top of page
Search
Writer's pictureJonny Slick

The Best Supplements to Support Strength Training

At Straight Shot Training, we believe in fueling your body with the best to support your fitness journey. Our personal trainers’ top supplement picks include whey protein isolate, plant protein, creatine, ZMA, and a multivitamin. Here’s a quick look at what each supplement is, their benefits, safety, and how they complement our training program (we’ll go into more detail about each in the future!)


1. Whey Protein Isolate

Straight Shot Pick: Earth Fed Muscle Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

whey protein isolate

What it is: Our recommended Whey Isolate is a high-quality protein derived from grass-fed cow's milk, with the fat and lactose removed, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without added calories or digestive issues.


Benefits:


Muscle Growth and Recovery: Whey isolate provides all essential amino acids, particularly leucine, which is crucial for muscle protein synthesis.


Enhanced Absorption: It’s rapidly absorbed by the body, making it ideal for post-workout recovery.


Low in Fat and Lactose: Suitable for those with lactose intolerance or those watching their fat intake.


How it Complements Our Program: At Straight Shot, we emphasize strength development, recovery, and lean muscle growth. Whey isolate fits perfectly into our regimen by providing the necessary nutrients to repair and build muscle after our strength-intensive workouts.


2. Plant Protein

Straight Shot Pick: Earth Fed Muscle Common Ground Plant Protein

plant based protein

What it is: Plant protein is derived from pea and hemp protein, offering a vegan-friendly protein option.


Benefits:


Complete Amino Acid Profile: By combining different plant proteins, you get a complete amino acid profile, essential for muscle repair and growth.


Digestive Health: Plant proteins often contain fiber, which aids in digestion and overall gut health.


Sustainable and Hypoallergenic: Plant proteins are environmentally friendly and suitable for those with dairy allergies​​.


How it Complements Our Program: Our training approach includes accommodating various dietary needs. Plant protein supports our members who follow vegan or vegetarian diets, ensuring they get sufficient protein for muscle repair and growth.


3. Creatine Monohydrate

Straight Shot Pick: Earth Fed Muscle Transcend Creatine

creatine monohydrate

What it is: Creatine is a compound found naturally in muscle cells. It helps produce energy during high-intensity exercise.


Benefits:


Increased Strength and Power: Creatine enhances the body’s ability to produce energy rapidly, boosting strength and power during workouts​.


Improved Muscle Mass: Regular creatine supplementation can lead to significant gains in muscle mass​. 


Cognitive Benefits: Emerging research suggests creatine may also support brain health and cognitive function.


Safety: Creatine is one of the most researched supplements and is considered safe for long-term use when taken within recommended dosages.


How it Complements Our Program: Given our focus on progressively building strength and lean muscle mass, creatine is a powerful addition to enhance performance and support the training we provide at Straight Shot.


4. ZMA (Zinc Magnesium Aspartate)

Straight Shot Pick: Earth Fed Muscle Forty Winkz ZMA Advanced

ZMA supplement

What it is: ZMA is a combination of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B6 designed to improve recovery, sleep quality, and muscle strength.


Benefits:


Enhanced Recovery: Zinc and magnesium play crucial roles in muscle recovery and repair.


Improved Sleep Quality: Magnesium supports sleep quality, which is essential for recovery and overall health.


Boosted Immune Function: Zinc is vital for a healthy immune system, helping to keep our members strong and healthy.


How it Complements Our Program: Quality sleep and recovery are cornerstones of effective training. ZMA supports these areas, ensuring our members are well-rested and ready for each training session.


5. Multivitamin

Straight Shot Pick: Earth Fed Muscle Morning Ritual Essential Multivitamin

daily multivitamin

What it is: Our recommended multivitamin is packed with essential vitamins and minerals designed to support overall health and wellness.


Benefits:


Comprehensive Nutrient Support: Provides essential nutrients that might be missing from the diet, supporting overall health and performance.


Boosts Immunity: Contains vitamins and minerals that bolster the immune system, keeping our members healthy and resilient​ (Earth Fed Muscle)​.


Enhances Energy Levels: B vitamins in the multivitamin help convert food into energy, supporting daily activity and training sessions.


How it Complements Our Program: A solid nutritional foundation is crucial for optimal performance. A quality multivitamin ensures that our members get the essential nutrients needed to support their training and overall health.


At Straight Shot Training, we are committed to providing our members with the best resources to achieve their fitness goals. Our top supplement picks, including whey isolate, plant protein, creatine, ZMA, and multivitamins, are carefully selected to complement our comprehensive training programs. By integrating these high-quality supplements, we help our members maximize their performance, recovery, and overall well-being. That’s why we partner with Earth Fed Muscle to make sure our clients are taking supplements of the highest quality while supporting a business committed to transparency, sustainability, and ethical business practices. If you’d like to learn more about Earth Fed Muscle, head to www.earthfedmuscle.com.


For more information on how to order Earth Fed Muscle supplements through Straight Shot to save on shipping and score some free samples, email me at Jonny@straightshottraining.com 


References:


Hulmi, J. J., Lockwood, C. M., & Stout, J. R. (2010). Effect of protein/essential amino acids and resistance training on skeletal muscle hypertrophy: A case for whey protein. Nutrition & Metabolism, 7(1), 51.

Devries, M. C., & Phillips, S. M. (2015). Supplemental protein in support of muscle mass and health: advantage whey. Journal of Food Science, 80(S1), A8-A15.

Pasiakos, S. M., Lieberman, H. R., & McLellan, T. M. (2014). Effects of protein supplements on muscle damage, soreness and recovery of muscle function and physical performance: a systematic review. Sports Medicine, 44(5), 655-670.

Joy, J. M., Lowery, R. P., Wilson, J. M., Purpura, M., De Souza, E. O., McDonnell, E. G., ... & Wilson, S. M. (2013). The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance. Nutrition Journal, 12(1), 86.

Kalman, D. S., Feldman, S., Krieger, D. R., & Bloomer, R. J. (2007). Comparison of the effects of lean protein whey and casein on pregnancy and lactation outcomes. Journal of Nutrition, 137(2), 491S-496S.

Meier, D. W., & De Souza, M. J. (2007). The effect of whey protein supplementation on lean body mass and muscle protein synthesis during resistance exercise training. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 4(1), 8.

Hoffman, J. R., & Falvo, M. J. (2004). Protein–which is best? Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, 3(3), 118-130.

Van Vliet, S., Burd, N. A., & van Loon, L. J. (2015). The skeletal muscle anabolic response to plant-versus animal-based protein consumption. Journal of Nutrition, 145(9), 1981-1991.

Messina, V. (2014). Nutritional and health benefits of dried beans. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 100(Supplement_1), 437S-442S.

Mangels, A. R., Messina, V., & Messina, M. (2003). The Dietitian's Guide to Vegetarian Diets. Jones & Bartlett Learning.

Rizzo, G., & Baroni, L. (2018). Soy, soy foods and their role in vegetarian diets. Nutrients, 10(1), 43.

Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., ... & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International society of sports nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 18.

Jäger, R., Purpura, M., Shao, A., Inoue, T., & Kreider, R. B. (2011). Analysis of the efficacy, safety, and regulatory status of novel forms of creatine. Amino Acids, 40(5), 1369-1383.

Tarnopolsky, M. A. (2010). Caffeine and creatine use in sport. Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, 57(Suppl. 2), 1-8.

Cooper, R., Naclerio, F., Allgrove, J., & Jim

24 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page