As an athlete and a basketball coach I’m always on the lookout for interesting things that fit into a regular workout, enhancing the experience and the outcomes, without detracting. So, no gimmicks, awkward gadgets, or things that require me to adapt to them. They have to fit into my workout and the workouts I direct for others, or they are a waste of time, and money.

Recently I read about a new product in my University of Oregon alumni magazine that highlighted a new liquid protein developed by three Oregon Ducks (Justin Davies, Jonathan Palmer and Matthew Warren) that was new to the market from their company Progressive Protein. That piqued my interest and so I reached out to them to see if I could give it a try. They sent me a three unit starter pack to try out and I decided to do a test. Week one of the test would have me mix their portable Progressive Protein liquid collagen protein product in eight ounces of water and take it with me to consume after a two-hour basketball workout on a Monday/Wednesday/Friday. Week two of the test would have me consume chocolate milk after another set of three two-hour basketball workouts instead of the Progressive Protein. So, what were my findings after this comparison test?

First of all, the Progressive Protein product is shelf-stable and collagen-based, gluten free, and there is no soy or whey protein to be found for those with soy or dairy allergies. This means that I could mix it at home and have it ready to go right after my workout. Chocolate milk has to be refrigerated and so I found myself having to go searching for it after my workout, taking time out of my day.

Second, I’m always racing to get some calories in my body after my workout, because I finish completely depleted after two hours of running and jumping, but at the same time I need calories that are easy to digest. Progressive Protein went down without a fuss, where chocolate milk was a bit harder to digest (though still easier than most solid food I might jump to).

Third, the taste of Progressive Protein is far better than any recovery drink or protein powder based concoction I’ve ever tried.

So, overall I think it makes a nice complement to the Vitalyte I consume during my workout to keep my hydration and electrolyte levels high. The only downside, or upside for less serious athletes, is that Progressive Protein only has 70 calories per serving, meaning I still have to search for additional calories, but it builds a good bridge to get me there, preparing my body for harder to digest and longer lasting calories (aka solid food).

I think this is a good product for people with allergies or who are looking for a tastier, easy to consume shot of protein now and then. You can take the “P Packs” with you or pre-mix them in water. Progressive Protein is not likely transform my body like my Phyisclo tights have, but I think it is a good product and one that people should consider as a post-workout supplement.

So, what do you think, innovation or not?

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