If you’re into swimming, you will agree that it demands a massive range of training techniques, equipment, and aids to gain the most out of workouts. To win races, swimmers look for something extra than just the average to set personal bests. Energy-boosting supplements are legal and effective way to cover nutrient gaps and condition the body for peak performance. Of course, you need to know the necessary nutrients that build a solid supplement foundation. This guide will help you do that by reviewing the top-ranked sports supplements on the market.
Table of Contents
Quick List: Energy Supplements for Swimmers
The best energy supplements for swimming unveil top-notch, scientifically-tested products renowned for physical vitality and energized mind. But before we go further with that, here is a quick look at the top-rated energy-boosting formulas:
#1. Performance Lab Energy – Premium quality, clean, stim-free cell-energy booster, accelerated muscle recovery. Performance Lab Website |
#2. Nutrex Dynamix – Dynamine® patented ingredient for thermogenesis, amplified energy and focus. Two natural flavors: Strawberry Kiwi and Blackberry Lemonade. Nutrex Dynamix Website |
#3. Olympian Labs Olympian Energy – High, potent doses of B vitamins, two forms of ginseng for unique energy pathway, excellent antioxidant protection. Olympian Energy Website |
#4. MHP Super Caffeine – Natural caffeine energy sources, solid B vitamin levels, tyrosine for improved mental cognition, rhodiola for impressive performance. MHP Super Website |
#5. NOW Sports Energy Extreme – Comprehensive ingredients, key amino acids, Tyrosine for focus, adaptogenic herbs for reduced stress levels, multiple caffeine sources for intense training. NOW Sports Website |
Swimmers’ Energy Supplements Guide
It takes more than just training and stroke technique to optimize swimming performances. Serious swimmers acknowledge that good nutrients and a healthy state of mind impact their performances positively. There are supplements of all shapes and sizes tailored for these particular needs. We are going to discuss the best energy supplements for swimmers in a bit. But first, here’s the advantage of using them.
- Enhanced focus
A swimmer, can find the approach to mental training confusing and overwhelming at first. A bit of help with mindset adjustment can make you stay dialed in the whole time. When starting out a race, the focus is to win. Halfway through the race, it can get demoralizing when you realize you cannot make it to the end faster than everybody else.
Caffeine can do a lot of things for you, including keeping you focused on the right things during training and competition. For longer sets, a dose of the stimulant will ensure your body does not drift. That way, you can apply your better form and good technique at high intensity and smoothness for longer periods of time.
- Extra stamina
Swimming endurance is the most important skill an athlete can have. There’s nothing as important as sustaining high intensity in a smooth race. Once you find your groove, you can tolerate and love the swim. Studies find creatine supplementation beneficial for short bursts of intensity within short periods of time. Although our bodies produce creatine naturally, the availability of the compound in the muscles diminishes during high intensity sprints. Less than 5 g of added creatine is what athletes need to ensure sufficient levels in the body without risking poor production of natural creatine.
- Reduced muscle breakdown
Competitive swimmers often experience muscle fatigue over the course of their swimming. This is as a result of muscles breaking down and becoming shortened while firing and contracting, as research shows. Cool swimmers’ energy supplements are synonymous with revitalizing ingredients like amino acids. According to a 2012 study, these protein compounds are fundamental in reducing muscle breakdown during exercise. They work by alleviating muscle cramps, twitches, and soreness. Even after an intense session, you can bounce back quickly without feeling tired.
- Burn fat
There are a few aspects that set swimming apart from other individual sports. Unlike running and biking, you’re not under the influence of gravity and the water carries the heat away from your body. Building lean muscle mass can be a puzzle, so you end up retaining a higher level of body fat than a runner, for example. Aside from weight-bearing exercise, caffeine produces promising results in metabolic rate and aiding fat loss. Other powerful agents and ideal inclusions in a weight loss campaign are vitamin B12 and CoQ10.
