BCAA
Sports abbreviation · Fitness and Exercise
| Stands for | Branched-chain amino acids |
|---|---|
| Categories | Sports |
BCAA stands for Branched-chain amino acids, a fitness and exercise abbreviation.
Three essential amino acids, leucine, isoleucine and valine, sold as a supplement claimed to support muscle growth and reduce fatigue. Leucine in particular triggers muscle protein synthesis.
Example: He sips BCAA powder in water during long training sessions.
Usage notes
Research suggests BCAA supplements add little for people who already eat enough protein, since complete proteins contain them. EAAs, which include all nine essential amino acids, are considered more effective by many researchers.
Related abbreviations
More fitness and exercise abbreviations
- 1RM – One-rep max
- AMRAP – As many reps as possible
- BB – Barbell
- BMR – Basal metabolic rate
- BW – Bodyweight
- C&J – Clean and jerk
- DB – Dumbbell
- DOMS – Delayed-onset muscle soreness
- EAA – Essential amino acids
- EMOM – Every minute on the minute
- EPOC – Excess post-exercise oxygen consumption
- FTP – Functional threshold power