Runners are a unique breed of athletes. They push their bodies to the limit, day after day, in pursuit of personal goals and PRs.
And while some runners do it for the sheer love of the sport, others are driven by the need to compete.
No matter what type of runner you are, there's one thing that all runners have in common: the need for proper nutrition.
That's why we've put together a list of the best supplements for runners. These supplements will help you run your best.
So whether you're looking to improve your performance or simply want to make sure you're getting all the nutrients you need, be sure to check out our list of the best supplements for runners.
We hope you find your next favorite thing from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to fiddle with, but all opinions in this article are our own. Oh, and FYI — LucksList may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). Reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding your next favorite thing!
How We Choose The Best For You
Most runners know that taking a multivitamin is important, but it's hard to know which one to buy.
It can be tough enough finding time to fit in your runs, let alone reading through pages and pages of reviews on Amazon to find the best multivitamin for runners.
We've done the hard work for you and found the top 5 multivitamins for runners based on customer reviews. Our experts have read through thousands of reviews so you don't have to!
Best for Hydration Nutrition Powder Supplement
VALI Electrolyte Salts Rehydration Replacement Pills
Why We Love It
We all know how important it is to stay hydrated, especially when we're active. But sometimes water just isn't enough, especially if you're sweating a lot. That's where VALI comes in!
VALI is an electrolyte salt that helps replenish the important salts your body loses when you sweat. Just mix one packet with water and you're good to go!
Not only does VALI help you stay hydrated, but it also gives you a boost of energy and prevents muscle cramping. So whether you're hitting the gym or just enjoying a sunny day outside, make sure to bring along VALI!
What You Should Know
VALI Rehydration Pills are a safe, clean, and transparent formula designed to help you maintain active performance and aid endurance. Zero carbs, sugar free, artificial flavors or preservatives.
Vegetarian, Non-GMO ingredients. Keto & paleo friendly. A superior powdered rehydration blend for ultimate healthy mineral level balance - Vitamin D3, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Himalayan Pink Salt, and Zinc. Proudly made in the USA in an eco-friendly facility under the latest cGMP guidelines.
Fluid loss happens, or you're running to power through, maintaining electrolyte balance and boosting energy levels is key to preventing quitting and eliminating the need to stop. Take VALI before and during activity to ensure electrolyte replenishment health.
When energy drops, extreme fluid loss happens, or you're running to power through, maintain electrolyte balance and boost energy levels. VALI is your answer to staying active and perform at your best! Try it today!
Why We Love It
Looking for a joint supplement that can keep up with your running routine? Run Fit Nutrition Joint Supplement is made with glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and New Zealand sea muscle to give you the most advanced, targeted joint support available.
It's also proven to help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis. So you can keep running pain-free and protected against future injuries.
What You Should Know
If you're someone who loves to run, you know that feeling of euphoria that comes with crossing the finish line. But what about the aches and pains that come with putting your body through all that mileage?
That's where Run Fit Nutrition Joint Supplement comes in. This unique formula provides vital nutrients to the whole body for keeping joints lubricated, healthy, and flexible.
The joint pain relief supplement is easy to digest and absorb, thanks to the stomach-soothing alfalfa powder.
Plus, it comes in a handy bottle that's easy to take on the go. So whether you're training for a marathon or simply want to keep your joints healthy, Run Fit Nutrition Joint Supplement is an essential part of your routine.
Best for Rehydration, Exercise, Hiking & Sports Recovery
SaltStick Caps Electrolyte Supplement
Why We Love It
Introducing SaltStick Caps, the electrolyte supplement that quickly dissolves to help reduce heat stress and muscle cramping.
Formulated to replenish what your body loses from sweat, SaltStick Caps help maintain electrolyte levels and boost stamina.
Whether you're training for a marathon or just trying to stay cool during a hot summer day, SaltStick Caps are the perfect way to keep your body performing at its best.
So don't let heat and sweat get the best of you - pick up a bottle of SaltStick Caps today!
What You Should Know
As anyone who has ever gone for a run in the summer heat knows, electrolytes are essential for keeping your body hydrated and preventing cramping.
However, it can be difficult to get the right balance of electrolytes through diet alone. That's where SaltStick Caps come in.
