Lifting Supplements

[mikehop05]

So i used to lift a decent amount, and after football my senior year i stopped lifting for about a good year... then started lifting in the spring 2 - 3 days a week throughout my second semester.

anyways i just started lifting everyday again and started on this stuff called Nitro T3, its a testosterone booster, which helps cut body fat and build muscle... I've been on it for about a week and I can tell results, it seems to be working very well.

I was wondering what some of you guys were taking, and if you have any suggestions as to what to stack it with. I was thinking about this new stuff called Pro-Nos, its suppose to be a great NO booster as well as protein and a body fat burner...

[JF4]

Where's Punisher when you need him.

[JF4]

Personally, I don't use any supplements and it works out just fine for me. The most I may do is take the occasional protein shake.

[Its all about The U]

i got new clue, im all natural

[cunningham06]

I use No-Explode, Creatine, and drink Protein Shakes usually Muscle Milk. Nitric Oxide is good, but you'll end up getting random hard-ons because it widens the blood vessels, and because of this is a major ingredient in V iagra.

[TitleTown088]

Eat some oatmeal. Supplements are terrible for you.

[mikehop05]

yeah i plan on going back to nothing, but i wanted a good jump start to look good for the beach ahaha

and cunningham yeah a lot of my friends use no-explode and they have nothing but good things to say about it

[Chucky]

I just take some natural stuff

Vitamin C, E, and selenium.

[mikehop05]

Eat some oatmeal. Supplements are terrible for you.

why do you say that?

[TitleTown088]

why do you say that?

Many of them are really hard on your body in the long run, especially the kidneys.

[cunningham06]

Many of them are really hard on your body in the long run, especially the kidneys.

Creatine and No-Explode aren't but I agree a lot of supplements are too hard on the body.

[mikehop05]

Many of them are really hard on your body in the long run, especially the kidneys.

agreed, thats why i know most of the people that use them take them for short periods of time (a month max) then a week or two off... and never longer than about 4 months

[TitleTown088]

Creatine and No-Explode aren't but I agree a lot of supplements are too hard on the body.

Yeah, but you really need to be careful with the amount and frequency. Even eating excessive amounts of protein is hard on your kidneys.

[Its all about The U]

my buddies kidney just exploded from using creatine for 7 years, i can't remeber the actually explanation but ti was from an excess of something in it

[sweetness34]

I drink a lot of protein shakes but I don't do supplements. The only one I'd think about doing is HydroxyCut, my dad took it and said it was great but I still get nervous about taking them. Some of that crap can seriously **** up your body.

[cunningham06]

I drink a lot of protein shakes but I don't do supplements. The only one I'd think about doing is HydroxyCut, my dad took it and said it was great but I still get nervous about taking them. Some of that crap can seriously **** up your body.

Isn't hydroxycut that weight-loss program that Dan Marino and all of those old football players advertise?

[mikehop05]

i agree that it can be easily abused, however, i dont really plan on staying on it for longer than the summer

[Smokey Joe]

Just give me some good natural stuff. No need for supplements.

[sweetness34]

Isn't hydroxycut that weight-loss program that Dan Marino and all of those old football players advertise?

No, that's something different. Dan Marino used Nutri-System.

[Moses]

Creatine and No-Explode aren't but I agree a lot of supplements are too hard on the body.

Are you kidding? Creatine can be very harmful to your kidneys (I don't know much about No-Explode other than the fact that a lot of people think it is a scam and it really only gives you pumps which is pointless).

[mikehop05]

i wish i woulda kept lifting so i didnt wanna use supplements

but i think ill be okay for only being on it for a couple of months at the most, (4 weeks on, 1 off) etc.

[cunningham06]

Are you kidding? Creatine can be very harmful to your kidneys (I don't know much about No-Explode other than the fact that a lot of people think it is a scam and it really only gives you pumps which is pointless).

Where'd you hear that? I researched it thoroughly before I started taking it. Unless you use way too much, or use it for a very long time, it shouldn't be bad for your kidneys. I talked to the guy who runs the school gym who is also an assistant training and conditioning coordinator for the Texans, and my former personal trainer and they both said it's pretty safe.

[sweetness34]

If you use creatine, pound water constantly. That stuff dehydrates the hell out of you (which in turn messes with your kidneys). I had a buddy who was on the football team who took creatine and he was constantly cramping up. You have to drink a **** load of water all the time.

[cunningham06]

Yea I'm always thirsty as hell when I use it so I get a lot of water.

[Moses]

Where'd you hear that? I researched it thoroughly before I started taking it. Unless you use way too much, or use it for a very long time, it shouldn't be bad for your kidneys. I talked to the guy who runs the school gym who is also an assistant training and conditioning coordinator for the Texans, and my former personal trainer and they both said it's pretty safe.

I know multiple people that have had to stop taking it because it's too hard on their kidneys. Like somebody mentioned, a ton of water must be consumed while using it. Also, I think most results achieved while using creatine are misleading. Most of the "gains" are simply your muscles holding more water.

[cunningham06]

I know multiple people that have had to stop taking it because it's too hard on their kidneys. Like somebody mentioned, a ton of water must be consumed while using it. Also, I think most results achieved while using creatine are misleading. Most of the "gains" are simply your muscles holding more water.

You get a lot stronger once you start using creatine, at least I have. The weight gain is mainly muscles holding water, but I can get more reps on creatine than I can when I'm not using it.

[Moses]

You get a lot stronger once you start using creatine, at least I have. The weight gain is mainly muscles holding water, but I can get more reps on creatine than I can when I'm not using it.

Sure, you'll get stronger. Personally, I don't think it's worth it and I think the vast majority of supplements are complete scams and wastes of money. You can easily get the gains you want if you just eat the right diet.

