Carnitine is best known for its role in energy metabolism—helping transport long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria where they can be used for energy. In sports nutrition, carnitine supplements are commonly used to support training routines, endurance, and body composition goals when paired with consistent exercise and nutrition. This hub page helps you compare the two most popular forms—L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)—so you can choose the best fit for your routine.

What is Carnitine?

Carnitine is an amino acid-like nutrient involved in transporting long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. It occurs naturally in the body, is found in foods like red meat and dairy, and is also available as a supplement in several forms.

Why Carnitine is popular in sports nutrition

Carnitine is commonly used by people who train regularly because it supports normal energy metabolism and fits easily into performance routines. Many shoppers like it as a stimulant-free addition that can be used alongside hydration, smart carbohydrate timing, adequate protein intake and progressive training.

Types of Carnitine Supplements

There are multiple forms of carnitine, but most shoppers start with these two options:

L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is the most common form in sports nutrition and is often used in routines focused on training output, endurance blocks and body composition goals.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is an acetylated form frequently selected when shoppers want a carnitine option commonly positioned for mental drive, focus and day-to-day performance support alongside training consistency (also searched as “Acetyl L Carnitine”).

How to choose the right Carnitine

• If training performance is the priority: choose L-Carnitine.
• If focus and mental drive matter too: choose Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR).

Potential benefits people look for with Carnitine

• May support normal energy metabolism by assisting fatty acid transport into mitochondria
• Often used to support endurance training and workout output when paired with structured programming
• May support body composition routines as part of a calorie-controlled plan and consistent training
• ALCAR is often chosen when focus and mental drive are also part of the goal

How to take Carnitine

Most people follow label directions and take carnitine daily for consistency. Timing can be pre-training, with a meal, or split across the day depending on preference and product format. For form-specific guidance, explore the L-Carnitine and ALCAR collection pages. If pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a medical condition, check with a qualified health professional before use.

Compare Carnitine Supplements

Popular carnitine products at Nutrition Warehouse

• 100% Pure Acetyl L-Carnitine by Genetix Nutrition Essentials – A simple, single-ingredient ALCAR option commonly chosen when focus and training consistency are both priorities.
• 100% Pure L-Carnitine by Genetix Nutrition Essentials – Clean, no-fuss L-Carnitine that fits easily into training and body composition routines.
• Acetyl L-Carnitine by EHP Labs – Versatile ALCAR formula that stacks well with training-day supplements.
• Acetyl L-Carnitine by Herbs of Gold – Quality ALCAR option often picked for everyday use alongside training consistency.
• Acetyl L-Carnitine by ATP Science – Straightforward ALCAR choice that suits simple stacks and routine-based protocols.
• Carnigen Premium Liquid by Evogen – Liquid carnitine blend for people who prefer an easy-to-take format in their daily routine.

Looking to stack Carnitine with other supps?

Carnitine is typically a stimulant-free add-on, so many people pair it with other goal-based supplements as part of a broader routine (always check labels and follow directions, especially if you’re also using caffeine or stimulant products).

• Body composition support: Compare options in our fat burners range.
• Training energy: Stack with a pre-workout on session days (watch total stimulant intake).
• Everyday performance: Add creatine for a simple performance-focused foundation.

Looking for other Amino Acids?

If you're looking for other Single Amino Acids types, explore our Single Amino Acids here. Or shop our full Amino Acid Supplement range here.

Why shop Carnitine at Nutrition Warehouse

• 120+ stores Australia-wide, plus online shopping
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