Is it time you upped your protein game?

Protein has become uber fashionable in the fitness industry. You have probably seen protein bars, protein shakes, and all kinds of protein-based goodies filling the shelves in the ‘health food’ aisle of your local supermarket. And while some of these offerings may be style over substance, there is a very good reason that we put so much focus on protein and the impact it has on your health and fitness.

Protein is a vital component of every cell in your body, it makes up your hair, nails, tissues, and, well – all of you. It helps your body repair following injury and build strength through resistance training. Essentially, protein is the building block that makes up all of us and getting enough of it in your diet is vital if you want to function at your best.

How Much Protein Do I Need?

Recommended protein intake varies depending on your age, weight, sex, and activity level. The minimum intake recommended by the British Nutrition Foundation is an average of 56g per day for men and 45g for women. However, this is a baseline and if you are involved in regular training you may need to eat more than this. The same goes for growing teens, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mums.

How Does Protein Affect Appetite?

Protein is one of the three key macronutrients, alongside fats and carbohydrates. But protein is, by far, the most filling. Studies have shown that increasing the amounts of protein consumed in your diet can reduce levels of the hunger hormone, ghrelin and leave you feeling fuller. This, in turn, can reduce the total amount of calories you consume. There is also evidence that protein is more effective at firing your metabolism than fats and carbohydrates. Essentially, if you’re looking to lose weight, protein is your friend.

How Can Protein Impact My Training Routine?

Protein is the nutrient that builds muscle. And if you’re strength training, you need to make it an essential component of your diet. Research has shown that increased protein intake not only helps people to gain muscle more quickly – it also stops you from losing muscle when you try to lose weight (reduce fat). Never neglect the amount of protein you put in your body. And this doesn’t have to come from meat. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly protein sources around.

There you have it! Protein should be an essential component of your diet. Full stop. But a great diet without a great fitness routine is wasted potential. That’s where FitFusion PT come in. We offer amazing group classes alongside one-to-one support with our friendly and knowledgeable personal trainers. Whether you are looking to kick-start your spring fitness, or you want to take the first steps in making a lasting change, we can help. So, stop stalling and start squatting today – get in touch to start your fitness adventure.

Next week, I’ll be doing a special post for all the mums and mums-to-be out there. With Mother’s Day around the corner, there has never been a better time to talk about pregnancy and post-pregnancy fitness. Until then, keep being amazing.