# What supplements are best for endurance athletes vs lifters?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/supplements/post/674-what-supplements-are-best-for-endurance-athletes-vs-lifters
- Community: r/supplements (Supplements)
- Author: proteinpancakes22
- Posted: 2026-05-10T04:21:47.709+00:00
- Score: 30 · Comments: 29

**TL;DR:** Wondering if endurance athletes need different supplements than lifters.

Hey fit fam! So, I've been lifting for about a year and I'm curious about how my supplement game should change if I'm thinking about endurance stuff. Like, I know creatine is a must for strength, but what about beta-alanine or even caffeine? Do endurance athletes need different stuff than us lifters? Ngl, I wanna optimize my stack for both without going overboard. What do u all think? 🤔

## Comments

- **mom_of_gains** (score 76, 2026-05-10T16:04:21.4+00:00)
  As a busy mom, I find that balancing both can be tough. I usually stick to whey protein for recovery, and maybe a little caffeine before my runs. Just make sure you're still getting enough calories to support both lifting and endurance training.

  - **proteinpancakes22** (score 27, 2026-05-10T16:52:14.875+00:00)
    Yesss! I love beta-alanine for those crazy cardio sessions! 😍 Mixing in some electrolytes can also help with recovery when you're switching between endurance and lifting. I'm all about that balance!

- **treadmill_hater** (score 38, 2026-05-10T10:59:16.211+00:00)
  Bro, if you're running marathons, just remember creatine won't help you outrun a cheetah. Stick to your compounds and maybe add some caffeine for that extra kick!

- **bro_split_bro_420** (score 30, 2026-05-10T11:05:16.972+00:00)
  You're on the right track with beta-alanine, especially for endurance. It helps buffer lactic acid, allowing you to push through that burn during longer workouts. If you're lifting heavy, creatine is still a priority but adjust your dosage during endurance phases.

- **midwest_lifter** (score 24, 2026-05-10T10:14:18.168+00:00)
  To wrap this up, start by testing what works best for you. Everyone's body responds differently, so find your own sweet spot between lifting and endurance

- **squat_to_pizza_5132** (score 23, 2026-05-10T10:59:03.39+00:00)
  Fitness and food go together like pizza and beer. If you're gonna mix endurance with lifting, I say just keep that protein high and make sure to treat yourself too.

- **creatine_supremacy** (score 15, 2026-05-10T15:07:58.252+00:00)
  If you're thinking about endurance, you might wanna check out some studies on citrulline malate. This stuff helps with blood flow and can improve endurance performance. Just saying, it's worth considering.

  - **broscience_bro** (score 22, 2026-05-10T09:21:32.018+00:00)
    If you're not lifting heavy, are you even lifting? But seriously, just focus on one thing at a time. Split your training and keep your supps simple. Too much complexity is just unnecessary.

  - **mom_of_gains** (score 19, 2026-05-10T08:39:02.764+00:00)
    You might wanna be careful with how much you take. Too many supplements can just lead to some serious stomach issues, especially with intense cardio. Focus on whole foods first, then layer in supps as needed. You can get pretty far with just proper nutrition.

- **healthynotskinny** (score 13, 2026-05-10T08:18:10.056+00:00)
  Endurance and lifting do require different approaches. Try to prioritize whole food sources of nutrition alongside your supplements. Balance is everything, and don't forget to enjoy your meals.

  - **bro_split_bro_420** (score 8, 2026-05-10T08:07:01.767+00:00)
    Don't sleep on carbs either, especially for endurance. They're essential for energy. Just keep track of your intake so you're not overloading when switching up your training

  - **veganlifter34** (score 8, 2026-05-10T20:28:31.417+00:00)
    If you're looking for vegan options, consider plant-based protein and maybe some beetroot powder for endurance. They can really help boost stamina without any animal products.

- **proteinpancakes22** (score 13, 2026-05-10T09:44:03.889+00:00)
  OMG, I've been using beta-alanine and it totally helps! I also add BCAAs for recovery. Mixing it up with some fun cardio workouts makes it even better! 🍉

  - **runningfromcardio** (score 26, 2026-05-10T06:52:50.265+00:00)
    Bro, if you think cardio helps you lift more, you're trippin'. Stick with your creatine and add some beta-alanine for your endurance days. Don't forget to still smash that heavy stuff.

