All serious fitness fanatics and dream-body chasers know that finding the right combination of supplements and training schedules gets increasingly more difficult as time progresses. There is always a wall or plateau that you get to that must be beaten or overcome. In this cycle of always changing things to break past limits, we tend to forget that are things that we can consistently rely on to help push us past our walls. One of those is beta-alanine.
About the product:
Beta-alanine is a modified version of the amino acid alanine. When beta-alanine is ingested, it turns into the molecule known as carnosine, which acts as an acid buffer in the body. The purpose of Carnosine is to be stored in cells and then later released in response to declining pH levels in the body. Examples of this occurring is when the body is in a state of ketosis or if it produces a large amount of lactic acid as response from rigorous exercise. In this instance, increased stores of Carnosine in the body’s cells can help prevent rapid pH level drops.
The supplement itself is a pretty simple but its uses are excellent.
Usability:
Beta Alanine is known to have the following effects:
- Boosts explosive muscular strength and power output. Our ability to get stronger most often directly reflects on our ability to get bigger. Adding beta-alanine to your stack is a sure-fire way to ensure that this happens.
- Increases muscle mass. As stated in the previous point, progressive overload equals gains equals strength increase equals more gains, etc. A study conducted by Kern BD, had two groups undergo the same training regimes and dietary protocols. The first group was supplemented with beta-alanine while the other group was not. Group 1 saw a much higher increase in lean muscle mass than their counterparts in group 2 by the end of the study. (3)
- Boosts muscular anaerobic endurance and aerobic endurance. The number of studies conducted on this particular aspect of athletic performance is a testament to the astonishing effects of beta-alanine. Athletes in all spheres have noted a rather significant increase in their ability to push harder for longer.
- Increases exercise neural function. A very interesting thing to note is how beta-alanine reduces an individual’s perception of fatigue. In other words, when you think you are exhausted and pretty much tapped out is delayed and allows you to continue pushing even past when you would normally feel tired (or at least when you think you would). The power of the mind is incredible, and beta-alanine improves this aspect of physical performance and pursuits.
Dosage:
A dose of 3- 6g daily is usually a recommended amount for noticeable differences in performance. So going for 2 separate servings a day would be your best bet with this brand’s version. However, keep in mind that taking a dose like this all at once may result in that tingly feeling that most people get when they take a pre-workout. This sensation is known as paresthesia. Some people love it and a lot more people dislike it. To avoid this sensation, spread your selected total dose out as recommended above and have them at 2 separate times.
Rating:
Beta Alanine is really one of my favourite supplements on the market. This one gets a solid 4/5 for its practicality and use-ability.