There are many ways that energy products can improve fitness and athletic performance.  During the course of a workout or endurance event, crucial bodily fluids are lost, muscle damage occurs and energy levels are depleted.  This can compromise the quality of the workout and make recovery time longer than necessary.  Implementing the use of nutritional supplements like energy bars and sports drinks before, during and after exercise can have positive effects on everything from energy levels to recovery times.

The benefits of energy bars include:

• A convenient energy source.
• Boosted carbohydrate levels.
• Improved endurance.
• A sustained release of energy for athletes.
• Maintained blood sugar levels.
• Postponed exercise-related fatigue.
• A convenient post-exercise snack.
• Re-fuelled glycogen stores in the body.

Energy drinks are identified as being equally effective as energy bars, in terms of helping athletes recover and restore their energy levels during and after training.  However, there is one major advantage of using energy drinks in comparison to energy bars: they replenish essential fluids that are lost through sweating.

The benefits of sports energy drinks include:

• A source of essential electrolytes (sodium, potassium).
• A source of caffeine, protein and important herbs.
• A source of amino acids.
• Boosted endurance levels.
• Maintained blood glucose levels.
• Postponed post-training fatigue.
• Reduced cramping.
• Easily digestible.

Choosing the right kind of supplement is one of the keys to realising your fitness and exercise goals.  When used appropriately, energy supplements and drinks can benefit your workout.