A meal replacement shake can fit either before or after exercise, but there is no universal best time. Consider the duration and intensity of activity, how recently you ate, your comfort during exercise and the rest of the day's food and fluid.

Before exercise: allow for comfort

If your normal meal falls before a workout, follow the shake's serving directions and allow enough time to digest before moving vigorously. Some people prefer less food close to exercise; test your routine on an ordinary training day rather than during an event. Begin activity adequately hydrated.

After exercise: think beyond protein

Recovery can involve fluid, energy, carbohydrate and protein, depending on the session and your next meal. A formulated meal replacement can be one convenient meal option, but it is not compulsory after every workout and does not substitute for an individual sports nutrition plan.

How is this different from a protein shake or sports drink?

A formulated meal replacement is designed for a meal. A protein-only shake focuses on protein, while sports drinks have a different purpose. Read the exact nutrition panel and preparation directions rather than treating these categories as interchangeable.

When should you seek individual advice?

If you train for endurance or competition, have digestive symptoms, manage a medical condition or need a specific recovery target, consult an accredited sports dietitian. Sports Dietitians Australia has guidance on food and drink before, during and after exercise.

Use Daily Shake as directed alongside a varied diet; it is not intended as a total diet replacement.