If you’re going to be working out a lot or training often for a particular sport, chances are you’ll need to take protein supplements. For boxers, this is especially important for helping your muscle strength and stamina after training hard. The best protein for boxers helps you add strength and muscle without compromising your speed and agility.
With so many protein powders and shakes on the market, it can be hard to tell which one will work best. Let’s check out what to look for and which are the ten best protein shakes and powders for boxers.
Table of Contents
- Why Use Protein Supplements
- Types of Protein
- 10 Best Protein Powders & Shakes For Boxers & Fighters
- 1. ON Gold Standard Whey Protein
- 2. Evlution Nutrition Isolate Protein
- 3. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein Protein
- 4. Bare Performance Nutrition Protein
- 5. MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder
- 6. Muscle Tech Nitro Protein
- 7. BSN Syntha-6 Whey Protein Powder
- 8. Naked Pea Protein
- 9. NOW Sports Nutrition Soy Protein Isolate
- 10. ON Gold Standard Plant Based
- Conclusion
- Best Protein For Boxers Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Sources
Why Use Protein Supplements
There are several types of protein powders on the market, but what are the perks of adding protein shakes or powders to your boxing regimen? These three reasons might be convincing.
Muscle Repair
Whey tends to be absorbed faster than casein, helping repair muscle tissue. If you’re looking for a protein powder to boost muscle recovery, dairy ingredients might be ideal.
Weight Loss
Protein is an excellent addition to your boxing diet because it may help with weight loss. Depending on your goals, you might be replacing carb-heavy snacks with protein shakes, or you might be piling protein on top of your normal diet. Either way, protein can help you build lean muscle and stay in shape.
Helping You Feel Fuller
If you’re burning tons of calories in the gym, you’ll probably be starving 24/7. But carb-loading isn’t always ideal, depending on your training schedule and goals. Protein, in contrast, can help you feel full without adding unwanted calories and weight.
Should Boxers Use Them?
Boxing is a challenging sport, anything that helps you build your strength, speed up your recovery, pack on more muscle and lose excess fat will prove invaluable. For this reason, we think using protein shakes or powder to aid your progression is a great idea.
Types of Protein
Before we jump to the top 10 protein shakes and powders for fighters, we first need to explore the different types of protein available to you.
Once you understand this, you will be able to better pick the right protein shake or powder for you and your training goals.
Egg Albumin
You will rarely find egg albumin in a powder form. Instead it is sold in containers ready to be prepared and cooked.
When fighters think of eggs for protein, most jump to images of Rocky drinking the whites raw in his training montage.
This isn’t too far removed from the truth, eggs are known to be packed with protein and low in fat. Making them a good option for muscle gain and weight loss.
So, consider how they could fit into your training diet and wider fighting goals. It is likely they will be most effective when used alongside some of the other protein options below.
Casein Protein
Casein protein is a widely popular choice for fighters, gym goers and bodybuilders alike. The anabolic benefits it offers (even whilst you are sleeping) makes it incredibly effective for rest and recovery and minimising hunger.
Casein is derived from milk (like whey) and is a great source of amino acids. The added fact that it takes a good few hours to digest and breakdown makes it meal replacement option of before bed snack.
Whey Concentrate
Most people have heard of Whey Concentrate. It is a much cheaper alternative to other options and, in part because of this, one of the most popular muscle building and strength development options.
You usually consume it by mixing it with milk or water and be used as a recovery aid, pre workout or post workout snack or meal replacement.
Whey Isolate
A Whey Isolate option will be quicker to be absorbed and goes best with low carb, low sugar diets. It will contain a lot of protein which will be absorbed effectively by your body.
Whey protein in general contains a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) which helps stimulate protein synthesis and your muscle growth. Effective use of this option (or similar ones) will allow for maximum development whilst best retaining your current muscle mass.
Whey Protein Hydrolysate
Whey Protein Hydrolysate is quick and effective because it is predigested. It creates a spike in blood amino acids which can help protein synthesis. This is a great effect when being used immediately before or during a challenging workout or sparring session. However, it is not the best result for those looking for a “slower releasing” protein which will minimise hunger throughout the day. The complex manufacturing process also means these products can come at a higher price.
