Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout Review (Upd 2023) – GarageGymPro

What Is Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty portion of the Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout review, let's briefly take a look at what this thing is.

Just by skimming the label on the back, you can quickly realize that we're dealing with a complex and powerful stimulant formula.

Even though the caffeine dose isn't all that high (compared to some other stim pre-workouts), caffeine is not the only stimulant in Gorilla Mode.

In fact, there's a banned ingredient in here, but more on that later...

Overall, this is a good pre-workout.

What To Expect When Taking Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout

You have to tailor your expectations when it comes to any pre-workout supplement.

I've met so many pre-workout users over the years who are utterly disappointed with other pre-workouts because they thought the formula would somehow magically make them tap into beast mode.

Unfortunately, pre-workouts don’t work like that.

With that out of the way - let's continue with our Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout review.

1. Flavor

Once upon a time, you could choose between 15 different flavors. Now, you're down to four options:

I wanted to try Fruit Punch (love me some watermelon), which I thought was one of the best-tasting Gorilla Mode flavors, but it wasn’t available. So I went with Tiger Blood but didn't enjoy it.

It was kind of overpowering, so I did some digging, and I found that most agree that this Gorilla Mode taste isn't all that great.

I've also noticed that no matter how much I shake this pre-workout powder, it won't dissolve properly. I can't imagine how it would be with two scoops.

2. Performance Increase

Performance-wise, I noticed the usual stim formula improvements. The energy levels were high and maintainable, and the focus was on point.

No problem powering through a workout. Pretty standard stuff for quality pre-workout supplements.

As for measurable exercise performance, I did manage to do an extra rep or two here and there, but nothing major.

However! Here's the real kicker. You know those days when you can't level the bed? Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout will not only help but will make you strut on your way to the gym.

3. Pump

This one’s pretty strong in the pump and performance category, so if you're someone that enjoys a good muscle pump and if that gets you in the mood to train even harder - Gorilla Mode pre-workout will have some pretty insane pumps.

4. Focus

I'm not the best person to discuss this as I'm laser-focused in the gym. I don't zone out, I never forget to count my reps, and I always pay special attention to my form.

Still, I've talked to many and read more than one Gorilla Mode review, and I truly believe that this formula will help you achieve intense focus and overall mental sharpness.

5. Energy

As I've mentioned - the energy boost was definitely there, and it was stable.

Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout is not one of those pre-workouts that will make you want to run through a brick wall and then have you feel run over.

It's more of a slow and steady type of energy that can improve endurance and last a couple of hours.

I've done a few two, or two-and-a-half-hour intense workouts while on Gorilla Mode pre-workout, and I never felt like I needed more physical or mental energy or that I was going to keel over.

6. Side Effects

Thankfully, this is a beta-alanine-free formula, so you won't feel your ears burning and skin tingling.

I've also never felt jittery or anything like that, so it's safe to say this stim blend is kind of spot on.

Some of you may experience some jitters, especially if you're sensitive to caffeine or stimulants in general. However, you can start with half a scoop (half dose) and work your way up.

A word of advice; if you're a night owl and you like pumping iron late in the evening - skip this one. It'll keep you buzzing when you hop in the sheets.

Learn More - Does Pre-Workout Has Side Effects?

7. Post-Workout

I usually go to work after I'm done with my morning workout and if there's one thing I hate that's crashing and feeling like a zombie at my desk.

Thankfully, I never experienced that with Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout.

I was able to stay focused and productive as my energy levels lowly waned off, so I never felt like I needed to take a nap in the break room.

Finally, I did find that recovery was somewhat smoother than usual. It's not I that didn't feel any muscle fatigue or muscle soreness, but I didn't feel beaten up either.

8. Cost & Availability

Want to know where to buy Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout? Amazon and the Gorilla Mind website!

A tub will cost you a cent shy of $50, but you are getting 40 scoops instead of the regular 30. So, it is $1.25 per scoop, which is actually on the low end, considering the current supplement pricing.

Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout Ingredients (Is It FDA Approved?)

We can't have a pre-workout review without looking at the pre-workout ingredients.

Let's dissect this list and learn some nutrition facts.

L-Citrulline (4,500 Mg)

Almost always found in pre-workout supplements, L-citrulline is a non-essential amino acid that's converted into L-arginine in your body, which is the direct precursor to nitric oxide (NO).

Nitric oxide is the one responsible for the pumps you see when working out, as it helps dilate your blood vessels, allowing more blood flow to your muscles.

With all that in mind, it's no wonder many studies have linked L-citrulline with performance increase in both aerobic and anaerobic exercise.[1]

At 4.5 g, Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout offers a pretty potent dose that will elevate your nitric oxide levels.

