What is Collagen and do you as an athlete need it?

Why Collagen is a must for Athletes?

#1 Supplement to help you take your game to the Next Level

In today’s world with the ocean of supplements available for consumption, it is easy to get lost between what’s good for you and what isn’t. For years Collagen has been thought of as a supplement only for Skin and Beauty- Helping you look young via making your skin smoother using fillers. But recent studies have shown that it is extremely beneficial for athletes of various sports as well.

 

What exactly is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body. It is the major component of connective tissues that make up several body parts, including tendons, ligaments, skin, and muscles  Collagen has many important functions, including providing your skin with elasticity & structure  and strengthening our bones.

Here are 3 ways in which Collagen can benefit you

#1 Speeds up tissue/muscle repair & recovery

Athletes, especially those trying to make it to the top level generally push their bodies to the maximum capacity. After an intense training session there is only so much one can do to make sure they are at 100% for the next session. Collagen speeds up recovery by a factor of at least 20-30% and makes sure that you are always ready to break your limits. 

#2 Reduces injury chances by making body strong from within

As an athlete nothing is more devastating than an injury. One small mishap and years of hard work and dreams come crashing down. Athletes who are serious about their careers would go up to any length to make sure they are not struck by injury. One of the main ways to avoid injury is to make the body strong from within. Consuming collagen on a regular basis not only strengthens your bones and joints but also works on your tendons, ligaments and connective tissues. 

#3 Boosts Muscle Mass

Between 1–10% of muscle tissue is composed of collagen. This protein is necessary to keep your muscles strong and functioning properly. In one study, 27 frail men took 15 grams of collagen while participating in an exercise program daily for 12 weeks. Compared with men who exercised but did not take collagen, they gained significantly more muscle mass and strength. Researchers have suggested that taking collagen may promote the synthesis of muscle proteins like creatine, as well as stimulate muscle growth after exercise

 

In the end a lot of supplements are based on an athlete’s specific needs. However, Collagen being a natural high quality protein with higher absorption rate is a must to have for quick repair and recovery. Also it is safe to consume without side effects and falls in the superfood category. Collagen acts as a protector for your body in the short as well as the long term. If your goals are to be in your best condition and injury free for the long race, Collagen is the ideal supplement for you.