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  • The 5 Best Tasting Ready To Drink Protein Shakes, Reviewed

    We tasted a wide range of ready to drink protein shakes to save you the work!

    After a grueling workout session at your local park gym, or perhaps a challenging home workout, protein is crucial for recovery and muscle growth. But let’s be honest, sometimes whipping up a full, protein-packed meal isn’t practical when you’re on the go, juggling life, or simply don’t have the energy.

    That’s where ready-to-drink protein shakes come in to their own. They’re convenient, delicious, and an efficient way to get high-quality protein into your system quickly. Perfect for that post-workout window, or even as a high-protein snack to keep you feeling full between meals. But with so many options lining the supermarket shelves and online stores, how do you choose the best one?

    We’ve done the hard work for you, diving into the most popular and affordable protein shakes available in the UK in 2025. We’ve looked at protein content, ingredients, taste, and overall value to bring you our top 5 picks.

    For 4 of our 5 recommended picks we’ve also included a link to a multi-buy option, which are usually better value than buying the bottles individually.

    Protein Shake Comparison Table

    Here’s a quick overview of our top 5 contenders to help you compare at a glance. (Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary slightly by flavour and batch. Prices are subject to change.)

    ProductProtein (per serving)Calories (approx.)Sugar (approx.)Key Highlight
    UFIT High 25g Protein Shake25g158 kcal11gBalanced macros, great taste
    Grenade High Protein Shake26g182 kcal7gLow sugar, dessert-like flavours
    Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake50g244 kcal20gTrusted brand, classic flavour
    Pro Mlk Protein Shake25g206 kcal20gSmooth texture, good value
    For Goodness Shakes15g248 kcal43gRecovery focus, higher carbs and sugars

    Our Top 5 Best Protein Shakes for 2025

    1. UFIT High 25g Protein Shake, Chocolate

    UFIT High 25g Protein Shake, Chocolate

    UFIT has become a staple in many UK fridges, and for good reason. Their 25g protein shake offers a fantastic balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a well-rounded option for both post-workout recovery and a satisfying snack. The chocolate flavour is consistently praised for its smooth, rich taste that avoids the artificial aftertaste some protein drinks can have. It’s not overly thick, making it easy to drink quickly when you’re on the move after a park gym session.

    • Pros: Excellent taste and texture (smooth, not chalky). Good balance of macros for recovery and satiety. Widely available in supermarkets and online. Reliable protein content.
    • Cons: Slightly higher in sugar and calories compared to some ultra-low-carb options. Price per shake can add up if bought individually.

    Check Price on Amazon

    2. Grenade High Protein Shake, Fudge Brownie

    Grenade High Protein Shake, Fudge Brownie

    Grenade burst onto the scene with their popular protein bars, and their shakes quickly followed suit, living up to the brand’s reputation for bold flavours and serious protein. The Fudge Brownie shake is a standout, offering a genuinely indulgent taste without the high sugar content often found in other “dessert” flavoured options. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to keep their carb and sugar intake low while still getting a significant protein hit.

    • Pros: Exceptionally low in sugar. Great for those on a lower-carb diet. Delicious, dessert-like flavours that curb cravings. Good protein content per serving.
    • Cons: Can be slightly thicker than some other shakes, which might not suit everyone. Some find the sweetness intense due to artificial sweeteners.

    Check Price on Amazon

    3. Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake, Vanilla

    Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake, Vanilla

    Optimum Nutrition is a powerhouse name in the supplement industry, known for its high-quality protein powders. Their ready-to-drink shakes bring that same trusted quality in a convenient format. The Vanilla flavour is a classic for a reason – it’s clean, refreshing, and versatile enough to enjoy on its own or even mixed into a quick smoothie. This shake provides a solid 25g of protein, making it an excellent choice for serious recovery after a tough session at the pull-up bars or a long run.

    • Pros: Comes from a highly reputable and trusted brand. Clean, classic vanilla flavour that’s not overpowering. Good protein-to-calorie ratio. Reliable for consistent results. Packs a huge 50 grams of protein into a single 500ml bottle.
    • Cons: Can sometimes be on the pricier side compared to some other options. Flavour range might be less adventurous than some competitors.

    Check Price on Amazon

    4. Pro Mlk Protein Shake, Chocolate

    Pro Mlk Chocolate Protein Shake

    Pro Mlk has carved out a strong reputation for offering great value without compromising on taste or protein content. Their Chocolate protein shake is a smooth, satisfying option that delivers 25g of protein in a convenient bottle. It’s often a go-to for those looking for a reliable, everyday protein boost that’s easy on the wallet, making it a perfect fit for the budget-conscious outdoor fitness enthusiast. Its consistency is often described as similar to regular chocolate milk, making it very palatable.

    • Pros: Excellent value for money, especially when bought in multipacks. Smooth, easy-to-drink texture. Good, classic chocolate flavour. Reliable protein content.
    • Cons: May not be as widely available in all local supermarkets as some larger brands. Flavour range can be more limited – with only 3 flavours (chocolate, strawberry, vanilla) currently available.

