All runners, from beginners to experienced athletes need protein in their diets!
If you're looking for the best protein to help you reach your goals, this comprehensive review is for you. We'll take a look at six of the most popular proteins on the market and see how they stack up. We'll discuss the benefits of each protein and help you decide which one is right for you.
With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which protein is for you. But with this review, you'll be able to make an informed decision that will help you reach your goals – whether that's running a marathon or simply improving your overall health.
Read on to find out all you need to know about choosing protein.
How We Choose The Top Protein For Runners
A lot of runners don't know what protein to take after a run and which one will be best for them.
Protein is an essential part of any runner's diet, but it can be hard to know which type of protein to take and which brand to buy.
We have done the research for you and compiled a list of the best protein powder, protein bars, and drinks for runners, as well as the best brands. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision about which protein supplement is right for you. All protein supplements should be taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and only the recommended quantity. If unsure seek medical advice.
Here at Smart Frog, we take pride in our reviews. We only recommend products that we believe in and use ourselves. We also believe in transparency, so we want you to know that Smart Frog Reviews may receive a commission at no cost to you from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business).
With that said, we would never recommend a product we didn't believe in just to make a quick buck. We stand by our reviews 100%, and we hope you find them helpful. Thanks for supporting us and happy shopping!
What We Like The Most About It
There are a lot of protein powders for runners on the market but If you're looking for a top-quality protein powder that can help you perform your best, then Vega Store Sport Protein Powder is a perfect choice. This protein powder is a plant-based protein and is packed with 30g of protein per scoop. Additionally, it contains 5g of BCAAs and two billion probiotics to help support your recovery.
Plus, the tart cherry extract in Vega Store Sport Protein Powder can help reduce inflammation. This protein powder is also NSF Certified for Sport and Certified Vegan, so you can be sure you're getting a high-quality product. It's also Non-GMO Project Verified and gluten-free, and it doesn't contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.
What You Need To Know
As an athlete, you know that what you put into your body is important for your performance. You need a protein powder that is going to give you the nutrients you need for muscle growth and recovery from workouts, without any artificial sweeteners that could hinder your progress. That's why NSF Certified for Sport, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan protein powder is the perfect choice for athletes who are looking for a clean and healthy protein powder. This protein powder is lactose and dairy-free, soy-free, and non whey, making it easy for your body to digest and absorb. It also has a smooth taste and texture, so you can make a delicious shake or smoothie post-workout.
Choose from four great flavors: chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or banana. NSF Certified for Sport, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan protein powder is the perfect choice for athletes who are looking for a clean and healthy protein powder.

Best For Additional Immune Support
Isopure Store Whey Isolate Protein Powder
What We Like The Most About It
If you're looking for a top-quality protein powder to help support your muscle-building and recovery goals, Isopure Store's Whey Isolate Protein Powder is a great option. Each serving provides 25g of protein, as well as a vitamin and mineral blend that includes immune-supporting Vitamin C and Zinc, and Vitamin E.
This powder mix is easy to prepare - just add water or milk - and tastes great, making it a convenient and delicious way to help reach your fitness goals.
What You Need To Know
If you are looking for a high-quality protein powder that will support your active lifestyle, Isopure is an excellent choice. Formulated with 100% pure whey protein isolate, Isopure provides all the essential amino acids needed to build muscle and recover from exercise. It is also low in fat and carbs, making it ideal for those on a Keto diet.
Additionally, Isopure protein powder comes in three different pack sizes for convenience, so you can always have a delicious shake ready when you need it. Whether you are looking to improve your athletic performance or simply want to ensure your body is getting the nutrients it needs, Isopure is a great option.
What We Like The Most About It
Vital Proteins Store Protein Powder is the perfect complement to your fitness routine. Combining lactose-free milk protein isolate with collagen peptides delivers 25g of complete protein. The lactase enzyme adds to further reduces the lactose content. It's an excellent supplement for lactose-intolerant and active lifestyle consumers, looking to boost their daily intake of complete, high-quality protein and collagen.