These convenient capsules provide a clean and simple way to replenish electrolytes, without any unwanted additives. SaltStick Caps are Non-GMO, Vegetarian, and Gluten Free, making them a great choice for anyone with dietary restrictions.
They're also easy to take on the go, so you can have them handy whenever you need them. Whether you're running a marathon or just going for a walk on a hot day, SaltStick Caps can help you stay hydrated and comfortable.
Why We Love It
Introducing Vimerson Health Glucosamine! Whether you’re an athlete looking to support your joints during intense exercise, or you’re just wanting to relieve occasional joint discomfort, our Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Turmeric & MSM supplement can help keep you active and complement a healthy lifestyle.
This supplement is designed to ease discomfort that may come with age, weight, or athletic deterioration of the joints. It promotes joint health and comfort, supports cartilage and joint flexibility, and helps increase joint mobility. So if you’re looking for a natural way to support your joints and keep your body moving, try Vimerson Health Glucosamine today!
What You Should Know
Looking for a joint-support supplement that goes above and beyond the typical glucosamine and chondroitin formula?
Vimerson Health Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM is your answer! Not only does it contain glucosamine and chondroitin, but it also has MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) to support healthy inflammation levels.
Plus, we've added a 4:1 Turmeric extract for even more joint-supporting power.
Made in the USA from global ingredients in a GMP-certified facility, this supplement is also non-GMO, shellfish-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free, and pork-free.
So why wait? Give your joints the support they deserve with Vimerson Health Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM.
Why We Love It
Move Free Advanced Glucosamine is a joint support supplement that contains Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Hyaluronic Acid, Uniflex and MSM to help support the 5 signs of joint health!
This joint supplement is perfect for both men and women who are looking for extra joint support.
The clinically tested Uniflex complex helps support joint comfort in as little as 2 weeks while the MSM provides extra cartilage support.
What You Should Know
Aching joints can make even the simplest movements feel impossible. If you're looking for a way to lubricate your joints and support their health, consider Move Free Advanced Glucosamine.
Not only does it support G3, but it also provides extra cartilage support. Simply take three tablets once a day with a meal, or one tablet three times daily with meals.
With a 40-day supply in each bottle, you can stock up and keep your joints feeling their best for months to come.
And because it's FSA eligible, you can use your Flex Spending Account dollars to purchase it. So why wait? Give Move Free Advanced Glucosamine a try and get back to moving freely.
Best Supplements for Runners FAQs
You're a runner, and you want to take your performance to the next level.
But you're not sure where to start when it comes to supplements. Do you need protein? What about electrolytes? How can you be sure that you're taking the right supplements for runners?
Don't worry, we've got you covered. Our experts have researched and compiled the best supplements for runners, based on your needs. Check out our list of the most frequently asked questions about running supplements, and find the answers that are perfect for you.
Which Supplement Is Best for Runners?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best supplement for runners can vary depending on their individual needs and fitness goals. However, some of the most popular supplements for runners include protein powders, energy gels and bars, and electrolyte supplements.
Protein powders are a great way for runners to refuel after a workout, as they help rebuild muscle tissue that was damaged during exercise. Energy gels and bars are a convenient source of energy for endurance athletes, while electrolyte supplements can help replace the electrolytes lost in sweat. Ultimately, it's important to find out what supplements work best for you and make sure to incorporate them into your training regimen.
Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) are a type of amino acid that can be found in protein-rich foods such as meat, poultry, and eggs. BCAAs are also sold in powder form and are often taken as a supplement by athletes to help with recovery after exercise.
A recovery supplement is any type of supplement that is taken after exercise to help with recovery. Recovery supplements can include protein powders, BCAA supplements, and glutamine supplements.
What Supplements Improve Running Endurance?
There are a few different supplements that have been shown to improve running endurance.
One is caffeine, which is a central nervous system stimulant that has been shown to improve performance in long-duration exercise. Another is beetroot juice, which contains nitrates that have been shown to improve running endurance. Finally, there are supplements that contain antioxidants such as beta carotene and vitamin C, which may help protect the body against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Muscle growth and repair are essential for runners, as they help to keep the body strong and prevent injuries. Protein powders are a great way to get the necessary protein, as they provide the body with a concentrated source of amino acids that are perfect for building muscle.