[cunningham06]

Sure, you'll get stronger. Personally, I don't think it's worth it and I think the vast majority of supplements are complete scams and wastes of money. You can easily get the gains you want if you just eat the right diet.

That's the thing with me I can't gain weight. I eat a lot of food, but I just sat at 150. I'm 6'1 and am playing safety this year so I wanted to get up to 175. I'm at 165 after using creatine for a couple of months, so it's worth it for me.

[Moses]

That's the thing with me I can't gain weight. I eat a lot of food, but I just sat at 150. I'm 6'1 and am playing safety this year so I wanted to get up to 175. I'm at 165 after using creatine for a couple of months, so it's worth it for me.

I'm an ectomorph too and I have a lot of trouble gaining weight. That said, I have managed to put on some weight when I really put my mind on eating enough and the right stuff.

[cunningham06]

I'm an ectomorph too and I have a lot of trouble gaining weight. That said, I have managed to put on some weight when I really put my mind on eating enough and the right stuff.

Ectomorph huh? That sounds like some sort of transformer, I'm going to start calling myself that.

[nobodyinparticular]

Creatine and No-Explode aren't but I agree a lot of supplements are too hard on the body.

Yes, Creatine and No-Explode are hard on the kidneys and the liver in the long run. Everything that you put in your system has to go through your kidneys--all minerals, etc. The more stuff you put through--whether it's "good for you" or not is going to wearing your organs just by putting more miles on them.

These two supplements in particular can really put a wear on your system if you aren't staying hydrated. With any creatine (or taurine supplement) you should almost double your water intake from 64 oz(1/2 gallon) to a full gallon a day. Creatine supplements are really tough on the kidneys so you want to water them down as much as possible. Make sure you are keeping up with your sodium, potassium, calcium and phosphates (all of these are electrolytes) because those will get washed away in your urine by drinking more water.

To be honest, eat a lot of meat--chicken being better for your colon than a ton of red meat--when you snack, snack on almonds, peanuts, ect, drink milk and drink protein shakes. Again, drink more water as well. If you're not taking other supplements then you don't want to drink too much more than normal.

But you have to remember, nothing is going to actually make you bigger apart from actually working out--and that's working our hard and working out a lot. All the other stuff is just stuff that you need as ingredients to build up muscles and aid in muscle recovery. But it all depends on how much you're working out.

[TitleTown088]

Where'd you hear that? I researched it thoroughly before I started taking it. Unless you use way too much, or use it for a very long time, it shouldn't be bad for your kidneys. I talked to the guy who runs the school gym who is also an assistant training and conditioning coordinator for the Texans, and my former personal trainer and they both said it's pretty safe.

Use some common sense, do you really think that stuff can be good for your body? It's not natural and not meant to be in your body.

[mikehop05]

to gain weight, whey protein works wonders as well... its simple, cheap, and effective

i went from 163 - 179 from april - end of july using it, and as long a oyu constantly lift / workout itll all be solid weight

[cunningham06]

Use some common sense, do you really think that stuff can be good for your body? It's not natural and not meant to be in your body.

I never said it was good for your body, just that it wasn't bad for it. If you stay properly hydrated while taking it it's ok.

[nobodyinparticular]

to gain weight, whey protein works wonders as well... its simple, cheap, and effective

i went from 163 - 179 from april - end of july using it, and as long a oyu constantly lift / workout itll all be solid weight

Exactly. This guy's got it.

[M.O.T.H.]

ha, i've been going more natural... used to be big into creatine... saw big gains, obviously much of that was water weight but, I put on about 8 pounds of mucsle. Havent been able to lift (broken ankle) so, i havent been taking anything and it sucks. ha.

Funny story... at least I think it's funny...

My buddy was addicted to muscle milk a while back... he's an idiot...so, all he did was drink that stuff every damn day and never work out... his dumb ass thought that you didnt need to work out... and it just builds the muscle...haha. He gained like 25 pounds of fat... he's so stupid...ha... and he's huge now. loser. ha.

[bantx]

all you need a water bananas and peanut butter!!!!

[neko4]

I really need to gain weight, good weight ofcourse
Is there a good, legal, supplement?

[Stash]

Funny story... at least I think it's funny...

My buddy was addicted to muscle milk a while back... he's an idiot...so, all he did was drink that stuff every damn day and never work out... his dumb ass thought that you didnt need to work out... and it just builds the muscle...haha. He gained like 25 pounds of fat... he's so stupid...ha... and he's huge now. loser. ha.

Sounds like Cartman

"Beefcake, BEEFCAKE"

[Stash]

I really need to gain weight, good weight ofcourse
Is there a good, legal, supplement?

Protein shakes and eating right combined with working out do wonders. Those creatine suppliments are for puzzies.

[M.O.T.H.]

Sounds like Cartman

"Beefcake, BEEFCAKE"

exactly... that was his nickname for a while...

[nobodyinparticular]

I really need to gain weight, good weight ofcourse
Is there a good, legal, supplement?

Milk, protein shakes, eat a lot more (cut the junk food out, but eat plenty of carbs, protein (meat) and lots of fiber to move that protein out). That's the least expensive, safest way to go.

If you really feel you have to do something, go with either "AdvancedCreatine" (it's got creatine and taurine in it) or No-Explode. If you use either of those, go through the rest of this thread to see what you should change about your diet etc.

Again, you are not going to see any gains at all unless you work your butt off in the weight room.

[ncstateviking]

i lost 65 pounds a few years back and gained an assload of muscle taking hydroxycut.

my workout partner used to weigh 115 and is up to 135-140 using NO2.

but ive been doing it natural for years with nearly the same results. once you jump start your body, you can continue it pretty easy naturally.

