If you're reading this, it should be safe to assume you're a fighter, or that perhaps you're looking into martial arts... So let's get straight to it.
We all know that with any Martial Art, we tend to face the same difficulties with: fatigue, joint pains, muscle-loss, recurring injuries and more.
There are numerous ways we can deal with these issues, and truth be told, there is no secret formula. We are all different, and often we need multiple approaches to effectively tackle these problems.
That being said, one fantastic approach is through a tailored selection of supplements, suited to support you through whatever is ailing you. But which supplements should we be taking as fighters?..
First of all, let's talk Whey Protein. As a fighter, you're prone to burning lots of calories, and potentially losing muscle as well as fat in the process. We need to support our bodies as best as we can by making sure they're supplied with adequate protein! The general rule of thumb for bodybuilders in 1 gram of protein per 1 pound of bodyweight. Of course, this is not necessary for most sports, as this is for muscle growth. But I would still advice a healthy sum of 0.8 grams of protein per 1 pound of bodyweight. I would direct you towards products like PES Select, Muscle tech Nitro-tech, Biotech Iso Whey Zero or plenty of others you will see at: www.powerbody.co.uk/category-protein,21.html
Next, we need to tackle those joint pains and injuries... We all feel the strain around our knees, wrists and ankles at the very least. The best we can do is to ensure our bodies are supplied with the ammunition to heal effectively.
There are many supplements to choose from, Glucosamine sulphate, Chondroitin, MSM, Cissus and much more! I would strongly recommend purchasing a comprehensive Joint-care supplement such as Animal Flex, Nutrend Flexit, 5% Joint defender, or many others you can find at: www.powerbody.co.uk/category-joint-support,37.html
Now let's address that fitugre you're feeling during, and between sessions! We all get that ache that feels like it penetrates right down to the bone. How is it already time for class again... I've barely healed from last time! For this we need to look at pre-workouts and carbohydrates. I know what you're thinking, isn't pre-workout just for bodybuilders in the gym? No... most certainly not. Pre-workouts cover a broad spectrum of ingredient cocktails, each designed for a different purpose. Sure, some pre-workouts are geared towards getting a pump or containing a heavy stimulant. But there are plenty geared towards muscular endurance. You should check out Applied Nutrition All Black Everything Gel, 1-Up Sport Amino, Nutrex Outlift, and others that you'll find at: www.powerbody.co.uk/category-pre-post-workout,45.html
As for Carbohydrates, we all know how important they are! We need fuel to power our bodies through endurance exercise. I would recommend adding some carbohydrate powder to your intra-workout drink. Check these out: Olimp Carbonox, Biotech Carbox and EFX Karbolyn. See here for more options: www.powerbody.co.uk/category-weight-gainers-carbs,20.html
Lastly, I'll make a quick case for Amino Acids. Amino Acids are essentially just protein broken down into a more-accessible form. They're essential for your body to function properly, and there are 9 which cannot be generated by the body, and so need to be sourced elsewhere. I would recommend investing in an essential amino acid like: Alri Huma Pro, Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy, 5% AllDayYouMay or any from the wide selection at: www.powerbody.co.uk/category-amino-acids-and-bcaas,16.html
I hope this article has given you a useful template that you can use to improve the function and recovery of your body for combat sports. This is a very brief list of what I would consider the essentials, and there are plenty more amazing supplements to explore. Now supplementation is not directly essential, but it should not be written off, as correct supplementation can be a huge addition to a healthy balanced diet.
