Quick Question, protein shakes

so I got this protein shake from the grocery store right now. I was wondering is it better to have it before or after a workout? (usually I do running and pilates, or some kind of mixture of toning and cardio.)

Thanks!

I would wait until after.  Your body will need the protein after you exercise to restore any muscle damage (microscopic damage) caused by the exercise.  If you have it before, you might end up just burning it off during your exercise instead of burning stored glycogen or fat.  At least that's the way I understand it.  :)

From all the information that I have read from mags and talking with trainers, you should have some light protein/ carbs (or combination) prior to workout and then a larger dose of protein/ carbs (or combination) after workout to aid in muscle rebuilding and sustaining your energy.

Of course everyone will have their own opinions and ideas and your workout and final goals will dictate how you supplement yourself. You should ask yourself how you feel after working out, if you dont lack energy and/ or arent tired then your body will more than likely benefit more from the post workout shake then prior. If you are tired the the other would be better. Also, think about your diet- if you are taking in enough protein with foods, then you dont really need a supplement.

Medic has the right idea.... you should properly fuel your body both before AND after working out or doing cardio.  Ensuring your body has the right nutrients both before and after exercise will help with many things...

1) Keep your system fueled maximally to enable your body to perform it's best during vigorous activity...which obviously leads to stoking your metbolism more efficiently and therefore better results.

2) Prevents your body from falling into a negative state, where your body feeds on your lean muscle for fuel.  If your body does not have the proper nutrients on hand to fuel your body for exercise, your body will tap into your muscles and feed on them for energy...this results in lean muscle loss...and therefore a slowed metabolism, and this is never good.

Eat a sound meal consisting of protein and carbs about 45 minutes to 1 hour before your workouts, and then have a high quality protein source (like whey protein, etc) along with some simple carbohydrates immediately after your workouts.  This will help replace used up energy stores and get the recovery ball rolling nicely.

Hope that helps some.

-Todd