Finding a pre-workout that actually delivers without a laundry list of artificial junk isn’t easy. That’s why I picked up a tub of PreSeries LEAN from Transparent Labs, a formula built for energy, endurance, and a little extra fat-burning support.
Unlike most reviews that just list the label, I’ve actually used it. I’ll break down how it mixes, how it feels in the gym, and whether the ingredients are worth your money. By the end, you’ll know if LEAN deserves a spot in your shaker bottle or if you should keep looking.
Transparent Labs’ Lean is kind of like a sidekick for anyone on a weight loss journey. Think of it as a natural boost that nudges your body to burn more fat, keeps those hunger pangs at bay, and keeps you feeling energized. Ingredients?
Well, it’s packed with stuff like Forslean and green tea extract. They’ve kept it pretty clean, too, no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. The PhysiqueSeries offers a stimulant-free version as well, perfect for folks who find caffeine a bit too much. But remember, it’s not magic. You’ve gotta pair it up with healthy eating and regular exercise for the best results.
Transparent Labs Background
Transparent Labs is like the straight-shooter of the supplement world. They’re all about, you guessed it, transparency. No shady ingredients, no over-the-top marketing claims.
Just pure, effective, and well-researched products. They’re pretty well-known in fitness circles, especially for their PhysiqueSeries line which includes that Lean supplement we were talking about earlier.
Plus, they’ve got a thing against artificial additives – so you won’t find any artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives in their stuff. Basically, if you’re after supplements that do what they say on the package, Transparent Labs might just be your kind of brand.
Transparent Labs Lean Overview
Alright, this product is jam-packed with ingredients. The folks at Transparent Labs suggest starting with half a serving, just to see how your body takes it. On the nutrition front, a full serving’s got more than a day’s worth of iodine, zinc, copper, and chromium, and nearly all of your daily selenium needs. There’s also 6,000mg of citrulline malate – this stuff might help build lean muscle when combined with resistance workouts. Also in the mix is 2,500mg of betaine, thought to help with protein synthesis and stave off muscle loss as we age.
You’ll find 2,500mg of BCAAs and 2,000mg of beta-alanine, which could help improve blood flow. The recipe’s got a solid dose of amino acids like tyrosine, theanine, and carnitine, plus a decent kick of caffeine, equivalent to about two and a half cups of coffee. To round it off, there’s 500mg of choline bitartrate, 50mg of theobromine, and a sprinkle of Bioperine – that’s black pepper extract which might make everything else more absorbable.
Flavors? Oh, they’ve got you covered. Sour Peach, Blue Raspberry, Green Apple, Orange, Cherry Limeade, Sour Grape, Strawberry Lemonade, Tropical Punch, and Watermelon. All sweetened with stevia, flavored naturally, and dyed with beta-carotene. The tub will give you 30 servings at about $1.65 per pop – not a bad deal for a naturally concocted pre-workout supplement.
Ingredients In Transparent Labs Lean
When it comes to any supplement it’s all about the ingredients. Let’s check out the main ingredients in Lean.
Citrulline Malate 6000 mg
Citrulline malate is an amino acid that is pretty popular in pre-workout supplements. Studies have shown that it can improve strength, aerobic performance, and muscle endurance. [1,2]
It is also more effective than L-Arginine at increasing nitric oxide levels to help deliver those muscle pumps.[3]
It can also give a boost to the utilization of branch-chain amino acids, such as leucine, during your workout sessions.[4]
Beta-Alanine 2000 mg
This is the ingredient that gives you the tingly feeling when you take a pre-workout, but it does more than that. Beta-alanine has also been been proven to increase cellular carnosine levels, which are quickly depleted during intense exercise [5, 6].
It has even been shown to increase overall muscle strength and endurance. [7][8]
Still not enough? Beta-Alanine has even been shown to help reduce body fat. [9]
Betaine Anhydrous 1500 mg
May improve power output and help with muscle endurance. Clinical studies often use 2.5g, so the dose is decent but not maxed out.(10)
Acetyl L-Carnitine 1000 mg
Think of L-carnitine as a friendly sidekick, always ready to lend a hand. Although it’s a nonessential amino acid, it can pack quite a punch.
