After a strenuous workout, the first stage of proper recovery is, of course, a decent recovery drink to help reverse the body from a catabolic to an anabolic state. Heavy training on its own will not build muscle –the right diet and proper rest are also needed. A lot of bodybuilders find it useful to take a pre-workout drink supplement containing protein and carbohydrates before working out. You can even have a protein/carb drink to hand during your workout, but don’t overdo it. Nobody can train properly on a full stomach, and excess energy intake just boosts your body’s fat stores. It is good to remember, though, that after a heavy workout the body can take on more nutrition than normal, and can store carbohydrates in the liver and muscles more efficiently in the form of glycogen.

Recovery Drink

A recovery drink is the best option after training because it contains precisely the right nutrition that your body needs right after training, in the concentrated and optimised form you need. Test this out yourself: How do you feel after filling up on food when your muscles are still pumped straight after a workout? Definitely not good. The bigger your muscle mass, the more you will notice this phenomenon – big muscles can hold a huge amount of blood. Instead, the right recovery drink leaves your stomach fast and also gets into your blood stream a lot faster than solid food.

Rest – Important Muscle Building Factor

In order for your muscles to grow, they have to be allowed to repair themselves sufficiently without being  ‘ripped’ again too soon. Just as normal cuts and grazes heal more slowly if they are constantly reopened, your muscles, too, must be given enough time to recover after being stressed by training. The more a muscle has been stressed, the more recovery time it needs. Anyone who has done special workout techniques, forced repetitions, etc. will know exactly what we are talking about here. Your muscles have rested sufficiently at the latest when all muscle pain from the previous workout has gone. Then, as long as you have taken proper care of your nutrition, you will be ready for a new, even tougher workout.