I have been given some intraworkout samples to try because I been complaining about tiredness after my w/o (I train at lunch and then straight back to work, then volley 2x week and cardio/classes 1-2x week).
The intraworkout promises to keep me going, because it has electrolytes and BCAA for 'faster recovery time and reducing muscle soreness'.
The thing is, I have learned that anything you eat takes time before your body can use it (1-2hrs?). So how does the intra workout help with your training if the body cannot use it right away? Basically do you guys find intra workouts help? Or is it just the flavour that you like to be sipping on?
If so which ones would you recommend. The one I have is watermelon flavoured Musahi Stamina Plus.
Most intra-workouts are not helping because of the BCAA's which are just that. Protein in free form.
You are seeking the benefits of the added ingredients in the formula
If you are not meeting proper protein intake in the 24 hour period then in most cases they will not be of an asset to you
Most people who train in a fed state are constantly spiking amino levels and never allowing them to reach refractory stages because of eating, having another protein bolus (BCAA's), and then eating again shortly after your workout which is worse for Muscle Protein Synthesis
http://www.biolayne.com/wp-content/uploads/Norton-J-Ag-Food-Ind-Hi-Tech-2008.pdf
Optimal Protein Intake And Meal Frequency To Support Maximal Protein
The things that may help or work are the extra goodies in BCAA/Intra-workouts not the BCAA's themself (Assuming you meet protein intake)
Such as:
Beta alanine (performance/endurance)
LCLT ~ Recovery
Creatine -- Strength/Recovery/Performance
HICA -- Recovery
Electrolytes -- Recovery
Betaine -- Performance/Recovery
Cit Mal -->> Delay Lactic Acid Build up + Enhances pump
A lot of these are common in typical (BCAA/Intra-workout) products or added carbs to help with sustained energy during workout sessions.
if you want cheap electrolytes add a gatorade around your workout for easy carbs (Glucose) and electrolytes
As far as sipping on amino's Mr Cooper wrote it best:
"Don't fall for the "it's a great replacement for sugary drinks" argument. BCAAs are 6 calories per gram, and when sipped in an all day fashion, contribute heavily to both an insulin response and gluconeogenesis. Sipping on BCAA’s takes away from MPS (Muscle Protein Synthesis) as levels never get a chance to reach refractory stages before being spike dagain The net effect is increased insulin and blood sugar. So when you sip on BCAAs instead of sugary drinks...you replace blood sugar and insulin with blood sugar and insulin. "