An endurance sport, with the priority on regenerating muscle glycogen (energy reserves in your body). Dedicated supplements are categorized based on their functions:
Stimulation and pre-training adaptation
Energy supplements: ginseng, caffeine, guarana, taurine;
Beta-alanine – lowers the lactic acid level, allowing for longer, more efficient training sessions;
Creatine – allows additional energy to be delivered to muscles;
Arginine, citrulline, agmatine – expand blood vessels, increasing the nitrogen oxide level, boosting endurance and efficiency;
L-carnitine – activates the process of utilizing fat as muscle energy source.
Increasing training endurance
Carbohydrates (Carbo, isotonic drinks, Vitargo, gels, energy bars) – provide the proper hydration level, supplementing and keeping the high glycogen level. Used as an energy source.
Post-training regeneration:
BCAA (exogenic aminoacids) – not produced by the human body, meaning they have to come from food or supplements. Their presence allows for a quick regeneration of damaged muscle fibres.
L-glutamine (endogenic aminoacid) – a basic aminoacid. The human body does produce it, but it is rapidly used up during physical activity. Supplementing the deficit is recommended, as the substance has an anti-catabolic effect (protecting the muscles), staves off tiredness, and improves the immune system.
Vitamins and minerals – they ensure that all important internal processes are handled correctly.
