Formulator’s Corner #15: The Ultimate Stim-Free Pre-Workout, Powered by goBHB for Evening Warriors

Evening trainers, we’re working behind the scenes to answer your pre-workout prayers! In Formulator’s Corner #15, we tackle the 6PM workout dilemma with hypothetical, goBHB-powered stim-free pre-workouts that would deliver real energy WITHOUT ruining your sleep. Plus, BHB actually IMPROVES sleep quality! Which brand is going to jump at the opportunity?!

Picture this: it’s 6PM, you’ve just wrapped up a long workday, and you’re finally ready to hit the gym. Your body needs energy, your mind craves focus, but there’s one major problem — any pre-workout with real kick will have you staring at the ceiling until midnight.

This is the evening training dilemma that millions of athletes and fitness enthusiasts face daily. Traditional pre-workouts rely heavily on caffeine and other stimulants that deliver immediate energy but come with a brutal trade-off: disrupted sleep quality that undermines everything you’re working toward in the gym.

Current “stim-free” pre-workouts? They’re great for pumps, but in terms of actual energy, they’re mostly devoid. At best, you’ll get some blood flow and maybe something experiential from beta-alanine, B-vitamins, amino acids that might make you feel like something’s happening. The result is underwhelming products that leave evening trainers choosing between effective workouts and quality sleep.

What if there was a better way?

Enter goBHB, the breakthrough ingredient from Ketone Labs that changes everything. Unlike caffeine, which blocks adenosine receptors to create a perception of energy, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) provides actual cellular fuel through direct ATP production. Even better, research shows that BHB can actually improve sleep quality rather than disrupt it!

We recently argued that we need more BHB-based stim-free energy drinks, and now we’re doing it for pre-workout — with a couple fictitious formulas for you to consider:

Our Hypothetical Solution: The Pre-Workout That Doesn’t Exist (Yet)

Today, for our 15th installment of our famous Formulator’s Corner series, we’re designing the ultimate stim-free pre-workout that evening warriors have been waiting for: A hypothetical formulation that we hope forward-thinking brands will bring to life. We’ll present two approaches:

1. A Realistic formula that delivers solid results at an accessible price point, and
2. A FULL POWER version that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible without stimulants.

These fictional formulations represent what could be possible when innovative brands decide to tackle the evening training market with science-backed ingredients instead of marketing fluff.

Why goBHB Works for Pre-Workout

goBHB isn’t just another ingredient… it’s a fundamental shift in how we approach pre-workout energy. Unlike traditional stimulants that create a perception of energy by blocking adenosine receptors, BHB provides actual cellular fuel that your muscles and brain can immediately utilize.

• Direct Cellular Energy Without CNS Stimulation

  When you take goBHB, it enters your bloodstream within 30-60 minutes and is directly transported into your cells’ mitochondria. There, it’s converted and fed into the TCA cycle to produce ATP, the body’s energy currency. This isn’t borrowed energy or masked fatigue, it’s genuine fuel production at the cellular level.

• Metabolic Flexibility and Glycogen Sparing

  One of BHB’s most compelling benefits for pre-workout use is its ability to enhance metabolic flexibility. Research shows that ketones can spare muscle glycogen during exercise, allowing your body to preserve its carbohydrate stores for when they’re needed most (during high-intensity efforts).^[1] This creates a more efficient energy system that can sustain performance throughout your entire workout.

• Sleep Quality Benefits: The Evening Training Advantage

  Here’s where goBHB becomes truly revolutionary for evening trainers: it actually improves sleep quality rather than disrupting it. A 2025 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that daily D-BHB supplementation significantly improved multiple sleep parameters, including easier sleep initiation, increased dream frequency (suggesting enhanced REM sleep), reduced morning grogginess, and feeling more refreshed upon waking.^[2]

  This study is discussed in greater detail in our article titled “Sleep Deeper with D-BHB: Research Confirms Ketone Supplement Improves Sleep Quality“. But overall, this means you can train hard at 7 PM and still enjoy quality sleep by 10:30PM… something no caffeine-based pre-workout could ever deliver.

• No Crash or Jitters

  Because BHB works through actual energy production rather than stimulation, users report smooth, sustained energy without the typical crash associated with stimulant-based products. There’s no cortisol spike, no adrenaline rush, and no subsequent energy drop… just clean, consistent fuel for your workout.

BHB Salt Considerations for Powder Formulations

Creating an effective BHB-based powder requires careful consideration of the mineral salts used to deliver the ketone. Free acid BHB works beautifully in liquid formulations, but powder applications demand BHB salts — and not all salts are created equal.

• Mineral Balance and Electrolyte Support

  The beauty of BHB salts lies in their dual function: delivering ketones while providing meaningful electrolyte support. Pre-workout supplementation is the perfect time to top off electrolyte stores before training, and our mineral blend does exactly that while avoiding the clumping issues associated with potassium-based BHB salts.

• Potassium, Sodium and Magnesium Blend Rationale

  Our formulation strategy centers on potassium BHB and sodium BHB as the primary delivery mechanisms. Potassium addresses the electrolyte gap most people have while supporting proper muscle function and hydration, while sodium provides essential electrolyte support for exercise performance.

  

  Could BHB be the answer to caffeine-free energy? Research shows beta-hydroxybutyrate provides actual cellular energy WITHOUT stimulants and may even improve sleep quality. The breakthrough ingredient energy drinks have been missing.

  We’ve also included meaningful amounts of magnesium and calcium BHB to create a comprehensive mineral profile that supports muscle function, recovery, and sleep quality. This perfectly aligns with our evening training focus. While many formulas rely heavily on calcium BHB, we don’t like to overdo it with calcium since most of our readers already get plenty, and there’s a good chance the recommended daily amount is too high in the first place.

• Molar Chemistry for Proper Mineral Ratios

  Here’s where we get strategic with our BHB salt blend. Rather than following the typical high-sodium approach of most pre-workouts, we’re creating a potassium-forward electrolyte profile using exactly 5g total BHB salt weight:

  Strategic BHB Salt Distribution:

  • 2.0g Potassium BHB – primary delivery mechanism
  • 1.5g Sodium BHB – moderate sodium support
  • 0.8g Magnesium BHB – muscle function and sleep support
  • 0.7g Calcium BHB – bone health contribution

  The Mineral Math: This carefully balanced 5g blend delivers:

  • Potassium: ~550mg (12% DV) – addressing the electrolyte most people lack
  • Sodium: ~273mg (12% DV) – reasonable support without excess
  • Magnesium: ~84mg (20% DV) – meaningful muscle and recovery support
  • Calcium: ~114mg (9% DV) – solid bone health contribution

  

  The Potassium Advantage: Most Americans already consume plenty of sodium but fall short on potassium intake. By making potassium our primary BHB carrier, we’re addressing a genuine nutritional gap while providing superior electrolyte balance. This approach supports healthy blood pressure, proper muscle function, and optimal hydration, all of which are critical for evening training sessions.

  The moderate sodium content (12% DV) provides essential electrolyte support without the bloating or water retention that can interfere with performance or sleep quality.

• We can go higher!

  Note, however, that in our “FULL POWER” formulation, we’re going to push it even harder for a total of 8g BHB salts:

  • 3.5g Potassium BHB (provides 963mg, or 20% DV potassium)
  • 2.55g Sodium BHB (provides 465mg, or 20% DV sodium)
  • 1g Magnesium BHB (provides 105.5mg, or 25% DV magnesium)
  • 0.95g Calcium BHB (provides 155mg, or 12% DV calcium)

Excessive? Possibly. But this will be one worth beta-testing, as we detail below.

Formulation Strategy: Two Approaches

We can create effective products at different price points by adjusting dosages and ingredient complexity while maintaining the core benefit: real energy without stimulation. Our two approaches cater to different market segments.

• The Realistic Formula (Entry-Level Effectiveness)

  This formulation targets the “reasonable” pre-workout market with effective dosages at accessible pricing. Every ingredient serves a specific purpose in creating sustained energy, enhanced performance, and cognitive clarity, with no disruption to sleep quality.

  Primary Energy Source

  • 5g goBHB (Potassium/Sodium/Magnesium/Calcium Blend)

    

    Our potassium-forward BHB salt complex provides the foundation for everything else. This isn’t just energy, it’s metabolic fuel that works synergistically with every other ingredient in the formula. See the “Why goBHB Works for Pre-Workout” section above for details.