[nobodyinparticular]

i lost 65 pounds a few years back and gained an assload of muscle taking hydroxycut.

my workout partner used to weigh 115 and is up to 135-140 using NO2.

but ive been doing it natural for years with nearly the same results. once you jump start your body, you can continue it pretty easy naturally.

I hate those hydroxycut commercials.

[ncstateviking]

eh...it worked for me...so whatev

[nobodyinparticular]

eh...it worked for me...so whatev

Yeah, I understand that. And I'm glad it did. But stuff like that can be dangerous and it doesn't always work. Again, I'm glad it worked for you.

[neko4]

Milk, protein shakes, eat a lot more (cut the junk food out, but eat plenty of carbs, protein (meat) and lots of fiber to move that protein out). That's the least expensive, safest way to go.

If you really feel you have to do something, go with either "AdvancedCreatine" (it's got creatine and taurine in it) or No-Explode. If you use either of those, go through the rest of this thread to see what you should change about your diet etc.

Again, you are not going to see any gains at all unless you work your butt off in the weight room.

I was in the weight room for awhile, but then put it off to study for school. But theres two weeks or so left and after that Im hitting the weight room pretty hard. And ive been drinking protein shakes for 2 years.

[j05son]

Creatine is found NATURALLY in our bodies. Anywhere from 90% and ABOVE in your muscles and the rest in your heart, brain, and testicles. Amino Acids in the liver and kidneys are combined and make creatine. The creatine then takes energy/water to muscle cells. Think of it as the power rangers. Each power ranger [red, blue, black, green, pink, etc] are amino acids. When the power rangers combined into one, they created the super power ranger [Don't know the exact name, sorry it's been awhile] and created that kickass power ranger. That's what happens in your liver. The amino acids are combined and form creatine and then in turn, the creatine adds fluids to cells and energy to muscles.

When your body uses ATP [a very long word, but it plays the role of transporting energy within our cells] it breaks a phosopate off for energy. What is left of that phosphate is ADP [another long word that plays the role of cellular respiratory/adding air and then being transfer back to ATP to be used as energy]. For the ADP to be turned back into ATP you need posphates to be taken from creatine which combined with ADP will turn back into ATP and then used as energy again. The entire process will allow for high energy bursts lasting a matter of seconds [5 to 35] depending on the amount of creatine phosphates in your muscle fibers. Think of it as a reserve tank for quick energy.

If you are able to have high amounts of energy for a short time, you will be able to have better contractions making your muscles work harder thus making you able to run faster or lift heavier [think of it as an initial burst].

Creatine also provides water and AIR to your muscles which also helps with enhancing muscle protiens.

Creatine is a safe product. It is made naturally in your body. All you are doing is adding more to give you more energy to your muscles and adding water and air help the protein molucles. Creatine has been the best non protein seller and has been heavily consumed for over a decade. It is also being used to help people with diseases such as Lou Gehrig's and others...

Creatine does not contain any caffeine nor is it a hormone.

You should also take creatine with fast burning carbs, glycemic carbs, as well as sodium, and water. It is essential to have water for that's how the creatine works. You also need the cabs to have the pancreas release insulin so you can get the nutirents into your body. By taking fast burning carbs, you will release insulin fast and reap benefits of having the nutrients brought you your body faster, as well as the creatine. Glycemic carbs and Sodium for you will be basically pissing those vitamins and minerals out with the water and you need to replenish them.



I take 3 things:
A multi vitamin.
Creatine.
Muscle Milk protein.

In your protein mixes, you shouldn't use just whey. Whey is a quick digestive that gives immediate protein. Casein is a longer digestive protein that releases protein over a longer period of time. Then you get your protein immediately as well as over a period of several hours.

Muscle Milk uses both Casein and Whey. It also increases the body's rate to produce creatine, promotes protein synthesis [really all protein does this], and is suppose to increase your metabolism. It also tastes better than any protein I've ever taken.

I mainly use Muscle Milk for it's Casein and Whey protein properties. You need more than just Whey. Also, do not take soy protein as it will actually cause your body to produce estrogen [you shouldn't grow breasts or have the intense sensation to cuddle or anything, nor does it have mass effects of soy that will create mass amounts of estrogen. It's just producing the opposite hormone than you want to have for lifting].

EDIT: Also, about kidney troubles. You are damaging your kidneys when you are dehydrating yourself. You are doing it if you are taking creatine or not. Yes you need to drink much more water when you are on creatine but also more water in general.

A normal person needs 6-8 glasses a day.

A person who is excersizing or lifting you are no longer in the "normal" range. You now need AT LEAST 1 gallon a day.

The average person [and kidneys] can process about 15liters/4gallons of water a day [not at once, but throughout 24 hours]....

[draftguru151]

Never really got into supplements. A lot of football players use creatine and NO xplode seems to have worked very well for my workout partner. Not using anything has worked for me though, never really wanted to mess with something I didn't need to.

Also since school is over I don't have a weight room and it's been over a week since I worked out, I'm going crazy, I need to workout, lol.

[High Roller]

Since most of these products are fairly new inventions, the long term damage can't really be calculated. Especially since these supplements help your muscles, people forget your heart is a muscle as well so that should be taken into consideration. I just use protein and I'm thinking of using Muscle Milk soon. What's the best flavor?

[Hawk]

Since most of these products are fairly new inventions, the long term damage can't really be calculated. Especially since these supplements help your muscles, people forget your heart is a muscle as well so that should be taken into consideration. I just use protein and I'm thinking of using Muscle Milk soon. What's the best flavor?

creatine has been around for years

[j05son]

creatine has been around for years

Agreed. Creatine was founded [what it does to the body] in the 1800's. As a supplement, Creatine has been a top 2 seller for OVER a decade.

