If you have started just training or have been doing it for a while, you may have already done your research on pre- and post-workout supplements, and the recently popular, intra-workout supplement. There is no doubt that you need to have a proper pre- and post-workout regime to take your training to the next level, maximise your gains, and improve your strength and endurance. But what about consuming something during your session?
What is Intra-Workout Supplement?
As the name suggests, you take an intra-workout supplement at intervals during your training session, unlike pre- and post-workout supplements, which you down in one go. They are available in different forms: powders, pre-mixed or easy-to-pour liquids, or capsules. There are no differences in the effectiveness, but you should intake the form you’re comfortable with.
If you are starting to feel low on energy during an intense session, an intra-workout supplement will provide you with the kick that you need to finish with a bang.
Types of Intra-Workout Supplement
These are the common ingredients in your intra-workout supplement that can help you refuel and re-energise:
BCAA
Branched Chain Amino Acids are made up of three essential amino acids: Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine. By regulating the signalling pathways that connect physiological and metabolic roles, BCAAs increase the rate of muscle protein synthesis and decrease the rate of protein degradation, to mend your muscle tears and recover faster.
Amino Acids
Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, are important for your body to build muscles and function properly. Of the 20 amino acids, 9 of them are considered essential and cannot be produced by the body. So, they must be supplied externally, either through whole food protein sources or through supplements. The nine EAAs that you can get through your supplements are:
- Histidine
- Leucine
- Isoleucine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
- Valine
- Phenylalanine
Simple Carbs
Carbs are the fast known energy source. Having an ideal amount of carbs within your intra-workout supplement, you can get that instant energy boost to power through your session. Besides, the supplements can also have carb transport to raise the body’s level of insulin sensitivity and help break down the carb to be utilised faster.
Electrolytes
During your workouts, you may lose minerals and electrolytes from your body through your sweat. So, you need to replenish the electrolytes to regulate and control the fluid balance in your body, along with the pH balance of your blood, as well as your muscle function.
Intra-Workout Supplement Benefits
Taking an intra-workout supplement h a variety of benefits, such as:
Increased Energy and Endurance
As mentioned earlier, taking an intra-workout supplement can help you have prolonged energy. You can move those weights around, and crunch in more reps and sets without overexerting yourself. Loaded with BCAAs, they can prevent muscle breakdown and build endurance.
Hydration
Those who sweat more, they need to replenish their electrolyte levels better. An intra-workout supplement loaded with BCAAs and amino acids h with water consumption and b the electrolyte levels without having to consume too much sugar. Besides, the added flavour can water more palatable if you do not like drinking plain water.
Reduced Muscle Breakdown
Since most gym-goers are o a restricted diet or are training fasted, they tend to enter a catabolic state, where the muscle and fat from their body a broken down to be used as energy. So, by supplying your body with the fuel that it needs externally, your muscles can maintain their mass. So, it will be easier to have your muscle gains and achieve your physique goals.
Using Intra-workout Supplement
To see the best results from your workouts, you need to be consistent with your routine, and that includes properly consuming your intra-workout supplement. It is essential you consume the right amount and choose the right products. TopAthlete has a wide range of supplements that you can incorporate within your regime to get the best results.
