Resistance training supplements and their potential benefit

Resistance Exercise (RE) is a widely practiced activity both in leisure time and in training periods for competitive athletes. Recent advanced in molecular biology and muscle physiology has elucidated some of the mechanisms that regulate muscle growth. As a result of these biochemical advances, an increased number of supplements claiming to enhance adaptations to Resistance exercise have become available. Essentially, the aim of these supplements is to influence protein synthesis and therefore gradual protein accretion leading to increased muscle size and strength. The aim of this review is to discuss the most commonly consumed supplements associated with RE and make recommendations with regards to timing, volume and combinations of supplementations.