Protein

Strength athletes often believe more protein is better and important to build muscle.

However, this is NOT the case, athletes actually require a higher carbohydrate intake to fuel their workouts. This is because all high intensity, powerful muscle contractions (such as weight lifting) are fuelled by carbohydrate and it is the strength training workouts that leads to increased muscle mass and strength.

Neither fat nor protein can be oxidized (broken down) rapidly enough to meet the demands of high-intensity exercise.

So what is the role of protein?

It’s main job is body repair. Proteins are often referred to as the building blocks of the body. Athletes need protein primarily to repair and rebuild muscle that is broken down during exercise but also to help optimise carbohydrate storage. Proteins are also renowned for their key role in fighting infection.