Decisions, Decisions

[vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css_animation=””][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css_animation=””][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”17271″ style=”vc_box_rounded” qode_css_animation=””][vc_single_image image=”17273″ style=”vc_box_rounded” qode_css_animation=””][vc_single_image image=”15449″ style=”vc_box_rounded” qode_css_animation=””][vc_single_image image=”16903″ qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]What’s up 8 Mile Ninjas,

I’m coming at you today with a common question, “what supplements should I be taking”? I’ve been in the fitness industry for sometime now and I’ve had my fair share of supplements. Some have worked while others have failed me. In this blog I will discuss what I have found to give me energy, maintain a leaner physique, higher quality of sleep, clearer thinking & aid in my recovery from workouts. Hopefully this will help some of you save some money and have a clearer path on what can help take you to your next level of training.

*Please note this is not an endorsement for any supplements, this is just my opinion and my recommendations based on my experiences as an athlete and trainer. 

  1. Fish oil. Omega-3 fats are one of the most important supplements for athletes, often in the form of fish oil. The benefits of Omega 3’s include, brain health, powerful anti inflammatory properties, recovery, muscle protein synthesis & fat loss. Be aware that not all fish oil is created equal. Ensure that the oil you purchase uses a high purification process to remove heavy metals and toxins. Importantly, be aware of the EPA levels in comparison to DHA levels. You want your EPA higher than DHA, by almost half. I’m a fan of SFH fish oil. They have proven to work wonders on my joints and help aid in my recovery.
  2. Whey Protein. When any athlete thinks of supplements the first one that comes to mind is Whey. It is designed to digest quickly so that when taken after a workout, it can be absorbed quickly to aid in recovery. Just like fish oil, not all Whey is created equal. My rule: the least amount of ingredients, the better. Unfortunately supplements are not FDA approved leaving its consumers best interest in the hands of the manufacturer and unfortunately some manufacturers just care about money. If your protein contains more than ten ingredients, investigate what those ingredients are, chances are most of it will be “fillers” or unnecessary garbage. Over the years I’ve found two brands that I’ve had the most success with, SFH and Jay Robb’s protein.
  3. Magnesium. This guy is most often overlooked. Magnesium plays a big role in our recovery and function. It regulates your heart, manages the contraction and relaxation of muscles, reduces blood pressure and plays an important role in the production of ATP (your main source of energy). I get my magnesium through ZMA’s, my sleep aid, and through epsom salt baths.
  4. Vitamin D. Although I love Michigan with all my heart, the lack of sun is a bit of a damper. We receive Vit D through sunlight and most of us don’t see enough of it to not supplement. It is the key component to reduce inflammation, improve your mood and respiratory health. Yes, that’s right, respiratory health. We, as CrossFit athletes, are all about improving our conditioning and Vit D can help. It will also aid in improving your quality of sleep. I can personally attest. I just recently started taking it, 5000mg, and I noticed within an hour my mood and energy levels were uplifted. It is recommended to take it right before bed time.
  5. MCT oil. I’ve talked about MCT oil before, in recent posts. This stuff is magic. For those of you who don’t know, MCT oil is the good stuff that made coconut oil so popular. Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) are the ONLY fats that your body will utilize right away for energy. MCTs are digested easily and sent directly to your liver, where they have a thermogenic effect and the ability to positively alter your metabolism. Yep, that’s right, alter your metabolism. Which means, you can take a sluggish metabolism and turn it into a fat burning machine with this one supplement.
  6. Pre workout. With so many on the market all claiming to help you attain your best workout yet, it’s hard to decide which one to buy and which one will actually work. When choosing a pre workout, be sure to do your research, become familiar with the ingredients and what they have to offer. Are you looking for just a “pick me up”? Or something more beneficial like BCAA’s? Maybe you’re looking for something to give you energy without the jitters? Or are you looking for something to give you a “pump”? Whatever you decide to get, make sure it aligns with your goals. I just recently purchased the stimulant free pre workout from our new line at the gym, Throw Down by Mission 6. I like how it gives me energy and allows me to focus on my workout without the worry of my heart rate going through the roof. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a pre workout without the jitters.

Hopefully this gives some of you a clear vision on some of the important supplements to take. Remember you can’t workout a bad diet and you can’t do the same with supplements. You still need good nutrition for optimal training and recovery.

As always, I’m here for any questions or feedback.

Later Ninjas,

Jamie Justin[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]