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When we work out intensely, we damage muscle tissues at the micro-level. After You’ve finished your workout, then it is the most important nutritional “window” in your day to feed those muscles so they can get bigger and stronger. While pre-workouts are an energy boost and help with endurance to make your workouts last longer, much post-workouts aid in muscular recovery and muscle building.
The whole point of the workout is to induce a workload on your muscles in an attempt to physically and biochemically break them, and after you break down the muscle tissue, it has to repair itself. This is where we see all of our gains as athletes. Our muscles never grow when we work out, they always grow when we rest and recover.
The purpose of post-workout supplementation is to supply your body with everything it needs to repair, replenish, recover within 15–60 minutes after exercise while this window of opportunity is still open. During this time, the body is in the perfect condition for nutrient absorption. The nutrients provided with post-workout supplementation helps to minimize muscle damage/muscle protein breakdown. Muscle hypertrophy occurs when a positive protein balance is established during recovery — in other words, when we make sure we provide a sufficient amount of post-workout nutrition for protein synthesis to occur, so it is not lagging behind protein breakdown.
How To Choose a Good Post Workout Supplement?
With so many post-workout supplements to choose from, it’s easy to get lost in the confusing world that is sports nutrition, especially when you’re trying to find the best post-workout supplement, after all, it really depends on your body composition, type of physical activity, intensity as well as your total calorie and macronutrient intake.
- Protein powder: If you’re just falling short in protein, a post-workout protein supplement is a way to go. Protein powders are widely used in the bodybuilding and weightlifting community. A good-tasting protein powder provides a steady stream of amino acids to fuel muscle recovery and recharges the body.
- Amino acids: If you didn’t ingest any calories for a good few hours, a post-workout meal would be beneficial, but if you really want those muscles to get what they need then a post-workout supplement with some amino acids could be very useful for minimizing muscle protein breakdown.
- Carbohydrates: If you’re not meeting your carbohydrate requirements, a carbohydrate-based replenishment compound would be a great option. Consuming liquid post-workout nutrition that contains rapidly digesting carbohydrates (e.g., maltodextrin, dextrose, glucose, etc) can result in rapid digestion and absorption, and might accelerate recovery by utilizing insulin for nutrient transport into cells.
- Electrolytes: Other common ingredients in post-workout supplements include electrolytes, which help you stay hydrated. Consuming these products may replenish salts and other minerals that you sweated out during your workout. Electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate. In general, the more intense exercise, the greater electrolyte loss through sweat, and its imbalance can result in symptoms like muscle cramps, nausea, fatigue, and mental confusion.
So make sure that your post-workout supplement has at least a few of these ingredients. You would be amazed at how much faster you recover, and more importantly, how little soreness is left after consuming post-workout nutrition.
What Post-Workout Supplements Are The Best?
To help you find a good product, we’ve researched & compared the best post-workout supplements on the market today. Below are our picks for the top 10 post-workout products.
10 – RE-KAGED Post Workout Protein Powder
RE-KAGED Post Workout Protein Powder Best for: Gym-goers seeking post-workout protein that is designed to help build muscle and recover at light speed.
RE-KAGED post-workout protein is designed to supercharge muscle growth and recovery in the golden hour after training. Each serving packs 28 grams of whey protein isolate (WPI), and a complete amino acid profile including BCAAs, CAAs, NAAs, all 9 essential amino acids, and creatine HCl for maximum anabolic results and post-workout recovery support.
RE-KAGED post-workout protein has no artificial stimulants, colors, and flavors, or mysterious ingredient lists that hide the real details behind proprietary blends.
When considering the pricey ingredients in RE-KAGED post-workout protein, we think this product is priced fairly at $39.99 per unit, which comes out to about $2 per serving.
Why Buy RE-KAGED:
Who Shouldn’t Buy RE-KAGED:
RE-KAGED Post Workout Protein Powder Review: “In conclusion, RE-KAGED Post Workout Protein Powder is a fully transparent, and research-backed whey protein isolate. RE-KAGED has a great macronutrient balance, and it tastes amazing.”
