Do You Really Need Supplements? A Personal Trainer’s Honest Guide

Sam Barfield
Apr 22
2 min read

When you step into any health store or browse fitness posts online, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by shelves of supplements promising muscle growth, weight loss, energy boosts, or better recovery. But do you really need supplements to hit your goals?

As mobile personal trainers, we often get asked: “What supplements should I be taking?”

The answer is… it depends.

What Are Supplements?

Supplements are products designed to support your diet and fill any nutritional gaps. They include:

Protein powders (whey, plant-based)
Creatine
Multivitamins
Fish oil (omega-3)
Pre-workouts
Fat burners
BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids)

They’re not a replacement for real food or good habits—but they can be helpful in certain situations.

Who Might Benefit From Supplements?

Busy Professionals or Parents Struggle to get enough protein? A shake can help boost your intake on the go.
Vegans/VegetariansB12, iron, and omega-3s are harder to get from plant-only diets.
People Training Hard If you’re doing intense strength or endurance training, creatine or protein supplements might improve recovery and performance.
Those With Deficiencies Low in Vitamin D? Iron? A targeted supplement might be just what your body needs.

What You Don’t Need

Fat Burners: Most are just caffeine in disguise. You’ll get better results from consistent training and smart nutrition.
Unproven Detox Pills: Your liver and kidneys are your detox system.
Anything With Hidden or Proprietary Blends: If it’s not transparent, skip it.

Tips for Using Supplements Wisely

✅ Start with real food. A balanced diet should always be your foundation.

✅ Don’t overload. Adding too many supplements at once can cause side effects or waste money.

✅ Choose quality. Look for brands with third-party testing (like Informed Sport or NSF Certified).

✅ Speak to a professional. If in doubt, ask your trainer or GP.

Final Thoughts

Supplements can support your health and fitness journey—but they’re never a substitute for a consistent routine, quality nutrition, and proper training. We always recommend getting the basics right first.

Want help building a personalised supplement strategy that fits your lifestyle and goals?📲 Get in touch for expert 1-1 guidance from one of our Surrey mobile personal trainers.