CBum Pre Workout Review: Live Up to the Hype?

When a five-time Mr. Olympia Classic Physique champion creates a pre-workout supplement, people pay attention. Chris Bumstead, affectionately known as CBum, has partnered with Raw Nutrition to develop Thavage Pre-Workout, and the fitness community is buzzing.

But does this supplement deliver the savage (or should we say thavage) results you need, or is it just another celebrity product?

This comprehensive review dives deep into everything you need to know about CBum pre-workout before you invest your hard-earned money.

Key Takeaways

• Two Main Formulas: CBum offers both Thavage (premium, fully-loaded) and Essential (budget-friendly, simplified) versions to fit different needs and budgets
• Flexible Dosing System: Start with one scoop for beginners (153mg caffeine) or go full “thavage” with two scoops (306mg caffeine) for experienced users
• Focus on Pumps and Mental Clarity: The formula excels at delivering enhanced blood flow and laser-sharp focus through ingredients like L-citrulline (3,000mg per scoop) and alpha GPC
• No Creatine Included: You’ll need to supplement separately if creatine is part of your routine, which may be a dealbreaker for some athletes
• Price Point: At approximately $1.25 per single-scoop serving, it sits in the mid-range category, though double-scoopers will find costs adding up quickly
• NCAA Warning: Contains bitter orange (synephrine), which is banned by the NCAA, making it unsuitable for college athletes

Who Is Chris Bumstead and Why Does His Pre-Workout Matter?

Chris Bumstead isn’t just another fitness influencer slapping his name on a supplement. The Canadian bodybuilder has dominated the Classic Physique division at Mr. Olympia, winning the title five consecutive times from 2019 to 2023. His understanding of what the body needs during intense training sessions comes from years of elite-level competition.

The name “Thavage” itself comes from Chris’s characteristic lisp, turning “savage” into his signature catchphrase. This personal touch extends throughout the product line, with CBum personally designing the flavor profiles and ingredient ratios. His partnership with Raw Nutrition has created a supplement that reflects his training philosophy: intense, focused, and results-driven.

Breaking Down the CBum Thavage Pre-Workout Formula

The Thavage formula contains 15 active ingredients plus essential vitamins, but several key players deserve special attention. Each ingredient serves a specific purpose in enhancing your workout performance.

The L-citrulline content stands out immediately. At 3,000mg per scoop (6,000mg for a full two-scoop serving), this amino acid works to increase arginine levels in your bloodstream. This process enhances vasodilation, meaning your blood vessels expand to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to working muscles. The result? Better pumps and improved endurance during high-volume training sessions.

Betaine anhydrous provides 1,250mg per scoop. Research suggests this compound can enhance the antidepressant effects of certain neurotransmitters, potentially helping you overcome mental barriers that keep you out of the gym. On the physical side, consistent betaine supplementation has been linked to improved body composition and increased power output.

The caffeine blend includes both caffeine anhydrous and di-caffeine malate, delivering 153mg per scoop. This isn’t an overwhelmingly high amount, making Thavage suitable for those who prefer moderate stimulation. The di-caffeine malate combines caffeine with malic acid, which helps support cognitive function beyond simple alertness.

Alpha GPC contributes 200mg per scoop. This versatile ingredient provides both nootropic and ergogenic benefits. Studies have shown it can increase motivation in healthy individuals while also improving lower body force production. For athletes chasing personal records, this dual benefit makes alpha GPC particularly valuable.

CBum Essential Pre-Workout: The Budget-Friendly Alternative

Raw Nutrition recognized that not everyone needs (or wants) a fully-loaded pre-workout formula. That’s why they created Essential Pre-Workout, a simplified version that maintains quality while cutting costs.

Essential focuses on the fundamentals: 4,000mg L-citrulline, 3,200mg beta-alanine, and 200mg caffeine per serving. It strips away some of the nootropic ingredients found in Thavage, resulting in a more straightforward energy and pump formula. The price difference is significant, with Essential coming in at approximately $27.90 per container versus Thavage’s $49.99.

Flavor Options: Does CBum Pre-Workout Actually Taste Good?

One area where CBum pre-workout consistently impresses reviewers is flavor quality. Available options include Beach Bum, Green Crush, Dragon Fruit, Peach Bum, Rocket Candy, and Blackberry Lemonade. According to testers, flavors like Rocket Candy and 3 Peat (Red Gummy) rank as crowd favorites.

The sweetness comes from sucralose and acesulfame, two artificial sweeteners that keep calories low while providing pleasant taste. While some purists note that the “all natural” marketing claim seems contradictory given these sweeteners, most users appreciate that flavors aren’t overpoweringly sweet like budget pre-workouts often are.

The Dragon Fruit flavor has been described as “very fruity, kind of reminds me of the Starburst pink drink but a little less sweet.” Solubility receives high marks across all flavors, with the powder dissolving completely without clumping or leaving residue.

