Written by Meghan Novoshielski, MS, RDN, Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer
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We bring years of health expertise and hands-on product testing to score each item based on strict criteria for effectiveness, quality, taste, and value. We aim to provide insights that help you confidently choose the best products for your goals.
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Trusted experts
We consulted Pete Nastasi, CPT, CSNC, a personal trainer and sports performance coach, for his insights on this article. Lily Moe and Jessica Coulon, two seasoned nutrition editors, also provided their review. Lastly, Kelly Uhler conducted fact checking to ensure complete and total accuracy.
If muscle soreness and fatigue are holding back your training progress, it may be time to fine-tune your post-workout recovery. Supplements can help you optimize your nutrition and keep that post-workout momentum going.
While there are many to choose from, Legion Athletics Recharge post-workout drink has gained attention for enhancing muscle repair and performance. This supplement contains creatine and L-carnitine tartrate, and claims to boost muscle growth and speed up recovery. But do these claims hold up, and how should you use it?
Our health experts reviewed the research behind this product. We compared its ingredients to clinical evidence and evaluated its effectiveness, quality, and value. Here’s what we found and our recommendations.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Legion Recharge is a post-workout supplement with creatine, L-carnitine, and corosolic acid to aid muscle repair and reduce soreness.
Fortune Score:
4 / 5
Key product features
Doses Clinically proven
Third-party tested Yes
Gluten-free Yes
Vegan Yes
Guarantee 7 options
Guarantee 365-day
What you should know
Legion Recharge is a post-workout supplement designed to support muscle recovery and reduce soreness. It’s ideal for athletes who want extra help recovering from intense workouts without consuming unnecessary additives.
- Recharge combines 5 grams of creatine, 2.1 grams of L-carnitine tartrate, and 10.5 milligrams of corosolic acid—clinically effective doses of ingredients shown to help with muscle repair and inflammation.
- It’s available in seven flavors—watermelon and fruit punch are the most popular. Our product testers enjoyed the strawberry lemonade flavor, and it mixed easily in cold water.
- At $1–$1.33 per serving, it’s a bit pricey for the ingredients included. Still, the convenience of having key recovery ingredients in one product, with third-party testing and a 365-day money-back guarantee, adds value.
Pros
Effective ingredients for muscle recovery and soreness, including creatine and L-carnitine
Free of artificial sweeteners, dyes, and fillers
Third-party tested for purity and potency
Multiple flavor options with many positive customer reviews
Cons
Uses stevia, which some people prefer to avoid
Expensive
Won’t be effective unless paired with adequate post-workout nutrition
Legion Athletics Recharge overview
Legion Athletics, founded by a personal trainer, is a company known for its science-based supplements. Recharge, their post-workout recovery formula, combines creatine with additional ingredients to help enhance muscle growth, reduce soreness, and speed up recovery after intense workouts.
Legion Recharge ingredients and benefits
Legion Recharge is a post-workout recovery drink that specifically targets muscle repair. We like that it uses scientifically supported ingredients to fight inflammation and soreness, making it a good choice if muscle fatigue is holding back your progress. Each serving provides 5 grams of creatine monohydrate, 2.1 grams of L-carnitine tartrate, and 10.5 milligrams of corosolic acid.
Creatine monohydrate is a form of creatine well-known for increasing muscle strength and growth. As a pre-workout supplement, it can help energize muscles during high-intensity training like weightlifting. ( 4 ) Recent studies also suggest it can reduce post-workout inflammation to aid recovery. ( 5 , 6 ) But it’s not a quick fix—most research says you need to take 3-5 grams daily for at least four weeks to see benefits. ( 4 ) Legion’s 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving will put you on track to get there.
L-carnitine tartrate is a nutrient that helps with energy production and may reduce muscle soreness after tough workouts. The 2.1 grams in Legion Recharge matches the amount used in studies showing its benefits. ( 7 ) In a 2021 study, men and women aged 21 to 65 reported less muscle fatigue and soreness after five weeks of daily use. Researchers believe it lowers inflammation and speeds up muscle repair. ( 8 )
Corosolic acid is less known, but it may help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol and reduce inflammation. While more studies are needed to confirm its benefits, early research looks promising. We appreciate that Legion matches the dose commonly used in research so far. ( 9 , 10 )
After using Legion Recharge four times during an intense training cycle, one of our testers noticed improvements in their post-workout soreness and recovery. It’s too soon to say that this product is the reason, but the results were enough to convince them to continue using it.
