The present invention relates to the compositions that enhance post-exercise recovery processes to increase both strength and muscle mass, replace glycogen stores, and prevent inflammation, resulting in the prevention and/or reduction of delayed onset muscle soreness. Additionally, it provides a feeling of muscle relaxation as well as a feeling of mental tranquility immediately following exercise. The composition consists of any or all high-glycemic sugars and/or polysaccharides (e.g., sucrose, glucose, maltodextrin), all essential amino acids and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate and can include other amino acids sources (e.g. whey protein), performance enhancing agents (e.g., caffeine, L-glutamate), anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., ginger, boswellia, curcumen), antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, polyphenols,), insulin-mimicking agents (cinnamon, Banaba), analgesics (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen), and to methods of treating humans and animals by administration of these novel compositions to humans and animals in need thereof.