Top 3 Alternatives to CBum Pre-Workout

While CBum pre-workout delivers solid results, it’s not the only quality option available. Here are three excellent alternatives worth considering:

Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy provides a unique approach with BCAA amino acids combined with green tea and green coffee extract. At 100mg caffeine per serving, it offers lighter stimulation perfect for those who train later in the day. The formula supports both energy and recovery in one convenient product.

RSP AminoLean combines pre-workout energy with weight management support. This dual-purpose formula includes vegan BCAA amino acids, natural caffeine, and ingredients designed to support fat burning. It’s ideal for athletes working toward body composition goals while maintaining training intensity.

Sports Research L-Theanine with Caffeine takes a minimalist approach, pairing 200mg L-theanine with 100mg organic caffeine plus coconut MCT oil. This combination provides focused energy without jitters, making it perfect for those who prefer a cleaner, simpler supplement stack.

Dosage Recommendations: Finding Your Perfect Serving Size

CBum pre-workout offers flexible dosing that accommodates different experience levels and tolerance thresholds. The official serving size is one scoop (13.15g), but the company acknowledges that many users will eventually progress to two scoops.

Beginners should absolutely start with one scoop mixed in 8-12 ounces of water, consumed 30 minutes before training. This provides 153mg caffeine along with moderate doses of other active ingredients. Assess how your body responds over several workouts before considering an increase.

Experienced pre-workout users often find that two scoops deliver optimal results. This full “thavage” dose doubles all active ingredients, bringing caffeine content to 306mg. However, this also means you’re getting through your container twice as fast, effectively doubling your per-workout cost to about $2.50.

The timing matters too. Take your dose 30 minutes before beginning your workout. This allows sufficient time for ingredients to enter your bloodstream and begin working. Taking it too early may result in wasted energy before you even touch a weight.

The Science Behind Key Ingredients

Understanding what each ingredient does helps you appreciate why CBum pre-workout works. Let’s examine the scientific research behind the formula’s most important components.

Beta-alanine provides 1,600mg per scoop. This amino acid has been extensively studied for its ability to delay muscle fatigue and reduce lactic acid buildup. During high-intensity exercise, your muscles produce hydrogen ions that cause that burning sensation. Beta-alanine helps buffer these ions, allowing you to push through additional reps. The characteristic tingling sensation (paresthesia) is harmless and indicates the ingredient is working.

L-tyrosine delivers 1,000mg per scoop. This amino acid serves as a precursor to important neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. Research shows L-tyrosine can improve cognitive function in athletes, particularly those training in hot environments or under stressful conditions. For bodybuilders pushing through intense pump sessions, this mental edge proves valuable.

Taurine contributes to cellular hydration and brain function. This compound helps maintain proper electrolyte balance, which supports muscle contractions and prevents cramping. Combined with the formula’s 200mg sodium content, taurine ensures your muscles stay hydrated throughout your session.

Huperzine A provides 50mcg per scoop. While research on this ingredient remains mixed, some studies suggest it may protect neurons from damage. The jury is still out on whether it significantly enhances workout performance, but it hasn’t shown any negative effects either.

Real World Performance: What Users Actually Experience

Review aggregation from multiple sources reveals consistent patterns in user experiences. The most commonly reported benefits include enhanced mental focus, improved pumps, and sustained energy without crashes.

Users frequently mention the “tunnel vision” effect, describing how Thavage helps them block out distractions and focus exclusively on their training. One tester noted: “The focus felt like someone put horse blinders on my brain and the only thing I could think of was lifting weights.”

The pump effect receives particularly high praise. The combination of L-citrulline and betaine anhydrous creates what users describe as “absolutely juicy” pumps. Muscles feel fuller and more engorged with blood, which not only looks impressive but may also support nutrient delivery and waste removal.

Energy levels increase noticeably but without the jittery, anxious feeling some high-stim pre-workouts produce. The 153mg caffeine per scoop hits a sweet spot for most users, providing alertness and motivation without overwhelming stimulation. The L-theanine content helps smooth out caffeine’s effects, reducing potential side effects.

CBum Pre-Workout vs. Premium Competitors

How does CBum stack up against other premium pre-workouts? Let’s compare it to Kaged Pre-Kaged, another highly-rated option.

Kaged Pre-Kaged costs approximately $2.25 per serving, nearly double CBum’s single-scoop price. However, it also provides a much larger serving size at 29.6g versus 13.15g. Kaged includes branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which CBum lacks entirely. It also contains twice the L-citrulline (6,500mg versus 3,000mg) and significantly more caffeine (275mg versus 153mg).

The third-party testing difference is significant. Kaged Pre-Kaged carries Informed Choice certification, meaning it’s been tested for banned substances and contaminants. CBum’s testing only verifies potency (that the label accurately reflects ingredient amounts) but doesn’t screen for prohibited substances. For athletes subject to drug testing, this distinction matters enormously.

