The best whey protein powders to maximise post-workout recovery
Protein powders offer a convenient and measured way to consume protein, ensuring a good balance of amino acids to support muscle protein synthesis after training. There are many types, but they can all be broadly categorised into either milk-based (whey) or plant-based.
While the range of plant-based powders is now extensive, with some excellent options for anyone who doesn’t want to consume animal protein, this issue we’re focusing on whey. Quickly digested and generally well tolerated, it remains the most popular choice in the UK. But with hundreds of products to choose from, picking the right powder for you is no mean feat.
Which is why – with the help of leading sports nutritionist Rob Hobson – we’ve rounded up our favourite options on the market right now…
Hermosa Whey Protein Powder
£67 for 1kg (33 servings) / livehermosa.com
Hermosa is a right-on brand that makes protein products that are ethically sourced, sustainable and with non-GMO ingredients. While it’s pretty costly, its whey protein powder is the purest, smoothest and tastiest on test. There’s no cloying sweetness or bitter aftertaste: just a delicious chocolate or vanilla shake that you’ll find yourself doing extra sessions just to get another serving of.
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Protein per serving: 21g Cost per serving: £2.03 Sizes: 10 x 30g / 420g / 1kg Flavours: Chocolate / Vanilla
Healthspan Elite All Blacks Ultimate Whey Protein Blend
£32.99 for 750g (20 servings) / healthspanelite.co.uk
As the name suggests, this is the protein powder of the all-conquering All Blacks. That’s a team that takes both performance and recovery seriously, so you can be confident this powder is the business. Flavours are rich but nicely balanced, it’s made with digestive enzymes and is Informed Sport-approved – so suitable for elite competition.
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Protein per serving: 24g Cost per serving: £1.65 Size: 750g Flavours: Chocolate / Strawberry / Vanilla
Innermost The Strong Protein
£29.95 for 520g (13 servings) liveinnermost.com
With a substantial 34g protein per serving, Innermost’s The Strong Protein will take care of your recovery needs. It’s a smooth, creamy shake that’s low in sugar – though the most expensive on test. One to save for your hardest sessions.
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