Dark Energy Pre Workout Review: Supplement Facts and Alternatives

Are you looking for an in-depth Dark Energy Pre Workout review?

You’ve come to the right place. 

As a holistic health practitioner and researcher, I’ve reviewed dozens of pre-workouts and have pretty much seen it all. 

Since the supplement industry isn’t regulated by the FDA, it’s equally important for me to determine if a product is as safe as it is effective and useful. 

That’s why in this Dark Energy Pre Workout review, I’ll be going over all features of the product. I’ll help you determine how well it works, the possible benefits, and any safety concerns or side effects to consider. 

As you’ll see below, Dark Energy is not your typical pre-workout. Keep reading to see if it’s safe, effective, and worth your money. 

Snapshot Rating

• Ingredient Quality: 4 out of 5 
• Dosage Strength: High (for Stimulants) Moderate (for other ingredients)
• Brand Reputation: 4 out of 5
• Price: Expensive

About Magnitude Life Sciences

The maker of Dark Energy Pre-Workout is Magnitude Life Sciences, which is technically marketed as a research company (you’ll see why in a bit).  

Unfortunately, there isn’t a whole lot of information on the Magnitude Life Sciences company. 

Their website isn’t currently working and they haven’t posted on Instagram since January 2020. 

However, their stated goal is to bring you the highest quality products using top-tier innovation and honesty in their ingredients. 

What is Dark Energy Pre-Workout?

Dark Energy Pre-Workout is actually marketed as a research product “not for human consumption.” Still, it’s taken as a pre-workout by a large share of people. 

Magnitude Life Sciences Dark Energy contains some controversial ingredients. It is ultimately made to give gym-goers a massive increase in energy, focus, and strength like never before. 

In fact, some of the ingredients in Dark Energy are banned by the FDA, but this doesn’t stop many people from taking the product. 

Is Dark Energy Pre-Workout FDA approved?

Dark Energy Pre-Workout is definitely not FDA-approved. The FDA doesn’t approve any dietary supplements, although it can ban certain ingredients for human consumption. 

Why was Dark Energy Banned?

Interestingly, Magnitude Life Sciences Dark Energy has quite a history. 

Dark Energy Pre-Workout was initially banned due to some ingredients that were potentially harmful, mainly DMAA and DMHA. 

These ingredients are linked to increased blood pressure and heart rate, and may even increase the risk of heart attacks and death. 

This is why Dark Energy Pre-Workout is now labeled as a “research product”. 

You can’t find it on the Magnitude Life Sciences website anymore since they were shut down, but some online retailers still sell it. 

Things to Consider Before Buying Dark Energy Pre-Workout

There are a few important things to consider when determining if Dark Energy Pre-Workout is worth buying or right for you. 

High Caffeine

Magnitude Life Sciences Dark Energy is loaded with 400mg of caffeine. So, this product is not for the stimulant-sensitive. 

Controversial Ingredients

As mentioned earlier, some of the Dark Energy Pre Workout ingredients are controversial and may be unsafe, such as DMAA and DMHA. 

It’s always up to you to experiment however you wish; after all, these ingredients likely do provide a massive surge in energy. But keep in mind that these ingredients are potentially unsafe. 

Therefore, Dark Energy Pre-Workout is certainly not for anyone new to pre-workouts. Further, it is likely only for people with a lot of experience with pre-workouts and knowledge of how they are affected by various ingredients. 

Expensive

Dark Energy costs almost two bucks per serving, so it’s pretty expensive, too. 

Dark Energy Pre-Workout Features

Dark Energy Pre-Workout certainly stands out from other pre-workouts due to a few different features, such as its ingredient blend, stimulants, and other factors. 

Great Blend of Ingredients

Part of the reason you may not be getting the most from your workouts is that you aren’t maximizing all areas of performance. 

Dark Energy contains a blend of many ergogenic ingredients to enhance endurance, strength, and focus, such as beta-alanine, citrulline malate, and taurine. 

Contains CNS Stimulants

Without proper central nervous system (CNS) activation, you’ll likely feel weaker and less powerful during your workout. 

And by far the most talked about aspect of Dark Energy is its inclusion of CNS stimulants to get the muscles and nerves firing at optimal levels.

In addition to caffeine, Dark Energy contains DMAA and DMHA, which are touted to be highly effective for ramping up energy levels. 

However, they are known to cause some potentially dangerous side effects, too. 

Includes Nootropics

A lack of focus and concentration is one factor in why you might not be getting the results you want from your workouts. After all, you have to be dedicated and efficient during your training. 