Milk Protein Isolate (MPI)
MPI contains very little fat and very high protein which makes it a good option for those practising high energy and taxing sports such as boxing, MMA, Muay Thai or similar ones.
It also has a high amino acid composition meaning it is good for protein bars or meal replacement shakes/powders.
Pea Protein
Pea protein is considered a healthier alternative to other protein sources. It is an extract from peas (as the name suggests) which manufacturers are adding to protein bars, powders and shakes to enjoy and integrate into their training regime.
Pea protein options are vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and a great option for those with most (if not all) of the most common food allergies (unless other ingredients are added).
With more fighters going vegan and vegetarian, you are likely to see more fighters drinking pea protein products in the gym, before and after bouts/sparring/training sessions.
Soy Protein
It is important to recognise that some Soy protein does not help with muscle building as effectively as other options (like Whey or Casein). However, it can be good for those that want something safe for most people looking to aid weight loss. It is particularly good for those looking for a plant-based protein supplement. It can offer many benefits including increasing metabolism, supporting overall cholesterol health and boosting thyroid hormone output.
Hemp Protein
Often considered easier to digest that soy, Hemp protein is high in fiber and packed with essential nutrients (omega-3 and 6 and fatty acids also). You might find slower results than with other forms of protein though.
Brown Rice Protein
Gluten-free and nearly as much protein per serving as soy alternatives, Brown Rice Protein is a good option for those with digestion and gastrointestinal concerns. However you might struggle to find this kind of protein compared to other more popular forms.
Brown Rice protein is good for regulating cholesterol, supporting liver function, loosing weight and building muscle. Some studies claim this option is just as effective as Whey options.
10 Best Protein Powders & Shakes For Boxers & Fighters
1. ON Gold Standard Whey Protein
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
A popular choice among all of the proteins on the market is the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein. Its affordable price probably lends itself to its popularity, as well as the many flavors available.
There are over 20 flavors, including your standard vanilla and various chocolate flavors like chocolate mint, double rich chocolate, extreme milk chocolate, etc. But there are other fun flavors like cake batter, strawberry banana, blueberry cheesecake, and pretty much anything else you could think of.
More importantly, for your muscle support, this protein gives you 24 grams per serving. It is also reasonably low calorie, at 120 calories per serving. You can mix it with water or milk for a shake, depending on your preference.
This protein is reliable as Optimum Nutrition runs the production facility. It’s also a top choice for MMA fighters!
2. Evlution Nutrition Isolate Protein
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
Another reliable choice is Evlution Nutrition’s 100% Isolate Protein. This product claims that the whey protein isolate is the fastest to absorb, giving you the energy your muscles will need to train. There are also slow-release proteins in the product to help you recover.
You get 25 grams of protein and 140 calories per serving with this one, as well as BCAA’s blended into the product.
3. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein Protein
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
The Gold Standard 100% Casein protein from Optimum Nutrition helps maintain your muscle and offers roughly 5 grams of BCAAs per serving to help with your recovery.
Unlike other options, which you would drink pre and post-workout, this slow-digesting casein protein is best between meals or before bed to provide you plenty of amino acids overnight. It is low calorie at 110-120 calories per serving, and that same serving provides you with 24 grams of protein.
4. Bare Performance Nutrition Protein
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
As their name might suggest, Bare Performance Nutrition Protein is pretty no-nonsense when it comes to their products. They are incredibly transparent about the ingredients in their protein supplements. Similar to other proteins on the list, you get 24 grams per serving and 120 calories.
What makes it stand out is the high quality, great taste, and, of course, how it helps support recovery. It also claims to aid with muscle protein synthesis after you train. You can also rest easy knowing that it is certified drug free.
5. MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
As you might have guessed, this protein powder is for athletes who train hard. Boxers will find this blend of whey, casein, and egg proteins helpful at any time of day. If you choose to take the protein supplement at night, you can reap the fast-absorbency benefits and BCAAs without worrying about bloating.
If you use it after a workout, you can count on this Combat Protein to give your muscles back their energy and provide your body with nutrition. While it works fast, it releases the protein your muscles need throughout the day or night.
The Combat Protein Powder gives you 25 grams of protein and 130 calories per serving. A bonus is that it tastes great too.
