First my opinion about protein shakes is well resumed here:

http://stronglifts.com/milk-post-workout-build-muscle-gains/

http://www.science20.com/news/study_says_milk_is_as_good_as_protein_drinks_for_workouts

I think heavy protein shakes directly before workout are not advisable, because you body needs to diggest. If you necessarily want to take them, drink them at least 90 min before working out. Personally, I think BCA's directly before workout are the better choice.

If you are a beginner, don't worry too much about the fine-tuning, just drink 0.5 l of milk post workout.

First my opinion about protein shakes is well resumed here:

• http://stronglifts.com/milk-post-workout-build-muscle-gains/

• http://www.science20.com/news/study_says_milk_is_as_good_as_protein_drinks_for_workouts

I think heavy protein shakes directly before workout are not advisable, because you body needs to digest. If you necessarily want to take them, drink them at least 90 minutes before working out. Personally, I think taking BCAAs directly before a workout is the better choice.

If you are a beginner, don't worry too much about the fine-tuning, just drink 0.5 L of milk post workout.