9 – BSN CELLMASS 2.0 Post Workout
BSN CELLMASS 2.0 Post Workout Best for: Bodybuilders seeking a tried product that has been around for years and is still one of the best post-workout supplements on the market.
BSN CellMass 2 is a protein/post-workout formula specifically designed to promote more efficient recovery by replenishing the creatine and glutamine stores within muscles that are spent during intense workouts. It contains 23g of protein, 5g of creatine, and 10g of amino acids to further promote muscle growth.
BSN CellMass 2, you can try in four different fruit flavors including arctic berry, grape, blue raz, and watermelon.
BSN CellMass 2 post-workout supplement is available to buy from a number of online retailers. You get 25 servings for around ~$43, which is $1.72 per serving.
Why Buy BSN CELLMASS 2.0:
Who Shouldn’t Buy BSN CELLMASS 2.0:
BSN CELLMASS 2.0 Post Workout Review: “In conclusion, Cell Mass 2.0 gives a good boost and fast results and is as good or better than most other post workouts on the market. It has a good reputation, but it should be more transparent with its ingredients.”
8 – Redcon1 Clusterbomb
Redcon1 Clusterbomb Best for: Endurance athletes and bodybuilders engaged in high rep and high set grueling training sessions.
Redcon1 Cluster Bomb is the ultimate carbohydrate source for maximizing your training performance! Cluster Bomb allows you to train more frequently, without the fear of overtraining, which over time will equate to faster improvements in strength, muscle, and endurance than those not supplementing with Cluster Bomb.
- Anti-catabolic.
- Rapid gastric clearance.
- Muscle fullness and pumps.
Redcon1 Cluster Bomb is definitely worth the price, and it is available to buy online from many online retailers. At the time of writing, the 30 servings tub cost $34.50 at amazon.com which comes down to $1.15 per serving. There are just two different flavors to choose from – grape and strawberry kiwi.
Why Buy Redcon1 Clusterbomb:
Who Shouldn’t Buy Redcon1 Clusterbomb:
Redcon1 Clusterbomb Review: “Overall, Redcon1 Clusterbomb is one of the best carb supplements in the game. It allows you to train more frequently, without the fear of overtraining, which over time will equate to faster improvements in strength, muscle, and endurance.”
7 – Universal Torrent Post Workout
Universal Torrent Best for: People who require a balanced blend of post-workout nutrition to help maximize the results of their exercise efforts.
The manufacturer dubs Universal Nutrition Torrent as its “Post-Workout Anabolic Muscle Mass Activator”. It has a great post-workout combination: high-quality protein, and carbohydrates, creatine (monohydrate, ethyl ester, and MCC), and an amino blend (taurine, glutamine, l-phenylalanine). It acts quickly and efficiently by supplying your muscles with a powerful cascade of critical nutrients, all in a matter of moments.
For a complete and delicious post-workout drink that takes your game to the next level, Torrent is a clear choice. In 3 delicious flavors (Cherry Berry, Green Apple, and Sour Citrus) you have a great tasting reward after every workout.
Universal Nutrition has been a leader in active nutrition and pioneer in developing best-in-class, high-performing supplements since 1977.
Read more info about Universal Torrent here
Why Buy Universal Torrent:
Who Shouldn’t Buy Universal Torrent:
Universal Torrent Post Workout Review: “For post-workout recovery and making real muscle gains Torrent is still one of the best supplements on the market. But if you’re on an incredibly tight budget we recommend that you use it only when you’re bulking up.”
6 – XTEND Elite Post Workout BCAA
XTEND Elite Best for: Athletes wanting to improve muscle growth and repair, boost muscular endurance, and increase pumps.
Designed to be the best for those who demand the best, XTEND Elite includes 7 grams of BCAAs, which have been clinically shown to support muscle recovery and growth, XTEND Elite also contains hydrating electrolytes and additional performance ingredients to help you refuel, repair, and recover.
- 7g of BCAAs research-proven 2:1:1 ratio.
