Showing posts with label lactic acid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lactic acid. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Help for the Endurance Athlete

The sun is shining. The birds are chirping. The weather has finally broken, and you want to start exercising outside. I am approached daily by people who want to know what supplements I use to help me with my activities.

Over time I have developed a recipe for a hydration drink that has significantly improved my recovery and increased the speed I have added to my activities. I am a cyclist who now also runs, so hydration is critical.

I use a combination of carbs and aminos before, during, and after my activities. Here is a breakdown of what and when:

Before (usually 30 minutes)
20 ounces of water with:
3 grams of AAKG  for vassal dialation
20 to 40 grams of carbohydrates (like using Cytomax  but any sports drink will do)
5 grams of L-glutamine to help buffer the upcoming lactic acid buildup 

During (drinking every 15 to 20 minutes)
Water with:
5 grams of BCAAs to help protect muscle tissue
5 grams of L-glutamine (still buffering the lactic acid)
Sports drink to supply carbs and electrolytes

After (ideally within 15 minutes of your activity)
A protein drink with some isolate protein 
5 grams of creatine monohydrate

Later that day, I try to consume at least another 10 grams of L-glutamine for muscle tissue repair.

Have fun with your activity, but remember to stay hydrated and be safe!