    (Please note: We do not have an affiliate link for this product at this time, but it remains a strong recommendation based on its quality and value.)

    5. For Goodness Shakes, Chocolate

    For Goodness Shakes Chocolate Recovery Protein Shake

    For Goodness Shakes has been a long-standing favourite in the UK for recovery, particularly among runners and endurance athletes. While it provides 15g of protein, it also typically includes a higher carbohydrate content, making it an excellent choice for replenishing glycogen stores after longer or more intense workouts – perhaps after a full-body circuit at the park or a challenging run. The chocolate flavour is generally well-received, offering a comforting and familiar taste.

    • Pros: Higher carbohydrate content ideal for post-endurance recovery. Good taste and widely available. Contains added vitamins and minerals for overall well-being.
    • Cons: Has a much higher sugar content which might not be suitable for those on strict low-carb diets. Can be slightly more expensive per shake.

    Check Price on Amazon

    Your Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Protein Shake for YOU

    With so many great options, how do you pick the perfect protein shake for your needs? Consider these factors before you buy:

    1. Protein Content & Source

    Most ready-to-drink shakes offer 20-30g of protein per serving, which is a great amount for muscle repair and growth. Check the source – most will be whey or casein (milk-based proteins), which are excellent for muscle synthesis. If you’re plant-based, look for shakes made from pea, soy, or a blend of plant proteins.

    2. Calories & Macros (Carbs & Fats)

    Your overall diet and goals play a big role here. If you’re aiming for fat loss, you might prefer a lower-calorie, lower-sugar option (like Grenade). If you’ve just completed a long, intense workout (like a long run or a big circuit at the park), a shake with a few more carbs (like For Goodness Shakes) can be beneficial for replenishing energy stores.

    3. Sugar Content

    While some sugar can be useful post-workout, many prefer to limit it. Check the nutrition label. Many brands use artificial sweeteners to keep sugar low, which is fine for most, but some individuals prefer to avoid them.

    4. Taste & Texture

    This is highly personal! What one person loves, another might dislike. Look for reviews on taste and texture. Some prefer thicker, milkier shakes, while others want something lighter. Starting with a single bottle before buying a multipack can be a good idea to find your favourite.

    5. Price & Value

    Ready-to-drink shakes are more expensive than protein powder, but the convenience often justifies the cost. Look for multipacks via the links in this article, as they usually offer much better value per shake.

    6. Dietary Needs & Allergens

    Always check for allergens like dairy or soy if you have sensitivities. Some brands offer lactose-free or plant-based options.

    Final Thoughts

    Ready-to-drink protein shakes are a fantastic tool for convenient protein intake. Our top 5 picks offer a range of options to suit different tastes, budgets, and dietary needs. Experiment, find what works for you, and keep fuelling your progress!

    To support our website, this article contains links which may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. All products shown have been researched, and any links to affiliate products do not influence our reviews.

  • The Best Rep Ranges for Muscle Strength, Endurance, and Hypertrophy

    You’ve found your perfect park gym, you’ve got your workout plan, and you’re ready to go. But then you look at an exercise like push-ups or squats, and you see “3 sets of 10 reps.” It’s the classic advice, and for good reason – it works, especially when you’re just starting out.

    But what happens when those 3 sets of 10 start feeling easy? If you’re serious about making progress – whether that’s getting stronger, building more muscle, or improving your stamina – then understanding rep ranges is your next secret weapon. It’s about tailoring your training to your specific goals, and the fantastic news is, you can absolutely do this with the free equipment at your local outdoor gym.

    Why Rep Ranges Matter (Beyond Beginner Gains)

    Once your body adapts to a certain challenge, it stops growing. To keep seeing results, you need to introduce something new – this is the principle of Progressive Overload. One powerful way to do this is by adjusting your rep ranges. Different rep ranges stimulate your muscles in different ways, targeting various types of muscle fibres and energy systems.

    Let’s break down the three main goals and the rep ranges that best support them:

    1. Building Raw Strength (1-6 Reps)

    Goal: To lift or move the heaviest possible weight (or your bodyweight in its hardest variation) for a few powerful repetitions. Think mastering a full pull-up, a single-leg squat, or an explosive box jump.

    The Sweet Spot: Typically 3-5 sets of 1-6 repetitions per exercise.

    How to Apply at the Park Gym: Since you can’t add weight plates, you achieve this by choosing the hardest possible variation of an exercise you can still perform with good form. Examples include:

    • Pull-ups: If you can do 6, try to do 7. If that’s easy, focus on slower, more controlled negatives (jumping up and slowly lowering yourself for 3-5 seconds).
    • Push-ups: Progress to decline push-ups (feet on a bench), or try pseudo-planche push-ups (hands lower, leaning forward).
    • Squats: Work towards pistol squat progressions (holding onto a bar for balance, then single-leg squats).