- 2g peako2 – enhance power output & improve vo2 max.
- 2.5g of added glutamine per serving.
- 1g citrulline nitrate.
- 1.6g carnosyn beta-alanine.
XTEND Elite Post Workout is available in island punch fusion and sour gummy flavors. You get 30 servings for 49.99, which is $1.67 per serving. XTEND Elite is definitely worth the price and consideration because of clinically dosed ingredients.
Read more info about XTEND Elite Post Workout BCAA
Why Buy XTEND Elite:
Who Shouldn’t Buy XTEND Elite:
XTEND Elite Post Workout BCAA Review: “We would recommend XTEND Elite for most athletes, bodybuilders, and weightlifting enthusiasts who would like to improve in areas like performance, endurance, recovery, and hydration. The flavors are outstanding, but it is not cheap.”
5 – VINTAGE BUILD Post Workout
VINTAGE BUILD Post Workout Best for: Athletes and bodybuilders seeking to recover quickly from even the toughest workouts.
Vintage Build Post Workout is the essential 3-in-1 natural muscle building and preserving supplement. It uses 3 main ingredients: 3 grams of creatine, 2 grams of L-Glutamine, and 5 grams of BCAAs. The BCAAs are in a 2:1:1 ratio, meaning there are 2.5 grams of leucine and 1.25 grams each of isoleucine and valine. This post-workout supplement is designed to help you to recover quickly from even the toughest workouts, ready for the next one.
VINTAGE BUILD Post Workout comes in a range of different flavors, including fresh berries, juicy watermelon, lemon-lime, and unflavored, and it is available to buy online from many online retailers including amazon.com.
Prices for the VINTAGE BUILD Post Workout can change a lot, but on average, a bottle will cost you between $38 and $40, so that comes to roughly $1.3 per serving.
Why Buy VINTAGE BUILD Post Workout:
Who Shouldn’t Buy VINTAGE BUILD Post Workout:
VINTAGE BUILD Post Workout Review: “In conclusion, the VINTAGE BUILD post-workout formula can certainly help you gain some lean muscle mass, boost your immune system, and improve recovery times. Vintage Labs products are made in the USA, a cGMP facility, and are third-party tested.”
4 – Evlution Nutrition Recover Mode
Evlution Nutrition Recover Mode Best for: Anyone looking to rebuild muscle, promote recovery, enhance strength, and increase endurance.
Recover Mode by Evlution Nutrition is a comprehensive post workout recovery and muscle-building supplement designed to help your body to recover faster, improve strength, develop muscular endurance, and support muscle growth when you need it most. Each scoop of Recover Mode contains 5 grams of premium amino acids, l-leucine, l-isoleucine, and l-valine in a proven 2:1:1, 3 grams of l-glutamine, and 1.5 grams of betaine anhydrous.
Recover Mode provides massive amounts of recovery and energy boosters and natural energizers, and vitamins to boost your immune system right when it’s at its most vulnerable.
Recover Mode Post Workout is available in furious grape and blue raz flavors. Coming in at a price point of $32.99 for 30 servings it is within the competitive pricing of $1.09/serving.
Why Buy Evlution Nutrition Recover Mode:
Who Shouldn’t Buy Evlution Nutrition Recover Mode:
Evlution Nutrition Recover Mode Review: “If you are a person who doesn’t like whey post-workout but still wants to kick start the recovery process, Evlution Nutrition Recover Mode is definitely one worth grabbing. You’re getting more from Recover Mode than most other basic BCAAs at an affordable price.”
3 – Cellucor M5 Ultimate Post Workout
Cellucor M5 Ultimate Best for: Gym-goers seeking a cutting-edge, stimulant-free formula that supports muscle growth, strength, endurance, and performance.
Cellucor M5 Ultimate Post Workout combines clinically designed Mass-Building Creatine Complex with patented myHMB to support muscle growth, strength, endurance, and performance so you can perform to your ultimate best. With a blend of 7 grams of three separate types of creatine, plus 3 grams of myHMB, you can rest assured you will get the pump needed for optimal performance.
Cellucor M5 Ultimate Post Workout is available in fruit punch and icy blue razz flavors. At the time of writing, the 20 servings tub cost $35.99 at amazon.com which comes down to $1.94 per serving.
Cellucor has been pioneering, building, and perfecting post-workouts longer than most brands have been in sports nutrition. All Cellucor products are thoroughly developed, accurately tested, and proudly manufactured in the United States. All Cellucor sales by Amazon are backed by a 30-day, full money-back guarantee.
Why Buy Cellucor M5 Ultimate:
Who Shouldn’t Buy Cellucor M5 Ultimate:
Cellucor M5 Ultimate Post Workout Review: “In conclusion, Cellucor M5 Ultimate is a solid choice for a post-workout – if you are looking to speed up muscle recovery time, you could find a use for this product. Cellucor M5 Ultimate post-workout offers up quality in the appropriate quantity.”
2 – Growth Surge Post Workout
Growth Surge Post Workout Best for: Bodybuilders looking for a post-workout muscle builder specifically formulated to accelerate recovery and make full use of the anabolic window.
Growth surge post workout muscle builder is specifically formulated to accelerate recovery and make full use of the anabolic window – the period straight after exercise when your muscles are primed to receive amino acids and other nutrients. Each serving of growth surge post workout contains 5mg bioperine black pepper extract, 3g creatine monohydrate, 5mg betaine anhydrous, and 2g l-carnitine l-tartrate.
Each bottle of Jacked Factory’s Growth Surge post workout contains 30 servings. This is one of the cheapest post workout supplements on the market: $29.99 for 30 servings, which is $1,0 per serving.
Growth surge post workout is made by Jacked Factory, a US company that aims to offer highly effective formulations made with cutting-edge ingredients. All of Jacked Factory’s products are manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility that is cGMP certified. This guarantees that users are getting nothing but the purest, safest, and highest quality supplements on the market.
Why Buy Growth Surge Post Workout:
Who Shouldn’t Buy Growth Surge Post Workout:
Growth Surge Post Workout Review: “Overall, Growth Surge is a pure and straightforward formulation — contains evidence-based doses of each ingredient, and you have the makings of a quality post-workout product. And like all of Jacked Factory’s products, Growth Surge does not contain anything artificial that many other companies use.”
1 – Post JYM Active Matrix
Post JYM Active Matrix Best for: Athletes that want to promote muscle growth and repair, accelerate recovery and improve strength.
Post JYM Active Matrix is packed full of post-workout recovery ingredients that help repair muscle tissue, reduce soreness, promote muscle growth and boost glycogen replenishment. It contains 6 grams of BCAAs in a 3:1:1 ratio of leucine, isoleucine, and valine plus 3g of glutamine, 2g of Beta-Alanine, 2g of creatine HCL, 2g of l-carnitine to stay lean, black pepper extract, taurine, and more.
The Post JYM Active Matrix is available to buy from numerous online retailers. Thirty servings cost about $37, so $1.23 per serving or 21 cents per gram of BCAAs. That’s pretty expensive; most brands fall between 11 and 14 cents per gram of BCAA, though most brands don’t contain quite as many extra ingredients as Post JYM Active Matrix.
As far as taste goes, you’ll be happy to know Post JYM Active Matrix comes in a whopping six different flavor options: blue arctic freeze, fruit punch, green apple gummy, natural lemon-lime, rainbow sherbet, and watermelon.
Why Buy Post JYM Active Matrix:
Who Shouldn’t Buy Post JYM Active Matrix:
Post JYM Active Matrix Review: “In conclusion, Post JYM Active Matrix is one of the best post-workout products, whether you’re building muscle up or maintaining a lean, toned physique. All JYM Supplement Science products are developed by combining real science with top-quality ingredients.”
Now you have the top 10 post-workout supplements that are great for recovery and adding muscle, regardless of your lifestyle and your goals. We hope you will pick the right post-workout supplement that works best for you, so you don’t waste your money, resources that may lead to frustration later.