You might have heard that collagen may help improve skin, hair, and nail health – but what about collagen for workouts? And if you’re using collagen for fitness, is it better to take collagen before or after a workout? We’re tackling these questions and others in this handy guide to collagen for fitness.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is a specific protein that makes up our connective tissue, an essential component of our bones, muscles, skin, cartilage, and tendons. Thanks to collagen, your tissue is more robust, flexible, and resilient.

Only certain foods contain collagen, all animal products such as fish or meat. Many people, especially vegetarians and vegans, choose to take supplemental collagen for a well-rounded diet.

Even though our bodies naturally produce collagen, the process slows considerably as we age. In addition to age, factors such as lack of sleep, smoking, and sun exposure can lead to an even faster decrease in collagen production.

What are Collagen Peptides?

Collagen peptides are microscopic particles of protein sourced from animal collagen. Essentially, they are the whole collagen proteins broken down into smaller pieces. Usually, collagen peptides are found in the highest-quality collagen supplements.

Why Collagen for Fitness?

When you exercise, your muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and even your cartilage undergo a recovery process. The post-workout recovery is a normal part of any fitness routine and is a critical step in building strength and avoiding injury.

Our naturally-occurring collagen functions as a critical supporter of movement and recovery because it helps maintain the health and structure of significant body parts. So, it only makes sense that using a collagen supplement to ensure a plentiful and steady supply for your body is a smart choice for active individuals.

Should You Take Collagen Peptides Before or After Training?

One of the most frequent questions we receive is, “Should I take collagen before or after a workout?” Here’s the good news: there’s no evidence that it matters when you take collagen; instead, ensuring that you’re getting enough collagen via supplements and food sources is what matters. There are limited studies that suggest the idea of a “post-exercise window” for nutritional timing.

Here’s How Collagen Can Supercharge Your Workout

What does science say about using collagen for workout performance and recovery? There’s still a lot to learn about the potential workout benefits of collagen, but what we know so far is promising:

• Collagen may support joint health and help reduce joint pain and deterioration. A 24-week-long study examined how athletes with joint pain were affected by taking a collagen supplement. Almost 100 participants were provided a collagen supplement for 24 weeks, and the results were impressive. There were significant improvements in joint pain while walking, standing, and other actions. The improvements were even better for the athletes with existing joint issues.
• Collagen may be helpful for healing exercise-related pain. Another study assessed active men and women dealing with knee pain directly caused by exercise. Over 12 weeks, the participants supplemented their diet with collagen peptides. The study confirmed that collagen peptides were linked to less pain for those dealing with exercise-induced discomfort.
• Collagen can improve stability and reduce injuries. One study involved individuals that had experienced a sprained ankle at one point or another, which can often cause chronic ankle instability (CAI). With collagen peptides, there was an improvement in the function of the ankle and a decreased risk of ankle injuries.

Taking Collagen Post-Workout

Is it true that post-workout collagen can help you increase muscle mass? Here’s what we know about collagen:

• It is a form of protein.
• It is a crucial component in supporting the health of your connective tissues, including your muscles.
• It plays an integral part in recovery and healing.

Protein, connective tissue health, and effective recovery? Those are all vital to successfully building strength, muscle, and endurance. So, it makes sense that it’s a good idea to fit in a solid serving of collagen right after putting strain on your body with an intense workout.

Which Type of Collagen to Take for Fitness

There are various types of collagen, each serving specific purposes in the body. If you’ve ever browsed your collagen options for sale, you already know that there’s a wide variety of collagen supplements out there.

So, which type of collagen is the best?

If you’re hoping to use collagen to enhance your fitness, collagen peptides are most likely the ideal option. The body more effectively absorbs these smaller, shorter chains of amino acids.

Ready to Add Collagen to Your Workout? Turn to Core Culture

Whether you take collagen before or after a workout, the quality of your collagen supplement matters – and Core Culture makes it simple to find high-quality collagen peptides to elevate your wellness routine.

Our Collagen Peptides are made with 100% grass-fed collagen, which contains essential amino acids, BCAAs, and an excellent protein boost. Plus, our collagen supplement features CFU probiotics so that you can support healthy digestion at the same time. Easily dissolved in your choice of beverage, Core Culture Collagen Peptides make for a convenient addition to your morning coffee, post-workout shake, and more.

Enhance your workout regimen with premium-quality Collagen Peptides from Core Culture – purchase yours today!