Should Runners Take Creatine?
Creatine is a popular supplement among runners and other athletes, but there is some controversy over whether or not it is actually effective. Some studies have shown that creatine can help improve performance, while others have found no significant benefits. It is also unclear how well creatine is absorbed by the body when taken in supplement form.
Overall, the evidence on creatine is mixed. Some studies suggest that it can be helpful for runners who are trying to improve their performance, while other research suggests that it may not be effective. If you are considering taking creatine, speak with your doctor or a Registered Dietitian to get the most accurate advice for your individual situation.
Protein synthesis is the process by which the body builds muscle. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and they are found in foods such as meat, poultry, and eggs. BCAAs are a type of amino acid that can help to stimulate protein synthesis and promote muscle growth.
Should Runners Take Protein?
It depends. Protein is a macronutrient that your body needs in order to build and repair muscle tissue. If you're running a lot, you're going to need more protein than the average person in order to make sure your muscles are getting what they need.
However, not all sources of protein are created equal. Some forms of protein are better for runners than others. For example, animal-based proteins like meat, poultry, and eggs contain all the essential amino acids your body needs to build muscle. Plant-based proteins like beans and lentils don't have all the essential amino acids, but they can still be a good source of protein if you eat them regularly.
So yes, runners should take protein, but it's important to make sure you're getting the right kind of protein for your needs.
Bone health is important for runners, as stress fractures are a common injury among runners. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is essential for bone health. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, so it is also important for bone health.
Lean muscle mass is important for runners, as it helps to improve performance and prevent injuries. Creatine is a popular supplement that has been shown to help increase lean muscle mass.
What Do Marathon Runners Take?
Marathon runners take a variety of things before and during races, including water, sports drinks, energy bars and gels, salt tablets, and ibuprofen.
Water is the most important thing to take because it helps to prevent dehydration. Sports drinks help replace electrolytes that are lost in sweat. Energy bars and gels provide calories and carbohydrates that are needed for energy. Salt tablets can help prevent hyponatremia, or low blood sodium levels. Ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Cardiovascular health is important for runners, as running is a form of aerobic exercise. Fish oil is a popular supplement that has been shown to improve cardiovascular health.
Which Vitamin Improves Stamina?
A lack of any specific vitamin will not necessarily cause someone to lose stamina. However, deficiencies in certain vitamins can certainly play a role in reducing energy and stamina levels.
For example, a lack of vitamin B12 can lead to anemia, which is a condition characterized by extreme fatigue and weakness. Similarly, a lack of vitamin D can cause muscle weakness and fatigue.
So while it's not possible to say that any one specific vitamin is responsible for improved stamina levels, ensuring that you have adequate levels of all the essential vitamins and minerals is certainly important for maintaining good energy levels throughout the day.
The immune system is important for runners, as exercise can suppress the immune system. Vitamin C is a popular supplement that has been shown to help improve immune system function.
Runners need to be careful about overtraining, as this can lead to fatigue, injuries, and illness. Overtraining is a common problem among runners, and it can be difficult to avoid.
Do BCAAs Help Runners?
There is some evidence that BCAA supplementation can improve running performance, though the research is still preliminary and more studies are needed to confirm these findings. In one study, runners who supplemented with BCAA prior to runs improved theirTime to exhaustion by an average of 3%, while those who took a placebo failed to see any benefits. Additionally, runners who supplemented with BCAA had lower levels of perceived exertion, meaning they felt like they could run for longer before getting tired.
It's thought that BCAAs may help improve running performance by reducing fatigue and delaying the onset of muscle soreness. BCAAs may also improve glucose uptake during exercise, which could help endurance athletes sustain their energy levels for longer periods of time.
Do Runners Need Multivitamins?
Yes, runners need multivitamins. Vitamins and minerals are essential for optimal health, and runners require more of them than the average person because of the amount of energy they expend.
Running can place a lot of stress on the body, and it's important to make sure you're getting all the nutrients you need to repair muscles and tissues. A good multivitamin can help ensure that you're getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Exercise induced muscle damage is a common problem among runners, and supplements like vitamin C and zinc can help reduce the severity of this damage.