Dark Energy Pre-Workout is advertised to contain various nootropic ingredients, such as DMAE and taurine. These may enhance focus and get you dialed in for every set. 

Crammed with Caffeine

One of the most common issues people run into when working out is a lack of energy. And this can cause missed workouts or subpar performance during workouts. 

Magnitude Life Sciences aims to solve that problem by including a mammoth dose of caffeine in each scoop. This is designed to work in tandem with DMAA and DMHA for maximum stimulation and energy.

Does Dark Energy Pre-Workout really work?

Based on the ingredient profile and dosages, it is likely that Dark Energy Pre-Workout will work. Specifically, it seems that it will be especially effective for enhancing energy and CNS activation. 

The ingredients in Dark Energy may also increase strength and power due to CNS stimulation. 

Dark Energy Pre-Workout Ingredients

One of the most interesting parts of this Dark Energy Pre Workout review is going over the ingredients. 

I’ve already hinted that some of the Dark Energy ingredients are quite controversial, so let’s take a look at them all:

• DMAA
• DMHA
• GABA
• DMAE
• Caffeine Anhydrous
• L-Citrulline Malate
• Beta-Alanine
• Taurine

DMAA (60mg)

DMAA is a potent CNS stimulant that is chemically similar to amphetamines. 

Supplementing with DMAA can cause a quick surge in energy, although it is banned by the FDA for use in dietary supplements. 

There ultimately needs to be more evidence to determine the effectiveness of DMAA.

Effective dosage according to Examine: Largely anecdotal, but anywhere from 10 to 60mg 

DMHA (200mg)

DMHA is structurally similar to DMAA and also delivers CNS-stimulating effects. 

But like DMAA, it is also on the prohibited list of doping agents and may have a few potential side effects. 

Effective dosage: N/A

GABA (50mg)

GABA is quite the opposite of the first two ingredients since it is a CNS depressant. 

GABA on its own is a neurotransmitter important for relaxation and sleep, so it initially seems odd that it would be in a pre-workout.

However, it’s possible that Magnitude Life Sciences included GABA to reduce the chances of side effects from the potent CNS stimulants in Dark Energy. 

Plus, one study found that GABA can increase growth hormone levels after exercise, which could help in building muscle. 

Effective Dosage based on data: 3,000 to 5,000mg

DMAE (750Mg)

Yet another abbreviated ingredient in Dark Energy is DMAE. 

Don’t confuse this with DMAA or DMHA since it has very different effects. 

Basically, DMAE is a derivative of choline and can increase the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain. 

This may result in improved focus and cognition, although any exercise benefits are unknown. 

Effective dosage according to limited research: 1,500mg

Caffeine Anhydrous (400mg)

Don’t worry, Dark Energy Pre-Workout has some ingredients you’ve actually heard of too, such as caffeine anhydrous. 

Caffeine is a potent CNS stimulant. And at pretty high dosages, caffeine increases many aspects of exercise performance, especially endurance. It may also reduce fatigue and increase strength and power. 

Effective dosage: 3 to 6mg/kg body weight (or roughly 200 to 500mg)

L-Citrulline Malate (6,000mg)

L-citrulline malate is one of the most commonly used forms of citrulline for exercise performance. 

On its own, citrulline may be able to increase arginine and nitric oxide levels, which leads to greater blood flow and oxygen to the muscles. 

Malic acid is also beneficial due to its ability to reduce acid build-up and decrease fatigue. 

While it’s not entirely conclusive, L-citrulline malate is generally able to improve exercise performance, especially in terms of strength endurance (i.e. getting more reps during strength exercises). 

Effective dosage according to Examine: 8g

Beta-Alanine (3,200mg)

Another one of the Dark Energy ingredients is beta-alanine. 

Beta-alanine is known to increase carnosine stores in the muscles, which can delay lactic acid build-up and reduce fatigue. 

Most research shows that beta-alanine supplementation is effective for enhancing muscular endurance and overall exercise capacity. 

Effective dosage based on research: 3.2 to 6.4g

Taurine (2,000mg)

Taurine is a non-essential amino acid involved in many areas of the body. 

For example, it plays a role in energy metabolism, muscle contractions, and even reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. 

Taurine supplementation seems particularly helpful for increasing endurance exercise performance, but it also may enhance strength and overall exercise capacity. 

Effective dosage based on data: 1 to 6g

Available Flavors

The Dark Energy supplement comes in a wide range of different flavors. 