It could act as an anti-inflammatory agent, give a boost to your nitric oxide levels, and even play a role in fat loss. And how much do you need to enjoy these perks?
Anywhere between 500mg and 2,000mg should do. And the good news? Each serving of LEAN comes loaded with 630mg of L-carnitine, putting these benefits well within your reach.(11)
Choline Bitartrate 500 mg
Let’s talk about choline, the star player hiding in your egg yolks. It’s earned a name for itself as a brain-boosting supplement. Once in your body, choline takes a cool little turn and transforms into acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that’s got your back when it comes to learning. So how much choline should you be getting?
For most of us, about 250mg to 500mg a day hits the spot. But if you’re after some extra benefits, you might want to bump it up to 2,000mg. And the cherry on top? Each serving of LEAN dishes up 500mg of choline, making it a breeze to get your daily dose.(12)
Theanine 180 mg
This combo delivers clean, focused energy. Theanine smooths out caffeine’s jitters, making the energy more sustained and less crash-prone.(13)
Organic Caffeine 200 mg
Caffeine, found in things like coffee or tea, is often a go-to pre-workout ingredient. It’s known for keeping you alert and focused, making you feel ready to tackle any workout. Plus, it’s been associated with improved endurance and power output. Just keep in mind, the effects can vary based on individual tolerance and the dosage.
Theobromine 50 mg
Theobromine, born from the cacao plant, could be a pretty cool teammate for your cells, brain function, and memory. And guess what? This formula packs a solid 50mg of theobromine in each serving. Some research even suggests that having 43mg or more might give your cognitive abilities a little boost. So, not only could you be helping your workout, but your brain might thank you too. (13)
Bioperine 5 mg
Ah, the humble black pepper. You see it often in supplements, and for good reason. It’s a bit of a champion when it comes to helping your body absorb other ingredients. In this formula, you’ll find 5mg of black pepper extract, which, interestingly enough, is pretty much the standard amount you’d see in many other supplements on the shelves. So, it’s not just there for the sake of it, but plays a crucial part in your supplement routine.
Taste, Mixability and Experience
We tested the Strawberry Lemonade flavor, and right away, the smell when opening the tub had that fresh, citrusy kick you’d expect. No chemical whiff, which is a good sign.
It mixed easily, I just used a spoon and cold water in a regular glass. No clumps, no gritty sludge at the bottom. The powder dissolved cleanly, which isn’t always the case with naturally sweetened pre-workouts.
Flavor-wise, it’s exactly what the name promises. A tart lemonade base with a sweet strawberry finish, but without that overpowering artificial taste a lot of pre-workouts have. It’s on the tangy side, so if you like a flavor that wakes up your taste buds before your muscles, this will do it.
About 15 minutes after drinking, I started to feel that familiar beta-alanine tingle, noticeable but not so intense it was distracting. Energy-wise, it hit smoothly. No sudden jolt, just a steady climb into a zone where you feel locked in and ready to train. Pumps were moderate, but endurance felt strong; I didn’t gas out as quickly between sets.
No crash afterward, just a gradual return to normal energy. For me, that’s the mark of a pre-workout I can actually use long-term without dreading the post-gym slump.
Is Transparent Labs Lean 3rd Party Tested?
Yes, they even have the seal for Informed Choice on their website so you know it is free of banned substances and any other junk you don’t want in your body.
Who Will Like Transparent Labs Lean?
If you’re looking for a pre-workout supplement that not only gives you that classic workout boost with citrulline and beta-alanine but also aids your fat-burning journey with elements like chromium and caffeine, PreSeries Lean could be your perfect match.
And if you’re keeping an eye on the wallet but don’t want to cut corners when it comes to quality, this one’s a winner. At about $1.65 per serving, you get a formula that’s naturally sweetened and flavored, free of artificial dyes. Plus, the flavor variety is off the charts – with nine different options, you have a lot of possibilities.
Who Won’t Like Transparent Labs Lean?
Perhaps you’re an athlete who prefers to keep the fat-burning elements separate from your pre-workout mix, or you might be someone whose system just doesn’t play nice with caffeine – if so, PreSeries Lean might not be up your alley.