What You Need To Know
Dairy proteins are one of the best sources of high-quality protein available. They are rich in essential amino acids (EAA), which are necessary for muscle growth and repair, and are highly digestible, meaning that the body can easily absorb and use them. This milk protein powder isolate provides the same ratio of casein to whey as milk (80:20), making it an ideal choice for those looking to support muscle growth and recovery.
It also contains 10g of collagen, sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hide. Collagen is easily digested and absorbed by the body, making it one of the best protein powders to support healthy bones, joints, and tendons.
What We Like The Most About It
Short of time and are looking for a delicious, high-protein snack? Say hello to the Quest Nutrition Store Protein Bar! This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar tastes just like a scoop of fresh cookie dough, but with all the benefits of a nutrient-rich protein bar. Packed with chocolate chips and 21g of protein, this bar is perfect for satisfying hunger pangs or giving your muscles the nutrients they need to recover after a workout.
Best of all, these bars are made with complete, dairy-based proteins to provide your body with all 9 essential amino acids. So whether you're looking for a post-workout snack or a healthy alternative to sugary desserts, reach for a Quest Nutrition Store Protein Bar and enjoy!
What You Need To Know
The Quest Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar is a high-protein, low-sugar snack that is perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious snack option. The bar is made with 12g of fiber to provide your body with a more complete macro profile, and it has no added sugars.
The Quest Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar is also gluten-free and Keto Friendly.
What We Like The Most About It
Looking for a delicious and nutritious way to get your protein fix? Look no further than Premier Protein Store Protein Drinks! This classic vanilla-flavored drink is perfect for satisfying hunger, as a mid-day snack, or post-workout recovery. Each serving contains 30g of protein and is also packed with 24 vitamins and minerals, including all essential amino acids. Plus, it contains 50% of your daily value of calcium to help maintain bone health.
What You Need To Know
If you're looking for a delicious, low-fat shake that's keto-friendly, try one of the nine delicious flavors. These shakes are packed with protein and only have 1g of sugar and 4g of carbs. They're perfect for a quick on-the-go meal or snack.
You can also pair them with coffee, cereal, or your favorite smoothie recipe. With 160 calories per serving, these shakes are a great way to satisfy your hunger without packing on the pounds.
What We Like The Most About It
Introducing Frog Fuel, the protein shot designed by Navy Seals to help you recover from your toughest workouts and live an active lifestyle. The power protein formula is packed with nutrients and designed to provide full body benefits, including supporting muscle growth and repair.
Whether you're looking to heal your body after a tough workout or simply want a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your day, Frog Fuel has you covered. The ready-to-drink shots are perfect for the on-the-go, and a convenient 6-pack means you can always have a delicious and healthy snack on hand.
What You Need To Know
If you're looking for a protein powder that provides full-body benefits and is completely free of carbohydrates, caffeine, and sugars, look no further than Nano-Hydrolyzed Collagen protein. This complete protein contains all essential, non-essential, and conditionally essential amino acids, making it ideal for those who are looking to improve their overall health and fitness.
Additionally, Nano-Hydrolyzed Collagen protein is free of banned substances, GMOs, and artificial flavors, making it a safe and healthy choice for everyone.
Protein For Runners FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions asked about vitamins for runners:
Should runners drink protein shakes?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount and type of protein you need depends on your diet and exercise habits. However, many runners find that drinking protein shakes can help them recover from a tough workout and build muscle mass.
If you're looking for a quick and convenient way to get some protein after a run, a protein shake may be a good option for you. Just be sure to read the label carefully and choose a shake that's low in sugar and calories. And always consult with your doctor or nutritionist before making any changes to your diet.
Can runners have protein shakes every day?
