Exploring The Most Popular Sports Supplements

As the fitness landscape continues to evolve in 2025, sports supplements have become an integral part of many training regimens. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, these products promise to enhance performance, aid recovery, and support overall health. 

The UK market, in particular, offers an impressive range of supplements catering to diverse needs and preferences. From pre-workout energizers to post-workout recovery aids, the options can be overwhelming.

This article delves into the most popular sports supplements currently making waves in the UK, exploring their benefits, key ingredients, and what to consider when choosing the right ones for your fitness goals.

Pre-Workout Supplements

Pre-workout supplements have become essential tools for fitness enthusiasts seeking to maximise their training sessions. Research published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition has demonstrated that combining pre-workout supplements with HIIT training significantly increases VO2 max, training volume and lean body mass, while accelerating fat loss in recreational athletes.

The most effective high stim pre-workout formulations typically contain caffeine as their primary stimulant, alongside other performance-enhancing ingredients. Optimum Nutrition’s Pre-Workout delivers a potent 175mg of caffeine alongside vitamins B6 and B12 and beta-alanine to help users power through challenging workouts. 

For those seeking something stronger, Protein Works Raze Extreme combines 200mg of caffeine with 3.5g of creatine and 1.5g of beta-alanine, creating a formidable blend that protects against injury while delaying muscle fatigue.

Options for Beginners

If you’re new to pre-workout supplementation, Foodspring Energy Aminos provides a gentler introduction with 171mg of caffeine combined with plant-based BCAAs and piperine (a black pepper compound linked to enhanced strength and endurance). Users typically report experiencing a “clean buzz” without the jitteriness that sometimes accompanies stronger formulations.

Myprotein’s THE Pre-Workout has also earned recognition for its potent blend of 200mg caffeine, creatine, L-glutamine and vitamin B6. Despite its vibrant appearance, testers report it delivers reliable energy surges before workouts while reducing post-exercise DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness).

Protein Supplements

According to MyCore Supplements Protein supplements remain the cornerstone of sports nutrition, available in various formats to suit different preferences and lifestyle requirements.

Powders

Form Performance Protein Powder continues to dominate the plant-based category in 2025, offering a nutritionally complete blend of pea, pumpkin seed and brown rice proteins. With an impressive 30g of protein per 150-calorie serving, it provides comprehensive nutrition while remaining gentle on digestion.

For those seeking alternatives to traditional milky protein drinks, Myprotein Clear Whey delivers 20g of protein with minimal sugar and fewer than 90 calories per serving in a juice-like consistency. Available in over 15 fruity flavours including Blood Orange and Strawberry Kiwi, it offers refreshment alongside recovery benefits.

Ready-to-Drink Options

The convenience market continues to grow with products like Grounded Milkshake gaining popularity as fridge staples. These plant-based drinks pack 20g of protein using only natural ingredients—or “no cr*p” as the brand states—while maintaining delicious milkshake-like taste profiles. Their commitment to 100% recyclable packaging also addresses growing consumer concerns about sustainability.

Protein Bars and Bites

For on-the-go nutrition, Grenade’s collaboration with Oreo has produced one of the most popular protein bars on the market. Featuring a biscuit layer and smooth chocolate coating, it delivers 21g of protein with low sugar content for a modest 233 calories. 

Plant-based consumers can turn to Barebells Vegan Hazelnut Nougat, which provides 15g of protein while maintaining low sugar levels—a combination not always guaranteed in plant-based options.

For those seeking smaller portions, The Protein Ball Co offers date and cashew-based snacks containing 7g of plant protein per bag, alongside 3g of fibre and essential vitamins including B12, C and D3, all under 200 calories.

Creatine

Creatine stands out as one of the most scientifically supported supplements for enhancing muscle power and athletic performance. This naturally occurring compound accelerates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy source for muscle contractions.

Benefits extend beyond increased power output to potential improvements in mental focus. At approximately £4.50 per 100g, creatine represents an excellent investment for those serious about their training.

While some practitioners recommend a “loading phase” (about 20g daily for five days), many users achieve benefits with a simple maintenance dose of 0.03-0.05g per kilogram of body weight.

Speciality Supplements

Hydration and Electrolytes

For endurance athletes and heavy sweaters, electrolyte supplements have become essential training companions. HIGH5 Zero Electrolyte Sports Drink tablets deliver 250mg of sodium per serving in a refreshing sugar-free format, providing critical minerals lost through perspiration during extended exercise sessions.

Greens and Vitamins

Products like Shreddy Supergreens help bridge nutritional gaps by providing concentrated doses of over 30 vegetables, including nutrient-dense options like kale, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Beyond vitamins and minerals, these supplements often contain additional benefits like probiotics for gut health.

For those seeking specific nutrients without pills, innovations like Better You Vitamin D Oral Spray provide 3,000IU of vitamin D through a simple peppermint-flavoured spritz inside the cheek, delivering the nutrient directly into the bloodstream.

Things to Consider

While sports supplements can be incredibly beneficial, it’s crucial to approach their use with a thoughtful and informed mindset. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Consult a Professional

Before adding any supplements to your regimen, consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian. They can help determine if supplements are safe and necessary based on your diet and fitness goals, and ensure they won’t interact with any medications you’re taking.

Understand Your Goals

Clearly define what you want to achieve with supplements. Are you looking to enhance endurance, boost strength, or aid recovery? Different supplements serve different purposes, so align your choices with your specific objectives.

Check the Ingredients

Ensure that the supplements you choose contain ingredients backed by scientific evidence. Look for products with transparent labeling and avoid those with unnecessary fillers or artificial additives.

Side Effects

Be aware of potential interactions with other supplements or medications. Also, monitor your body’s response to new supplements and adjust or discontinue use if you experience adverse side effects.

Dietary Considerations

If you follow a specific diet (e.g., vegan, gluten-free), ensure that your supplements align with these requirements. Many brands now offer options tailored to different dietary needs.

Conclusion

The sports supplement industry continues to play a significant role in modern fitness and athletic performance, offering solutions that cater to a wide range of needs. From pre-workout energizers to protein powders and recovery aids, these products can enhance training outcomes when used appropriately. However, supplements should be viewed as complementary tools rather than replacements for a balanced diet and proper training.

Informed decision-making is key—understanding your goals, consulting professionals, and choosing high-quality products backed by scientific evidence can help you maximise the benefits while minimising risks.