Another benefit is that Legion avoids unnecessary additives. The only other ingredients in the unflavored option are stevia, citric acid, and natural flavors and colors. Ingredients vary slightly depending on flavor. Plus, this product is third-party tested, ensuring it’s free from banned substances.
Note that Legion Recharge is protein-free, so it won’t replenish your energy stores after exercise. For the best results, pair it with a post-workout meal that includes protein and carbs instead of using it alone.
Taste and solubility
Legion Recharge post-workout supplement comes in seven flavors: strawberry lemonade, fruit punch, strawberry kiwi, watermelon, unflavored, blue raspberry, and grape.
Customers rave about these flavors, with watermelon and fruit punch being favorites. Our testers agreed, rating this product a five out of five for taste. I tried the strawberry lemonade and didn’t love the overly sweet aftertaste from stevia paired with the bitter lemon flavor. However, our other testers loved it, which shows it’s just a matter of preference. By offering so many flavor choices, Legion gives you a lot of options for finding one you like.
Another thing we like is how easily this product mixes with water. You can add it to a regular water bottle, and within a few shakes, it’s fully dissolved.
Finally, we love that an unflavored option is available. This provides the opportunity to stack the supplement with your favorite protein shake to create a complete post-workout meal with the necessary protein and carbs. However, be aware that the unflavored version still contains stevia, so it’s not entirely flavorless. Our product tester thought the unflavored option had an unpleasant aftertaste.
Cost and value
You can purchase Legion Recharge in a 30 or 60-serving container, which will cost you $1.33 or $1 per serving, respectively. You should take it daily, even on non-workout days, to maintain benefits.
It’s possible to buy these ingredients separately for cheaper, but it’s convenient to get them together in this product. The investment in third-party testing also adds to the value of this product. Furthermore, Legion offers a 365-day money-back guarantee. This means they stand behind their product and are committed to making sure you’re satisfied with what you get for the cost.
Potential drawbacks
Legion Recharge is a good option for specifically targeting muscle recovery. However, you may get a better value from a more holistic post-workout supplement that incorporates protein, electrolytes, and carbohydrates. Still, we appreciate that this paired-down formula allows you to customize your supplement plan to your specific needs.
Another consideration is that there isn’t an unsweetened option (even the unflavored option contains sweetener). If you don’t like the taste or effects of stevia, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Lastly, remember this will take time to work. Be prepared to give it one to three months before weighing in on the benefits.
Final thoughts
Legion Athletics Recharge’s blend of creatine, L-carnitine tartrate, and corosolic acid makes it a great choice for improving muscle repair and reducing soreness to help you push through tough training cycles and achieve gains.
While Recharge doesn’t cover all post-workout needs like hydration or protein, it can be a beneficial addition to a balanced post-workout meal if muscle soreness and fatigue are problems for you. The clean ingredient list, third-party testing, and multiple flavor options speak to the ingredient quality. Just be patient—it may take a few months to see the effects.
What customers are saying
Legion Recharge post-workout supplement reviews on Amazon are very positive. Over 4,000 customers provided an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Taste, effectiveness, and ingredient quality are the reasons behind these high ratings.
Verified customer W.G. Jones writes, “I have to say that I really feel the prime effect of taking this is to reduce the soreness that comes with using muscles in ways they haven’t been used in some time. Some folks call it DOMS. I can’t say for certain that it definitely helped me build any more muscle than I would have from the exercise alone, however, several people have commented that I’m looking leaner, and one person even called me buff, quite a surprise. The flavor is good—really as good as I could expect from a product that touts the use of natural flavorings as opposed to artificial ones. I generally mix it with at least 14 oz of water in order to make sure that it mixes in quickly without having to shake it excessively.”
Disappointment with the unflavored option is the most common complaint about this product. Many customers are unhappy that this choice does have sweetness and flavor.
According to a customer named Joshua, “I ordered the unflavored. The bottle says unflavored. This is not accurate. Unfortunately, their unflavored has a distinct mixed berry flavor. I am very disappointed.”
It’s worth noting that many of the negative comments mention that Legion Athletics provided excellent customer service in addressing their concerns.