One thing to note is you'd usually see a 2:1 L-citrulline to malic acid ratio in other pre-workout supplements, but in this case (as you'll see in a minute), we have a 3:1 ratio of these two.

Creatine Monohydrate (2,500 mg)

Creatine is inarguably the most well-researched supplement in sports nutrition, with hundreds of studies linking it to increased physical performance, energy production, muscle strength and growth, mental clarity, as well as other health benefits.

It works by increasing your muscles' ability to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy source your muscles use to function.[2]

However, while creatine monohydrate is undoubtedly super useful to help reach fitness goals - it does not belong in pre-workout supplements.[3]

Also, 2.5 g of creatine monohydrate might be sufficient for a scrawny teen, but most dedicated gym rats require 5 g (or more) per day to see any benefits.

Learn More - Creatine Vs Pre-Workout (How They Differ?)

GlycerPump (1,500 mg)

In theory, GlycerPump, which consists of 65% Glycerol powder, should hydrate your muscles, making them fuller.

And while there is scientific evidence that glycerol enhances water retention, studies suggest that loading up on Glycerol yields no advantage over conventional fluid replacement.[4]

Betaine Anhydrous (1,250 mg)

Also known as trimethylglycine (TMG), Betaine is another popular pre-workout formula ingredient that's often included in formulas for its presumed ability to increase muscle strength, improve blood flow, increase muscular endurance and overall performance.

While there is scientific evidence of Betaine favorably impacting athletic performance, the administered dose during the trial was 2.5 g, which means you might not get to experience the same benefits at half the dose.[5]

L-Tyrosine (750 mg)

An effective dose of this amino acid used as a precursor to dopamine synthesis is 500-2000 mg, so you are getting a decent amount here.

However, there's only so much you're getting from this "feel good" amino acid.

You should get minor improvements in mental focus and cognitive performance from L-Tyrosine, but from my experience, all of that has little to no effect on your performance in the gym.

Agmatine Sulfate (500 mg)

Derived from L-arginine, Agmatine is a neurotransmitter that's sometimes included in pre-workout formulas because research showed that it could be beneficial for alleviating pain, which in theory, could help you power through a grueling gym session.[6]

However, there's little to no evidence of a 500 mg dose yielding any endurance benefits during exercise, especially when you factor in that Agmatine isn't well-absorbed when taken with dietary protein, which most people do before a workout.

Kanna (250 mg)

Kanna, or Sceletium tortuosum, is a succulent plant commonly used as a herbal supplement for its purported ability to enhance mood and reduce stress and anxiety.

It's sometimes included in pre-workouts for the same reason as L-Tyrosine (to improve focus and mental clarity), but the evidence to support this theory is very, very scarce.

Another thing to note is Kanna is usually administered in 8-25 mg doses, so I'm not quite sure why would Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout includes such a high dose.

Either way, it's a pretty insignificant ingredient.

Caffeine Anhydrous (175 mg)

Caffeine anhydrous is a powerful, nootropic stimulant often found in pre-workouts and fat burners.

It can be used to enhance physical strength and endurance and can also improve cognitive function, focus, and alertness.

One study has even linked it with an increase in testosterone concentration.[7]

It’s beneficial for both endurance athletes and those training for strength and muscle gains.

At 175 mg, Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout isn't offering the biggest, most massive dose of caffeine anhydrous out there, but it's still more than enough to get you going.

Learn More - Nootropic Pre-Workout (Key Benefits Explained)

N-Phenethyl Dimethylamine Citrate (175 mg)

Known for its anecdotal benefits (not that they aren't there, it's just that research is very limited) on mental sharpness and mood or its overall euphoric effect, N-Phenethyl Dimethylamine Citrate is often included in pre-workout formulas for its stimulatory benefits.

It stepped onto the scene as a DMAA alternative after the latter was banned. However, it wasn't long before N-Phenethyl Dimethylamine Citrate suffered the same fate in Australia.

So, Is Gorilla Mode FDA-approved? Is Gorilla mode legal? No and yes.

FDA isn't in the business of approving pre-workout supplements, so Gorilla Mode isn’t approved. However, It also isn’t banned.

While nowhere near as potent or potentially dangerous as DMAA, this Eria Jarensis extract could make you fail a drug test as it could show up as an amphetamine false-positive.

On the other hand, this ingredient is usually metabolized out of the body in 10 minutes or so, and most standardized tests wouldn't pick it up - but err on the side of caution.

Bioperine (5 mg)

This trademarked piperine extract (black pepper extract) is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and also boosts the cognitive-enhancing ingredients in this formula.