Best Ingredients For Swimming Energy
So, what exactly do leading energy supplements deliver that sprint and long race swimmers are looking for? The following is an analysis of the top ingredients to go for:
L-Carnitine
This is a compound form of amino acids. These building blocks of protein facilitate every aspect of health, including repairing muscles. Regular swimming can have adverse effects on your body when you don’t recover properly. If you don’t recover fully and faster, you won’t likely train in your next session. With l-carnitine supplementation, muscles can experience speedy growth and recovery.
Swimming itself is energy-draining. Depending on the body’s carnitine and protein, food sources alone are not sufficient to supercharge the body with the right amount of energy in sprint competition. Addition of l-carnitine is crucial in raising energy levels by driving fatty acids into the mitochondria where it will burn them as fuel.
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) improves the efficiency of the mitochondria burns stored fat, thereby improving overall energy levels in the body.
Ginseng
For centuries, ginseng root has gained reputation as a good energizer and dietary supplement. The adaptogenic herb contains generous amounts of ginsenoide compound that causes energizing effects and enhances physical performance. In a meta-analysis to examine the impact on fatigue, experts found ginseng effective in limiting the negative effect of fatigue and increasing endurance.
More research confirms that this energy booster can function as a mental performance enhancer as well. It is therefore suitable for swimmers who want to stay focused on peak intense training.
R-Lipoic Acid
When it comes to promoting bio activities, R-lipoic acid remains indisputable. R-lipoic acid targets the cell’s mitochondria to activate and coordinate production of usable energy from dietary carbs. Your cells will stay fired at higher efficiency throughout your training.
The benefits do not end there. After fueling the cells, R-lipoic acid goes on to counter the detrimental effects of oxidation within the cells and muscles, according to clinical observations. What’s more is alpha-lipoic acid is an effective fat burner. If you add pounds, this will add to the drag in the water. Ensuring that you don’t gain excess mass will keep you at the top of your game all the time. Regular supplementation of R-lipoic acid will help keep the creation of new fat molecules in the body in check.
- Bio-Enhanced® Na-RALA is stabilized and purified for enhanced bioavailability and improved absorption of R-lipoic acid.
Rhodiola rosea
There are multiple benefits you can reap from this popular medicinal herb. First, Rhodiola rosea slows down heart rate as you exercise, so that you can endure energy-demanding exercises. Supplementation with this herb considerably minimizes awareness of the body and mind for a more effortless experience.
Also, the herb has potent effects on the body’s response to physiological stress. It wards off fatigue by reducing cortisol (stress hormone) levels involved in stress stimuli. You are sure to stay locked in without having to worry about the gruesome effects of the previous training session. Other evidences reveal that Rhodiola rosea increases plasma’s antioxidant defenses and anti-inflammatory ability of cells for faster muscle recovery after breakdown.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
CoQ10 is one of the most essential molecules that our body produces. It is at the heart of cellular reactions that yield energy. These amped energy levels provide sustaining power for increased race day performance. As an excellent antioxidant, CoQ10 inhibits lipid peroxidation and neutralizes free radicals that age and damage cells and muscles. Studies show that CoQ10 has tremendous effects on cardio exercises such as swimming and muscle toxicity.
- MicroActive® Q10 is a supplement that drives up the level of CoQ10 absorption to curb oxidative stress during exercise.
B Vitamins
It’s no doubt swimming competition can be overwhelming and mentally draining. Your body and muscles will wear out due to stress and your disrupted energy levels. Most foods we eat supply just enough to meet regular body demands. But swimmers pay attention to the composition and dynamics of the vitamins. With vitamin B2 (riboflavin) you can have hastened muscle recovery and heightened performance intensity. On the other hand, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) along with vitamin B12 help improve the mood and increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, so as to keep oxidative stress to the minimum.
Caffeine
Many supplements contain caffeine for energy boosting and cognitive purposes. Research backs up guarana as a good source of caffeine for psychological well-being. Other core functions of caffeine are improving reaction time, replenishing glycogen stores, and fighting off free radicals.
