffeine effects (it is sometimes even called “caffeine replacement”).
All that said, apart from anecdotal evidence and its traditional use in Native American medicine, there really isn’t any data to suggest this extract benefits your body in any way despite the dosage being the one commonly used.
Dynamine, or methylliberine, is a mild stimulant with a shorter peak time than caffeine and is commonly used to supplement its effects - like theacrine. [4]
Alfabin (Rauwolfia vomitoria extract) is primarily used (as an injection, usually 150 mg) to treat malaria. However, some anecdotes suggest it can be used as a stimulant. Once again, evidence supporting this theory simply does not exist.
Boosters
Booster | Included | Clinically Effective Dose | Effectiveness |
---|---|---|---|
Beta-Alanine | 3.2 g | 3.2-6.4 g/day | Conditionally effective |
L-Arginine AKG | No | 3-6 g | |
Nitrosigine | No | 1.5 g | |
Agmatine | No | 1.6-6.4 mg/kg | |
5-HTP | No | 300-500 mg | |
Alpha-GPC | No | 300–600 mg | |
Huperzine A | 200 mcg | 50-200 mcg | Unlikely |
Choline Bitartrate | No | 500-3000 mg | |
Creatine | No | 3-5 g/day | |
Taurine | 1 g | 1-10 g | Moderately effective |
Piperine | No | 5-10 mg | |
Carnitine | No | 500-2000 mg | |
Betaine | 2.5 g | 3-6 g | Unlikely |
Yohimbine | No | 0.2mg/kg | |
Alpha-Yohimbine/Rauwolscine | No | 0.2mg/kg |
* - Extreme only
The rest of the Alpha Lion pre-workout formula contains taurine, betaine, beta-alanine, Huperzine A (Extreme only), and S7®.
First, we have 1 gram of taurine, an amino sulfonic acid known to enhance performance, decrease blood glucose concentration, and alleviate muscle soreness. [5] [6]
Then, we have 2.5 grams of betaine, a common performance booster with little to no scientifically proven benefits for athletic performance, that supplement companies still include.. [7]
Thirdly, we have 3.2 grams of beta-alanine, a compound that helps to buffer acid in muscles, improving physical performance in high-intensity exercises lasting more than one minute.
Also, we have a very potent 200 mcg dose of Huperzine A, a relatively new compound in the world of dietary supplements, known to improve mood and mental function but also help with nerve stimulation, leading to better muscle contractions. [8]
Finally, we have 50 mg of S7®, which is a trademarked concoction of 7 plant extracts (green coffee bean, green tea, turmeric, blueberry, broccoli, kale, and tart cherry) proposed to boost nitric oxide production by 230% compared to baseline, at only 50 mg. [9]
However, this study was led by Boris V Nemzer, the Vice President of R&D and Director of Research and Analytical Center at FutureCeuticals, the company behind S7®.
While this certainly doesn’t mean the study findings are to be dismissed, the conflict of interest certainly can’t be ignored.
How I Felt When I Took Alpha Lion Pre-Workout
Let me give you the low-down on my experience while conducting the Alpha Lion Superhuman review.
Within 15 Minutes
Alpha Lion pre-workout hit me almost immediately. Maybe not like a freight train, but it definitely had me feeling the buzz within 15 minutes.
The energy began to gradually ramp up, and my motivation and desire to hit the gym were definitely elevated early on. After half an hour, I felt a discernible difference in my energy, to a point where I was almost jittery - but not in a literal sense.
Unfortunately, the beta-alanine tingles were there, also. Nothing too crazy or annoying, but just a feeling of static buzz under my skin that was with me for about 20-25 minutes total.
Learn More - Can You Stop Pre-Workout Jitters?
Within 60 Minutes
An hour in, and I was crushing it, honestly. My workout was in full swing, and so was I.
You could say I was in the zone, but that honestly wouldn’t begin to describe it. Every weight I lifted felt manageable, almost easy. My physical performance was at its peak, and I could easily do more reps than usual, allowing me to really focus on the volume progression before once again moving the weight up.
My focus? Pinpoint. It felt like I had tunnel vision but in a good way. Each move and each rep was calculated and precise, and I genuinely felt that beginner rush when everything in the gym seems new and exciting.
After 6+ Hours
Here's where things got a bit dicey a few times. I experienced several mild crashes, although far more physical than mental.
Basically, my body was drained, but my brain was still clicking along. Doing chores around the house wasn't a drag, but I wasn't exactly leaping to vacuum the living room, either.
As night rolled in, I could tell my body was ready to call it a day. But mentally? I was still up and about, ready to chill, watch a movie, or whatever.
I didn't feel mentally depleted, which was a nice surprise, as my crashes usually involve me regressing to a plant-like state.
Jokes aside, crashes didn’t occur every time, and when they did, they were bearable, and, honestly, in retrospect, they were kind of expected, considering my workout performance those days.
And no, I haven’t had any issues sleeping whatsoever.