Listed below are all of the Dark Energy Pre Workout flavors:

• Bombsicle
• Grape
• Orange Research
• Gummy Research
• Blast Research
• Tropical Research

Dark Energy Pre-Workout Pros and Cons

In the next part of this Dark Energy Pre Workout review, I’m going to list some key pros and cons of Dark Energy. 

Pros

• A few well-researched and effective ingredients
• Clinical doses of beta-alanine, taurine, and citrulline
• Potent CNS stimulants for energy and alertness
• High dose of caffeine
• May improve mood and cognition

Cons

• DMAA and DMHA are banned
• Potentially unsafe
• Not for stimulant-sensitive

How to Use Dark Energy Pre Workout

Remember that Dark Energy Pre-Workout is marketed as a research product. Technically, it’s not supposed to be used for human consumption. 

Those who choose to use it as a pre-workout typically take it with water or another liquid around 30 minutes before a workout. 

Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage is one scoop. 

Due to the high amount of stimulants in it, do not ever exceed one scoop. 

Some individuals may want to consider starting with half of a scoop to assess their tolerance.

Stacking a Pump Pre-Workout (Stim-Free)

Some people may also want to consider stacking a pump pre-workout with Dark Energy for enhanced performance. 

What is a pump pre-workout?

A pump pre-workout is typically filled with ingredients only for muscle pumps, such as citrulline, nitrates, and/or arginine, among others. 

On their own, these pre-workouts are solid options for people who don’t want any stimulants and just want to get in a good pump.

Why do people use this as a stack?

Many lifters stack a regular pre-workout with a pump pre-workout to get additional performance benefits. 

The idea is that if one takes the original Dark Energy Pre-Workout with a pump pre-workout, they may get a nice combo of energy, strength, endurance, and muscle pumps. 

Real Customer Dark Energy Pre-Workout Reviews

As we continue this Dark Energy Pre Workout review, I wanted to share what some other people are saying.

“Hands down best pre-workout ever invented. The flavor is amazing. Pump 10/10 focus 10/10 energy 10/10 mood elevation 12/10, lol. The sense of well being you get with this product is like no other. You have to try it to understand. In love with this product.” -Marcio

“Lives up to the name. No bunk product sold from this vendor (who happens to have very close ties to the original manufacturer), you won’t be disappointed. Feel happy during workout, calm for a few hours after. What more can you say?” -Weston S.

“This stuff will have you through a wall with no issue. Highly recommended but highly encourage easing into it.” -Micah M. 

“I can confirm. This is the most insane pre-workout I’ve ever taken. I worked out 3 hours straight the first time I took it. It lasts for probably around 4 or 5 hours. I describe it as Adderall for the gym” -Spencer G. 

“Not going to lie tonight was my first night trying the rocket flavor or whatever it’s called. I used to take Adderall for ADHD. I have NEVER in my life felt like dark energy made me feel. I’m actually a little worried about it because I lifted for literally 3 hours and I’m still wired.” -Johnnie C.

Alternatives to Dark Energy Pre Workout

It’s safe to say that some of you may be looking for alternatives to Dark Energy Pre-Workout. After all, most of us prefer pre-workouts intended for human consumption.

If you’re looking for relatively similar effects from other, less intense pre-workout supplements, you might want to try Pride, Gorilla Mode, or Wrecked. 

Pride Pre-Workout

Pride Pre-Workout is made by EHPLabs and is known for its special energy blend and nootropic ingredients. 

Pros:

• Includes citrulline and Nitrosigine for pumps
• Special 5-stage caffeine blend for energy
• Includes nootropics for focus and cognition
• Pretty affordable

Cons:

• BCAAs are underdosed
• Most nootropic ingredients are underdosed

Read our full comprehensive Pride Pre Workout review.

Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout

Gorilla Mode is a pre-workout formulated by Gorilla Mind. It is known for its diverse ingredient profile to enhance energy, pumps, and focus.

Pros:

• Well-researched ingredients
• High dose of caffeine
• Clinical doses of citrulline and other pump ingredients
• Includes nootropics for focus and drive

Cons:

• Expensive (especially if using two scoops)
• Not good for stimulant-sensitive people

Read our full comprehensive Gorilla Mode Pre Workout review.

Wrecked Pre-Workout

Wrecked is a pre-workout made by Huge Supplements. It has a high amount of caffeine and many other diverse pre-workout ingredients for performance, strength, energy, and pumps. 

Pros:

• High dose of caffeine
• Clinically effective dose of citrulline and beta-alanine
• Includes well-researched ingredients for pumps, strength, energy
• Includes nootropics

Cons:

• Some ingredients are underdosed
• A few ingredients aren’t well-researched (e.g. agmatine sulfate)

Read our full comprehensive Wrecked Pre Workout review.