When swimmers consume moderate amounts of the stimulant, they stay at the top of their game. The downside of caffeine is that it can result in sleeplessness and spark jittery effects. L-theanine found in green tea and other smart formulas is the solution to energy spikes should you need mental clarity or to relax your brain after competition or exercise.
- Caffeine anhydrous is the popularly consumed form since it’s pure and improves athletic performance by ramping up energy levels.
Pyrroloquinoline Quinone, PQQ
Despite coming last on the list, PQQ supplement is what swimmers seriously need. There are a host of reasons for this. A study which the Journal of Biological Chemistry published in 2010 established that PQQ induces and regulates mitochondrial biogenesis. Multiplication of these cell organelles causes rapid generation of energy and power within the muscles.
With the absence of stimulants, your body can benefit from a full night’s sleep, especially after a hard training session or competition. Just like CoQ10, PQQ boasts of powerful antioxidant properties that protect against buildup of stressful free radicals. In fact, some reports suggest it is 5000X as powerful as vitamin C.
- BioPQQ® is a patented form of Pyrroloquinoline quinone backed by studies to boost cognitive function.
What to Avoid in Workout Energy Supplements
Please remember: There are a plethora of pills and potions on the market that surely add no value and can cause health problems in the long-run. Here they are:
- Ephedrine: NCAA, USA, and IOC do not list ginseng in energy drinks as a banned substance. On several occasions, some ginseng products have featured ephedrine which is explicitly outlawed. So, if you’re an athlete who can get randomly tested any time, avoid it. Otherwise, you might receive a two-year ban for illegally having an advantage over others.
- Caffeine and yohimbe: Excessive use of stimulants can throw the nervous system into shambles. Armatures may struggle with jitters, nervousness and restlessness. It can be dangerous even for experienced aquatic athletes when their blood pressure is elevated and insomnia creeps up. There are specific recommendations on how to use caffeine for optimum results. So, check with your doctor or trainer for this information.
- Dimethylamylamine (DMM), red dye no. 40, and synephrine: Artificial ingredients are possibly harmful, too. Since some companies care less about disclosing the downside of artificial food colorings, flavors, and sweeteners, it is important to take the necessary precautions so as not to end up without benefits and at the same time risk high blood pressure for instance.
How Best 5 Supplements Rates and Ranks the Best Workout Supplements for Energy
The Best 5 guide on How to Buy a Good Supplement provides general tips that will help you pick high-quality and effective products by reputable companies. For that matter, we use the following indicators to rate the best energy supplements for swimmers:
- Quality: High-grade, premium energy enhancer forms that work better.
- Healthy: We focus on invigorating substances that support long-term health.
- Research: Swimming energy supplements for which human-based studies demonstrate reliable safety
- Combinations: Powerful ingredients translate to maximum synergy.
- Value: We are interested in formulas that give performance-enhancing return on your investment.
- Service: The way for a manufacturer to add value is to back up their product with strong customer support.
We also like to seek out companies that have a good reputation, online presence, rapport and stand for what their products offer.
Best Energy Supplements for Swimmers
#1: Performance Lab Energy
If you’re concerned about your body and mind’s vitality, Performance Lab Energy is the answer. Mental energy is important for quick thinking and concentration during swimming training. The manufacturer innovatively designed this supplement to increase energy levels from the inside out, vivifying mitochondrial and cellular energy for sustained revitalization. Most energy boosters have the disadvantage of causing the crash effect among other risky side effects. However, this five-ingredient stack has a clean label, zero stimulants, optimal metabolic performance, and high-quality antioxidants.
Performance Lab Energy Summary |
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Ingredients: Acetyl-L-Carnitine 750 mg, R-Lipoic Acid (as Microencapsulated Bio-Enhanced®) 150 mg, Coenzyme Q10 (as MicroActive® Q10) 100 mg, PQQ (as BioPQQ®) 10 mg, Black Pepper Extract (as BioPerine®) 2.5 mg. | |||||
Clean Label: Yes. There are no synthetic additives in Performance Lab Energy. | |||||
Advanced Delivery: Yes. Vegan PlantCaps.
