The common belief is that weight training 🏋🏻♀️ makes an athlete stronger, builds muscle and improves their physique... however weight training actually makes an athlete weaker! In truth, it is actually during the recovery process that the body undertakes the adaptations that allow it to become bigger, stronger etc.
In order to facilitate these adaptations, the body requires an adequate amount of protein 🍗 (amongst other things) to repair and rebuild. Maximising this area of the recovery process goes a long way to achieving ones desired results.
Two of the common questions i receive in relation to post-workout protein are ⬇️ 1) ‘how much protein should i be having’ and 2) ‘should i be using protein powder’
The answers to both of these questions are subjective. There is no single right or wrong statement. We are all different, our activity levels, body composition, health history, metabolism and training goals vary greatly and subsequently so does our nutritional needs!
In regards to ‘how much’ it is simply a case of trial and error and i refrain from labelling specifics when it comes to protein intake, calorie consumption and the like. What i will say is not only aim for protein immediately post workout but with every meal. Modern day diets are carbohydrate rich 🥖🥞🍕and protein often gets forgotten. Quality sources such as chicken, red meat, eggs, yoghurt etc are great go to protein options.
In relation to protein powders; whole foods like those mentioned above are always priority. However, if you struggle to stomach food after exercising or don’t have the time to sit down and consume a proper meal, than i would suggest there is a case for implementing a quality whey protein into your post-training routine.