  Performance Foundation

  • 4g L-Citrulline

    L-Citrulline forms the foundation of our pump and endurance stack, working through a mechanism that’s perfectly suited for evening training. Unlike arginine, which gets extensively metabolized by the liver, citrulline bypasses first-pass metabolism and converts to arginine in the kidneys — making it far more effective at raising plasma arginine levels.^[3]

    This enhanced arginine availability translates into increased nitric oxide production, supporting better blood flow and nutrient delivery to working muscles. Research demonstrates that citrulline supplementation can improve exercise performance by reducing fatigue and enhancing muscular endurance, particularly during repeated high-intensity efforts.^[4]

    At 4g in our Realistic formula and 6g in the FULL POWER version, you’re getting clinically effective dosages that work synergistically with our BHB base to create sustained performance without the crash.

    Note that we’ll have malic acid in the “Other Ingredients”, in case you’re hoping for a “citrulline malate” like blend. This will support aerobic energy production in the TCA cycle.

  • 3.2g Beta-Alanine

    Beta-alanine works through a completely different mechanism than BHB, making it the perfect complement to our ketone-based energy system. While BHB provides clean cellular fuel, beta-alanine tackles the muscular endurance side of the equation by increasing intramuscular carnosine concentrations.

    Carnosine acts as an intracellular pH buffer, helping your muscles maintain optimal performance during high-intensity efforts when lactic acid accumulation would normally force you to back off the intensity. Research consistently shows that beta-alanine supplementation improves exercise performance in activities lasting 1-4 minutes, with the most pronounced effects seen in repeated high-intensity efforts.^[5,6]

    

    Visual analog scale measurements show high-dose D-BHB significantly reduced difficulty falling asleep after waking compared to placebo. This supports BHB’s potential as a sleep quality enhancer that helps users feel more refreshed in the morning. ^[2]

    The 3.2g dose in our Realistic formula hits the sweet spot for effectiveness. Daily supplementation with 4-6g of beta-alanine for at least 2-4 weeks significantly augments muscle carnosine concentrations, but you’ll start experiencing benefits within the first week.^[7]

    Here’s what makes beta-alanine perfect for evening training: it provides performance benefits without any stimulatory effects. You might experience mild paresthesia (harmless tingling) for 60-90 minutes, but there’s zero impact on sleep quality. Combined with BHB’s sustained energy, you get muscular endurance that carries through your entire workout, whether you’re grinding through high-rep sets or pushing through metabolic conditioning circuits.

  • 3g Creapure Creatine Monohydrate

    Creatine monohydrate remains the gold standard for power output and strength enhancement, and there’s no better time to take it than pre-workout when your muscles are primed for ATP production.^[8] Unlike flashy new forms with questionable bioavailability, Creapure delivers the same 99.7% pure creatine monohydrate that’s been so effective in hundreds of studies (delivering 87.9% actual creatine by weight).

    Here’s where creatine becomes even more valuable in our evening formula: it works synergistically with BHB to enhance your body’s energy systems. While BHB provides immediate cellular fuel, creatine helps regenerate ATP during high-intensity efforts — think heavy squats, explosive movements, and power-based training. This combination creates sustained energy output that goes far beyond what either ingredient could deliver alone.

    

    New research shows BHB ketones can significantly improve sleep quality! Study found 1.5-2.9g of D-BHB taken before bed enhanced multiple sleep parameters including easier falling asleep and feeling more refreshed upon waking.^[9]

    The 3g dose provides meaningful support without requiring a loading phase, though you’ll see enhanced benefits if you’re already maintaining saturated creatine stores through consistent daily supplementation. For evening trainers, creatine’s ability to enhance workout quality translates directly into better training adaptations and improved recovery — all without disrupting sleep quality.^[10]

  • 2.5g Betaine

    Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine, is a naturally occurring compound derived from sugar beets that serves dual roles as both an osmolyte and methyl donor in the body. This versatile ingredient has gained significant attention in sports nutrition for its ability to enhance training performance and body composition.

    Research demonstrates that betaine supplementation at 2.5g daily can significantly improve muscle endurance during high-intensity resistance training. In one study with young athletes, betaine supplementation for just two weeks led to dramatic improvements in repetitions to exhaustion — participants performed 44% more leg press repetitions and 39% more bench press repetitions compared to placebo.^[11]

    Beyond performance benefits, betaine appears to support favorable body composition changes when combined with resistance training. A six-week study in experienced lifters found that betaine supplementation led to significant increases in lean mass and reductions in body fat percentage compared to placebo.^[12-15]

    The 2.5g dose used here aligns with the most effective dosing protocols found in research, making this an evidence-based inclusion for anyone looking to maximize their training adaptations.

