Q: I’m just barely into my 30’s and I am already having some pretty tough joint pain in my hips and knees when I workout. Do you know of any good joint protection supplements that would be worth a try?

A: Good question. This is one of those areas that I think a lot of people tend to overlook until they are forced to. Moving joints are mechanically disadvantaged… just ask any engineer – or doctor for that matter. And because of this, they are the first parts to fail for most people. The biggest problem is that most people don’t pay any attention to them until they are on their last leg and just throbbing for attention. And why should we? If it ain’t broke don’t fix it right?

I like to look at joints in another light however. It’s probably because I’ve seen my Father struggle for half his life with serious arthritis. I’ve been lectured endlessly about using correct body mechanics to protect your joints. Joints need preventative maintenance. Why wait until they are completely worn out and hurting before you do anything about it? This is especially for us who hit the weights hard on a regular basis.

With that in mind, this supplement advice goes out to everyone reading; not just those with joint problems. There are tons of joint maintenance products on the market. Go online or to your local pharmacy and you are certain to find one for under $20.00. I personally use one that has 1500mg of Glucosamine sulfate, 1200mg of Chondroitin sulfate, and 500mg of MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane). Also, if you aren’t taking them already, EFA’s (fish oils) are great for joint support too. If you are already in pain or if you are recovering from an injury, MSM and Arnica Creams are great for site-specific pain. I don’t like to name specific brands so just be sure that it has Glucosamine, Chondtoitin, and MSM and you’ll be in good shape.

There are tons of joint maintenance products on the market. Go online or to your local pharmacy and you are certain to find one for under $20.00. I personally use one that has 1500mg of Glucosamine sulfate, 1200mg of Chondroitin sulfate, and 500mg of MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane). Also, if you aren’t taking them already, EFA’s (fish oils) are great for joint support too. If you are already in pain or if you are recovering from an injury, MSM and Arnica Creams are great for site-specific pain. I don’t like to name specific brands so just be sure that it has Glucosamine, Chondtoitin, and MSM and you’ll be in good shape.