The 10 Best Supplements For Sprinters 2024

Best Supplements For Sprinters

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    What are the best supplements for sprinters?

    In this article, we'll explore the top supplements that can help sprinters like you achieve better results on the track.

    The Top Supplements for Sprinters

    Creatine

    Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Powder
    8
    • 5g pure creatine monohydrate per serving
    • Supports muscle size, strength, and power
    • Supreme absorbency micronized for maximum potency
    • Optimum Nutrition is the World's #1 Sports Nutrition Brand
    • Banned substance tested
    • Highest quality control measures

    Creatine is a substance that is found naturally in muscle cells.

    It helps your muscles produce energy during heavy lifting or high-intensity exercise.

    It’s well-known for its benefits in the sports world.

    Particularly in activities requiring quick bursts of energy, like sprinting.

    Pros:

    • Increases muscle mass

    • Improves strength and power

    • Improves sprint performance

    • Speeds up muscle recovery

    • Well-researched

    • Inexpensive

    • Easy to incorporate into your diet

    Cons:

    • Some people may experience bloating or cramping

    • Needs to be taken consistently for best results

    Creatine supplements are generally affordable.

    They range from $10 to $30 depending on the brand and quantity.

    This supplement is for everyone.

    From amateur sprinters to professional athletes, creatine is widely used in the sports community.

    This is a supplement I use every day.

    I put it straight into my morning protein smoothie, and it works.

    It’s the thing that gives you the extra rep in the gym, makes you feel stronger faster, and more powerful.

    And it’s not until you stop taking this that you realise how good it is.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Purity of the supplement (look for creatine monohydrate)

    • Brand reputation

    • Any additional ingredients that might be included

    Protein Powder

    Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Extreme Milk Chocolate
    9.5
    • 24g blended protein (whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, whey peptides)
    • Supports lean muscle mass
    • Over 5g of BCAAs for muscle building
    • Instantized for improved mixability
    • Banned substance tested
    • Suitable for any time of day
    • Packaging may vary

    Protein powders are dietary supplements that provide a high concentration of protein from sources like whey, casein, or plant-based alternatives such as pea or hemp.

    Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth.

    This makes protein powder an excellent supplement for sprinters.

    Pros:

    • Supports muscle recovery and growth

    • Helps maintain and build muscle mass

    • Convenient way to increase protein intake

    • Available in various flavors

    • Can be mixed with water, milk, or added to smoothies

    Cons:

    • Some powders may contain added sugars or artificial ingredients

    • Potential allergens depending on the source (e.g., dairy or soy)

    Prices can vary widely.

    They typically range from $15 to $100.

    Protein powders are popular among all types of athletes.

    This includes sprinters who need to maintain lean muscle mass and recover between sessions.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Type of protein (whey, casein, plant-based)

    • Any dietary restrictions (lactose intolerance, vegan)

    • Nutritional content and ingredient list

    We use the optimum nutrition protein powder, it’s informed sport which is important to make sure you’re not consuming ingredients that are banned as an athlete in sports.

    And we’ve found it is one of the best tasting on the market.

    Greens Powder

    Supergreen Tonik
    9
    • 3rd party tested
    • Transparent ingredients
    • Research-backed ingredients
    • Choice of flavors - Berry or Mint
    • 365-day money-back guarantee

    Greens powders are dietary supplements to help get a concentrated amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from green vegetables and other plant sources.

    Greens powders ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals, which is crucial for optimal performance and recovery as a sprinter.

    Pros:

    • Boosts overall health and energy levels

    • Supports immune function

    • Helps with digestion and detoxification

    • Easy way to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables

    • Can improve skin health due to high antioxidant content

    • Supports a healthy immune system

    Cons:

    • Taste may be unappealing to some

    • Can be expensive compared to whole vegetables

    Greens powders usually cost $20 to $80.

    Everyone can use this, especially athletes looking for an edge when it comes to recovery.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Ingredient list and quality of the greens used

    • Additional ingredients like probiotics or digestive enzymes

    • Flavor and mixability

    The challenge with greens powders is the taste.

    But you can mix this into a smoothie and you will not taste it.

    Magnesium

    Magne Tonik
    9
    • Magnesium Bisglycinate 400 mg: High-dosage magnesium supplement designed for optimal absorption, gentle on digestion
    • 6 Tubs (180 days supply) for $147, saving $51
    • 3 Tubs (90 days supply) for $87, saving $12
    • 1 Tub (30 days supply) for $33
    • Offers a 365-day money-back guarantee
    • Made in the USA and 3rd Party Tested for quality assurance

    Magnesium is a mineral vital for many processes in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure regulation.

    This is a crucial mineral for athletes, supporting muscle function, energy production, and overall health.

