Why Adequate Supplementation Matters in High-Intensity Training Programs
Supplementation is considered part of a healthy lifestyle. If you take part in high-intensity training programs, it can be useful for so many things. It can be used for reducing muscle fatigue, increased performance, and a whole lot more. In this guide, we’ll discuss why adequate amounts of supplements - whichever is recommended - might matter in such training programs.
Whether you’re preparing for military boot camps or sticking to one of their rigorous fitness routines, it’s always a good idea to rely on supplements that are safe but reliable. Let’s take a look now at what you need to know.
Improves overall performance
Supplements that you can take in as part of your high-intensity training program can provide you with excellent benefits. For instance, let’s take a look at creatine. It’s considered one of the most popular supplements on the market because it can help with muscle growth and repair.
If you want information on creating loading and how it can help with high-intensity training programs, check out this article from VB Health. It might be enough to help you decide if creatine supplementation will be a good option outside of the creatine you may be getting from your diet.
Reduction of muscle fatigue and soreness
Another supplement that can provide specific benefits like muscle fatigue and soreness is pre-workout. Some of them may contain high levels of caffeine, so it’s important to read the label before choosing one. The good news is there are plenty that contain no caffeine or additional stimulants.
The key here is to look for ingredients such as nitric oxide boosters. These can cause blood vessels to expand and allow for extra blood flow. It will lead to less muscle soreness and fatigue. Another benefit you might enjoy is a noticeable, but temporary muscle pump - which is another excellent reason why your high-intensity exercises might be great for your muscles themselves.
Electrolytes will keep you hydrated
It’s important to take supplements that will help replenish electrolytes. Some mineral supplements may be available. But you can get a good amount of electrolytes by drinking sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade. Bear in mind that too much of a seemingly good thing can be bad.
Therefore, it’s important to keep track of how much sodium, calcium, and potassium you take in. Taking too much in may lead to adverse side effects. If you have any concerns regarding taking supplements that provide you with these electrolytes in particular, consult your doctor.
Micronutrients for various benefits
During high-intensity training, it’s always a good idea to consider taking supplements that are considered micronutrients. These include but are not limited to the following:
Vitamin D: This supplement will support bone health, immune function, and muscle strength. When performing high-intensity exercises, you might risk the possibility of stress fractures - especially when performing highly intense exercises. Vitamin D can support bone health which can reduce those risks.
Calcium: Another micronutrient that will be crucial for bone health. Like Vitamin D, it can help reduce the risk of fractures. At the same time, it can also help facilitate muscle contractions - ensuring better performance and muscle strength.
Magnesium: This will play a role in energy production which will be useful for your overall exercise performance. At the same, it can also help with muscle contractions and recovery as well.
Iron: If you are looking for a micronutrient that can help with oxygen transportation in the blood - this could be a good one. It can also be a good supplement for reducing fatigue. You can also ward off iron deficiency anemia with regular supplementation or a diet that has the recommended value.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Best known as fish oils, these supplements can be great for reducing inflammation and muscle soreness. This means you can be able to go on longer if you like. Couple that with a pre-workout and you can go intense for a lengthy period of time. But don’t confuse that as a suggestion for overdoing it.
Zinc: Considering you could lose this micronutrient via intense exercise, it’s important to take zinc supplements on a regular basis. That’s because it can be helpful for tissue repair along with improving your overall immune health.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for the right supplements to help with your high-intensity training, we recommend some of them we’ve mentioned above. You can experience some of these excellent benefits both in the short and long terms. It’s always a good idea to include the supplements that will get you the best results for your workouts and your overall fitness goals.
As always, it’s important to contact your doctor if you have any concerns regarding side effects. If your medical history raises potential concerns, it never hurts to consult with them to make sure you’re doing the right thing.