  • 2g HydroPrime Glycerol

    

    This graph reveals one of the key findings from the ketone sleep study – the significant improvement in “falling asleep upon waking” scores. The chart shows how the high-dose D-BHB group (2.9g) experienced substantially greater improvement in this metric compared to placebo, indicated by the statistically significant difference (**P < .01). While both BHB groups showed improvements in fatigue scores as well, the effect on sleep transition quality was most pronounced. These visual analog scale (VAS) measurements provide clear evidence that ketone supplementation before bed can help people feel more alert and refreshed upon waking.^[9]

    HydroPrime represents the evolution of glycerol supplementation, delivering superior hydration and muscle fullness without the clumping and texture issues that plague standard glycerol powders. This stabilized glycerol powder creates what many call a “water-based pump” that works synergistically with citrulline’s nitric oxide-driven vasodilation.

    Glycerol’s primary mechanism centers on hyperhydration – the ability to increase total body water beyond normal levels. When consumed with adequate fluid, glycerol raises plasma osmolality, creating an osmotic gradient that enhances fluid retention throughout the body.^[16] This effect translates to enhanced muscle cell volumization, improved thermoregulation during training, and sustained hydration that supports performance throughout your workout.

    For evening trainers, glycerol’s hydration benefits become even more valuable. The enhanced fluid retention helps maintain plasma volume during exercise, supporting cardiovascular function and heat dissipation without relying on stimulants. Research demonstrates that glycerol hyperhydration can improve endurance performance by up to 24% while reducing heart rate during exercise – perfect for those training later in the day who want peak performance without sleep disruption.^[17]

    At 2g, HydroPrime provides meaningful hydration support while avoiding the gastrointestinal distress that higher doses can sometimes cause. This dosage works synergistically with our BHB salt blend’s electrolyte profile, creating comprehensive hydration support that enhances both the immediate training experience and recovery processes.

  Cognitive Support Stack

  • 1.5g L-Tyrosine

    L-Tyrosine serves as the cognitive backbone of our evening pre-workout formula, providing mental clarity and focus without the jitters or sleep disruption associated with traditional stimulants. As the precursor to dopamine and norepinephrine, tyrosine is especially welcome during training stress when your brain’s neurotransmitter demands increase.

    

    Ketones create alternative energy pathways in skeletal muscle, increasing intramuscular D-BHB while affecting hexose levels and carnitine pools. This demonstrates how BHB provides energy support through multiple complementary mechanisms.^[1]

    The beauty of tyrosine for evening training lies in its selective activation – it only enhances catecholamine synthesis when neurons are actively firing.^[18] This means you get cognitive support precisely when you need it most, without the constant stimulation that interferes with sleep later.

    Research consistently shows tyrosine’s effectiveness in maintaining cognitive performance during physical and environmental stress.^[19] For evening trainers, this translates to sustained mental focus throughout your workout while preserving your ability to wind down naturally afterward.

    At 1.5g in our realistic formula and 2g in the FULL POWER version, we’re providing research-backed dosages that deliver meaningful cognitive enhancement without overstimulation.

  • 250mg Cognizin Citicoline

    Cognizin citicoline sits at the premium end of choline supplements, delivering a patented form of CDP-choline that crosses the blood-brain barrier more effectively than standard choline sources. While many pre-workouts rely on basic choline bitartrate, Cognizin provides the building blocks for both acetylcholine synthesis and phospholipid membrane repair.

    At 250mg, you’re getting a clinically-backed dose that supports focus and attention without overstimulation. Research demonstrates that citicoline supplementation improves attentional performance and reduces errors during sustained mental tasks – exactly what you need when executing complex movement patterns or maintaining form during demanding sets.^[20]

    The evening training advantage becomes clear when you consider that Cognizin actually supports healthy brain metabolism through enhanced phospholipid synthesis and improved mitochondrial function in frontal brain regions.^[21] This means sharper focus during your workout without the mental overstimulation that keeps you awake hours later.

    Combined with goBHB’s direct energy production, Cognizin creates a synergistic cognitive enhancement that supports both training performance and post-workout recovery.

