Dozens of studies have shown the benefits of drinking protein shakes immediately after training. Researchers of the State University of New Jersey have recently studied the effects of protein consumption after training during 7 weeks on division-1 college football players.
The study measured the impact of protein consumption on a 225-lb bench press test, a vertical jump test, body composition (fat vs. muscle mass) and anaerobic capacity (30-second Wingate test on a stationary bike). These tests look a lot like a combine test if you ask me. Unsurprisingly, the study indicates that players that consumed proteins immediately after training got better results on every test, a better fat/muscle ratio and lower cortisol levels (meaning better recuperation after training). Though several other studies have also showed the physiological benefits of whey protein consumption after training, some athletes still believe that drinking chocolate milk after training is a viable option… Too bad for them.