    Pros:

    • Helps reduce muscle cramps and fatigue

    • Supports cardiovascular health

    • Essential for bone health

    • Supports relaxation and reduces stress

    • Can improve sleep quality

    • Important for muscle recovery

    Cons:

    • High doses can cause digestive issues

    • Different forms of magnesium can vary in absorption and effectiveness

    Magnesium supplements are generally affordable.

    Prices range from $10 to $30.

    It’s used by a wide range of individuals, from sprinters to those engaged in endurance sports, due to the many benefits.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • The form of magnesium (e.g., citrate, oxide, glycinate)

    • Dosage and potential interactions with other medications

    • Overall diet and existing levels of magnesium

    We use the Magnetonik magnesium supplement.

    It has slightly quicker absorption than regular glycinate.

    Vitamin D

    Solgar Vitamin D3
    9
    • Capsules
    • Pack of 60 capsules
    • Vitamin D3
    • Vegetarian, Kosher
    • Unflavored
    • 100% recyclable amber glass bottles
    • High strength and highly absorbable
    • Promotes calcium absorption and supports immune health
    • Free from gluten, wheat, and dairy
    • Crafted in small batches for consistency and purity
    • Sustainability Commitment

    Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and it supports immune system function.

    This is another essential supplement for sprinters, particularly for bone health and immune function.

    Pros:

    • Enhances bone and muscle strength

    • Supports immune health

    • May improve muscle recovery and function

    • Essential for bone health

    • Can boost mood and overall health, especially in regions with limited sunlight

    Cons:

    • Over-supplementation can lead to toxicity

    • Needs to be taken with fat for best absorption

    Vitamin D supplements are inexpensive, ranging from $5 to $20.

    This is widely used, especially in areas with limited sunlight exposure.

    Athletes will benefit significantly from its muscle and bone health properties.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Vitamin D3 vs. D2 (D3 is generally more effective)

    • Supplement form (capsule, liquid, tablet)

    • Integration with other supplements and overall diet

    Omega 3s

    Momentous Omega-3 1600mg Daily Fish Oil Supplement
    8
    • Reduces high cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and blood pressure
    • Improves recovery
    • Improves brain, bone, and joint health
    • NSF certified for safe and elite results
    • Trusted by 150 pro and collegiate sports teams and the U.S. Military

    Omega 3s are polyunsaturated fats primarily found in fish oil and plant sources like flaxseeds and walnuts.

    They are crucial for maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation.

    Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fats that provide numerous health benefits, particularly for athletes who require optimal body function for peak performance.

    Pros:

    • Reduces inflammation

    • Supports cardiovascular health

    • Improves joint flexibility and health

    • Enhances overall health, which can indirectly improve performance

    • Available in both food sources and supplements

    Cons:

    • Fish oil supplements can cause a fishy aftertaste

    • Needs to be taken consistently for best results

    Prices vary but generally expect to pay somewhere between $15 to $40.

    These are good for anyone.

    If you want to improve your long-term health and performance on the track this is for you.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Source of Omega 3s (fish oil vs. plant-based)

    • Purity and presence of any contaminants

    • Dosage and form of the supplement

    Probiotics

    Synbio Tonik
    9
    • Rated 4.9 out of 5
    • Provides relief for IBS-like symptoms
    • Berry lemonade flavor
    • Mixes easily with water
    • Over 5 billion CFUs per serving
    • 5 grams of prebiotic fiber per serving
    • Enhances digestion and boosts immunity
    • Supports balanced gut flora
    • Elevates energy and mood
    • 365-day money-back guarantee
    • Featured in various media
    • Made and tested in the USA

    Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain the balance of gut flora, crucial for digestion and overall health.

    Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system.

    This means you can absorb the maximum nutrients from your diet.

    Pros:

    • Supports digestive health

    • Enhances immune function

    • Can improve nutrient absorption

    • Helps maintain a healthy digestive tract

    • Can reduce gastrointestinal issues

    Cons:

    • Must be stored properly to maintain efficacy

    • Effects can vary between individuals

    You can expect to pay between $20 to $70, depending on the brand and quality.

    This supplement is for anyone looking to improve their digestive health.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Number of live cultures

    • Types of bacterial strains included

    • Storage requirements

    We use the Synbio Tonik. We’ve also found this keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

    So if you are a sprinter and you’re trying to keep on top of your weight this is something that can help you feel fuller for longer too.

    Caffeine

    Ryan Snell drinking coffee

    Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, and various sports supplements.

    It helps improve alertness and reduce how tired you feel and how hard you work when exercising.

    This is a powerful stimulant that enhances mental and physical performance.

