CARTERˣ — Field Notes

News

Notes, protocols and editorials from the lab. Long reads on training, recovery, and the science behind every system.

The BCAA Question: When They Help, When They Do Not

bcaa

The BCAA Question: When They Help, When They Do Not

BCAAs were oversold to a generation of lifters. They are not a muscle-building shortcut. They do have specific, valid use cases.

·2 min read

Beta-Alanine Tingles, Explained

education

Beta-Alanine Tingles, Explained

That pre-workout tingle is not a side effect. It is a sign your formula contains a clinical dose of beta-alanine.

·2 min read

What to Look for in a Pre-Workout (And What to Avoid)

education

What to Look for in a Pre-Workout (And What to Avoid)

Most pre-workouts on the market are underdosed, overstimmed, or both. A clinical-grade formula is built around a handful of ingredients at the right amounts.

·2 min read

Caffeine and L-Theanine: The Smart Caffeine Stack

education

Caffeine and L-Theanine: The Smart Caffeine Stack

Caffeine alone is a blunt tool. Caffeine paired with L-theanine is the same dose, smoother delivery, and better cognitive output. Research has known this...

·2 min read

Clinical Dose or Pixie Dust: Why Most Supplements Underdeliver

foundation

Clinical Dose or Pixie Dust: Why Most Supplements Underdeliver

Half the supplement industry sells real ingredients at fake doses. Once you know the clinical thresholds, the trick stops working.

·3 min read

The Workout Window: Pre, Intra, and Post Explained

bcaa

The Workout Window: Pre, Intra, and Post Explained

Pre-workout, intra-workout, and post-workout nutrition each address a different physiological window. Understanding the difference is how you stop wasting supplements.

·3 min read

Sweat Rate and Sodium: The Hydration Science Most Athletes Miss

education

Sweat Rate and Sodium: The Hydration Science Most Athletes Miss

Most sports drinks are dosed for office workers, not athletes. Real sweat losses require real sodium. Here is the math.

·3 min read