Published on 05, Apr 2023

Activated Aesthetics Discusses the Facts and Myths about Fitness Supplements

As more people abandon their couches and go to fitness centers and parks to exercise and work out, fitness supplements are under the spotlight. Just how effective are they, and what does “effective” actually mean? How do you know which ones to buy or avoid? Below, Saori Werner and Dean Werner II, the co-owners of the fitness center Activated Aesthetics, reveal what is true about fitness supplements - and what is not. 

Fact: Fitness supplements can help improve physical performance

“It is true that if you take supplements, you can perform better as you work out in a gym or exercise,” says Dean. “Some of the most effective ingredients include creatine, which helps to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance; beta-alanine, which improves muscular endurance and delays fatigue during high-intensity exercise; and even caffeine, which is good for endurance and the reduction of fatigue during prolonged workouts.” 

Myth: Fitness supplements will magically make you a better athlete

“There is nothing that will transform your body overnight even though supplements can improve your physical performance,” Saori says. “Nothing replaces hard work over the long term. Instead, supplements are basically a tool. When you make them part of a routine that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise, you will be able to achieve better results.”

Fact: Not all supplements are created equal

Just like with any other product, there are many different types of fitness supplements on the market, some better than others. “Their effectiveness  usually comes down to the quality of their ingredients, which is why doing your research before purchasing them is so important,” Dean believes. “Make sure that you choose a reputable brand, one whose supplements have been third-party tested and verified for purity.”

Myth: You can get all the nutrients you need from food

Dean and Saori are both proponents of a healthy diet being the foundation of any fitness program. “However, the food you eat cannot always provide all of the nutrients that you need,” Saori explains. “This is especially true if you are an athlete: to support your training and recovery, you may need higher levels of certain nutrients, which supplements can supply.”

Fact: Some supplements can have negative side effects

While many fitness supplements are safe and effective when taken correctly, others can cause problems if their dosage is too high or they are taken for extended periods of time. 

“Too much caffeine can lead to jitters, anxiety, and insomnia while excessive intake of creatine can result in dehydration and digestive problems,” Dean says. “Really, avoiding these issues comes down to following the recommended guidelines and, of course, talking to your doctor before you begin taking any supplement.”

Myth: You must take a lot of supplements to see results

“First, it’s very important to define what you mean by ‘results,’” Saori says. “Remember: taking too many supplements can be counterproductive and even harmful, which often occurs, for example, when a person wants to quickly gain muscle. What’s better is to have that goal but to celebrate the small wins along the way. When you view the improvements in your body as a lifelong journey, you will take the supplements in moderation and be happier with the gradual changes that they cause.”

Myth: Supplements are only for bodybuilders

While supplements are often associated with weightlifting and bodybuilding, Dean explains that they can be beneficial for endurance athletes, recreational exercisers, and people looking to support their overall health and wellness.

“The key to any supplement is to choose one that is specifically tailored to your needs and goals,” he said. “So, think carefully about what you would like to accomplish, and remember that no matter how great that supplement may be, it will never be a replacement for hard work and perseverance.”

Activated Aesthetics was founded by Dean Werner II and Saori Werner, an interracial couple who are veterans of the United States Army Active Service. After earning their BS degrees in Health Science, they opened their fitness center and began guiding active service people, veterans, law enforcement officials, seniors, youth, and the local community to succeed on their fitness journeys. Their programs include weight loss, strength training, fitness motivation, yoga, boot camps, boxing, nutrition, meal plans, and online coaching for couples and individuals. They are also brand ambassadors for 1st Phorm.

For more information about Activated Aesthetics, please see its website or follow it on Instagram.