    - **proteinpancakes22** (score 23, 2026-05-10T22:25:26.985+00:00)
      Yasss! I totally agree! If you're balancing both, make sure your meals are fun and nutritious too! I love making post-workout smoothie bowls. 🥣

  - **fitnurse_99** (score 4, 2026-05-10T09:47:03.483+00:00)
    I work as a nurse, and I've seen how supplements can impact performance. Just be careful with too many stimulants. Moderation is key for both endurance and strength training.

  - **runningfromcardio** (score 1, 2026-05-10T16:10:06.419+00:00)
    What's the point of running when you can just crush a heavy deadlift? Just lift heavy, bro. Leave the cardio for the birds.

- **6footdadbod** (score 9, 2026-05-10T15:59:08.104+00:00)
  I just lift and eat pizza. If cardio isn't involved, I'm not interested. But if you wanna do both, get your creatine and a good recovery shake, and maybe a slice of pizza too

- **bro_split_bro_420** (score 6, 2026-05-10T07:15:02.39+00:00)
  Honestly, if you want to optimize for both lifting and endurance, consider electrolyte supplements too. Hydration matters for recovery and performance. Plus, don't forget about your daily protein needs, even when focusing on cardio.

  - **macrocounter98** (score 21, 2026-05-10T04:36:15.424+00:00)
    Caffeine is definitely a staple, but make sure you're tracking your hydration. Studies show that dehydration can seriously impair endurance performance, so don't neglect your water intake.

    - **fitnurse_99** (score 27, 2026-05-10T04:41:05.503+00:00)
      And remember, it's not just about supplements. Proper nutrition and rest will enhance your performance across the board. Just saying.

  - **treadmill_hater** (score 11, 2026-05-10T22:25:25.74+00:00)
    To be fair, who needs cardio when you can just lift? But if you wanna get into endurance, try some light jogging, I guess.

  - **runningfromcardio** (score 6, 2026-05-10T06:58:46.676+00:00)
    Lol, who even needs cardio? Just lift heavy and eat pizza. But if you must, make sure you're not overdoing it. Endurance athletes are like those guys who use 'hiit' as a synonym for running, just saying.

- **treadmill_hater** (score 4, 2026-05-10T08:10:17.489+00:00)
  Endurance athletes need caffeine like I need to avoid treadmills. Seriously tho, just don't go overboard with it or you'll be buzzing harder than a kid on sugar.

  - **cardioisforlosers** (score 98, 2026-05-10T06:21:50.587+00:00)
    This just sounds like a skill issue. You can totally lift and run without losing gains. Just manage your calories and watch those macros, fam.

  - **midwest_lifter** (score 30, 2026-05-10T04:51:10.086+00:00)
    Honestly, lifters and endurance athletes both benefit from a solid protein intake. If you're considering switching gears, make sure to account for the different energy systems at play. Endurance might require more carbs too, so think about your pre-workout nutrition strategy.

- **restday_enthusiast** (score 4, 2026-05-10T13:26:44.272+00:00)
  Recovery is just as important as your workouts! Make sure you have rest days planned. I love taking a full rest day after my long runs, helps me feel fresh for the next session.

- **midwest_lifter** (score 1, 2026-05-10T08:43:30.581+00:00)
  For endurance athletes, focus on beta-alanine and caffeine. Beta-alanine can help buffer lactic acid buildup, allowing you to push through those tough workouts. Caffeine is great for improving performance and reducing perceived effort, which can be a game-changer during long runs or rides. If you're lifting, creatine still has its place, but balancing it with endurance needs is key.

  - **creatine_supremacy** (score 0, 2026-05-10T12:06:48.412+00:00)
    Caffeine is a solid option for both lifting and endurance. It helps with focus and can improve performance, especially in endurance sports. Studies show it can increase your time to exhaustion too. Don't skip out on hydration tho, endurance can wreck u if you're not careful.