    2. Growing Muscle (Hypertrophy) (6-12 Reps)

    Goal: To increase muscle size. This involves creating enough “time under tension” and metabolic stress to stimulate muscle growth. You’ll often feel a “pump” in your muscles.

    The Sweet Spot: Typically 3-4 sets of 6-12 repetitions per exercise.

    How to Apply at the Park Gym: Focus on controlled movements, ensuring your muscles are doing the work throughout the full range of motion. You want to feel the burn towards the end of your set.

    • Push-ups: Aim for 8-12 clean reps. If that’s easy, try a slightly harder variation (e.g., hands closer together, or a slightly elevated surface for incline push-ups) to stay within this rep range.
    • Squats/Lunges: Focus on slow, controlled descents (2-3 seconds down) and powerful ascents. Try walking lunges for 10-12 steps per leg.
    • Inverted Rows: Adjust your body angle on a low bar to hit 8-12 challenging reps, focusing on squeezing your shoulder blades.

    3. Boosting Endurance (12+ Reps)

    Goal: To improve your muscles’ ability to perform repeated contractions over an extended period. Think about long runs, continuous circuits, or simply having more stamina for daily activities.

    The Sweet Spot: Typically 2-3 sets of 12-20+ repetitions per exercise.

    How to Apply at the Park Gym: Focus on maintaining good form even as fatigue sets in. This is where circuit training (moving from one exercise to the next with minimal rest) shines.

    • Jumping Jacks/High Knees: Go for continuous movement for 45-60 seconds.
    • Bodyweight Squats/Lunges: Aim for higher reps (15-20+) or perform them as part of a circuit with short rests.
    • Plank Holds: Extend your hold time (e.g., 60 seconds or more).
    • Push-ups: If you can do 15 easy push-ups, try to do 20 or more, or immediately follow them with another exercise in a circuit.

    Rest Times: The Unsung Hero

    Just as important as the reps themselves is how long you rest between sets. This allows your muscles to recover enough to perform the next set effectively, but not so much that you lose the training stimulus.

    • Strength & Power: 2-5 minutes rest. You need full recovery to lift heavy or perform explosively.
    • Hypertrophy: 30-90 seconds rest. Enough to recover, but short enough to keep the muscle under tension and create that “pump.”
    • Endurance: 30 seconds or less. You want to challenge your muscle’s ability to work with minimal recovery.

    At the park gym, you might not have a timer handy. Learn to listen to your body: for strength, wait until you feel truly ready for the next challenging set. For endurance, move quickly from one exercise to the next.

    The Power of Mixing It Up

    While it’s smart to focus on the rep range that aligns with your primary goal, don’t be afraid to incorporate other ranges into your routine. Our muscles are made up of different fibre types: some are great for strength (Type II), and others for endurance (Type I). By varying your rep ranges, you stimulate all these fibres, leading to more comprehensive growth and preventing plateaus.

    For example, if your main goal is muscle growth (hypertrophy), you might spend most of your time in the 6-12 rep range. But occasionally, throwing in a heavy set of 3-5 reps (for strength) or a high-rep set of 15-20+ (for endurance) can provide a new stimulus and “shock” your muscles into further growth.

    Putting It Into Practice at Your Park Gym

    Now that you understand the “why” behind rep ranges, start experimenting! Look at your current workouts and think about how you can adjust the reps or exercise variations to align with your specific goals. Remember, consistency and effort are always key, but smart application of rep ranges will fast-track your results and keep your outdoor training exciting.

  • Stay Energised with Electrolytes: A Must for Outdoor Training

    As someone who loves working out in the great outdoors, I can tell you that staying hydrated is key, especially when you’re pushing your limits in the brisk UK air. That’s why I want to share my go-to supplement for outdoor training: electrolytes. These minerals play a crucial role in keeping our bodies functioning optimally, especially during those intense workouts.

    When I first started training outside, I often found myself feeling fatigued halfway through my sessions, even on cooler days. It wasn’t until I learned about the importance of electrolytes that I understood why. They help maintain fluid balance, support muscle function, and prevent cramping. They also help your body to regulate temperature, which is crucial on hot days.

    According to a study (Shirreffs SM, Sawka MN. Fluid and electrolyte needs for training, competition, and recovery. J Sports Sci.), aggressively consuming electrolytes should be encouraged to facilitate quicker recovery.

    I now make sure to replenish my electrolytes after every workout, especially if I’ve been sweating it out in a park gym.

    For those of us who frequent local parks, carrying a hydration pack filled with a good electrolyte drink can be a game-changer. I recommend looking for options that include sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These minerals not only help with rehydration but also enhance performance, allowing you to push through that extra set of push-ups or sprints.

    In conclusion, don’t underestimate the power of proper hydration and electrolyte balance while training outdoors. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, incorporating electrolytes into your routine can make a noticeable difference in your performance and recovery. So grab that hydration pack and get ready to elevate your outdoor workouts!