Learn More - Why Does Pre-Workout Affect Your Sleep?
How Does It Compare To Other Pre-Workouts?
As you saw by now, my official Alpha Lion review stance is that these pre-workout supplements are pretty good. However, how do they compare against others?
Alpha Lion Vs Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout
Since you will most likely take two scoops of Gorilla Mode, the price is nearly identical, so that certainly won't be the deciding factor.
The biggest difference between Gorilla Mode, one of the best-selling and strongest pre-workout supplements, and Alpha Lion Superhuman and Alpha Lion Superhuman Extreme is 5g of creatine monohydrate.
This means you will meet your daily need for creatine, essential for muscle growth, just by consuming Gorilla Mode.
Also, Gorilla Mode offers massive pumps since it contains a hefty dose of 9000mg of L-citrulline compared to 4000mg in Alpha Lion pre-workouts.
So Gorilla Mode is the go-to option if you are chasing a superhuman pump.
Gorilla Mode is also beta-alanine-free, which means no itching! It also means some of you would rather go with Alpha Lion but to each their own.
Overall, I have to give the edge to Gorilla Mode pre-workout.
Recommended
Gorilla Mode
Alpha Lion
Alpha Lion Vs Bucked Up Pre-Workout
Bucked Up Pre-Workout is not cheap, but it is nearly a dollar cheaper per serving than Alpha Lion.
The formula of Bucked Up Pre-Workout is pretty simple, and it will give you everything you expect from a pre-workout: energy, focus, and pump.
However, I wouldn’t necessarily say Bucked Up pre-workout is better than Alpha Lion in terms of ingredients. It has the same amount of citrulline but less beta-alanine, caffeine, and taurine, so it is actually worse in that regard.
But then again, the difference in ingredients isn’t substantial enough to justify the price difference. Therefore, I would have to give an overall win to Bucked Up.
Recommended
Bucked Up
Alpha Lion
What We Have Taken Into Consideration For Giving You A Final Verdict
So, why should you even bother listening to my Alpha Lion review?
My Expertise In Supplements
I've been down this rabbit hole for years now. I've been grinding in the gym for nearly a decade, and I’ve been researching the supplement world and studying their impacts for nearly as long.
I've not only guzzled down more tubs of pre-workout than I can count but also spent countless hours dissecting the nitty-gritty details, from various amino acids to catecholamine precursors.
I've also read more studies than I care to admit, all in order to get a holistic view of what goes into these supplements and what you can realistically expect from them.
On a more academically recognized note, I have studied pharmacology at the University of Belgrade, which has helped me tremendously in understanding active ingredients and substances often used in pre-workouts.
Also, I've recently become a certified sports nutritionist.
Reviewing Other Products
You see, my fascination with pre-workouts is just the tip of the iceberg. I've got hands-on experience with a ton of other stuff - protein powders, fat burners, recovery aids, you name it.
But why should you care?
Well, I approach each product with a critical eye and an open mind. I don't have brand loyalties.
I only care about quality and effectiveness.
I read up, I test, I review, and then I let you all know whether a product is a hit or a miss.
Not to brag, but I've developed a knack for sifting through marketing buzzwords and getting down to what really matters - the actual impact a product will have on your fitness journey. I've been burned by hype before, and trust me, I don't want you to make the same mistakes I did.
Frequently Asked Alpha Lion Pre-Workout Questions
Alpha Lion Superhuman and Extreme contain caffeine, but they are free of creatine.
Learn More - Can You Mix Creatine And Pre-Workout?
My personal experience shows that for full benefits, you should take Alpha Lion product 20 to 30 minutes before the workout mixed with water for best results.
Pre-workouts, in general, are not regulated by the FDA because they can be sold without approval.
The Food and Drug Administration may step in and remove the product from the market if there is a good reason to do so.
The FDA does not regulate the supplement industry like the pharmaceutical industry.
No, Alpha Lion does not contain DMAA, a potentially dangerous amphetamine derivative, nor the N-methyl tyramine hcl, called the new DMAA.
Learn More - DMAA (Why Is It And Why It's Dangerous?)
Final Words
To end this Alpha Lion review, both Alpha Lion Superhuman pre-workouts can be valuable assets in your training supplement stack.
As far as I'm concerned, both Superhuman and Extreme versions of the pre-workout will do an equally excellent job of preparing you for your workout.
Now, are they the best option out there? Certainly not. The price is too high for my liking, some dosages could be better, formula could use some touching up, but effect-wise, I certainly didn’t mind taking these supplements during the Alpha Lion review process.
Alpha Lion made me better in the gym, it tasted great, and I'm sure many of you would have the same experience.
However, if you just take a quick peak below, you’ll see that I’ve left you with an alternative that’s noticeably less expensive but equally, if not more, effective, so take your pick.
we recommend this instead!
References:
1. https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-020-00383-4
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20386132/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17513421/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9397462/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35122528/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5745489/
7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19250531
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7664913/
9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29110555/
Last Updated on October 29, 2023