Whether your training for the CrossFit Games or a couple of days a week to stay in shape, your going to need to refuel your body after your workout.
The first part of your recovery process should be hydration, as loss of fluids can lead to a loss in performance as well as many other issues. Arguably, the second most important part of your post workout recovery is to replenish glycogen and other key nutrients.
This sounds easy since your typically thirsty after training so you can easily drink some water and rehydrate. But what about the other nutrients; ideally you would consume these through food, but how hungry are you after an intense workout?
Most people’s appetites are suppressed up to a few hours after training session and force eating in order to obtain nutrients can be a struggle.
That is how the recovery drink started, and unfortunately as of late they evolved into a glorified concoction of sugar water.
On the bright side there are still a few companies doing the right thing.
To start you have some all natural options;
Coconut Water
First of all this is an all natural option that contains everything needed for a post workout drink. It is low in calories, free of fat and cholesterol, has more potassium than bananas, contains several other vitamins and minerals, and is over 90% water for excellent hydration.
Watermelon Water
Another all natural option that contains a ton of potassium, Vitamin C, the amino acid L-citrulline, other vitamins and minerals, and once again is over 90% water.
Aloe Vera Water
Has a ton of nutrients and fiber that assist the body in a variety of ways.
You also have some man made options.
FitAID
FitAID contains B complex, green tea leaf extract, and Quercetin for a natural pick me up without getting you all jittery. It also has branched-chain amino acids (BCAAS), l-glutamine, l-arginine, vitamins c & d3, glucosamine, turmeric, coq10, and raw organic agave to accommodate the glycogen window and provide your body with a complete and clean recovery.
Kill Cliff
Kill Cliff boost energy with ginger root, ginseng root, green tea extracts, enzymes and vitamin B12. It contains no sugar, artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, or artificial colors, and is non GMO, gluten free, and dairy free.