As far as best flavor, I have been using the java joe flavor, but there are like 27.....I was going to try different ones.

[remix 6]

Creatine is found NATURALLY in our bodies. Anywhere from 90% and ABOVE in your muscles and the rest in your heart, brain, and testicles. Amino Acids in the liver and kidneys are combined and make creatine. The creatine then takes energy/water to muscle cells. Think of it as the power rangers. Each power ranger [red, blue, black, green, pink, etc] are amino acids. When the power rangers combined into one, they created the super power ranger [Don't know the exact name, sorry it's been awhile] and created that kickass power ranger. That's what happens in your liver. The amino acids are combined and form creatine and then in turn, the creatine adds fluids to cells and energy to muscles.

W.

Creatine is natural in your body but theres no need to be pumping it in there so much. If your body wanted you to have that much creatine you would have it then. Not to say i've never been on creatine but saying its natural in your body is correct but thats no excuse for people to constantly put it in and say nothing will happen. You need to go on a month..month off of your body becomes immune to it and stops producing as much as it used to.


i used to be on Creatine and Glutamine from HigherPower. Still drink Optimum 100% Whey ..its cheap, it works and the chocolate 1 tastes good.

[AlexDown]

Never really got into supplements. A lot of football players use creatine and NO xplode seems to have worked very well for my workout partner. Not using anything has worked for me though, never really wanted to mess with something I didn't need to.

Also since school is over I don't have a weight room and it's been over a week since I worked out, I'm going crazy, I need to workout, lol.

How much you benching these days?

[Moses]

Since when is something safe because it occurs naturally in your body? That is the dumbest thing I have ever heard.

[mikehop05]

Creatine is natural in your body but theres no need to be pumping it in there so much. If your body wanted you to have that much creatine you would have it then. Not to say i've never been on creatine but saying its natural in your body is correct but thats no excuse for people to constantly put it in and say nothing will happen. You need to go on a month..month off of your body becomes immune to it and stops producing as much as it used to.


i used to be on Creatine and Glutamine from HigherPower. Still drink Optimum 100% Whey ..its cheap, it works and the chocolate 1 tastes good.

i used to have to plug my nose and just chug my whey mixes... though i had vanilla, never tried chocolate

[nobodyinparticular]

Creatine is found NATURALLY in our bodies. Anywhere from 90% and ABOVE in your muscles and the rest in your heart, brain, and testicles. Amino Acids in the liver and kidneys are combined and make creatine. The creatine then takes energy/water to muscle cells. Think of it as the power rangers. Each power ranger [red, blue, black, green, pink, etc] are amino acids. When the power rangers combined into one, they created the super power ranger [Don't know the exact name, sorry it's been awhile] and created that kickass power ranger. That's what happens in your liver. The amino acids are combined and form creatine and then in turn, the creatine adds fluids to cells and energy to muscles.

When your body uses ATP [a very long word, but it plays the role of transporting energy within our cells] it breaks a phosopate off for energy. What is left of that phosphate is ADP [another long word that plays the role of cellular respiratory/adding air and then being transfer back to ATP to be used as energy]. For the ADP to be turned back into ATP you need posphates to be taken from creatine which combined with ADP will turn back into ATP and then used as energy again. The entire process will allow for high energy bursts lasting a matter of seconds [5 to 35] depending on the amount of creatine phosphates in your muscle fibers. Think of it as a reserve tank for quick energy.

You are right here. Just for reference, ATP is adenedinetriphosphate and ADP is adenedinediphosphate. And you are talking about the phosphocreatine system, yes. And so in weightlifting, you use the Pho-Cr system--hence helping to work out. (I discussed this whole thing not too long ago in another thread)

If you are able to have high amounts of energy for a short time, you will be able to have better contractions making your muscles work harder thus making you able to run faster or lift heavier [think of it as an initial burst].

Creatine also provides water and AIR to your muscles which also helps with enhancing muscle protiens.

Again, correct.

Creatine is a safe product. It is made naturally in your body. All you are doing is adding more to give you more energy to your muscles and adding water and air help the protein molucles. Creatine has been the best non protein seller and has been heavily consumed for over a decade. It is also being used to help people with diseases such as Lou Gehrig's and others...

Creatine does not contain any caffeine nor is it a hormone.

You're right, creatine is not caffeine. However, if anyone thinks that it has caffeine it's probably because of the energy that it provides them. The very nature of creatine/ATP is as an energy molecule so if you see increased energy levels it is because of the supplement not because there is any caffeine or other crap in there.

As for being safe--you are being a bit misleading. No it is not like anabolic steroids or other stuff like that which can be very dangerous, but yes, taking creatine can be rough on the body. To process so much extra stuff through the kidneys can wear them down. So it is necessary to be absolutely certain you are drinking a gallon of water EVERYDAY or you will find your kidneys in trouble.

You should also take creatine with fast burning carbs, glycemic carbs, as well as sodium, and water. It is essential to have water for that's how the creatine works. You also need the cabs to have the pancreas release insulin so you can get the nutirents into your body. By taking fast burning carbs, you will release insulin fast and reap benefits of having the nutrients brought you your body faster, as well as the creatine. Glycemic carbs and Sodium for you will be basically pissing those vitamins and minerals out with the water and you need to replenish them.

Again, you are correct. Things that I have covered many times in threads like this and at least once in this one.

EDIT: Also, about kidney troubles. You are damaging your kidneys when you are dehydrating yourself. You are doing it if you are taking creatine or not. Yes you need to drink much more water when you are on creatine but also more water in general.

A normal person needs 6-8 glasses a day.