And, if you’re one of those folks who prefer their pre-workout in a no-frills pill form, or maybe a plain, unflavored powder, you might need to scout around for a different option in the marke
Pricing, Subscriptions and a Promo Code
So, how much does this all cost? Well, a tub that’s good for 30 servings (a tad over a pound, if you’re curious) will set you back about $49.99. Now, if you break it down, it’s about $1.65 for each serving. Considering the quality of this pre-workout, that’s a pretty solid deal. It’s more in the middle of the pack as far as pre-workout prices go, especially since there are many out there charging over $2.00 per serving.
But, here’s where it gets even better. At checkout, punch in the coupon code TL10, and boom – you’ve just shaved 10% off your purchase. And if you’re all about convenience and saving a bit more, why not consider a subscription? That way, you can knock off another 10% and score free shipping. So, it’s not just about the workout, it’s about making your wallet feel a little healthier too.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Picture this: 21 active ingredients, each potentially pulling its weight to help with cognition, recovery, muscle building, and fatigue battling. This pre-workout mix even tosses in an extra five vitamins and minerals for good measure. You don’t see that every day. Think of it as a stealthy way of injecting some additional micronutrients into your daily intake.
Ingredients
If you’re not a fan of stimulants, bear in mind that this mix does contain 200mg of caffeine. However, if you’re on the hunt for a pre-workout blend that could help you zero in and maintain focus, this could be it. It brings theanine, caffeine, taurine, tyrosine, and carnitine to the table, all of which may prove beneficial for mental focus.
Peeking inside Transparent Labs LEAN Pre-Workout, you’ll notice that it’s engineered to assist with fat loss. Chromium and carnitine in the mix might be particularly handy here. If torching fat is part of your mission, you’ll appreciate that this mix provides a hefty 571% of your RDI of chromium. Not to mention, it packs in caffeine, which some studies suggest can aid in reducing BMI, body fat, and overall weight.
It’s not just about what’s in it, but how it’s made. Transparent Labs keeps it clean with no artificial dyes, colors, sweeteners, or fillers. Remember, we’re all unique, so what works for one person might not work for another. While this ingredient list is hefty, you’ll need to reflect on what ingredients align best with your personal goals.
Cost
Next up, price. Everyone’s got a budget, right? This tub offers 30 servings, costing around $1.65 each. Or, you could save a little by subscribing, which shaves 10% off the price and includes free shipping. With that deal, each serving drops to roughly $1.50, a reasonable tag for a robust pre-workout. Sure, you might find cheaper options, but remember, quality often goes hand in hand with price.
Taste
Let’s not forget about flavor. Believe it or not, it can make or break your pre-workout routine. This blend comes in a variety of flavors, from Sour Peach to Watermelon. Sorry, no unflavored option, but if you’re a fan of a tart kick, you might like the Strawberry Lemonade.
Dosing varies person to person. This formula contains five pre-workout ingredients at clinically effective doses. In terms of vitamins and minerals, four of the five provide 100% of your daily RDI, and Selenium chips in with 91% of your RDI. Now, if you’re adamant about having full clinically effective doses in your pre-workout, you might want to shop around. While some ingredients in this mix hit the mark, others, like citrulline malate, beta-alanine, and betaine, fall slightly short. But remember, just because they don’t meet the clinical bracket doesn’t mean they’re ineffective. Everyone’s mileage may vary.
Will Transparent Labs Lean Help You Lose Weight?
While Lean can give you some help on your weight loss journey it won’t do all the work for you.
If you’re dreaming that just using Lean will transform you into a trim and toned version of yourself overnight, you might be in for a reality check. Weight loss is a team sport, and it takes good old-fashioned exercise and mindful eating to really score. Lean isn’t a magician pulling a six-pack out of a hat. It’s more like a personal trainer giving you that extra push during your workouts.
But remember, it’s your diet and exercise routine that really pull the heavy weight. In short, Lean is your supportive sidekick, not the superhero. But when combined with a balanced diet and regular workouts, it can definitely help you reach your fitness goals.
When comparing PreSeries Lean to other top-ranked fat burners, there are a few aspects to consider. While each product may claim to be the best, it all boils down to the specifics of their formulations and how well they align with your individual fitness goals and lifestyle.