What Supplements to Take to Run Faster?
If you're looking to improve your running speed, there are a few different things you can do. First and foremost, focus on your training regimen. Make sure you're doing adequate amounts of both speed work and endurance training. Both are important for boosting your overall running performance.
In addition to focusing on your training, you can also look at supplementing your diet with certain items that have been shown to improve running performance. Creatine is one such example - it has been shown to help improve explosive power, which can be helpful for sprinting. caffeine is another popular choice among runners - it's a great stimulant that can help improve energy levels and focus.
Physical performance is important for runners, but so is mental focus and concentration. There are a few different supplements that can help with this as well. Rhodiola rosea is an herb that has been shown to improve mental focus and concentration, while also reducing fatigue. L-theanine is an amino acid that can help improve focus and concentration, and it's also found in green tea.
Is It Better to Drink a Protein Shake Before or After a Run?
It's better to drink a protein shake before a run because it will help you maintain your energy levels throughout your workout.
Protein shakes are especially beneficial for runners because they help to rebuild and repair muscle tissue that has been broken down during a run. They also help to promote weight loss by increasing the body's metabolic rate. So, if you're looking to lose weight or build muscle, drinking a protein shake before running is the way to go.
Exercise performance is improved when protein is consumed before a workout, so if you're looking to improve your running performance, make sure you're drinking a protein shake before you hit the pavement.
Athletic performance is improved when protein is consumed before a workout, so if you're looking to improve your running performance, make sure you're drinking a protein shake before you hit the pavement.
Supplements for Runners Benefits
Most runners are always looking for an edge. They'll do anything to shave a few seconds off their personal best, whether it's by following a strict training regimen or by wearing the latest high-tech sneakers.
But there's one area that is often overlooked: nutrition. A well-balanced diet is crucial for any runner, but sometimes it's not enough. That's where supplements come in.
Supplements can help runners in a number of ways, from improving their overall health to increasing their energy levels on race day. In addition, they can help to reduce muscle soreness and speed up the recovery process after a long run.
With so many benefits, it's no wonder that more and more runners are starting to take supplements as part of their training regime.
Supplements for Runners Dosage
Most runners are always looking for an edge. They'll do anything to shave a few seconds off their personal best, whether it's by following a strict training regimen or by wearing the latest high-tech sneakers.
But there's one area that is often overlooked: nutrition. A well-balanced diet is crucial for any runner, but sometimes it's not enough. That's where supplements come in.
Supplements can help runners in a number of ways, from improving their overall health to increasing their energy levels on race day. In addition, they can help to reduce muscle soreness and speed up the recovery process after a long run.
With so many benefits, it's no wonder that more and more runners are starting to take supplements as part of their training regime.
Supplements for Runners Side Effects
Runners are always looking for an edge. Whether it's a new pair of shoes or the latest protein powder, runners are willing to try just about anything that might help them run faster or farther.
However, while supplements can offer some benefits, they also come with a risk of side effects. For example, many energy drinks contain large amounts of caffeine, which can lead to dehydration and anxiety.
Protein powders can also cause gastrointestinal issues, and some Iron supplements can lead to constipation. So before you start popping pills, be sure to do your research and talk to your doctor to make sure that the risks are worth the potential rewards.
What’s The Best Supplements for Runners For You?
So there you have it! Our top picks for the best supplements for runners. We hope this article has helped you narrow down your search and that you find the perfect supplement to help you achieve your running goals.
Stay hydrated, my friends, and good luck out on the roads and trails!
And if you need help picking the right product, here you go!
Best for Hydration Nutrition Powder Supplement
VALI Electrolyte Salts Rehydration Replacement Pills
Best Runner's Joint Support
Run Fit Nutrition Joint Supplement
Best for Rehydration, Exercise, Hiking & Sports Recovery
SaltStick Caps Electrolyte Supplement
Best for Occasional Joint Discomfort Relief
Vimerson Health Glucosamine
Best Joint Support Supplement For Men and Women
Move Free Advanced Glucosamine
We hope this article has helped make your decision easier and that you enjoy your new supplement for runners!