Choosing the right workout supplement can help you push through a fitness challenge. How so? Many supplements boost energy, endurance, and stamina and increase performance. Others help you unwind, relax and relieve muscle tension (like bloomfarms products), or they help you with muscle growth (weight gainers products).
These supplements come in different mediums such as powders and liquids. Most take around 30 minutes to an hour to be of benefit. However, choosing the right workout supplement for you isn’t always easy. So, let’s look at how you can find one that works with minimal effort.
Some of the gains you can achieve by using supplements are leaner muscle, greater strength and body and mind sustainability. Although, there are so many options that it can be difficult to find one that is right for you that fits your needs. Therefore, narrowing down your selection early to find a suitable supplement for you is essential.
Choosing The Right Workout Supplement #1 What is your fitness goal?
Your fitness goal should be specific, measurable, realistic, and attainable. If your goal is too ambitious, it will only lead to disappointment when you fail to achieve it in the time frame. Instead, consider setting smaller goals so that you can use this as motivation to continue with another challenge until you reach your final destination.
#2 What are your dietary restrictions?
When choosing a supplement, it’s important to consider any dietary restrictions you may have. Vegetarian and vegan diets are very common nowadays, so the first thing to do is make sure that the supplement you choose is suitable for your lifestyle.
If you’re a vegan or vegetarian who eats dairy products, this becomes much easier because there is an abundance of protein powders that use whey as their main ingredient. If this doesn’t apply to you, things can get trickier; soy protein isolate is popular in many brands but comes with some health concerns, such as potential estrogenic activity. So, do your research before making a supplement purchase.
Choosing The Right Workout Supplement #3 How much do you exercise?
If you exercise a lot, your body will require more protein than someone who doesn’t exercise much. Likewise, if you exercise a lot, your body will also require more vitamin C and vitamin D. It’s essential to recognize the difference between adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals and excessive amounts.
Overdosing on certain vitamins can be harmful to your health. So, be sure to check with your doctor before taking any supplements. Also, if you are pregnant, lactating or have any medical conditions, including high cholesterol or diabetes, then always seek medical advice before using any supplement.
#4 What is your level of physical fitness?
You should think about your current fitness level when choosing a supplement. For example, if you are just beginning an exercise regimen and working out several times a week, a pre-workout supplement can help boost energy levels and give you extra focus during training sessions. On the other hand, if you are already in good shape and have been training for some time, then a post-workout recovery formula may be more appropriate for your needs.
Choosing The Right Workout Supplement #5 How much supplement can you take?
In order to build muscle, you’ll need to consume a lot of protein. The right amount of protein is typically between 0.8 and 1 gram per pound of body weight—the higher end of this range is recommended if you are trying to gain substantial muscle mass. Aim for the lower end if you are maintaining weight or have health concerns.
Choosing The Right Workout Supplement Key Takeaways
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all for supplements. The best way to determine if one is right for you is to research supplement ingredients and read customer reviews.
Just to recap, choosing the right workout supplement for you includes:
- What is your fitness goal? – know what you want to achieve before you start taking a supplement.
- What are your current dietary restrictions? – always consider your individual dietary needs before taking a supplement.
- How much do you exercise? – if you are new to exercising, you won’t need as much protein, vitamins, and minerals as someone who works out regularly.
- What is your level of physical fitness? – always consider your current level of fitness before taking a supplement.
- How much supplement can you take? – work out how much you weigh and whether you want to maintain muscle mass or become bigger to find your optimal protein intake.
For similar content delivered weekly to your inbox, subscribe to our feed.
For daily updates on how to lead a happier, healthier lifestyle, follow us on social media: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter
If you’re looking for more on fitness or health and wellness, then visit the InShape Online Group or the Trixi Club to plan for better, more sustainable health, fitness & wellness.
InShape News – ‘Live. Life. Healthy. Today. Tomorrow. Forever.’
