Hitting the gym has become more than a fitness routine—it’s a lifestyle. And in this journey of self-improvement, supplements have become part of the culture. While they’re no substitute for dedication or a balanced diet, the right ones can definitely give you a boost when used wisely.

The market is flooded with endless choices, and it’s easy to get carried away. Many end up packing gym bags full of powders and pills, but too much of anything—especially artificial supplements—can put a strain on your health, especially your kidneys. The key? Keep it simple, clean, and effective. Here are five must-have supplements that actually matter for your performance and recovery.

1. Caffeine

We all know caffeine through coffee or tea, but in the fitness world, it's valued for its energy-boosting powers. It sharpens focus, enhances blood flow to your muscles, and can help you push through those last few reps when fatigue hits.

2. Creatine

Creatine is one of the most researched and reliable supplements out there. It helps build muscle strength and power over time, improves training performance, and supports better recovery. Taken consistently, it can even benefit brain function. The best part? It’s considered safe when used in recommended amounts.

3. Whey Protein

Probably the most popular gym supplement, whey protein helps your body recover after workouts. It aids in repairing muscle damage and building stronger muscle tissue. However, the quality of your protein matters—natural and premium options tend to support better results and digestion.

4. BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)

Made up of leucine, isoleucine, and valine, BCAAs reduce muscle soreness, speed up recovery, and help prevent muscle loss—especially useful when you’re on a calorie cut or training fasted. These aminos can support your gains without adding bulk to your routine.

5. L-Arginine

L-Arginine is a naturally occurring amino acid that plays a key role in protein building. In the body, it turns into nitric oxide, which improves blood circulation. Better blood flow means better endurance and performance during intense sessions. It’s found naturally in foods like fish, dairy, whole grains, and soy, but can also be taken as a supplement for a direct boost.

While supplements can enhance performance and recovery, they should never replace hard work or real food. A combination of consistent training, a clean diet, and a few smart supplements is the best way to build strength, improve endurance, and stay on track for long-term wellness.

In a landmark decision to enhance global visibility and streamline observance, the Government of India has officially declared 23rd September as Ayurveda Day, starting from 2025. The change was formally notified through a Gazette Notification dated 23rd March 2025, replacing the earlier practice of celebrating Ayurveda Day on Dhanteras—a date based on the Hindu lunar calendar that varies each year.

Ayurveda Day is observed to promote Ayurveda as a holistic, scientific, and preventive healthcare system. Until now, it coincided with Dhanteras in the month of Kartik, typically falling between October and November. However, due to the fluctuating nature of the lunar calendar, organizing consistent national and international observances became increasingly challenging.

To address these concerns, the Ministry of Ayush constituted a dedicated committee to explore alternative fixed dates. After evaluating four possible options, 23rd September was selected based on both practical and symbolic merit.

The date aligns with the autumnal equinox, a day when day and night are nearly equal—a natural balance that perfectly reflects the core Ayurvedic philosophy of harmony between mind, body, and spirit. The equinox also symbolizes equilibrium in the universe, reinforcing Ayurveda's emphasis on living in sync with nature.

The Ministry encourages health professionals, institutions, and international bodies to actively observe Ayurveda Day on 23rd September each year, creating a unified global movement around India’s ancient wellness system.

Dr. Smita Naram, Co-Founder of Ayushakti, welcomed the move, stating, “It’ll make Ayurveda treatment a more familiar one and enhance people’s will towards Ayurveda.” She added, “Me and Ayushakti extend our gratitude for upholding the 2500-year-old lineage of the Siddha Veda Tradition of Ayurveda that is healing millions.”

With this strategic shift, the Ministry aims to embed Ayurveda more deeply into global healthcare dialogues, strengthening India's presence in preventive and sustainable medicine on the world stage.

Ayushakti, a global leader in Ayurvedic healthcare, has launched its latest franchise outlet in Punawale, a growing suburb of Pimpri-Chinchwad. This marks Ayushakti’s 7th franchise in Maharashtra and the 29th outlet overall, reinforcing its mission to make ancient healing accessible across the region.

The new centre, located at Longitude Building, Gaikwad Nagar, Koyate Vasti Road, is equipped with two therapy rooms, two consultation areas, and a trained team of Ayurvedic experts. All practitioners have been trained under the guidance of Co-founder Dr. Smita Pankaj Naram and CEO Dr. Krushna Pankaj Naram, ensuring consistency in the quality and authenticity of treatments.

Patients visiting the Punawale franchise will benefit from a variety of Ayurvedic services, including deep pulse reading (Nadi Pariksha), Panchkarma detox therapies, massages, steam treatments, herbal remedies, marma techniques, and customised diet plans.

Dr. Smita Naram, Co-Founder of Ayushakti, shared her enthusiasm during the launch event, saying, “I am very glad to launch yet another outlet in a short span, in Maharashtra. We wholeheartedly look forward to serve our customers here and help them heal. Our expansion comes with the thought of touching as many individuals on planet Earth and helping them live a healthy life.”

She further added, “The response we have received over the past year has been phenomenal, which makes us excited about adding new outlets across India.”

Founded in 1987 by Master healer Late Dr. Pankaj Naram and Dr. Smita Naram, Ayushakti has been on a mission to transform community health through the power of ancient Ayurvedic practices. The company currently operates in nine countries and has helped over a million people worldwide.