A person who is excersizing or lifting you are no longer in the "normal" range. You now need AT LEAST 1 gallon a day.

The average person [and kidneys] can process about 15liters/4gallons of water a day [not at once, but throughout 24 hours]....

Again, slightly misleading because putting the extra stuff through the system, your kidneys especially can wear them down. It's not ok to downplay the effect that this has on kidneys because people will think it's no big deal, but I'm telling you, if you try to keep your regular water intake while adding creatine to your diet, you are going to mess up your kidneys really bad. Not to mention it is not going to work.

But it's equally as dangerous to add all that water to your diet and not add anything else. Like I have said before and like j05son said as well, you're going to be pissing all those minerals and electrolytes out of your body by drinking so much water. You're left with a very watered down system, and it can end in water poisoning. Yes, people die from water poisoning. So if you bring the uptake of anything in your diet, you've got to bring everything else up as well to make up for it.

And it's not just carbs and sodium, you want to make sure that you are taking in plenty of protein (as already stated by many of us including j05son) so that with working out, your body actually has the pieces, the building blocks necessary to build up those muscles or you'll just be running on a treadmill--all that work and you got nowhere. But make sure you add a lot of fiber into your diet as well (which can be achieved by eating fruits and veggies), especially if you're eating any substantial amounts of red meat. By increasing everything else in your diet, you've got to make sure you are getting the fiber in there to move all the other stuff out. Otherwise you'll get stuck on the pot with a red face and nothing coming--and putting yourself at risk for colon cancer.

[draftguru151]

How much you benching these days?

Still in the 320 area, after that last max out I went on a diet and lost some strength, by the end of summer I hope to be at 350 but 335 would make me happy.

[eazyb81]

Anyone used glucosamine, glutamine, and/or chondroitan for a decent amount of time and experienced good results? I don't know if i'm getting old or what, but i'm starting to get a lot of little aches and pains, especially when after days when I try and break plateaus.

Obviously these won't cure any serious problems, but I have heard that they are helpful on the joints.

[therock6000]

Anyone used glucosamine, glutamine, and/or chondroitan for a decent amount of time and experienced good results? I don't know if i'm getting old or what, but i'm starting to get a lot of little aches and pains, especially when after days when I try and break plateaus.

Obviously these won't cure any serious problems, but I have heard that they are helpful on the joints.

i've used a glucosamine/chondroitin supplement for years and love it...i run about 60 miles a month (while weighing a frightening 230 pounds), lift weights 6 days a weeks, and my joints feel great.

[eazyb81]

i've used a glucosamine/chondroitin supplement for years and love it...i run about 60 miles a month (while weighing a frightening 230 pounds), lift weights 6 days a weeks, and my joints feel great.

Good to hear. I've been trying to run a lot more, but my body isn't reacting well (shin splints) and a friend recommended a gluc/chond supplement. I'll give it a shot.

[therock6000]

Good to hear. I've been trying to run a lot more, but my body isn't reacting well (shin splints) and a friend recommended a gluc/chond supplement. I'll give it a shot.

your best bet on shin splints would be new shoes (can make a tremendous difference), run on flatter/softer surface if possible (black top tracks are a blessing to the knees)...the gluc/chon probably won't help you much unless you are having ankle/knee/hip pain...

[eazyb81]

your best bet on shin splints would be new shoes (can make a tremendous difference), run on flatter/softer surface if possible (black top tracks are a blessing to the knees)...the gluc/chon probably won't help you much unless you are having ankle/knee/hip pain...

I've heard the same about new shoes, and I'm going to pick up some Asics this weekend.

[mikehop05]

i just started taking pro-nos... two servings a day raises NO levels by 950%, i think its about 150% of your daily protein, and also is suppose to reduce your stomach body fat by 4.3%

i was sold on the last thing, trying to get in shape for beach week in a couple weeks... and i think stacking that with the T3 will work as the T3 is already doing a good job

if anyone is interested ill post again on how its working in a couple weeks

[ny10804]

I've been taking the Food-n'-Water approach for a while now.

I beasted in the weight room today. I hang cleaned 245, which was up from 225 in the winter. I squatted 365 9 times, which was up from 365 5 times.

Good day.

[Moses]

I'm thinking of starting a new supplement stack.

Whey Protein
Creatine
Multivitamin
Fish Oil Pills

Thoughts?

[therock6000]

I'm thinking of starting a new supplement stack.

Whey Protein
Creatine
Multivitamin
Fish Oil Pills

Thoughts?

sounds fine...might want to evaluate whether you need the fish caps or not. the people with the biggest need for these are the ones who have problems with elevated cholesterol/triglycerides levels. now, i take them because i consume a lot of eggs and my cholesterol level is rock solid so i would recommend them if your diet is a little heavier in the fat department.

[Moses]

sounds fine...might want to evaluate whether you need the fish caps or not. the people with the biggest need for these are the ones who have problems with elevated cholesterol/triglycerides levels. now, i take them because i consume a lot of eggs and my cholesterol level is rock solid so i would recommend them if your diet is a little heavier in the fat department.

From what I've read, fish oil caps are really beneficial for almost anybody. Gotta get those Omega 3. ;) Plus, I heard it helps with depression and bipolar disorder which is a benefit to me.

[therock6000]

From what I've read, fish oil caps are really beneficial for almost anybody. Gotta get those Omega 3. ;) Plus, I heard it helps with depression and bipolar disorder which is a benefit to me.

give it a try then, hopefully it will help you out...

[remix 6]

whats the difference between Creatine Mono and CEE(ethyl ester)?

which 1 is better?

[someone447]

I'm an ectomorph too and I have a lot of trouble gaining weight. That said, I have managed to put on some weight when I really put my mind on eating enough and the right stuff.