It is possible to have protein shakes every day, but it is not necessary. Protein shakes can be a convenient way to get protein into your diet, but if you can meet your protein needs through whole foods, then there is no need to supplement with protein shakes.
A good rule of thumb is to aim for about 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight each day. So if you weigh 150 pounds, you would need approximately 54 grams of protein per day. There are plenty of high-protein foods that can help you meet your daily intake, such as chicken, fish, beef, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts.
What happens if a runner doesn't get enough protein?
If a runner doesn't get enough protein, they may experience muscle soreness and fatigue. Protein is essential for tissue repair, so without it, the muscles can become damaged and tired more easily. Additionally, inadequate protein intake can impair the body's ability to burn fat and build muscle. So runners who don't eat enough protein are at risk of not only losing muscle mass but also gaining weight.
Should you drink protein before or after running?
It doesn't really matter when you drink protein as long as you get it in your system.
Some people prefer to drink a protein shake before they run, thinking that it will give them more energy or help them run farther. But there's no real evidence that this is the case. A recent study showed that drinking a protein shake after running helped improve muscle recovery better than drinking one before running.
Will protein help me run faster?
Protein will help you run faster because it helps to build and repair muscle. Muscle is what helps us move our bodies, and the more muscle we have, the faster we can run.
Protein also provides energy, so having a protein-rich diet will help you to perform better during endurance activities like running. Additionally, protein can help to speed up recovery after a race or workout. So if you're looking to improve your running performance, make sure to include plenty of protein in your diet!
How much protein does a runner need a day?
How much protein a runner needs per day depends on a few factors, such as age, weight, and activity level. Generally speaking, the recommended daily allowance for protein is around 0.36 grams per pound. So someone who weighs 150 pounds would need around 54 grams of protein per day.
However, endurance athletes (including runners) need more protein than the average person to repair and rebuild muscle tissue that is damaged during exercise. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that endurance athletes need around 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight each day. So a 150-pound runner would need around 68 grams of protein per day. Most protein powders will give you between 10 grams - 30 grams of complete proteins a serving.
Is protein good the night before a run?
There are a few schools of thought on this. Some people believe that eating protein before a run can help to provide energy and prevent muscle tissue from breaking down. Others believe that it's best to avoid eating any food before a run to minimize the amount of work your digestive system has to do. And still, others believe that it doesn't matter what you eat before a run, as long as you make sure to hydrate and take in enough calories during the run itself.
So it depends on what works best for you. If you've found that eating protein before a run helps you feel energetic and prevents muscle soreness, then go ahead and keep doing it!
Do runners need more carbs or protein?
The amount of carbohydrates and protein runners need depends on a few factors including intensity and duration of the run, weight, and whether the runner is trying to lose weight or not.
Generally speaking, endurance athletes do need more carbs than protein while runners trying to lose weight may need fewer carbs and more protein. However, it's best to speak with a nutritionist to create an individualized plan that takes all these factors into account.
How do I know if I lack protein?
It can be difficult to know if you are not getting enough protein because the signs and symptoms can be subtle. Some common symptoms of protein deficiency include: feeling tired and lethargic, trouble concentrating, hair loss, brittle nails, and a weakened immune system can mean you need more protein.
If you are concerned that you are not getting enough protein, it is best to speak with a doctor or nutritionist who can help you determine if you need to increase your intake of this nutrient. There are many good sources of protein available, including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts. Protein-rich foods should be included in every meal and snack.
What Is The Best Protein For You?
So, what is the best protein for you? The answer to this question will vary for everyone due to personal health and choice. We have tried to provide a variety of options for you to choose from based on thousands of reviews that we have read and analyzed.
We really hope that you have found this information helpful and that you now have a better understanding of which protein could be the most suitable for you. It is important that you only take the recommended amount of your chosen protein and if you are not sure seek medical advice.
All you need to do now is just tap the red button to check the price of the best protein for you and start targeting a new PB!
Thanks for stopping by!