The Core Question: Is Myprotein Weight Gainer Good?
Assessing the quality of Myprotein's weight gainer involves looking beyond a simple 'yes' or 'no.' The answer largely depends on your specific fitness goals, budget, and tolerance for flavor and texture variability. Myprotein offers several weight gainer products, including the popular 'Weight Gainer Blend' and the more comprehensive 'Advanced Weight Gainer.' While many users report positive results in gaining weight and muscle mass, especially those with high metabolisms, common criticisms often revolve around inconsistent taste and poor mixability.
What's in the Blend?
The core formula for Myprotein's gainers typically centers on a macronutrient blend designed for a calorie surplus. For example, the Weight Gainer Blend uses a mix of fast- and slow-digesting protein sources (like whey and milk protein concentrate) alongside carbohydrates from oat flour and maltodextrin. The oat flour is a complex carb source, providing sustained energy, though it can contribute to a gritty texture. Maltodextrin, a simple carb, aids in quicker recovery, especially when taken post-workout. Some versions, like the Advanced Weight Gainer, include additional performance-enhancing ingredients like creatine, glutamine, and a vitamin/mineral blend.
The Mixed Bag of Customer Feedback
User reviews for Myprotein weight gainers are notably polarized. For every user celebrating significant weight and muscle gains, there is another complaining about the product's taste and texture.
Common Positive Feedback:
- Effective for Weight Gain: Many hardgainers find the high-calorie and nutrient-dense shakes invaluable for hitting their daily intake targets, leading to consistent weight and muscle growth.
- Value for Money: Compared to more premium brands, Myprotein often offers a more budget-friendly option, especially with frequent sales and discounts.
- Variety of Flavors: A wide selection of flavors means you can usually find one that works for you, even if certain flavors receive harsh criticism.
Common Negative Feedback:
- Taste Issues: Some flavors, like certain versions of Chocolate Smooth or Strawberry Cream, are widely disliked, often described as artificial or overly sweet.
- Poor Mixability: Due to the large serving size and use of oat flour, many users report poor mixability, resulting in a gritty or lumpy shake that is difficult to get down.
- Packaging Problems: The resealable bags have been a consistent source of frustration for many customers.
Myprotein Weight Gainer Comparison
Myprotein offers different gainer products tailored to varying needs. Here is a simplified comparison of their two popular options.
| Feature | Impact Weight Gainer | Advanced Weight Gainer |
|---|---|---|
| Core Purpose | Affordable option for boosting calories and macros | All-in-one formula for maximizing muscle gain |
| Calories (per serving) | ~388 kcal | ~446 kcal |
| Protein (per serving) | ~31g | ~36g |
| Carbs (per serving) | ~50g (Oat Flour, Maltodextrin) | ~58g (Modified Maize Starch, Oat Flour, Fructose) |
| Key Added Ingredients | N/A | Creatine, L-Glutamine, MCT Powder, Flax Seed, Vitamin Blend |
| Target User | Budget-conscious hardgainer | Serious lifter seeking maximal performance and recovery |
How to Get the Best Results
It is crucial to remember that a weight gainer is a supplement, not a replacement for whole foods. Your training and overall diet are the most important factors for muscle gain. To optimize your experience with a Myprotein gainer:
- Prioritize Your Diet: Ensure you are consuming a balanced, high-calorie diet from whole food sources. Use the gainer to fill in the gaps and increase your calorie surplus, not to replace meals entirely.
- Optimize Mixing: To combat poor mixability, use a powerful blender instead of a shaker bottle, add liquid before powder, and consider adding ingredients like bananas or nut butter for a smoother texture.
- Choose Your Product Wisely: If budget is your main concern, the
Impact Weight Gaineris a solid option. For a more complete performance-oriented formula, theAdvanced Weight Gaineroffers extra ingredients like creatine. - Time Your Intake: Consume your weight gainer post-workout to kickstart muscle recovery and replenish glycogen stores. You can also have it between meals to boost your daily calorie count.
The Final Verdict
So, is Myprotein weight gainer good? For many, yes. It provides an accessible and effective way to increase calorie and macronutrient intake for mass gain, particularly for those with fast metabolisms or high energy needs. The main trade-offs are the potential for subpar taste and mixability, which can be mitigated with different blending techniques or flavor choices. Ultimately, its success hinges on consistent use alongside a solid training regimen and a whole-food diet. The brand's products offer good value, especially when purchased on sale, making them a worthy consideration for those looking to bulk up without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: A Tool, Not a Miracle
Myprotein weight gainers are a practical tool for individuals who struggle to consume enough calories to gain mass. Their effectiveness for muscle growth is supported by a solid macronutrient profile, but be prepared for potential drawbacks related to taste and texture, which are common among many powdered supplements. By understanding the ingredients and managing your expectations, you can make an informed decision on whether a Myprotein weight gainer is the right fit for your fitness journey.
How to Choose the Right Myprotein Gainer
- For the Budget-Conscious: If you're on a tight budget and simply need extra calories and protein, the
Impact Weight Gaineris the most affordable entry point. - For the Performance-Driven: If you're an athlete looking for an all-in-one solution with added performance enhancers like creatine, the
Advanced Weight Gaineris the superior choice. - For Taste Preferences: Consider testing a smaller bag or reading flavor-specific reviews, as the taste quality can vary dramatically between options like Chocolate Smooth and Strawberry Cream.
Tips for Optimal Usage
- Use a Blender: If you're bothered by grittiness, blend your shake with fruits, nut butter, or oats to create a smoother, more palatable consistency.
- Adjust Liquid Levels: Experiment with adding more or less water/milk than recommended to find the thickness you prefer.
- Stay Hydrated: Consuming a high-calorie diet and supplements requires adequate water intake to support digestion and overall health.