6. Muscle Tech Nitro Protein
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The Nitro Protein from Muscle Tech is another option designed for hard training. You get a hefty serving of 30 grams of protein and 160 calories that gives you energy and boosts your recovery.
You can take this intense protein between meals and after a workout or boxing session. The affordable price plus how much protein you get makes it worth the purchase.
7. BSN Syntha-6 Whey Protein Powder
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
This may be one of, if not the best tasting protein powders on the list, making it a great meal replacement over a protein shake that might not have the best taste. But its flavor is not the only thing that makes this great for boxers.
The company themselves say that this is the go-to protein for any workout or nutrition plan. Its diversity of use may be why this supplement has 22 grams per serving instead of 24 or 25. It is also higher in calories at 200 calories per serving.
Still, its taste and the fact that you can take it day or night may make up for that with some boxers.
8. Naked Pea Protein
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
For active boxers looking for vegan protein powder, you’ve come to the right part of this list. Naked is a natural company whose products boast being dairy-free, gluten-free, GMO-free, and soy-free, making it an excellent choice for anyone with food allergies or a strict diet.
The only ingredient is the pea protein from US and Canadian-grown yellow split peas. The protein powder is both healthy and natural, and it also has BCAAs for recovery. You also get 27 grams of protein per serving, which is pretty generous. It’s also on the lower side of calories with 120 calories per serving.
As this protein powder is quite natural, the lack of flavor might not appeal to some.
9. NOW Sports Nutrition Soy Protein Isolate
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
Soy protein is a great option for non-dairy protein powder because soybeans naturally provide protein while being low in fat and carbs. They also have plenty of amino acids for recovery after training.
It has fewer flavors than some other choices, but you can try vanilla, chocolate, or even their unflavored powder if you’d like to add a flavor of your own.
10. ON Gold Standard Plant Based
*Details last updated on 2023-05-25
Another Optimum Nutrition protein on this list? Yes, but for a good reason. This plant-based protein powder is as equally high-quality as the other proteins that ON sells. There are no artificial sweeteners, and it offers a BCAA blend.
At 24 grams of protein and 150 calories per serving, this is a healthy option that provides plenty of protein for muscle recovery. Since it comes from the same company as the first option on our list, this could be an excellent plant-based choice for vegans training in MMA fighting.
Conclusion
With so many protein powders to choose from, hopefully, this list made it easier to see which types of protein would fit your diet as well as your boxing routine. This guide hopefully has allowed you to find the best protein for your boxing goals.
No matter which protein shakes and powders you choose for boxing support, paying closer attention to what you eat is a step in the right direction.
Best Protein For Boxers Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do boxers need protein shakes?
Need, no. Benefit greatly from, yes!
Boxing is incredibly draining on your body. You will find your muscles need ample recovery. Additional protein supplementation helps you recover that much faster and more effectively.
What protein does Anthony Joshua take?
Anthony Joshua is known to use BULK Whey protein powder. He is training daily and puts his body through intense sparring sessions so it is no surprise that he needs a lot of protein.
Do boxers use creatine?
Creatine is known to add extra water weight to those using it. For this reason, you would not want to use it leading up to a fight. Excess weight will result in slower movements and a greater chance of being hit. However in between fights, you could find it makes for a good training tool.
Is creatine banned in boxing, MMA and combat sports?
No, creatine is not on any prohibited lists in the combat sports world.
Where else can I buy protein powder from?
We have linked to various protein powders above on Amazon, but that isn’t the only place you can buy it. Check other online sites like GNC for alternative options.
Sources
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Eggs – FoodData Central Search Results, Accessed on 13th March 2021.
USAID, Whey Protein Concentrate Commodity Fact Sheet, Accessed on 12th March 2021.
Wikipedia, Whey protein isolate, Accessed on 13th March 2021.
BMC, Effects of whey protein hydrolysate ingestion on post-exercise muscle protein synthesis compared with intact whey protein in rats, Accessed on 13th March 2021.
American Diary Products Institute, Milk Protein Isolate, Accessed on 13th March 2021.
US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, Soy Protein, Accessed on 13th March 2021.
BMC, The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance, Accessed on 10th March 2021.
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