Competitive bodybuilders know better than anyone that their nutrition and the supplements they use are among the most important parts of their rigorous training regimen. For those who are just getting their start in the world of professional and competition bodybuilding, however, it can be difficult to know where to begin. To give you a hand, here are just five of the most common supplements competitive bodybuilders are using today.

1. Protein Powders

Protein ranks among the most important supplements available. There are, however, a number of different kinds of these powders and it can be hard to know which to choose. The most common variety is whey protein and these are best taken post-workout. There’s also casein protein, which is slow release and should be taken around bedtime. Most protein powder brands and other bodybuilding supplements can be easily obtained from specialty outlets like Fitness Market.

2. Amino Acids

Amino acids rank just below protein on the scale of importance for bodybuilders. Your body requires a baseline of around 20 different amino acids for regular functionality, nine of which are considered to be ‘essential’. What this means is that your body isn’t capable of producing these acids on its own; they’re introduced to your system through the food you eat. Amino acid supplements will ensure you’re getting the right ones in the correct quantities.

3. Creatine

Creatine is another supplement that can be used to build muscle mass, sending energy to muscles and nerve cells, which translates to you being able to train much harder and longer – perfect for the aspiring bodybuilder! Creatine supplements generally come in either powdered or pill form and are whitelisted by most sporting organisations for use in competition.

4. Carbohydrate Powders

Carbs: everyone’s problematic favourite. They’re in all the most delicious things, but intake must be scrupulously monitored. They’re energy storage in its purest form, which makes a carb supplement perfect for bodybuilders looking to hit a specific caloric intake. Carbohydrate powder can be mixed in with most other powdered supplements to add calories and help you hit your targets.

5. Fat Burners And Thermogenics

Bodybuilders are always looking to keep their body fat percentage as low as possible, but sometimes fat will cling stubbornly and no amount of working out will budge it. That’s where thermogenics come in. These supplementss raise your core body heat and give your metabolism the shove it needs to finally take that fat, show it who’s boss, and turn it into energy for use in your work out.

There are so many different supplements available to fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders alike – these are just a few of them. Obviously, use of supplements like these must be taken seriously and not abused. Neither should they be considered an “I win” button. Supplements are just that: something to help improve the intense workout regimen you’re already doing. Discipline is still the key to success.

What are some of your favourite supplements? Share your thoughts and your preferred supplement regime with other bodybuilders and gym junkies in the comments below.