Some swear the best way to take amino acids, especially Branch chained, is before, during and after a workout. That's how fast the amino acid pool depletes during strenuous training. Don't be afraid of underdosing. BCAA make up 1/3 of muscle protein and are expended from muscle tissue at a rapid rate. This leads to increased muscle tissue breakdown. They're great for recovery so after a checkup to make sure everythings OK. Don't be stingy with amino's. The results will be their, but to many people expect to much and take to little.