Fact: In your gym’s lobby, you may see those with the biggest muscles guzzling protein shakes. These folks are trying to capitalize on the idea of an “anabolic window,” or the timeframe post-workout where your body’s protein synthesis—or muscle-building period—is at its max. Common thinking decrees that this period is roughly 30 minutes. But, according to a 2018 article in U.S. News & World Report, the anabolic window may extend as long as 24 hours after your workout. It’s not that there’s any harm in immediate protein consumption; it’s just not as necessary as previously thought. For example, in a 2017 study published in Medicine & Science in Sport & Exercise, when men drank 22 grams of protein after their workouts, they didn’t build more muscle than those who didn’t. Fact: If you hit the gym with a pal, you may be drawn into conversation, but tag-teaming your efforts can also supercharge your routine. According to a 2015 study in the Journal of Personality & Social Psychology, exercisers work harder when they’re doing it side-by-side with a friend. Plus, working out with someone makes you more accountable!
This Really Simple Tip Will Help You Shed Fat Without Dieting