A brief history of Sports Supplements
Sports Supplements, such as protein powders, were first introduced in the UK in the 1950s, which were made from milk. These sports supplements were used by bodybuilders of that era, but the products were very basic, with a lower bioavailability, poor mixability, poor taste and could cause stomach upsets. These protein powders were intended to allow bodybuilders and other athletes to consume more protein, which is needed to grow and maintain muscle mass, whilst keeping calories low, so that they didn’t gain excessive body fat at the same time.
Since the 1950s sports supplements steadily increased in popularity, up until the 1980s when they really took off, possibly related to the rise of movie stars such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone and Hulk Hogan, who were all known for their impressive physiques. Since then TV programmes, magazines, newspapers, etc. have all contributed to people becoming more and more aware of their physiques, leading to the sudden increase in gyms seen in the 1990s, such as the surge of new David Lloyd Centres and Bannatyne’s gyms. This has all led to an increase in awareness of supplements and an increase in their demand.
Over the past few years we have seen 100s of new bodybuilding and sports supplements companies being founded, with new products seemingly being released every day! However, people need to remember that supplements are not an alternative to eating a good diet, high intensity training, adequate rest and above all, consistency – they are intended to supplement your existing efforts, making results better and life easier.
The most popular, advanced, well known and thoroughly researched sports supplement is whey protein, which is basically the whey protein from milk, with the sugars and fats removed. All of the problems associated with mixability, taste, digestion, absorption, denaturisation, etc. that were experienced years ago with protein powders is no longer seen, due to advances in the extraction from milk and improvements in the production of the powders. In fact, most research into whey protein is now related to how it can boost the immune system and give significant positive health effects, but that is another story! If you are new to using sports supplements, then a whey protein powder is definitely the first supplement that you need, with CNP Professional’s Whey Protein being one of the best and giving best value for money.
Many other supplements are available these days which can help you reach whatever goal you require, but remember, supplements are just supplements. It is up to you to put in the hard work!
Regards,
Martin