Benefits of Dark Energy Pre-Workout

Dark Energy Pre-Workout may lead to the following performance benefits:

• Elevated Energy Levels
• Increased Muscle Pumps
• Mood Enhancement
• Boosted Endurance and Stamina
• Increased Mental Focus
• Greater Strength

Elevated Energy Levels

One of the primary potential benefits of Dark Energy is elevated energy levels. 

Dark Energy has 400mg of caffeine plus high doses of DMAA and DMHA. And together, this combination may lead to a huge increase in CNS stimulation and energy levels like you’ve never seen before.

Increased Muscle Pumps

While enhanced muscle pumps aren’t a primary feature of Dark Energy, you still may see an increase in muscle pumps due to the inclusion of citrulline malate. 

Mood Enhancement

By far, one of the most anecdotal reported benefits of Dark Energy Pre-Workout is mood enhancement. 

This supplement may very well enhance your mood due to the different ingredients (e.g. caffeine, DMAA) that can elevate dopamine, serotonin, and other mood-boosting neurotransmitters.

Boosted Endurance and Stamina

Another potential benefit of Dark Energy is boosted endurance and stamina. 

Many of the ingredients in Dark Energy have been shown to be particularly beneficial for enhancing exercise capacity and reducing fatigue, such as citrulline malate and beta-alanine.

This means you may be able to get more reps, do more sets, and just get more out of your workouts than before.

Increased Mental Focus

You may also get an increase in mental focus from Dark Energy thanks to special nootropic ingredients such as DMAE. 

This could lead to greater concentration and fewer distractions during your workouts, which may give you better performance. 

Greater Strength and Power

Lastly, the loaded stimulants in Dark Energy may give you an increase in overall strength and power.  

DMAA, DMHA, and caffeine are all known for their ability to increase nerve firing to the muscles, and this may ultimately lead to better muscular contractions and force. 

This means that you may see a poundage increase for some of your main lifts. 

Potential Dark Energy Pre Workout Side Effects

It’s always important to discuss the side effects of pre-workouts. 

But this is particularly important for Dark Energy Pre-Workout since a couple of the ingredients are controversial (and even prohibited by the FDA). 

DMAA and DMHA are linked in some cases to elevated blood pressure and heart rate. 

And they have even been involved in cases of heart attacks and death, although this was usually in conjunction with other stimulants. 

You also might experience an energy crash from Dark Energy since it contains such a high amount of stimulants. As they say, what goes up, must come down.

Other possible side effects include headache, dizziness, jitters, anxiety, and gastrointestinal issues. 

Dark Energy Pre-Workout Price

Dark Energy comes in a 30-serving container for $49.99 ($1.67/serving). 

As a reminder, each serving is one scoop, so you get 30 scoops per container. 

This is a somewhat expensive price but it honestly makes sense given the high amount of stimulants in it. 

It is really meant to be a hardcore pre-workout above and beyond other supplements and this price tag reflects that, although it isn’t an outrageous price by any means.

Shipping and Returns

The shipping and returns information depend on which site you buy it from.

One website that seems to be the most user-friendly is Muscle Factory SC. They offer worldwide shipping for Dark Energy and most orders are delivered within five days. 

Also, you only have seven days after your purchase to return the product for a refund. The product must be in the original packaging and you have to have proof of purchase. 

If you are approved for a refund, you’ll get your money back minus shipping and a 15% restocking fee. 

Magnitude Life Sciences Company Details

As mentioned earlier, Magnitude Life Sciences is no longer operating on its own website. 

Therefore, they don’t have a website address or company email to contact. 

But you can contact one of the sellers I mentioned (MuscleFactory SC) at [email protected]. 

Their website is musclefactorysc.com. 

Keep in mind that this is just one website that sells Dark Energy. 

Final Recommendations

Well, you’ve reached the end of my Dark Energy Pre Workout review. 

This surely was an interesting pre-workout to look into. Overall, I have mixed feelings about Dark Energy since it has the potential to be a great pre-workout but it also might be unsafe. 

As a holistic health practitioner, I really can’t recommend Dark Energy Pre-Workout for the vast majority of people. 

There are plenty of other pre-workouts that are close to as effective and without the potential safety concerns. Even if you’re experiencing significant trouble with fatigue and motivation, you can get progress and strength from safer formulas.

So, proceed with extreme caution. Those intent on trying Dark Energy Pre-Workout should be really experienced with the supplement game. 

If you want to see Dark Energy for yourself, you can find it here on the MuscleFactory SC website at this link. 

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