LEAN BODY CHARGE LEMON LIME CANDY

The argument for a ready to drink pre-workout is simple. No scoop, no shaker, no clumps at the bottom of the bottle, and no measuring in a car park. You open it and drink it.

What makes this one worth the format is that the doses have not been cut down to fit. Three hundred milligrams of caffeine, six grams of L-citrulline malate for blood flow, and four grams of beta-alanine for endurance, which is above the standard 3.2g most pre-workouts carry.

The distinctive ingredient is the glycerol, at ten grams. Glycerol works by drawing water into muscle tissue and holding it there, which produces a fuller, harder pump and, more usefully, supports hydration through a long or hot session. In this climate that second effect is arguably the more valuable one, and it is not something a standard stimulant pre-workout offers at all.

Labrada have been in sports nutrition since 1995, founded by IFBB professional Lee Labrada, and the brand has a long reputation for transparent labelling.

Lemon lime candy is the sharp, sherbet leaning flavour. Chilled, it goes down easily even at a high active load.

L-Citrulline Malate 6,000mg | Beta Alanine 4,000mg | Glycerol 10,000mg | Caffeine 300mg | Electrolytes for hydration support

Shake before opening. Drink one bottle 20 to 30 minutes before training. If you have not used a high stimulant pre-workout before, start with half a bottle to assess your tolerance. Do not exceed one bottle in any 24 hour period. Drink plenty of additional water alongside it, particularly given the glycerol content. Avoid within several hours of bedtime.

Caffeine Warning: Contains 300mg of caffeine per bottle. This is a high level. Not recommended for children, adolescents, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or anyone sensitive to caffeine. Do not combine with any other source of caffeine, including coffee, energy drinks or other supplements. Not intended for persons under 18. Consult a doctor before use if you have any medical condition, particularly affecting the heart, blood pressure or kidneys, or are taking any medication. Discontinue use and seek medical advice if you experience rapid heartbeat, chest discomfort or dizziness.