text: do you need protein shakes to gain muscle endurance? right now i am trying to gain endurance. i am about to join the airforce as a pilot and i would like some advice on protein,creatine anything. my focus is endurance what are the best supplements for this goal? is massive ammounts of protein needed for muscle mass growth or is it hype and or a way to sell protein powder? opinions please. protein will help build muscle, if you want to go natural ginsing and hard work will build endurance.  there are many diffrent types of ginsing out there, so you kind the best for you.  if you are in the military, (god bless you), then you know how to run, which is the best way to build the endurance your looking for.  due to the fact that your body is put through...discomfort, but yet you still have to push on.  that is my suggestion, and please stay safe.