Introducing the CBum Pre-Workout: Thavage and Essential
For many fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders, the name Chris Bumstead (CBum) is synonymous with classic physique excellence. It is no surprise, then, that his signature pre-workout, Thavage, has garnered significant attention in the supplement market. Created in partnership with Raw Nutrition, the CBum line actually includes two main pre-workout options: the premium Thavage Pre-Workout and the more accessible Essential Pre-Workout. Each is designed to cater to different levels of athletic intensity and specific training goals.
The Thavage formula is a fully loaded blend designed for maximum performance, personally overseen by Bumstead himself. The name, a playful take on Bumstead's pronunciation of 'savage', embodies the intense, no-nonsense approach to training. On the other hand, the Essential pre-workout offers a simpler, yet effective, blend for those who need a solid, reliable energy boost for their daily gym sessions.
A Deep Dive into Thavage Pre-Workout's Ingredients
The Thavage Pre-Workout formula is stacked with a comprehensive array of ingredients designed to support energy, focus, pumps, and endurance. To achieve clinically effective doses for many of the key compounds, the product is often recommended as a two-scoop serving for experienced users.
Key ingredients in a two-scoop serving include:
- L-Citrulline (6,000 mg): A key amino acid that serves as a nitric-oxide precursor, which helps enhance blood flow to the muscles. This leads to bigger, more pronounced muscle pumps and improved endurance during repetitive workouts.
- Beta-Alanine (3,200 mg): This ingredient is known for causing the 'tingles' and works by buffering lactic acid build-up in the muscles, which delays muscle fatigue and allows for longer, more intense workout sessions.
- Betaine Anhydrous (2,500 mg): Found to improve muscle strength, power output, and muscular endurance, while also supporting cellular hydration.
- L-Tyrosine (2,000 mg): An amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter precursor, supporting mental clarity and focus, particularly in demanding or stressful situations.
- Caffeine Anhydrous (260 mg) & Di-Caffeine Malate (64 mg): Thavage uses a combination of two types of caffeine. Anhydrous provides a quick energy peak, while the malate version offers a more sustained energy release to prevent a hard crash.
- Nitrosigine® (1,500 mg): This patented ingredient further supports nitric oxide production, promoting improved blood flow and reduced muscle fatigue for up to six hours.
- Alpha-GPC (400 mg): A nootropic that is shown to increase motivation and support the crucial mind-muscle connection during lifts.
- Coconut Fruit Water Powder (500 mg): Provides natural electrolytes for enhanced hydration, helping to prevent cramping and support optimal performance.
Essential Pre-Workout: A Foundation for Performance
For those who prefer a simpler, effective formula or are new to pre-workouts, the CBum Essential line is an excellent alternative. It features the core, proven ingredients for a reliable boost without the extended nootropic blend found in Thavage. A single scoop provides:
- L-Citrulline (4,000 mg): For significant pumps and blood flow.
- Beta-Alanine (3,200 mg): Delivers the full dose for buffering muscle fatigue.
- Natural Caffeine (200 mg): A solid dose for a clean energy boost.
- L-Tyrosine (2,000 mg): For mental focus.
How to Use CBum's Pre-Workouts for Optimal Results
Both Thavage and Essential are intended to be mixed with cold water and consumed 15-30 minutes before training. The proper dosage depends on your tolerance and experience level. For those new to pre-workouts, assessing tolerance with a half-scoop is always recommended. Experienced users can take a full two-scoop serving of Thavage for the full clinical effects of all ingredients.
Comparison Table: Thavage vs. Essential vs. C4 Original
| Feature | CBum Thavage (2 scoops) | CBum Essential (1 scoop) | C4 Original (1 scoop) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Caffeine | ~305 mg (blend) | 200 mg (natural) | 200 mg |
| L-Citrulline | 6g | 4g | 2.4 g (blend) |
| Beta-Alanine | 3.2g | 3.2g | 2g |
| Nootropics | Alpha-GPC, L-Theanine, Huperzine A | L-Tyrosine | N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, Huperzine A |
| Pump Enhancers | L-Citrulline, Nitrosigine®, Agmatine | L-Citrulline | Creatine Nitrate |
| Additional Ingredients | Betaine Anhydrous, Taurine, AstraGin | Betaine, Taurine, Himalayan Sea Salt | Vitamin C, B Vitamins |
| Experience Level | Advanced / Maximum Performance | Intermediate / General Lifter | Beginner / Everyday Boost |
Potential Downsides and Considerations
While highly effective, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when using CBum's pre-workouts:
- Artificial Sweeteners: Some users have noted that the product contains artificial sweeteners like sucralose, which might be a concern for those who prefer all-natural products.
- Caffeine Tolerance: The two-scoop serving of Thavage delivers over 300 mg of total caffeine, which can be overwhelming for individuals with a low caffeine tolerance. It is also not recommended for those who train late at night, as it can disrupt sleep.
- NCAA Banned Substance: Thavage Pre-Workout contains Bitter Orange (Synephrine), which is on the NCAA's list of banned substances. Collegiate athletes should avoid this product.
- No Creatine: Neither the Thavage nor Essential formula includes creatine, a popular ingredient for strength and performance. Those who want creatine will need to supplement it separately.
Conclusion
CBum's pre-workouts, Thavage and Essential, are well-formulated and respected options in the supplement industry. Thavage, the more comprehensive and powerful formula, is an excellent choice for experienced lifters seeking to maximize pumps, focus, and energy. Its blend of scientifically backed ingredients, including L-Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, and a dual-caffeine source, provides a serious performance boost. For those needing a more straightforward daily driver, the Essential pre-workout offers a clean, effective energy and pump formula. As with any supplement, it is crucial to assess your tolerance, adhere to recommended dosages, and consider your personal fitness goals before use. By choosing the right CBum pre-workout for your needs, you can elevate your training and push past your plateaus.
For more information on the efficacy of certain ingredients like Alpha-GPC, you can review peer-reviewed studies published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
