Collagen is becoming a go-to supplement for fitness enthusiasts, thanks to its ability to support joint health, muscle recovery, and overall performance. But when is the best time to take collagen—before or after your workout? The answer depends on your fitness goals and the type of exercise you’re doing. Let’s dive into the benefits of both timing strategies and how to get the most from your collagen supplement.
The Case for Taking Collagen Before a Workout
1. Supports Joint Protection
Taking collagen 30–60 minutes before exercise ensures that your body has the amino acids needed to support your joints and connective tissues during physical activity. This is especially beneficial for high-impact workouts like running, weightlifting, or HIIT, where joint strain is more common.
2. Enhances Flexibility and Mobility
Collagen can help improve the elasticity of tendons and ligaments, promoting smoother movements and reducing the risk of injury.
3. Prepares for Muscle Recovery
By taking collagen before your workout, you prime your muscles and connective tissues for faster repair post-exercise. Pairing it with a small carbohydrate source provides sustained energy for your session.
The Case for Taking Collagen After a Workout
1. Speeds Up Recovery
Collagen is rich in amino acids like glycine and proline, which are essential for repairing microtears in muscles and connective tissues. Consuming collagen post-workout supports the recovery process and reduces soreness.
2. Boosts Muscle Repair
Collagen works well alongside other protein sources to aid muscle growth and repair. For optimal results, combine it with a complete protein like whey or plant-based powders to ensure you get all essential amino acids.
3. Rebuilds Tendons and Ligaments
After intense exercise, your tendons and ligaments may need extra support to recover and strengthen. Collagen helps rebuild these structures, reducing the risk of overuse injuries.
How to Maximise Collagen’s Benefits
1. Match Timing to Your Workout Type
- High-impact or joint-intensive workouts: Take collagen pre-workout to protect joints.
- Strength training or endurance exercises: Take collagen post-workout to support muscle recovery.
2. Pair Collagen with Vitamin C
Vitamin C enhances collagen synthesis in the body, so pair your supplement with a source of vitamin C, such as citrus fruits or a vitamin C tablet.
3. Be Consistent
Collagen works best when taken consistently over time. Aim to include it in your daily routine, whether pre- or post-workout.
FAQs About Collagen and Workout Timing
1. Can I take collagen both before and after my workout?
Yes, you can split your dosage to enjoy the benefits of both timing strategies, particularly for intense or prolonged training sessions.
2. Does collagen provide energy for workouts?
Collagen itself is not an energy source, but pairing it with carbs or a pre-workout snack can help sustain energy levels.
3. Is collagen suitable for all workout types?
Absolutely! Collagen supports joint health, muscle recovery, and flexibility, making it ideal for cardio, strength training, yoga, and more.
Why Collagen Timing Matters
Whether you choose to take collagen before or after your workout, it’s clear that this supplement offers significant benefits for anyone looking to enhance their fitness journey. At Benjamin Button, our marine-sourced collagen delivers 10,000mg of highly absorbable protein per serving, ensuring you get the support your body needs, no matter when you take it.
Try incorporating collagen into your routine today and experience improved performance, recovery, and overall well-being!