I gained 15 pounds in 3 weeks after I started using creatine, and I haven't lost it after I stopped. Creatine helps with your endurance. You will be able to get more reps while taking creatine than you will if you don't. The gains aren't much different, but they are significant enough that I will still take it. Almost nothing you put into your body is good for it, but creatine is one that is pretty damn safe.

[someone447]

whats the difference between Creatine Mono and CEE(ethyl ester)?

which 1 is better?

Just get pure creatine monohydrate, anything else is just extra money for no added benefits.

[ripdw27]

guys at my school take creotene or however you spell it, i guess it just energy or somn like that

[Billingsley26]

I find that taking nothing works FINE for me. For the most part over the last 2 years, I would lift on and off, not really steady. But Ive been going very hard now (probably about 5-6 times a week) and have seen very good results. My bench, squat and just about everything has gone WAY up. My philosophy for this is not to take anything. Sure after a workout, when you wake up the next day your muscles will be aiking badly. Well, that means your muscles are working and getting stronger.

EXAMPLE- When you kick poles with your shins you shins hurt at first, but after you do it for so long, you shins get tougher and it doesnt hurt anymore.

Its like your muscles. Working your muscles when they hurt are key. Because your mucsles will act as if "hey i dont want this to keep happening, so im gonna get stronger", and they do. Granted you probably wont be able to lift as much the next day, the fact that your muscles are getting the workout is key. They will get so much stronger much quicker.

All you need is the determination and mind-set. You wont feel like lifting, but you have to get your mind right and get in there.

[bernbabybern820]

I gained 15 pounds in 3 weeks after I started using creatine, and I haven't lost it after I stopped. Creatine helps with your endurance. You will be able to get more reps while taking creatine than you will if you don't. The gains aren't much different, but they are significant enough that I will still take it. Almost nothing you put into your body is good for it, but creatine is one that is pretty damn safe.

Lol creatine does not help you gain anything other than water weight. Creatine gives you energy. You gain weight from protein, carbs, and fat. Creatine indirectly helps you gain muscle though since you are able to do more reps and/or weight so it breaks down your muscles so you can build it up bigger and stronger.

[j05son]

I'm thinking of starting a new supplement stack.

Whey Protein
Creatine
Multivitamin
Fish Oil Pills

Thoughts?

I think that's pretty good.

I would strongly recommend a Whey/Casein mixture for protein though.

Whey - A protein found in milk [20%]. Fast digestive. Creates a LARGE and RAPID release of amino acids which in cause creates protein synthesis. Effects are short lived. A lot of times, the amount of whey entered into the body from supplements is to much for digestion and is excramented.

Casein - A protein abundantly found in milk [the other 80%]. Slow digestive. Releases amino acids SLOWLY and STEADILY. prolongs the amino acids in blood thus blocking protein breakdown. Won't get protein synthesis as fast as whey.

Both are good and different on their own. When you combine them you have a VERY STRONG supplement. The why is digested and absorbed quickly; creating that protein synthesis you need [esp if you had just finished lifting]. The casein will not only slow the digestion rate, but also that of wheys which means that you won't lose as much whey due to digestion.

You can only digest so much. You put a lot of whey in, most gets digested the rest you lose. Casein slows that process and you will be able to digest more whey and reap it's beneficial factors [flaxseed should do the same]. The casein's slow digestive and absorption will keep you in an anticatabolic state longer.

Whey and Casein are similar in the fact that they are milk proteins that stimulate protein synthesis. They both have their own pros and cons. When you combine them however, their cons almost cancel each other out and you get the pros of both of them which should add your lifting. Whey/Casein mixtures have also shown to reduce body fat while increasing lean mass and muscle size..

If you can stand the extra cals, you can also take your protein with skim milk [or even reg milk if you really don't care about the cals/fat] and get the whey and casein naturally as well with your supplements. I take mine with skim and it also tastes better than with water [imho].

Also the fish oils are nice. I've heard they also improve your skin and hair..I've read the Scandinavian countries have the best life expectancy along with Japan maybe for the amount of fish they eat. The Omega 3's are VERY VERY benifical to everyday life. We [as a society] should also eat fish much more frequently then we do [two times a week] depending on the size of the fish [as size and mercury levels are comparable: Tuna = very little, Swordfish = lots of mercury].

Lol creatine does not help you gain anything other than water weight. Creatine gives you energy. You gain weight from protein, carbs, and fat. Creatine indirectly helps you gain muscle though since you are able to do more reps and/or weight so it breaks down your muscles so you can build it up bigger and stronger.

While you are technically right, you are still playing off the effects creatine gives you. It DIRECTLY helps you be more "explosive" thus adding reps. Creatine doesn't break down the muscles, the muscles breakdown the creatine [the phosphate attached to it actually] and combines it with the ADP to reuse as ATP as energy again.

Your muscles breakdown from cortisol and other hormones, along with the stress and imflamation of your workout. Your glycogen carbs are reduced, as well as your amino acids and even your immune system.

I find that taking nothing works FINE for me.Really, if you eat right, you get all of this in you anyways. Supplements are just made to supplement your workout. If you don't take anything but eat right, you will see gains. If you workout, eat right and take supplements you will see more gains. Supplements are good for you but you can't replace good eating with them. If you add some supplements you can perhaps achieve more or get over a platue but those vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, amino acids, etc you get from foods are better than those found in supplements. Combining them though, should workout pretty well...

whats the difference between Creatine Mono and CEE(ethyl ester)?which 1 is better?

There are 3 types of Creatine. Mono, Phosphate, Citrate.

Mono - water and creatine bond. Has the most Creatine per gram. Most popular form of creatine.