Stimulant Free: Yes. No caffeine. |
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Price: $50 for one box (60 Plantcaps; 30 servings). | |||||
Any Deals? Yes. $95 for two boxes, $135 for three boxes. | |||||
Service: 24/7 customer support, get a reply in 30 minutes, 30-day money-back guarantee. | |||||
Official Website: https://www.performancelab.com/supplements/energy/ | |||||
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#2: Nutrex Lipo 6 Dynamix
Nutrex Lipo 6 Dynamix as it is popularly known, is no ordinary ergogenic aid. For swimmers and other athletes, it can take time to achieve the right body mass with a mix of diet and exercise only. But Nutrex Dynamix utilizes synergistic matrix of compounds that have a strong pedigree of shedding unwanted pounds. The formula is truly dynamic. While it may sound more like a fat burner, the supplement contains a high dose of Dynamine® that delivers intense energy combined with laser-like focus effects perfect for sprint and competitive swimming races.
Nutrex Dynamix Summary |
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Ingredients: 926mg Nootropic blend with Dimethylaminoethanol Bitartate (as AlphaSize® and Huperzia serrata), 327mg Lipo6lytic blend with Theobromine, green coffee bean extract, L-Carnitine L-Tartrate, L-Theanine, Black pepper extract (as BioPerine®), Rauwolfia vomitoria extract, 175mg Caffeine Citrate (as Kaff2 Citrate™ and Caffeine Anhydrous) Methylliberine (as Dynamine 40%) 125mg. | ||
Clean Label: Yes. Natural flavors. | ||
Advanced Delivery: Yes. Dynamine®. | ||
Stimulant Free: No. Contains caffeine. | ||
Price: $39.95 for 1 bottle (60 servings). | ||
Any Deals? No. | ||
Service: Strong customer support, 30-day money-back guarantee. | ||
Official Website: https://www.nutrex.com/product/lipo-6-dynamix/ | ||
Read our in-depth Nutrex Lipo 6 Dynamix review | ||
#3: Olympian Labs Olympian Energy
Whenever athletes go on the market, they look for supplements that will fire them up both physically and mentally. As a swimmer, you cannot go wrong with Olympian Energy. This product stands out as a proprietary combination of B Vitamins, ginseng herbs, and guarana to support healthy energy and elevate mood. Other stimulant ingredients such as kola nut and cayenne facilitate proper circulation of nutrients and oxygen to your brain and muscles to discourage stress and anxiety, while championing quick muscle recovery.
Olympian Labs Olympian Energy Summary |
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Ingredients: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) 4 mg, Niacin B3 35 mg, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCL) 4 mg, Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) 12 mcg, Eleutherococcus senticosus (root) 200 mg, Gotu Kola 4:1 (Centella asiatica) 200 mg, Guarana 22% (Paullinia cupana) 200 mg, Kola Nut (Cola nitida) 200 mg, Korean Ginseng 6% Ginsenosides 200 mg, Cayenne (Capsicum annum) 20 mg, Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) 10 mg. | ||
Clean Label: Yes. Proprietary blends are above board. | ||
Advanced Delivery: No. Only plain capsule available. | ||
Stimulant Free: No. 50 mg caffeine per serving. | ||
Price: $21.37 for vegetable capsule bottle (50-Day Supply). | ||
Any Deals? No. | ||
Service: 24/7 customer support. | ||
Official Website: https://olympianlabs.com/olympian-energy.html | ||
Read our in-depth Olympian Labs Olympian Energy review | ||
#4: MHP Super Caffeine+
Keen consumers and swimmers are always on the lookout for versatility as far as energy supplements are concerned. That’s what MHP Super Caffeine+ is all about: Maximum Human Performance.
Many athletes love caffeine. And so, your muscles’ energy levels will reach peak levels like you’ve always wanted them; not to mention the mental uplift you’ll also experience. Another crucial health benefit is harnessed by the four B Vitamins and rhodiola that control heart rate to dispatch just enough nutrients and oxygen to the muscles and reserve energy for more demanding turns and stretches in the water.
