The sports nutrition market is at a significant stage of growth in the global arena, majorly driven by the increasing involvement of consumers in physical fitness activities, sports, and performance lifestyles. The market for sports supplements, which were earlier a niche segment of the market and were consumed by professional sportspersons, has now found acceptance as a necessary daily nutrition product in the market. Thus, it is consequently contributing to the growth of the sports nutrition market to a significant extent.
Pushing this trend across various regions are the likes of lifestyle changes witnessed through the growth of gym memberships, the increase in the number of people participating in marathons and endurance sports, the worldwide shift towards preventive health, and the greater understanding of the importance of hydrating and replenishing nutrients during exercise.
Market Size & Growth Rate: Strong Global Uptake of Sports Supplements
Sports dietary supplements such as protein supplements, pre-workout, amino acids, and hydration drinks are currently registering robust growth as a result of the rising concern for muscle care, performance, and recovery. The younger generation in developing countries like India and Brazil is largely responsible for the fast growth in the sports dietary supplements market. North America, Europe, and other countries continue to rank high in terms of revenues.
In October 2024, arXiv examined how physical activity, dietary protein supplementation, and sleep interact to affect muscle protein synthesis (MPS). It showed that 20 to 25 grams of protein, such as protein supplements, is ideal to maximally stimulate MPS after a resistance workout, with pre-sleep protein intake also promoting increased MPS during sleep.
(Source: https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.16169)
Product Type Segmentation: Sports Drinks Lead the Market
Sports drinks lead the market for sports nutrition products with a share of 46.6% in 2025. These can be attributed to ease of consumption, hydration, and their need while exercising. Sports drinks are made as rapid-acting hydrating products for hydration purposes, protecting electrolytes, serving as an instant energy boost from carbs, and cooling flavors like lemon-lime or orange. The marketing efficiency of support from sports personalities by Gatorade & Powerade doesn't go to waste. Apart from such hydration products, muscle-building sport powders are the demand in the market for fitness purposes.
In September 2023, the Indian subsidiary of the beverage company Coca-Cola launched a product called "Limca Sportz ION4," which is a sports drink that is low in sugar. It also includes electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, as well as vitamins.
Innovation & Ingredient Trends: Plant-Based, Clean Label, and Functional Nutrition
The sports supplements industry is shifting towards innovation in plant-based, clean-label, and functional products. Pea, soy, rice, and hemp proteins are gaining importance for vegans, those who are lactose intolerant, and health enthusiasts, who have a balanced amino acid composition similar to whey. The emerging trends taking place in this industry include electrolyte-infused drinks, collagen supplements for muscle relaxation, natural caffeine from green tea and guarana, and supplements from adaptogens such as ashwagandha. Low and sugar-free products are gaining popularity.
A report published in 2024-2025 by Vitafoods Insights on KSM-66 Ashwagandha observed that 69% of consumers search for scientifically proven natural ingredients in sports nutritional supplements, increasing the use of ashwagandha in clean-label product formulation.
(Source: Vitafoods Insights)
Future Outlook: Personalization, E-Commerce, and Technology-Driven Growth
The sports nutrition market’s future is shaped by personalization, e-commerce, and technology-driven growth. AI-powered supplement recommendations, DNA-based nutrition insights, and connected fitness platforms enable consumers to select products tailored to their goals. E-commerce drives wider access, subscription models, and convenience while digital tools enhance engagement. As fitness becomes integral to daily life and demand for customized nutrition rises, the global sports nutrition market is positioned for sustained long-term expansion.
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