Phosphate - water, creatine, phosphate bond. Less creatine per gram. Cost more. Has never shown to do better than mono in studies and research.

Citrate - I don't know much about citrate other than it has the least amount of creatine per gram. It is suppose to be absorbed the best because of this.

Mono has the worst absorption rate of them all. That's where CEE comes in. It's water-creatine-ethyl ester bonded. The ethyl ester is suppose to make it absorb better and faster. In the regular mono you will have the "water weight" since the cells are sitting there with water but never were absorbed. The ethyl ester is mainly a more expensive creatine with a better absorption rate and stability. It gets good reviews from it's customers.

The Creatine Ethyl Ester bond [CEE] is the better of the two but with a bigger price tag. They are cousins. Both Monohydrates and both have report lean muscle mass and size.

Also did you try to IM me on aim....I'm ALWAYS away...Sometimes I turn off aim so I have less applications open when I game. However, you can IM me and I'll eventually get back to you if I'm not there [yeah, I leave the away up eventhough I'm there too].

I've heard the same about new shoes, and I'm going to pick up some Asics this weekend.

I use to run cross country and had many skin splints. Potassium will help with overall cramps. You can get it with any fruits, most veggies, and milk: Bananas being the most abundant. Stretching is essential as well. We were told that if we had shin splits to put your toes on an edge like of a stair or small incline so your heels hang off and dip your heals below and hold it and then incline your heals so you are on your tippy-toes and hold it and repeat.

I've never actually worn a pair, but have heard that New Balance have sizes for length and width and you can actually have you foot measured and have the perfectly fitted shoe through them. Perhaps you can look into that.

[Phrost]

http://www.sytropin.com/about.html

HGH, highly considering it. Hope it doesn't cause cancer! :P

[someone447]

Lol creatine does not help you gain anything other than water weight. Creatine gives you energy. You gain weight from protein, carbs, and fat. Creatine indirectly helps you gain muscle though since you are able to do more reps and/or weight so it breaks down your muscles so you can build it up bigger and stronger.

Exactly, the supplements do not DIRECTLY cause you to gain weight. It helps you do more reps, which is exactly what I said.

[Phrost]

Need some info.
Started my new workout regiment two days ago.
I am decently built to begin with but I want to get bigger so I went pretty hard. Just doing arms.
So I didn't feel sore yesterday(one day after). But felt TERRIBLY sore today, I think it is DOMS(delayed onset muscle soreness).
Then I went to my mirror for the daily once over, and I can't tell if my arms are swollen or what.
What do you think it is?
Did I workout too hard for the first time?
Is it swelling?

[nvot9]

Alright, I just started working out again and I plan on going to the gym quite often, basically as much as possible, most likely 5 days a week.

As far as eating habits go though, I'm a bit stumped, what would you guys suggest as far as:

- Regular breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals...types of meals etc
- Snacks to eat, basically what foods are high in protein, specifically
- Extra supplements...right now i'm just taking supri-tein or something like that, one scoop before i work out.

Thoughts and suggestions?

[remix 6]

Just get pure creatine monohydrate, anything else is just extra money for no added benefits.

i already have mono. works iight. i have Higher Power Micronized Creatine.

i might try a switch after the bottle is done. im deciding between: Universal Storm, Green Bulge, Cell Mass or Tech..forget which 1 i was looking up.

[remix 6]

Need some info.
Started my new workout regiment two days ago.
I am decently built to begin with but I want to get bigger so I went pretty hard. Just doing arms.
So I didn't feel sore yesterday(one day after). But felt TERRIBLY sore today, I think it is DOMS(delayed onset muscle soreness).
Then I went to my mirror for the daily once over, and I can't tell if my arms are swollen or what.
What do you think it is?
Did I workout too hard for the first time?
Is it swelling?

i think you just shocked your body. if u havent worked out in a long time and then u just burst on with a hard workout..your gonna get sore as hell. u stop getting extremely sore after you get back into it but theres no such thing as working too hard first time. idk bout swelling though


Alright, I just started working out again and I plan on going to the gym quite often, basically as much as possible, most likely 5 days a week.

As far as eating habits go though, I'm a bit stumped, what would you guys suggest as far as:

- Regular breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals...types of meals etc
- Snacks to eat, basically what foods are high in protein, specifically
- Extra supplements...right now i'm just taking supri-tein or something like that, one scoop before i work out.

Thoughts and suggestions?

6 small meals a day
for breakfast..go with either one of these: Eggs/Non Sugary Cereal/A Protein Shake/ Oatmeal and always have a fruit or 2

For lunch..if your eating a sandwich..wheat is better but unless your losing weight..it wont be that big of a deal. Tuna is good..Turkey..chicken. Avoid bagels..fries..pizza and stuff. Again..eat a fruit with it or low fat yogurts are nice imo.

Snacks: Low fat fruit yogurt..nuts(almonds, etc)..fruits are snacks..and i think pretzels(in the bag..not soft pretzels) are fine.

Dinner: avoid a lot of carbs after lets say 5 PM. Not sure exactly what to recommend

Supplements: I think Protein is what people just need..if your interested in buying protein powder, go to bodybuilding.com and search Optimum 100% Whey. Tastes good..its cheap. Chocolate is the best..i have fruti punch aswell but its not very good

creatine and glutamine are fine but depends how hard your gonna work and what u want. Some people dont find it neccessary..others do.

like i said..6 meals a day: i'll give an example with times..u'll get an idea of when if your schedule is different
1.) Breakfast 6:30
2.) Morning snack 8:30-9
3) Lunch: 11:00 (thats my lunch period in school)
4) After Noon Snack: 1:30
5) Little Meal: 4:30..lets say a Peanut Butter Jelly
6) Dinner: 6-7:30..whenever Dinner is served

i also take a shake before i go to bed and eat a fruit..bananas..watermelon, peach. whatever you like

[nvot9]

Thanks a lot remix.