    Pros:

    • Increases alertness and concentration

    • Reduces how tired you feel and how hard you work when exercising

    • Improves sprint performance

    • Widely available and easy to consume

    • Quick and noticeable effects (within 30 mins)

    Cons:

    • Can cause jitteriness and heart palpitations in some individuals

    • May lead to dependence or withdrawal symptoms

    This is an inexpensive supplement.

    How much you spend will be down to your personal preference - coffee, tea, energy drinks or a pre-workout.

    This is a supplement used by everyone and for everyone.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Dosage and timing of intake

    • Individual tolerance to caffeine

    • Presence of other stimulants in the supplement

    L-Carnitine

    NOW Foods L- Carnitine
    8
    • L-Carnitine Tartrate 1000mg
    • Pack of 100 tablets
    • Unflavored
    • Tablet form
    • Promotes energy management
    • Suitable for adults

    L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that helps the metabolism of fat into energy.

    It’s known for its role in energy production, making it a valuable supplement for sprinters who need to maximize their metabolic efficiency.

    Pros:

    • Promotes fat metabolism

    • Can enhance endurance and stamina

    • Supports recovery from high-intensity exercise

    • Can help with weight management

    • Supports overall energy levels

    Cons:

    • Results can vary significantly between individuals

    • Higher doses can cause gastrointestinal discomfort

    L-Carnitine supplements price range from $15 to $50.

    It's popular among athletes looking to improve their metabolic efficiency and performance.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Form of L-Carnitine (e.g., L-Carnitine L-Tartrate, Acetyl-L-Carnitine)

    • Dosage and potential side effects

    • Combination with other supplements

    Beta-alanine

    NOW Sports Nutrition Beta-Alanine
    8
    • Comprehensively tested for purity and effectiveness
    • Contains CarnoSyn, a patented form of beta-alanine
    • Clinically tested to increase muscle carnosine content
    • Helps muscles work harder and longer during intense exercise
    • Delays muscle fatigue and enhances rapid recovery time
    • GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated certification
    • Packaged in the USA by a family-owned and operated company since 1968

    Beta-alanine is an amino acid that can improve muscle endurance and the amount of exercise you can do.

    Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid used by muscle cells to synthesize carnosine, which helps reduce fatigue during high-intensity exercise.

    So if you’re a sprinter this could help you to do an extra quality rep.

    Pros:

    • Buffers acid in muscles, reducing fatigue

    • Enhances overall muscular endurance

    • Can improve moderate- to high-intensity cardiovascular exercise performance

    • Can extend the duration of high-intensity performance

    • Benefits accumulate over time with consistent use

    Cons:

    • Can cause a tingling sensation at higher doses

    • Needs to be taken regularly for best results

    Beta-alanine supplements are priced between $20 and $40.

    This supplement is for people looking for an extra edge. If you want to work on your power and endurance this is for you.

    Factors to Consider Before Buying:

    • Purity and dosage of the beta-alanine

    • Timing of intake for optimal results

    • Combination with other supplements like creatine for synergistic effects

    Conclusion

    Now you know the best supplements for sprinters…

    It’s time to take your performance to the next level.

    Which one will you try first?

    Let us know in the comment box below, and how you get on with it.

    Want to see how an Unstoppabl Sprint Coach can help you with your sprint goals?

    Click the link to see how we can help.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best nutrition for a sprinter?

    The best nutrition for a sprinter includes a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle repair, and fats for long-term energy.

    Incorporate fruits and vegetables for vitamins and minerals to support overall health and performance.

    Will creatine make you a faster sprinter?

    Yes, creatine will make you a faster sprinter.

    Creatine increases your muscles' phosphocreatine stores.

    This allows a more rapid generation of ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

    This lead to improved performance in activities involving quick bursts of speed and power.

    Which supplement is best for performance?

    The best supplement for performance varies depending on your specific needs.

    Generally the best supplements are creatine, caffeine, and protein powders.

    This is because they are well-researched and proven to work.

    Does beta-alanine help sprinters?

    Yes, beta-alanine helps sprinters by increasing muscle carnosine levels.

    Increasing carnosine levels buffers acid in muscles during high-intensity exercise.

    This buffering capability reduces fatigue improving your performance in short-duration, high-intensity activities.

    Ryan Snell

    Co-founder of Unstoppabl, and industry-renowned certified coach with a degree in Sport and Exercise Science leverages over five years of experience to deliver complete well-being solutions, encompassing exercise programming, sleep, menopause, menstrual cycle management, injury rehab, mindset coaching, and nutritional guidance.

    With an impressive record of fostering physical and mental transformations in hundreds of clients during his tenure at Unstoppabl, and a sought-after public speaker on these subjects, his insights have been featured on numerous platforms, attesting to his profound expertise.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-snell/

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