CBum’s advantages include better price per serving, more flavor options, and Chris Bumstead’s personal involvement in formulation. For recreational lifters who don’t face drug testing concerns, CBum offers excellent value. Athletes competing under strict regulations should consider more thoroughly tested alternatives.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Most users report minimal side effects from CBum pre-workout. The most common complaint involves the beta-alanine tingles, which some find distracting or uncomfortable. This sensation is completely harmless and typically diminishes with consistent use as your body adapts.

The bitter orange (synephrine) content raises concerns for some populations. While marketed as a natural stimulant, synephrine is structurally similar to ephedrine, which the FDA banned due to cardiovascular risks. The NCAA also bans synephrine, making Thavage completely off-limits for college athletes.

Some users report mild digestive upset, particularly when taking two scoops on an empty stomach. Starting with food in your system may help minimize this issue. The 306mg caffeine from a double dose can also interfere with sleep if taken too late in the day.

The sucralose content deserves mention for those avoiding artificial sweeteners. Despite marketing claims about being “natural,” Thavage uses sucralose (Splenda) for sweetness. While government agencies confirm sucralose’s safety, some individuals prefer to avoid artificial ingredients entirely.

Third-Party Testing: The Transparency Question

CBum pre-workout provides limited third-party testing through Vertex Analytical Labs. These results verify that the product contains the ingredient amounts listed on the label, which is valuable for ensuring you get what you pay for.

However, the testing does not include screening for banned substances, heavy metals, or contaminants. The product lacks certification from Informed Choice or NSF Certified for Sport, the gold standard testing programs for athletes. For recreational lifters, the existing testing provides adequate assurance. Competitive athletes, especially those in organizations with strict anti-doping policies, should exercise caution.

Price Breakdown: Is CBum Pre-Workout Worth the Investment?

At $49.99 per container, you’re getting 40 single-scoop servings, which works out to $1.25 per serving. This places CBum in the mid-range category for pre-workouts, more expensive than budget options but less than ultra-premium brands.

However, most experienced users eventually progress to two-scoop servings to achieve optimal ingredient doses. This effectively cuts your container to 20 servings at $2.50 each, pushing CBum into the premium price category. If you train five days per week, a container lasts just one month at double doses.

The Essential version at approximately $27.90 offers better value for budget-conscious lifters. While you sacrifice some of the nootropic ingredients, you maintain the core pump and energy benefits that make CBum popular. For many users, Essential provides 80% of the benefits at 56% of the cost.

Raw Nutrition offers a subscribe-and-save option providing 10% off regular orders. If you commit to CBum as your go-to pre-workout, this brings the per-container cost to $44.99, improving the value proposition.

Who Should Choose CBum Pre-Workout?

CBum pre-workout excels for specific user profiles. High-volume resistance trainers benefit most from the formula’s pump-enhancing and fatigue-fighting ingredients. Bodybuilders, powerlifters, and CrossFit athletes performing intense, sustained efforts will appreciate the endurance support.

Athletes prioritizing mental focus find significant value in the nootropic ingredient blend. If you struggle with gym motivation or find your mind wandering during training, the alpha GPC and L-tyrosine combination may provide the mental edge you need.

Intermediate to advanced lifters who already understand their pre-workout preferences and tolerance levels can maximize CBum’s flexible dosing. Beginners may find the complexity overwhelming and might prefer starting with the simpler Essential formula.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

Several groups should avoid CBum pre-workout or consider alternatives. College athletes cannot use Thavage due to its banned synephrine content. Even if you’re not currently competing, starting a supplement you’ll need to discontinue if you join an NCAA program creates unnecessary complications.

Those requiring creatine in their pre-workout need to either supplement separately or choose a formula that includes it. If you prefer taking fewer individual products, a complete pre-workout with creatine makes more sense.

Stimulant-sensitive individuals should approach cautiously, especially if considering two-scoop servings. The 306mg caffeine from a full dose can cause jitters, anxiety, or sleep disruption in those unaccustomed to stimulants. Starting with half a scoop and gradually increasing allows tolerance assessment.

Budget-conscious buyers taking two scoops per workout should calculate the true per-month cost before committing. At $100 per month for daily training, CBum becomes a significant expense that might exceed your supplement budget.

How CBum Pre-Workout Fits Your Supplement Stack

Since CBum lacks creatine and BCAAs, you’ll need to integrate it thoughtfully into your broader supplement regimen. Most users combine CBum with a standalone creatine supplement, taking 5g daily either mixed with the pre-workout or separately.

The 200mg caffeine content leaves room for additional caffeine sources if desired, though exceeding 400mg daily from all sources isn’t recommended for most people. Factor in any coffee, energy drinks, or other caffeinated products you consume.