  • 100mg NeuroRush (Coffee Fruit Extract)

    

    Ketone supplementation creates a unique metabolic profile compared to carbohydrates or fats alone, maintaining higher D-BHB levels while moderating lactate production. This shows how ketones can complement traditional energy substrates during physical activity.^[1]

    NeuroRush represents the perfect cognitive companion to our BHB-powered formula. This standardized coffee fruit extract from Aura Scientific delivers the mental clarity and focus benefits of coffee without the sleep-disrupting caffeine load that makes evening training problematic.

    Unlike traditional caffeine-based nootropics, NeuroRush works through its rich chlorogenic acid content and other coffee polyphenols that support cognitive function through antioxidant and neuroprotective pathways. Research shows that coffee cherry extract can significantly improve reaction times and accuracy during cognitive challenges, with participants experiencing faster processing speeds and better sustained attention.^[22]

    At our 100mg dosage, you’ll experience enhanced mental clarity and focus without jitters or sleep disruption. The FULL POWER formula’s 150mg dose pushes these benefits further, providing maximum cognitive support for demanding training sessions. What makes NeuroRush great for evening training is its ability to sharpen your mind-muscle connection and training focus while actually supporting better sleep quality rather than undermining it – a true win-win for the dedicated evening warrior.

  Metabolic Enhancement

  • 1g Acetyl L-Carnitine

    Acetyl L-carnitine (ALCAR) is a perfect metabolic complement to our goBHB foundation, creating synergistic effects that enhance both fat oxidation and cognitive performance during training. Unlike standard L-carnitine, the acetylated form crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently, delivering dual benefits for both muscle and mind.

    ALCAR’s primary mechanism involves facilitating the transport of long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for b-oxidation, the process of converting stored fat into usable energy.^[23] When combined with BHB’s ability to enhance metabolic flexibility, this creates an incredibly efficient fat-burning environment that spares muscle glycogen for high-intensity efforts.

    

    XPO NRG stole the show at SupplySide West! This exclusive energy drink wowed attendees with goBHB™, delivering clean, sustained energy without jitters or crashes. With ketones leading the charge, could this be the future of energy drinks?

    This metabolic synergy is especially valuable for evening trainers who may be training in a semi-fasted state after work but before dinner. ALCAR helps mobilize stored fat as fuel while BHB provides immediate ketone energy, creating sustained performance without relying on glucose stores that might be depleted from the day’s activities.

    The acetyl group in ALCAR doesn’t just improve brain penetration — it also supports acetylcholine synthesis, a crucial neurotransmitter for focus and cognitive performance.^[24] This cognitive boost works synergistically with our other nootropic ingredients to maintain mental clarity throughout your workout without any stimulant-induced jitters or post-workout crash.

    At our dosages (1g in Realistic, 1.5g in FULL POWER), ALCAR provides meaningful metabolic support while contributing to the overall cognitive enhancement profile that makes this formula so effective for evening training sessions.

  • 20mg Niacin (as Nicotinic Acid) (125% DV)

    Niacin serves as your vascular performance enhancer, working through mechanisms that complement BHB’s cellular energy production. Unlike the nicotinamide form found in most B-complex supplements, we’re using nicotinic acid, the form that delivers the blood flow benefits you actually want in a pre-workout.

    The magic happens through niacin’s ability to promote vasodilation by binding to GPR109A receptors in blood vessels and supporting healthy prostaglandin production. This enhanced blood flow means better nutrient and oxygen delivery to working muscles, improved waste product removal, and enhanced muscle pumps during training.^[25]

    The timing works perfectly with our BHB foundation. While BHB provides the cellular fuel, niacin ensures optimal delivery of that fuel (plus oxygen and other nutrients) to your muscles. It’s also involved in NAD+ metabolism, supporting the very cellular energy pathways that BHB enhances.^[26]

    This isn’t just about immediate performance — niacin supports the metabolic processes that help your body efficiently utilize the ketones from goBHB, creating a synergistic effect that enhances both ingredients’ benefits.

    

    Higher exercise intensity increases D-BHB clearance from the bloodstream, with 75% maximum exercise utilizing ketones more efficiently than moderate 40% effort. This demonstrates how the body prioritizes ketones as fuel during various activity levels.^[1]

    At 20mg (125% DV), you’re getting meaningful benefits, enough to stave off deficiency but without the intense flushing that occurs at gram-level therapeutic doses. Most users will experience minimal to no flushing at this dosage, though some sensitive individuals might notice mild skin warming — a sign the ingredient is working.

  • Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin) – 2.4mcg (100% DV)

    Vitamin B12 completes our energy metabolism foundation by supporting the cellular machinery that converts nutrients into usable energy. We’re using methylcobalamin, the active form that your body can immediately utilize without requiring conversion like cyanocobalamin (the cheaper synthetic form that has cyanide inside).

    B12 plays a crucial role in mitochondrial function and energy production pathways, working alongside niacin to support the NAD+ metabolism that makes BHB so effective. It’s also essential for proper red blood cell formation, ensuring optimal oxygen delivery to working muscles during training.

    At 100% DV, we’re providing foundational support rather than megadoses. This isn’t about creating a false energy rush — it’s about ensuring your cellular energy systems have what they need to function optimally when fueled by BHB.

  • Folate (as Calcium Folinate) – 400mcg DFE (100% DV)

    Folate rounds out our B-vitamin complex with support for cellular repair and recovery processes. We’re using calcium folinate, the active folate form that bypasses the genetic variations (MTHFR polymorphisms) that prevent some people from properly utilizing synthetic folic acid.

    Folate supports DNA synthesis and repair, making it useful for recovery between training sessions. It also works synergistically with B12 in various metabolic pathways, including the production of neurotransmitters that support focus and motivation during training.

    The 100% DV dosage ensures you’re meeting basic nutritional needs without excessive amounts. This is especially important for evening trainers who might not get optimal nutrition from dinner before their workout.

• The FULL POWER Formula (Maximum Potential)

  This premium formulation pushes the boundaries of stimulant-free performance enhancement. Higher dosages and additional synergistic compounds create a comprehensive solution for serious athletes who demand maximum results without compromising sleep quality.

  

  Enhanced Energy Complex

  • 8g goBHB (3.5g Potassium BHB, 2.5g Sodium BHB, 1g Calcium BHB, 1g Magnesium BHB)

    Nearly double the BHB content creates deeper ketosis and more sustained energy throughout extended training sessions. This will definitely increase the mineral load and needs to be thoroughly tested, but we’ve kept the sodium and potassium ratios balanced.

  Advanced Cognitive Matrix

  • 2g L-Tyrosine (Increased)

    See above. Higher dosage for maximum cognitive support under intense training stress.

  • 500mg Cognizin Citicoline (Doubled)

    See above. Premium dosage for superior neurotransmitter support and mental performance, with more structure function claims at this dose.

  • 300mg enXtra (Alpinia galanga)

    enXtra is another breakthrough in caffeine-free cognitive enhancement, delivering sustained mental energy that perfectly complements goBHB’s cellular fuel approach. This standardized extract from Alpinia galanga (Thai ginger) works through multiple neurological pathways to enhance dopamine signaling and reduce acetylcholinesterase activity, supporting both focus and alertness without any stimulant effects.^[27]

    What makes enXtra ideal for evening training is its unique ability to provide up to five hours of sustained mental energy without disrupting sleep architecture. Clinical research demonstrates significant improvements in alertness, reaction time, and task accuracy starting within 30 minutes of consumption, with benefits lasting throughout extended training sessions.^[28]

    The 300mg clinical dose ensures you maintain sharp focus during complex movement patterns and challenging training sessions. Unlike caffeine, which can leave you wired hours later, enXtra actually supports the transition to quality sleep post-workout. This makes it the perfect cognitive enhancer for our FULL POWER evening pre-workout formula.

  • 150mg NeuroRush (Increased)

    See above. Increased dosage for enhanced mental clarity and focus.

  • 100mg Zynamite-S (Mangifera indica)

    Need more? Zynamite-S is another non-stimulant cognitive enhancer, delivering the benefits of mango leaf extract in a water-soluble form that’s perfect for powder formulations. This standardized extract contains ≥60% mangiferin, a powerful xanthone polyphenol that enhances mental energy through completely different mechanisms than caffeine.

    

    Exogenous BHB is now for everyone—from athletes needing endurance to those boosting brain function. Offering clean, lasting energy, BHB is proving versatile and backed by research.

    Unlike traditional stimulants that block adenosine receptors, mangiferin works as a selective catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor, which helps maintain optimal levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex.^[29] This translates to improved focus, faster information processing, and enhanced cognitive flexibility without any cardiovascular side effects.