Specs
Calories per serving | 0-5 |
Carbohydrates per serving | 1-2 grams |
Key ingredients | Micronized creatine monohydrate (5 grams), L-carnitine L-tartrate (2.1 grams), corosolic acid from banaba leaf extract (10.5 milligrams) |
Additional ingredients | Natural flavors, stevia leaf extract, citric acid, silica, beet powder (for color); ingredients vary by flavor |
Flavors | Strawberry lemonade, fruit punch, strawberry kiwi, watermelon, unflavored, blue raspberry, grape |
Serving size | One scoop (7.5-10 grams) |
Servings per container | 30 or 60 |
Cost per serving | $1.33 (30-serving container) or $1 (60-serving container) |
Third-party testing | Labdoor |
Special diets | Gluten-free, vegan |
Compare Legion Athletics Recharge
Legion Athletics Recharge | Transparent Labs Post | Promix Recovery Protein | |
Rating | 4/5 | 3.8/5 | 3.8/5 |
Cost per serving | $1 to $1.33 | $1.67 | $6.27 |
Active ingredients | Creatine monohydrate, L-carnitine tartrate, corosolic acid | L-glutamine, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, l-carnitine tartrate, tart cherry powder, beta prime | Whey protein isolate, L-glutamine, amino acids |
Doses | 5 grams, 2.1 grams, 10.5 milligrams | 5,000 milligrams, 3,200 milligrams, 2,500 milligrams, 2,000 milligrams, 500 milligrams, 400 milligrams | 30 grams, 5 grams |
| | | |
Why use a post-workout recovery supplement?
Refueling your body with the right nutrients after a workout helps your muscles recover faster and grow stronger. Skipping this step can slow your progress, lower your energy, and even lead to burnout. ( 1 ) Sports supplements are a convenient way to build an effective post-workout nutrition strategy so you can keep pushing forward.
A good post-workout plan has three main goals: rehydration, replenishment, and repair. Rehydration means drinking water or sports drinks to replace the fluids and electrolytes you lose when you sweat. Replenishment happens by eating enough carbohydrates to refill your energy stores. Repair requires getting protein and anti-inflammatory nutrients to help your muscles recover, grow, and reduce soreness. ( 1 , 2 )
While a balanced diet can provide these nutrients, eating a full meal after working out can be challenging, especially since exercise can suppress appetite. ( 3 ) That’s where post-workout supplements come in. They’re a quick and easy way to make sure you get what your body needs when it needs it. The best supplement for you depends on your training plan and any gaps in your nutrition.
How we test post-workout supplements
We’re committed to providing supplement reviews you can trust. That means testing each product we recommend, providing you with genuine and impartial feedback. You can read our full supplement testing methodology here.
Efficacy—40%
If you’re shopping for a supplement, chances are high there’s a specific goal you’re aiming to achieve. That’s why we examine whether a supplement delivers on its promised benefits. Efficacy doesn’t just mean the effectiveness of the product in attaining its claims, but also the evidence that supports those claims.
Here’s what we look for:
- Clinical evidence
- Calories per serving
- Dose efficacy
- Synergistic effects
- Proprietary blends
Safety and side effects—35%
Safety is our top priority. This means we want to ensure you can trust the safety of the products you purchase.
We evaluate:
- Reported side effects
- Third-party testing
- Manufacturer accreditation
- Artificial sweeteners
Value—20%
We analyze cost analysis to determine the worth of a supplement in relation to its price and identify products that offer a solid return on investment.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Price per serving
Customer experience—5%
A customer’s experience with a company directly impacts satisfaction, loyalty, and the likelihood of repeat purchases.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Ease of purchase
- Shipping and returns
- Customer support
FAQs
What are the benefits of Legion Recharge?
Legion Recharge post-workout drink helps support muscle recovery, soreness, and muscle growth. It contains 5 grams of creatine monohydrate, which helps boost strength, along with L-carnitine tartrate to aid muscle repair and fatigue.
What are the best flavors of Legion Recharge?
The most popular flavors of Legion Recharge are watermelon and fruit punch. These flavors are highly rated for their taste and mixability.
How much does Legion Recharge cost?
Legion Recharge costs $1.33 per serving for a 30-serving container and $1 per serving for a 60-serving container. It’s recommended to take it daily, even on non-workout days, to maintain its benefits.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Pete Nastasi, CPT, CSNC
Pete Nastasi is a NASM-certified sports nutrition coach, personal trainer, and the owner of N2 Nutrition and Performance. Pete helps individual clients achieve their sports performance and weight-loss goals through a personalized approach centered around diet optimization, easy-to-follow workout routines, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is a contributing editor and writer who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Lily Moe
Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.