PreSeries Lean shines in its comprehensiveness – it’s packed with a range of ingredients targeted not only at burning fat but also enhancing cognition, recovery, muscle building, and reducing fatigue. It’s not just about weight loss but an overall boost in your workout performance. Additionally, it’s free of artificial additives and transparent with its ingredient list, which is a significant plus.
On the other hand, top-ranked fat burners often have a more narrowed focus, primarily targeting fat burning and weight loss. Many of these supplements contain thermogenic ingredients to increase metabolism, suppress appetite, and boost energy levels. They can be a great choice if you’re primarily interested in trimming down. However, they might not provide the same breadth of benefits as PreSeries Lean.
In the end, if fat loss is your main goal I would go with a fat burner over Lean.
PreSeries LEAN isn’t just a laundry list of ingredients, it actually delivers where it counts. The formula is clean, the flavors are natural, and the energy comes on smooth without leaving you wrecked afterward. During training, I felt sharper, had enough gas in the tank to push harder, and didn’t feel like I was dragging my feet between sets.
It’s not the cheapest pre-workout, and if you’re sensitive to caffeine or want a pure pump product without fat-burning extras, this isn’t your match. But if you want a naturally sweetened pre-workout that supports both performance and fat loss, LEAN is a solid choice, especially at around $1.65 a serving.
Bottom line: it’s one of the few pre-workouts I’d actually finish the tub on and reorder. That alone says a lot.
References
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Schwedhelm E, Maas R, Freese R, Jung D, Lukacs Z, Jambrecina A, Spickler W, Schulze F, Böger RH. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of oral L-citrulline and L-arginine: impact on nitric oxide metabolism. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2008 Jan;65(1):51-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2007.02990.x. Epub 2007 Jul 27. PMID: 17662090; PMCID: PMC2291275.
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Dunnett M, Harris RC. Influence of oral beta-alanine and L-histidine supplementation on the carnosine content of the gluteus medius. Equine Vet J Suppl. 1999 Jul;(30):499-504. doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1999.tb05273.x. PMID: 10659307.
Culbertson JY, Kreider RB, Greenwood M, Cooke M. Effects of beta-alanine on muscle carnosine and exercise performance: a review of the current literature. Nutrients. 2010 Jan;2(1):75-98. doi: 10.3390/nu2010075. Epub 2010 Jan 25. PMID: 22253993; PMCID: PMC3257613.
Hoffman J, Ratamess N, Kang J, Mangine G, Faigenbaum A, Stout J. Effect of creatine and beta-alanine supplementation on performance and endocrine responses in strength/power athletes. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2006 Aug;16(4):430-46. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.16.4.430. PMID: 17136944.
Hoffman JR, Ratamess NA, Faigenbaum AD, Ross R, Kang J, Stout JR, Wise JA. Short-duration beta-alanine supplementation increases training volume and reduces subjective feelings of fatigue in college football players. Nutr Res. 2008 Jan;28(1):31-5. doi: 10.1016/j.nutres.2007.11.004. PMID: 19083385.
Kern BD, Robinson TL. Effects of β-alanine supplementation on performance and body composition in collegiate wrestlers and football players. J Strength Cond Res. 2011 Jul;25(7):1804-15. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181e741cf. PMID: 21659893.
Cholewa JM, Wyszczelska-Rokiel M, Glowacki R, Jakubowski H, Matthews T, Wood R, Craig SA, Paolone V. Effects of betaine on body composition, performance, and homocysteine thiolactone. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2013 Aug 22;10(1):39. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-10-39. PMID: 23967897; PMCID: PMC3844502.
Ryan is a former college wrestler and lifelong fitness fanatic with over 25 years in the industry. He’s run half marathons, tackled mud runs, placed in body transformation contests, and coached everything from wrestling to girls’ soccer.
Along the way, he’s tested hundreds of supplements and built a deep well of supplement knowledge. His work has appeared in Muscle & Strength, Testosterone Junkie, The Sport Review, and more. Today, he’s the editor-in-chief of this site, still training hard and helping others reach their goals. Connect with him on LinkedIn below.
