Nevertheless, after reading various blogs and articles about the benefits of protein supplements and after hearing recommendations from fitness trainers at the gym, it all makes rather a lot of sense to me.
I had serious issues with the natural (or flavour-free) whey protein powder. A normal shake from that literally made me gag. It's tastes absolutely disgusting. I tried various things to disguise the taste, including mix it vigourously with peanut butter. It worked, but it's quite a lot of hassle. Then, one day, I met a friend at the gym and we got to discussing the fact that it tasted so horrible and after the class she made me a shake from chocolate flavoured whey protein which had been sweetened with Stevia (that's a whole other story). It was delicious!!
I more or less went straight home and ordered a big bucket for myself, whereas my fiancé sticks to the natural-flavoured stuff, occasionally 'borrowing' the chocolate one ;)
The whey protein I use is made in Sweden and is called SELF 100% Micro Whey Active (no harm in a little product placement ;)). So far, I'd highly recommend it in terms of value for money, flavour, and product quality. I genuinely feel like it has helped my recovery, even after only a week of using it. I feel stronger and muscles ache less!
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Do you use protein shakes? What kind and why? Have you noticed a difference in your recovery after training and subsequent performance as a result? Are you totally against supplements in any way, shape or form? Why?
*Please note, taking this protein does not make you a body-builder and does not equate to using steroids or any other ridiculous notions :)