    Zynamite has the ability to deliver caffeine-like cognitive benefits while actually supporting better sleep quality. Clinical research demonstrates significant improvements in processing speed (>9%), complex task handling (>5%), and working memory performance within just 30 minutes of consumption.^[30]

    The water-soluble Zynamite-S formulation offers approximately 3x higher bioavailability compared to standard mango leaf extracts, allowing for a lower effective dose while maintaining superior cognitive enhancement. This creates the perfect synergy with our BHB base: while ketones fuel your muscles, Zynamite-S sharpens your mind for that crucial mind-muscle connection.

  • 50mg SalidroPure Salidroside

    SalidroPure delivers a groundbreaking advancement in adaptogenic supplementation: nature-identical salidroside produced through precision fermentation rather than wild-harvested Rhodiola extraction. This innovative approach addresses the sustainability crisis facing traditional Rhodiola, which was recently added to the CITES Appendix II endangered species list due to over-harvesting and 20-year maturation periods.

    What makes SalidroPure perfect for evening training? Research demonstrates that salidroside enhances stress resilience and cognitive performance through multiple pathways, including regulation of the HPA axis and support for healthy neurotransmitter function.^[31] Unlike traditional stimulants that create cortisol spikes, salidroside actually helps modulate your body’s stress response, making it ideal for managing the physiological demands of intense evening training sessions.

    

    Flow State in a bottle?! With the new L-BHB free acid ingredients from Ketone Labs, we’re starting to believe it. Understand how this energy-providing ketone isomer may work better for nootropic (cognitive) applications!

    The 50mg dosage provides meaningful adaptogenic support without overstimulation. Users report enhanced mental clarity, improved stress tolerance, and better recovery between sets — all while maintaining the calm, focused energy that won’t interfere with post-workout sleep quality. This sustainable salidroside delivers 20-25mg of pure active compound per serving, significantly higher than typical 1% standardized Rhodiola extracts that provide just 3mg per 300mg serving.

  Amplified Performance Stack

  • 6g L-Citrulline (Increased)

    See above. Maximum pump and endurance support for extended training sessions.

  • 5g Creapure Creatine (Increased)

    See above. Enhanced power output and strength support.

  • 3.2g Beta-Alanine

    See above. Muscular endurance support for sustained high-intensity efforts.

  • 3g HydroPrime Glycerol (Increased)

    See above. Superior hydration and muscle fullness for peak performance.

  • 200mg Setria L-Glutathione

    Setria L-Glutathione serves as the ultimate antioxidant upgrade for our FULL POWER formula, delivering the body’s most critical endogenous antioxidant in a clinically researched form. While other supplements claim antioxidant benefits, glutathione stands alone as the “master antioxidant” that your cells actually produce and depend on for optimal function.

    

    New research suggests ketones may provide crucial brain protection in contact sports. goBHB supplementation offers an alternative energy source when glucose metabolism is impaired after impact. Could this be the next frontier in athlete brain safety?

    Unlike cheaper glutathione sources, Setria from Kyowa Hakko has been proven to increase glutathione levels throughout the body, including blood, plasma, and even buccal cells.^[32] This bioavailability breakthrough means you’re getting genuine cellular protection rather than expensive urine.

    For evening trainers, Setria’s benefits extend beyond workout performance. Daily glutathione supplementation has been shown to significantly enhance immune function, including a greater than twofold increase in natural killer cell activity.^[32] This immune support becomes crucial when training stress could otherwise compromise your body’s defenses.

    The 200mg dose provides meaningful antioxidant support during intense training while supporting the recovery processes that happen during sleep. Combined with our BHB foundation, Setria helps ensure that your evening workouts enhance rather than compromise your overall health and recovery capacity.

  Metabolic Enhancement

  • 1.5g Acetyl L-Carnitine (Increased)

    See above. Enhanced fat oxidation and metabolic flexibility support.

  • 25mg Niacin (as Nicotinic Acid) (156% DV)

    See above. This dose may induce some flushing in individuals, above and beyond what you’ll get from beta alanine!

  • Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin) – 3.6mcg (150% DV)

    See above.

  • Folate (as Calcium Folinate) – 400mcg DFE (100% DV)

    See above.

• Consider Adding Carbohydrates for DUAL FUEL!

  

  Fuel your workouts with the power of “dual fuel”, combining goBHB ketones and carbs for optimal performance.