MHP Super Caffeine Summary |
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Ingredients: Niacin (as Niacinamide) 4 mg, Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxine HCl) 1.7 mg, Folate 166.67 mcg (100 mcg Folic Acid), Vitamin B12 (as Cyanocobalamin) 2.4 mcg, Caffeine Anhydrous 100 mg, Rhodiola Root Powder (Rhodiola rosea) 100 mg, Tyrosine 100 mg, D-Ribose 100 mg, Green Tea Leaf Extract (50% Caffeine) 60 mg, Guarana Seed Extract (40% Caffeine) 50 mg. | ||
Clean Label: Yes. There are no shady proprietary blends in MHP Super Caffeine. | ||
Advanced Delivery: No. Only plain capsule available. | ||
Stimulant Free: No. Contains caffeine. | ||
Price: $13.99 for 30-capsule bottle (30-Day Supply). | ||
Any Deals? Yes. Free shipping on orders over $50. | ||
Service: 24/7 customer support. | ||
Official Website: https://mhpstrong.com/product/super-caffeine/ | ||
Read our in-depth MHP Super Caffeine review | ||
#5: NOW Sports Energy Extreme
Are you looking for a sports-energy-oriented brand that will help you stick to your swimming regimen for long? Well, look no further! NOW Sports Energy Extreme’s formula boasts of 22 different ingredients and approaches to cater for all your needs. It is by far, the most comprehensive energy booster in the market. The seven B vitamin pack is similar to what you’ll find in leading athlete multivitamins, which provide solid energy fill-up like no other vitamin group. Similarly, L-Carnitine, Rhodiola, Coenzyme Q10 and caffeine make it a perfect choice for rigorous swimming training.
NOW Sports Energy Extreme Summary |
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Ingredients: Thiamin (Vitamin B-1 from Thiamin HCl) 10 mg, Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2) 10 mg, Vitamin B-3 (as Niacinamide) 20 mg, Vitamin B-6 (from Pyridoxine HCl) 10 mg, Folate (as Folic Acid) 400 mcg, Vitamin B-12 (as Methylcobalamin) 1,000 mcg, Pantothenic Acid (from Calcium Pantothenate) 20 mg, Iodine (from Potassium Iodide) 150 mcg, Magnesium (from Magnesium Malate) 15 mg, Chromium (from Chromium Chelavite®) 200 mcg, Natural Caffeine Powder 100 mg, Guarana Extract (Seed) 80 mg, Green Tea Extract (Leaf) 50 mg, Yerba Mate Extract (Leaf) 50 mg, Rhodiola Extract (Rhodiola rosea) 50 mg, Eleuthero Root 50 mg, Panax ginseng Root 50 mg, Taurine (Free-Form) 250 mg, L-Tyrosine (Free-Form) 250 mg, L-Carnitine (Carnipure™) 250 mg, L-Citrulline (Free-Form) 100 mg, CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) 30 mg. | ||
Clean Label: Yes. But not vegan. | ||
Advanced Delivery: No. Only plain capsule available. | ||
Stimulant Free: No. Contains caffeine. | ||
Price: $16.07 on Amazon. | ||
Any Deals? No. | ||
Service: NOW is not sold directly from their official website, so customer services depend on the retailer. | ||
Official Website: https://www.nowfoods.com/sports-nutrition/sports-energy-extreme-capsules | ||
Read our in-depth NOW Sports Energy Extreme review | ||
Best Swimming Supplements for Energy Conclusion
By now, any skepticism as to whether energy supplements can increase swimmers’ energy has faded out. They hold true to their name, enriching the body and brain with the right nutrients that build up energy reserves, while getting rid of harmful effects of stressed muscles. You’re not going to waste your hard-earned money, as studies provide evidence of efficacy to be at your very best come race day.
Should you need a full understanding of the ingredients that best go with workout energy needs, do not forget to check out our complete reviews of these energy supplements. Better still, visit the updated Best 5 Supplements page for rankings and more.
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