Sometimes, just working out alone is not enough to get you where you want to be in terms of muscle growth. You may be burning the calories, but you also need to make sure that your muscles are growing properly in order to see results – and this often requires the help of protein. Many fitness fanatics are turning to whey protein to take their workouts to the next level.
The benefits of whey protein
Whey protein, a high quality dairy protein, contains all of the amino acids that the body needs for muscle protein synthesis – the process by which individual cells construct proteins. Amino acids are known to stimulate protein synthesis and result in a positive net muscle protein balance. A study was done where 36 healthy and fit males were randomly placed into one of three groups: Whey protein and creatine, whey protein, and carbohydrate placebo during six weeks of resistance training. Those who received the whey protein, with or without the creatine, saw greater increases in muscle mass than those who only took the carbohydrate placebo.
Overall, evidence has suggested that whey protein, when combined with resistance exercise, can improve body composition. Your workout isn't finished until you pair it with a delicious vanilla or chocolate shake containing whey protein. Naturade 100% Whey protein powder supplies all of the essential amino acids and works to boost performance and energy. The leucine, isoleucine and valine in this protein meal are vital for tissue growth.
When trying to build muscle, it's important to combine your consumption of whey protein with healthy resistance training. Here are some strength training moves to pair with your whey protein to achieve the best results:
One-arm pull down
This exercise works both your back and biceps. Find a medium to heavy resistance tubing equipped with a handle on the end. Attach the end of the tubing to a door hinge above your head, stand in a semi-lunge position and pull the handle of the tubing straight down with one arm; pause and slowly return to a standing position. Complete about 12 to 15 repetitions on each side.
Squat jumps
Find a comfortable surface, like a rubber mat or grass field, and stand with your feet hip-width apart. While keeping your back straight and looking straight ahead, lower yourself toward the ground until you find your heels lifting off the floor. Jump up quickly, fully extending your legs, and land softly on the ground. During this exercise that works your legs, core and butt, making sure to keep those abs contracted for the best results. Do about 10 to 15 reps.
Jackknife
For this power exercise, you'll need an inflatable fitness ball. Your core, chest, shoulders and abs will be getting the best workout from this movement. What you need to do is kneel in front of the ball and roll out over top of it, walking your hands out until you're in a push-up position. Be sure to keep your body flat and your abs engaged. Proceed by lifting your hips up to the ceiling, rolling your feet onto the top of the ball. Your legs must be kept straight. Do 10 to 15 reps.