CBum pairs well with intra-workout supplements containing electrolytes and carbohydrates for sessions exceeding 90 minutes. The pre-workout provides the initial energy and focus, while intra-workout nutrition maintains performance as training extends.

Post-workout, combine CBum with a quality protein supplement to support recovery. Raw Nutrition’s Itholate protein powder creates a complete CBum-branded stack, though any high-quality protein works equally well.

Customer Service and Return Policies

Raw Nutrition offers a 15-day no-hassle return policy when purchasing directly from their website. This window allows you to test the product through several workouts and assess whether it meets your needs. Given that individual responses to pre-workouts vary significantly, having this safety net reduces purchase risk.

When buying through Amazon, standard Amazon return policies apply. However, supplements often face restrictions on returns due to their consumable nature. Check specific return eligibility before purchasing if you’re uncertain about committing to a full container.

The subscribe-and-save option provides convenience and cost savings but requires management. Remember to adjust or cancel subscriptions if your training schedule changes or you want to try different products. Customer service handles these adjustments through standard contact channels.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Raw Nutrition doesn’t extensively market environmental initiatives, but the company uses standard supplement industry packaging without excessive waste. Tubs are recyclable where facilities accept that plastic type.

The ingredient sourcing emphasizes quality over specific ethical certifications. You won’t find organic, non-GMO, or fair-trade designations, which matters to some consumers. If these factors influence your purchasing decisions, research individual ingredients or contact the company for detailed sourcing information.

Chris Bumstead’s personal involvement adds an authenticity factor that many celebrity supplements lack. Rather than simply licensing his name, CBum actively participates in formulation and marketing, creating a more genuine partnership.

Frequently Asked Questions About CBum Pre-Workout

Does CBum pre-workout contain creatine?

No, neither Thavage nor Essential contains creatine monohydrate. You need to supplement with creatine separately if it’s part of your training regimen. Many users take 5g creatine daily either mixed with their pre-workout or at another time of day.

How much caffeine is in CBum pre-workout?

Thavage contains 153mg caffeine per one-scoop serving, or 306mg for the full two-scoop dose. Essential contains 200mg caffeine per serving. These amounts provide moderate stimulation without overwhelming most users.

Is CBum pre-workout banned by the NCAA?

Yes, Thavage contains bitter orange (synephrine), which appears on the NCAA’s banned substances list. College athletes and those planning to compete at the collegiate level should avoid this product to maintain eligibility.

Can women use CBum pre-workout?

Absolutely. Despite Chris Bumstead’s male bodybuilder image, the formula works equally well for women. No ingredients are gender-specific, and women can start with one scoop to assess tolerance just like male beginners.

What’s the difference between Thavage and Essential?

Thavage is the fully-loaded premium formula with more ingredients focused on pumps, energy, and focus. Essential is a simplified, more affordable version emphasizing the core benefits of L-citrulline, beta-alanine, and caffeine while cutting exotic ingredients.

Will CBum pre-workout make me fail a drug test?

For standard employment drug screens, CBum should not cause issues. However, for athletic drug testing, especially NCAA or professional sports organizations, the synephrine content creates risk. Always check your specific organization’s banned substance list.

How long does CBum pre-workout last?

Effects typically peak 30-60 minutes after consumption and gradually decline over 2-4 hours depending on individual metabolism, dose taken, and caffeine tolerance. Most users feel noticeably energized throughout workouts lasting 60-90 minutes.

Does CBum pre-workout cause crashes?

Most users report smooth energy without significant crashes afterward. The moderate caffeine content and inclusion of L-theanine help prevent the dramatic energy drop associated with some high-stim pre-workouts. Staying hydrated and eating after training further minimizes any crash sensation.

Can I take CBum pre-workout on non-training days?

While possible, it’s not recommended for long-term use. Your body can develop caffeine tolerance, reducing the product’s effectiveness when you actually need it for workouts. Some people take it occasionally for non-gym energy needs, but daily use regardless of training defeats the purpose.

What time should I stop taking CBum pre-workout to avoid sleep issues?

Given the 306mg caffeine in a two-scoop serving, avoid taking CBum within 6-8 hours of bedtime. Caffeine’s half-life means it takes hours to fully clear your system. If you train evenings, consider one-scoop servings or switching to a stimulant-free pre-workout for late sessions.

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Final Verdict: CBum pre-workout delivers on its promises of enhanced pumps, improved focus, and sustained energy for resistance training. While it’s not perfect—lacking creatine, containing banned substances for NCAA athletes, and requiring double doses for optimal results—the quality ingredients, great flavors, and Chris Bumstead’s authentic involvement make it a solid choice for recreational lifters seeking an effective pre-workout at a reasonable price point. Just remember to factor in whether you’ll be a single or double-scooper when calculating your budget.

Last update on 2026-02-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API