BCAA Supplements
Explore our range of BCAAs to find the right supplement for you. Our supplements come in a variety of forms, including tablets, perfect for when you are on the go.
Shop BCAA Supplements at Myprotein
BCAAs — branched-chain amino acids — include leucine, isoleucine, and valine, three of the nine essential amino acids your body can't produce on its own. These amino acids are building blocks of protein, which contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass1. Whether you're training for strength, endurance, or general fitness, BCAA powder and tablets offer a convenient way to increase your amino acid intake alongside your regular diet.
Our range includes unflavoured options for stacking flexibility, plus refreshing flavors like tropical, berry burst, and cola for an intra-workout drink. Available in various ratios — including the classic 2:1:1 blend and higher leucine formulas — BCAA supplements fit easily into any training routine.
Who BCAA Supplements Are For
BCAA supplements are popular across all training styles, from weightlifting and bodybuilding to running, cycling, and team sports. They're used by athletes looking to maintain their protein intake during intense training phases, as well as those following plant-based diets who want an additional source of essential amino acids.
If you're training multiple times per day, following a calorie-controlled diet, or simply want a low-calorie alternative to a full protein shake between sessions, branched-chain amino acids offer a practical solution. They mix quickly, taste great, and can be sipped during workouts without feeling heavy.
When to Use BCAA Supplements
Many people take BCAA powder or tablets during their workout, mixing it with water for a refreshing drink between sets or during cardio sessions. Others prefer taking them first thing in the morning, especially when training fasted, or between meals to top up their amino acid levels throughout the day.
There's no single "right" time — it depends on your schedule and preferences. Some athletes include BCAAs in their pre-workout stack, while others save them for post-training alongside their main protein shake. The key is consistency and making sure your overall protein intake meets your training demands, as protein contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass1.
BCAA Supplements Benefits
Essential Amino Acid Content
Branched-chain amino acids are three of the nine essential amino acids, meaning your body requires them from food or supplements. As components of protein, they play a role in supporting your overall protein intake, and protein contributes to a growth in muscle mass1.
Low-Calorie Option
BCAA supplements typically contain minimal calories compared to a full protein shake, making them ideal for sipping during training without adding significant energy intake. This makes them particularly useful if you're managing your calorie intake while maintaining high training volumes.
Convenient and Versatile
Available in powder and tablet form, BCAA supplements are easy to take anywhere. Powders mix instantly in a shaker, while tablets are perfect for travel or gym bags. With flavors ranging from unflavoured to fruity and refreshing options, there's a format to suit every preference.
Flexible Ratios
Different BCAA formulas offer varying ratios of leucine, isoleucine, and valine. The classic 2:1:1 ratio provides balanced amounts of all three, while higher leucine formulas (like 4:1:1 or 8:1:1) prioritize this particular amino acid for those who prefer a leucine-focused approach.
Popular Picks
Looking for a classic formula? Essential BCAA 2:1:1 Powder uses instantised branched-chain amino acids for faster dissolution and smoother texture, making it ideal for intra-workout hydration.
FAQs
What are BCAAs?
BCAAs are branched-chain amino acids — specifically leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These are three of the nine essential amino acids, which your body cannot produce and must obtain from food or supplements. They're components of protein, and protein contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass1.
How do BCAA supplements differ from protein powder?
BCAA supplements contain only the three branched-chain amino acids, while protein powder provides all essential and non-essential amino acids. BCAAs are lower in calories and faster to digest, making them popular during training. Protein powder offers a complete amino acid profile and is typically used post-workout or as a meal supplement.
When should I take branched-chain amino acids?
Many people take BCAA powder during their workout, mixed with water in a shaker. Others prefer taking them first thing in the morning, between meals, or before training.
There's no single correct timing — it depends on your routine and preferences. The important thing is maintaining consistent protein intake throughout the day, as protein contributes to a growth in muscle mass1.
What's the difference between BCAA ratios like 2:1:1 and 4:1:1?
The ratio refers to the proportions of leucine, isoleucine, and valine. A 2:1:1 ratio means twice as much leucine as the other two amino acids, while 4:1:1 provides four times as much leucine. The classic 2:1:1 formula offers balanced amounts of all three branched-chain amino acids, whereas higher leucine ratios prioritize this specific amino acid.
Can I take BCAAs on rest days?
Yes, you can take BCAA supplements on rest days as part of your overall amino acid intake. Some people include them with breakfast or between meals to maintain consistent supplementation. Since they're components of protein, they contribute to your daily protein intake regardless of whether you're training.
Which BCAA supplement should I choose?
Your choice depends on your preferences and training routine. If you want a classic balanced formula, opt for a 2:1:1 ratio powder or tablets. If you prefer faster mixing, choose instantised versions like IBCAA.
Consider flavor preferences too — unflavoured options work well for stacking with other supplements, while flavored versions make refreshing training drinks. Both powder and tablet formats are equally effective, so pick whichever suits your lifestyle.
Are BCAA supplements suitable for plant-based diets?
Yes, most BCAA supplements are vegan-friendly, as the amino acids are typically produced through fermentation rather than animal sources. They're a convenient way for anyone following a plant-based diet to ensure adequate intake of these three essential amino acids alongside their regular protein sources.
How much BCAA powder should I take per serving?
Typical serving sizes range from 5g to 10g per serving, depending on the product. Check the label for specific guidance. Many people start with one serving during or around training and adjust based on their total daily protein intake and training demands.
Who developed Myprotein's BCAA supplements?
Myprotein's BCAA supplements are developed by our expert nutritionists, who formulate each product to meet the needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Our range includes quality-tested options, with select products holding Informed-Sport certification for athletes requiring additional assurance.
Do any BCAA supplements have third-party testing?
Yes, certain products in our BCAA range carry Informed-Sport accreditation, meaning they're batch-tested for banned substances. This makes them suitable for competitive athletes who require additional verification of supplement purity and compliance with anti-doping standards.
1. Protein contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass.