Amino Acid Supplementation for Summer

Ever heard of BCAAs? They are Branched-Chain Amino Acids, which essentially help your body produce more amino acids for growth and repair of muscles, in addition to giving you more energy for your workouts. However, there are some studies out there that say that BCAA supplementation can be especially good for when you exercise in the heat. According to the Sports Supplement Encyclopedia (Antonio, Stout, Edition 1), research within the last decade performed by scientists at Rutgers University has shown that BCAA supplementation during heat stress (94 degrees or warmer) increases endurance in cyclists- the BCAA group lasted 16 minutes longer than the placebo group. How cool is that to know when you are in the peak of summer, heading out for your 3 hour ride on a Sunday afternoon- worth a try? I personally have used BCAAs both during my workouts in powder form and in pill form and I have definitely noticed a positive difference. I do agree that other sups I take during training in the heat (Endurolytes) are also helping, so not sure how much of the benefit is coming from the BCAAs. However, more athletes are trying BCAAs (not just endurance athletes) and- if nothing else, having extra amino acids in your body while you are trying to build strength and get stronger is not a bad idea. Happy Training!