  If you really want to go above and beyond in this formula, you add carbohydrates! This strategy leverages the groundbreaking concept of “dual fuel” metabolism, where ketones and carbohydrates work synergistically rather than competitively.

  Research shows that combining BHB with carbohydrates creates remarkable metabolic advantages. Athletes consuming both ketones and carbs demonstrated significantly more muscle glycogen remaining after intense exercise compared to those using carbohydrates alone.^[1] This glycogen-sparing effect means your body preserves its precious carbohydrate stores while utilizing ketones for fuel, creating sustained energy throughout your entire workout.

  The combination also reduces lactate production during high-intensity efforts, allowing you to maintain power output longer without the typical metabolic acidosis that limits performance.^[1] Adding 15-25g of fast-digesting carbohydrates (like dextrose or highly branched cyclic dextrin) to either formulation creates this dual fuel advantage.

  For more detailed information on this revolutionary approach, check out our comprehensive article: “DUAL FUEL: Combining Ketones and Carbs for Rocket Performance“.

Target Market and Usage Scenarios

Our BHB-powered pre-workout formulations address specific gaps in the current market, targeting several key demographics who’ve been underserved by traditional stimulant-based products.

Primary Users:

• Evening trainers (5 PM – 9 PM) represent the largest opportunity – millions of people who train after work but want quality sleep. These individuals currently face an impossible choice between effective pre-workouts and restful nights.


Gary Millet of Ketone Labs / goBHB joins the PricePlow Podcast for Episode #138 to talk about the future of BHB research and exciting new applications to come.

• Caffeine-sensitive athletes who experience jitters, anxiety, or digestive issues with traditional stimulants can finally access real pre-workout energy without negative side effects. This includes those taking medications that interact with caffeine or individuals with naturally high caffeine sensitivity.
• Those seeking better sleep quality benefit from BHB’s unique dual advantage – providing workout energy while actually improving sleep parameters rather than disrupting them.^[2]
• Recovery-focused training phases become more effective when athletes can maintain training intensity without the cortisol spike and inflammatory response associated with high-stimulant products.

Usage Protocols

Timing: Consume 30-45 minutes pre-workout to allow BHB levels to peak during training. Unlike caffeine, which requires strategic timing to avoid sleep disruption, these formulations can be used right up until 8-9 PM training sessions.

Daily Use: Can be used consistently without cycling or tolerance buildup, unlike stimulant-based products that lose effectiveness over time.

Compatibility: Works synergistically with morning caffeine use – you can have your coffee at 7 AM and still train effectively at 7 PM without compound stimulation effects.

Training Types: Supports both strength and endurance training through multiple mechanisms – BHB for sustained energy, citrulline for pump and endurance, creatine for power output, and beta-alanine for muscular endurance.

Conclusion: goBHB is The Future of Evening Training

The evening training market represents one of the largest untapped opportunities in sports nutrition. Millions of athletes and fitness enthusiasts currently face an impossible choice between effective pre-workout supplementation and quality sleep – a choice that shouldn’t exist in 2025.

Market Opportunity for Innovation

BHB-powered pre-workouts address a genuine consumer need that traditional stimulant-based products simply cannot solve. With over 35% of people exercising between 6 PM and 10 PM, the evening training demographic represents a massive market waiting for the right solution. Our formulations prove that effective energy supplementation doesn’t require sleep-disrupting stimulants.

Consumer Education Requirements

Success in this category requires educating consumers about the difference between stimulation and actual energy. Most people don’t understand that caffeine creates a perception of energy by blocking adenosine receptors, while BHB provides real cellular fuel through direct ATP production. Brands that invest in education will capture market share as awareness grows.

Potential for Category Creation

We’re not just talking about another pre-workout variant… we’re discussing the creation of an entirely new category: “Evening Performance Nutrition”. This represents the same opportunity that protein bars had in the 1990s or energy drinks had in the 2000s. First movers who nail the formulation and messaging will define the category – and we believe this is the case for stim-free energy drinks too.

Call to Action for Forward-Thinking Brands

The infrastructure exists today to bring these formulations to market. goBHB from Ketone Labs provides the foundation, while established ingredient suppliers offer everything else needed for either the Realistic or FULL POWER approaches. The question isn’t whether this category will emerge – it’s who will lead it.

The evening training revolution starts now. Who’s ready to power it?