Amino acids are known as the building blocks of protein. Of the 22 Amino acids, 10 are known as essential aminos, while the other 12 are considered to be non essential aminos. Because your body only has the ability to manufacture the non essential aminos, it must receive the more amino acids from outside sources such as food or protein powders like muscle milk, lean body, 100% whey protein gold. Amino acid supplements like on amino acid 2222, and vitalabs amino 2200 are definately a convenient way for athletes to get extra aminos into their diet.