Whether you have just started your fitness journey or have been embracing it for a while, there are plenty of ways to optimise your results. One of the most vital forms of supporting your goals is to maximise your recovery. Sustained performance is only possible if you give your body the necessary aid to rest to amplify your work in the gym.
This blog will highlight the various recovery supplements and how they can support your fitness journey. Learn about the benefits of each one and how they contribute to faster recovery, improved performance and a more resilient, revitalised you. From essential amino acid formulas to the different types of protein powder, we give you everything you need to know to make an informed decision on your next muscle recovery supplement purchase.
Creatine: Cr3atine
When it comes to recovery supplements and performance, Creatine is a win-win! Research shows that this beloved supplement could improve your overall performance when you have been partaking in exercises that leave a large amount of exercise-induced muscle damage. This means that creatine supplementation could directly reduce the effects of muscle damage and soreness following those big sessions.
This can also be aided by the heightened levels of ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) creatine offers, with the higher rates of energy supplied for tissue regeneration. There's also the support it can offer in reducing the body's inflammatory response, meaning you could be giving your body exactly what it needs if you are doing a particularly physical exercise or sport.
Anabolix Cr3atine is a 100% pure creatine monohydrate that is unflavoured and ready to add to your stack straightaway. The best part is you are not getting any nasties, just a recovery supplement and performance support in one creatine monohydrate!
Essential Amino Acids and Branched Chain Amino Acids: Fuel3d
EAAs (essential amino acids) and BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) are amino acids that cannot be produced naturally by the body and are only obtained through diet. They are crucial to the function of protein synthesis, which is vital in muscle repair and growth. This process supports the body in repairing proteins, particularly muscle proteins that can be broken down during exercise.
BCAAs also play a big part in this. They have protein anabolic properties, which aid in supporting muscle protein synthesis and creating a positive protein balance. They can also be used as a source of energy, reducing the glycogen released for exercise and the subsequent breakdown of that glycogen.
Fuel3d offers all 9 of the EAAs and BCAA you need from a recovery supplement in an easily adaptable formula. The traditional 2.1.1 ratio of aminos plus additional ingredients will help support recovery. The added patented ingredients, Senactiv®, will enhance exercise performance and accelerate recovery training.
Whey Protein: Primal
Whey protein is one of the most common protein powders on the market, and for good reason. This dairy-derived protein source has been shown to stimulate muscle protein synthesis better than most other protein sources. Its recovery properties are best utilised after exercising when your body requires the most support. Whey protein can be best harnessed in the direct aftermath of exercise when muscle repair and soreness are at their highest.
Primal is a high-quality multi-phasic release protein that offers a diverse range of protein sources for prolonged support. With all the essential amino acids in this protein, you can also support the protein synthesis for sports recovery.
Whey Protein Isolate: Isolate
Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) includes all the EAAs and BCAAs with a quickly absorbed formulation that can be hydrolysed for rapid use in the body's recovery period. This makes it perfect for post-workout refuelling and recovery. There is also a lower fatter and carb content, making it quicker to absorb. There is also the presence of immunoglobulins and other immunomodulatory factors. These can contribute to overall immune system health, which is vital for individuals whose heavy exercise routine could affect their immune system. It is also an excellent option if you are looking for a lactose-low option, as the heavy processing means a product that usually contains minimal lactose.
Anabolix HWPI is specially formulated for instant refuelling. This hydrolysed blend does not leave you bloated or in digestive discomfort that other muscle repair supplements may leave you with. You get 26.6 g of pure protein in each serving, with fewer calories and fat and more BCAAs and glutamine than in other products.
Casein: Mammoth
Casein is the other by-product formed in the process of making protein. Unlike whey, casein is a slow-digesting protein. The prolonged release offers the benefit of sustained amino acid support for protein synthesis that isn't just for after your workout. This gives casein an anti-catabolic effect, reducing muscle protein breakdown. This is particularly useful if you want a protein powder that will continue to support recovery overnight or between meals.
Mammoth is a muscle gainer that utilises casein AND whey! Packed with protein and carbohydrates, it ensures your muscles are given the correct intra- and post-workout support ingredients. Leucine, glutamine, and creatine monohydrate are added for further muscle recovery. Leucine adds extra muscle protein synthesis support while inhibiting the systems that cause protein degradation in muscles.
