There are several protein powders that blend normal protein with critical amino acids for brain synthesis of important neurotransmitters such as those found in the amino acid -alanine found in most creatine and certain protein powders. Also creatine can increase intracellular energy levels allowing more efficient use of protein for growth and repair.
Research even shows that creatine may help retain cognitive functions during sleep deprivation, but as of now there is little to no scientific proof for well-rested athletes. Beyond the typical brick-and-mortar supplements for building muscle, like protein powder and creatine, the marketplace for nootropics is growing and working out athletes can gain great benefits from them to enhance their brain performance for learning new exercise movements.
Of course, with controlled movements for fitness, it is not about lifting more weight but rather following a certain tempo for your squats, holding your position longer or remembering a certain cue for your technique.
L-Theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea that researchers have investigated for selective attention. In terms of working out, think of selective attention as noticing your coach’s instructions while tuning out nearby conversations.
For example, practicing slow-depth squats and balance exercises require focus and attention to maintain proper body position and execution. So, while you may not need more energy to lift heavier weights, L-theanine could be very useful to stay focused on a particular exercise or movement.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola rosea is often described as an adaptogen, a term used for substances studied for their effects on stress responses. Its appeal in fitness comes from research examining both physical performance and mental fatigue.
A 2025 trial tested rhodiola during bench-press and bench-pull sessions under rested and mentally fatigued conditions. However, the findings are preliminary, so they should not drive your entire supplement plan.
Some strength outcomes improved, but effects on mental fatigue and visual cognitive processing were small.
Lion’s Mane
This mushroom has gained a significant amount of hype in the nootropic community for its potential to boost memory and enhance learning in general. While there are many pre-workout supplements on the market today that are packed with stimulants to increase energy quickly, this mushroom is more aligned with brain health in general.
It is used in many nootropic type of supplements. As you can tell from the name it is good for memory and learning. So for someone practicing skills such as golf, tennis, etc. or learning new exercises this may be a good supplement for you. Again, as with all supplements the right dosage and preparation is key to its effectiveness.
As always, don’t take our word for it. Check the serving size for the correct form of lion’s mane that you are purchasing. Use the supplement to aid in your skill practice, and reference your coach’s feedback to ensure proper progression. As with all supplements, they are meant to aid in your workout regimen, not be the main focal point.
It’s worth noting, in terms of the marketing of products for sale, many combine various products to create one formula rather than sell individual ones. For example, the nootropic from Mind Lab Pro that’s called the MLP® v4 Universal Nootropic™ formula includes eleven research-backed brain-boosters, including the three above.
Match the Supplements to Your Training Goals
Most formulas that provide brain focused benefits include a variety of cognitive-enhancers and when purchasing as supplements for brain performance, be sure to first determine what you need help with in your workouts (staying focused through slow controlled movements for example, or perhaps learning a new exercise for a future sequence of training).
I hope you found that useful! We’ve got a whole library of insightful articles on our blog, so please have a look around.
Written by Lisa Moletto (lisa@blogoutreach.co.uk)
