Hard core workouts are critical for building muscle, but all your efforts could be in vein if you don’t give your muscles the material it needs.  If you are having difficulty in adding on muscle, the problem may lie with the fuel you are giving your muscles and when. The following suggestions for pre- and post-workout drinks can help deliver the right fuel for your muscles at the right time to help promote muscle growth.

Pre-Workout Drinks
For pre-workout drinks, you should select a supplement specifically designed for giving our muscles the fuel it needs to get through your routine.  An effective pre-workout drink should contain a 4:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein. This ratio of carbohydrates to protein has been found to be ideal for enhanced performance, hydration and muscle recovery. This ratio has also been found to help muscles recover from exertion and to speed recovery while helping to eliminate soreness.

The brand, Accelerade, delivers the recommended 4:1 ratio of carbohydrates and protein. Accelerade also comes in a variety of flavors, as well as in a variety of different products such as powder, gels and ready to drink bottles so it’s convenient to take with you anywhere.

In order to achieve the maximum results from Accelerade, I recommend taking their product approximately one hour before working out.

Post-Workout Drinks
Post-workout drinks are probably the most critical part of our workout routine. The most crucial opportunity to add muscle is the short period of time immediately following your workout. This period of time is known as the anabolic window, which lasts approximately 30 minutes immediately following your workout. During this time, your body is more able to absorb protein more quickly and completely, thus resulting in rapid gains in muscle mass.

There are many protein products on the market now, but my personal favorite is Isopure. Not only does Isopure deliver a high quantity of quality protein per serving, it also comes in a variety of flavors and comes in a powder and ready to drink bottles. Quite honestly, Isopure is also the only protein powder I have tried that tastes great when mixed with water.

Again, be certain that you consume your high protein post-workout drink no later than 30 minutes following your workout.

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