I get a lot of fitness related questions and one of the most frequently asked is about workout supplements; if I take any, what they’re for, and my favourite brands. If your diet is on point then there’s very little supplementary additions you’ll need bar the odd vitamin or drink to fuel your fitness if you’re training intensely. I like to take some Stress B, which are great during my period as they help with alertness, protects my immune system and helps my mood. I also take Omega Fish Oils for their mental health benefits and fat burning and muscle building aid. There are also three training supplements I like to use that work really well together but aren’t essential.
Prior to training I didn’t even drink coffee, so caffeine somewhat scared me. Bodyfirst Nutrition went through my options with me and educated me on the various effects caffeine could have. I discovered that a pre-workout drink before intense training sessions such as a heavy leg day or having caffeine when you need that extra boost of energy and strength is brilliant. Pre-workout drinks contain ingredients that you can take to boost physiological and metabolic responses during exercise performance. These ingredients include high energy compounds and central nervous system stimulants that allow you to perform at a higher intensity for longer during your workout.
My energy drink of choice is FKD, which works really well, tastes like cola and has no nasty side effects. The powder mixed with water contains Beta Alanine, which increases the buffering capacity of muscles during high intensity exercise. Consequently, fatigue time is delayed and you’re able to train harder for longer.
Intra workouts are also a nice addition or alternative to pre-workout supplements. ON Essential Amino Energy combines an optimal ratio of rapidly-absorbed free form amino acids including muscle building BCAA’s and Arginine for a more intense vascular pump. It has natural energisers, Beta Alanine, and boosting ingredients to help you reach your next level and at just 10 calories per serving it’s a tasty drink option for during your workout.
If you decide against pre and intra workout supplements, a post-workout protein shake is a staple in any training regime. I generally buy a different flavour each time so I don’t tire of the taste. I use protein powder in my oats, to make protein pancakes or balls and to use as a shake post-training. Whey protein isolates are 90% pure protein by weight and are the purest and most expensive form of whey protein that exist. I love the Optimum Nutrition Whey Protein in Cookies & Cream and Mint Chocolate, which contain 24 grams of the purest, muscle-building protein per serving, with a lot less of the fat, cholesterol, lactose, and other ingredients you don’t need. I purchase all of my supplements and lots of other clean treats from Bodyfirst Nutrition.