Is Chocolate Milk as Effective as a Protein Supplement for Enhancing Strength Following Resistance Training?

The present study was designed to compare strength gains between two groups of collegiate baseball players during their 6-week off-season training program. One group (n=5) ingested chocolate milk following their workout, while another (n=5) ingested a protein supplement (Nutrilite whey protein shake). All athletes performed similar weight-training exercises, with the only difference between groups being the post-exercise beverage consumed. One repetition maximum (1RM) strength was assessed in both groups for bench press, squat, leg curl, triceps extension, hammer row and biceps curl prior to and following training. Following the 6-week period both groups increased strength in all muscle groups with the exception of hammer row and triceps extension. There were no differences in strength gains between groups. Interestingly both groups increased body mass and body fat percentage following training. The only significant difference between groups was a greater increase in body mass in the protein compared to the chocolate milk group (p = 0.05). Results indicate that chocolate milk is as effective as a more expensive protein drink for enhancing strength in collegiate baseball players