However, while there is a study showing an effect of piperine on muscle recovery, the administered dose was 60 mg, which completely dwarfs the 5 mg you're getting here.[8]

Huperzine-A (200 mcg)

Huperzine-A is a compound derived from the Chinese club moss plant.

It's an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which means it inhibits the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, resulting in higher acetylcholine concentration.

Since acetylcholine is a learning neurotransmitter involved in muscular contraction, this ingredient should, in theory, help you improve your overall performance.

And while it is dosed at the high end of the recommended range, there is not enough research to support any of these claims for the time being.

Malic Acid – 1,500mg

Even though malic acid has been linked with alleviating chronic pain, boosting energy levels, and improving stamina, 1,500mg of malic acid in this formula is mostly there to help with L-citrulline absorption rates.

Who Should Consider Taking Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout?

Anyone who isn't a professional athlete and is working out for aesthetics or general health reasons may grab themselves a jug.

Overall, this is a pretty decent formula, but you have to factor in the ingredient, which could get you disqualified from the competition if you get blood-tested.

Who Should Definitely Avoid Gorilla Mode?

Apart from said athletes, those with a history of cardiovascular disease or any other kind of heart condition should avoid this supplement as it may exacerbate their symptoms.

Pregnant and nursing ladies should stay away, too.

Furthermore, anyone particularly sensitive to stimulants should exercise caution when taking Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout.

Learn More - Is Pre-Workout Safe For Breastfeeding Moms?

How Does Gorilla Mode Stack Up Against Competitors?

Gorilla Mode Vs Transparent Labs BULK

Transparent Labs BULK is one of my personal go-to's that I'd gladly recommend to anyone.

The only thing you'll want to look at, as far as I'm concerned, are caffeine and L-Citrulline. With both of these, they're well-dosed and efficient. The rest of the formula is not as important.

While it is slightly on the pricier side of things, it is one of the best pre-workout formulas out there, and I’d definitely prefer the BULK over the Gorilla.

Gorilla Mode Vs Beyond Raw Lit

This one's a toss-up.

On one hand, Beyond Raw Lit gets you more caffeine, no illegal ingredients, and you get beta-alanine which some people love for whatever reason.

On the other, you get less L-citrulline (which actually matters), and you pay 25 cents more per scoop.

Whichever one of those is more important to you will tip the scales, but I'd call it a tie unless you're a pro.

Related Article - Beyond Raw Lit Pre-Workout Review 

Gorilla Mode Vs Bucked Up

Once again, a close battle.

Bucked Up pre-workout comes with 6g of L-Citrulline malate, 200 mg of caffeine, and 2 g of beta-alanine.

The rest of the formula is also decent, but nothing that would make a significant difference, in my opinion.

If it weren't for the N-Phenethyl Dimethylamine Citrate, I'd say buy Gorilla Mode pre-workout. However, since that's not something you can ignore - you'll have to make a final call.

Both will get you pumped for an intense workout. That I can guarantee.

Related Article - Bucked Up (Deer Antler) Pre-Workout Review

Frequently Asked Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout Questions

Does Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout contain DMAA?

No. Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout does not contain DMAA.

Learn More - What Is DMAA Pre-Workout?

Should I stack Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout with other supplements?

Do not combine Gorilla Mode with Gorilla Mode Energy, a2 AM, Rauwolscine, or any other supplement with high caffeine levels.

How long does this pre-workout take to kick in?

It usually takes about half an hour for this formula to hit.

Should you cycle on and off Gorilla Mode?

While there are some folks that advise cycling on and off huperzine-A, I don't see why you'd cycle on and off Gorila Mode pre-workout supplement.

Learn More - Why Should You Cycle Pre-Workout?

How much Gorilla Mode can you take daily?

You may take two scoops of Gorilla Mode if you feel like a single scoop isn't enough, but I definitely wouldn't go further than that.

Final Verdict

Overall, this is a worthy product. It is a strong, stimulating pre-workout formula with well-dosed ingredients that will get you in the mood to lift weights.

Sure, I'd probably cut a few ingredients to keep the formula legal and simple, but then again, the formula will improve your workout performance without a doubt.

Just keep in mind, if you're a competitive athlete - avoid this product for obvious reasons. But anyone else... Scoop some powder and get some high-intensity workouts in!

References: 

1. https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/fulltext/2015/03000/effects_of_supplemental_citrulline_malate.29.aspx
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21394603/
3. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/6/1915
4. https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/Fulltext/1998/08000/The_effect_of_glycerol_and_desmopressin_on.13.aspx
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22080324/
6. https://academic.oup.com/painmedicine/article/11/3/356/1885635?login=false
7. https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/ijsnem/18/2/article-p131.xml
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5358025/