As far as chocolate goes? Completely stay away from it or what?

[remix 6]

Thanks a lot remix.

As far as chocolate goes? Completely stay away from it or what?

its fine if u have things once in awhile but overall i would stay away from it

forgot to mention..cheat meals once a week are good.
Cheat Meal - anything u want..go all out. Pizza with a nice desert, chocolate if you insist :)


reason for cheat meal: your body gets used to eating healthier so your metabolism is like my little diagram:

------(maintaining a diet)

then u have your cheat meal and it goes:
----///---------(meaning your metabolism jumps because its not used to eating what is now considered "junk"

then after that..just keep working out..go back to your diet :)

edit: if you dont understand my little lines, its like heart rate: you do nothing: its steady..stays the same. Then you start running or something and it goes up quickly.

what your gonna realize is that having a clean diet is tough..your gonna walk around looking for chocolate..brownies..sugar and fat foods(they taste much better..everyone knows it) but how dedicated you are to your diet will be shown by how you can avoid cravings. if you feel hungry and you go to kitchen and see some delicious cookies or something..try to resist and grab a fruit :)

when you drink: avoid soda. Water is the best thing u can have..if your working out Gatorade is good too although its got a good amount of sugar but working out with Gatorade or i should say " as long as your working hard..Gatorade is fine"

Juice in the morning..i like my orange juice..my caprisun..sunny delight..some mixed fruit drinks that my parents get that are really good.

[High Roller]

Also the fish oils are nice. I've heard they also improve your skin and hair..I've read the Scandinavian countries have the best life expectancy along with Japan maybe for the amount of fish they eat. The Omega 3's are VERY VERY benifical to everyday life. We [as a society] should also eat fish much more frequently then we do [two times a week] depending on the size of the fish [as size and mercury levels are comparable: Tuna = very little, Swordfish = lots of mercury].

How do you consume the pills, swallow with water? And if you taste it, does it taste horrible because I don't like to force myself to eat something I won't enjoy. Besides Protein which I enjoy sometimes.

[nvot9]

Damn, thanks a lot Remix, you now your stuff. I've based an entirely new diet for myself around some of the info you've given me.

[bernbabybern820]

Thanks a lot remix.

As far as chocolate goes? Completely stay away from it or what?

dark chocolate is the shiz. Full of great antioxidants.

[remix 6]

Damn, thanks a lot Remix, you now your stuff. I've based an entirely new diet for myself around some of the info you've given me.


no problem and thank you for considering it and maybe trying it out. i tried to give u what i knew from going to personal trainers in past and now..from articles i've read and experience.

[Donno]

You know there are shortcuts...

[nvot9]

You mean shortcuts that are illegal and have more negatives then they do positives? If it's alright with you, i'll stick to the honorable way.

[bernbabybern820]

Exactly, the supplements do not DIRECTLY cause you to gain weight. It helps you do more reps, which is exactly what I said.

But yet you make it seem like creatine had a lot to do with it even though your diet is what determines if you lose or gain weight.

[AlexDown]

While at college when I was working out, I recorded my progress with my exercises on a piece of paper. Does anyone know of a computer program (for mac) where I can track my progress and what I did each day?

[draftguru151]

My mac has excel.

Woot I get to work out tomorrow for the first time in 3 weeks.

[remix 6]

whats everyones opinion on muscle milk? Shits expensive but is it worth it?

does it replace creatine or protein if your gonna combine 1 with another?

is it Creatine + Muscle Milk(i think this is it..?)

or do you take Muscle Milk with Protein?

Muscle milk is a blend of those 2 but which 1 do u stop using with MM?

[bernbabybern820]

whats everyones opinion on muscle milk? Shits expensive but is it worth it?

does it replace creatine or protein if your gonna combine 1 with another?

is it Creatine + Muscle Milk(i think this is it..?)

or do you take Muscle Milk with Protein?

Muscle milk is a blend of those 2 but which 1 do u stop using with MM?

I have Muscle Milk and it doesnt have creatine in it. It supposedly increases your creatine production? I guess you can use it before bed since fat isnt good post workout. I just love it since its like drinking a sweet milk shake without taking in a lot of sugar.

[j05son]

i think you just shocked your body. if u havent worked out in a long time and then u just burst on with a hard workout..your gonna get sore as hell. u stop getting extremely sore after you get back into it but theres no such thing as working too hard first time. idk bout swelling though




6 small meals a day
for breakfast..go with either one of these: Eggs/Non Sugary Cereal/A Protein Shake/ Oatmeal and always have a fruit or 2

For lunch..if your eating a sandwich..wheat is better but unless your losing weight..it wont be that big of a deal. Tuna is good..Turkey..chicken. Avoid bagels..fries..pizza and stuff. Again..eat a fruit with it or low fat yogurts are nice imo.

Snacks: Low fat fruit yogurt..nuts(almonds, etc)..fruits are snacks..and i think pretzels(in the bag..not soft pretzels) are fine.

Dinner: avoid a lot of carbs after lets say 5 PM. Not sure exactly what to recommend

Supplements: I think Protein is what people just need..if your interested in buying protein powder, go to bodybuilding.com and search Optimum 100% Whey. Tastes good..its cheap. Chocolate is the best..i have fruti punch aswell but its not very good

creatine and glutamine are fine but depends how hard your gonna work and what u want. Some people dont find it neccessary..others do.

like i said..6 meals a day: i'll give an example with times..u'll get an idea of when if your schedule is different
1.) Breakfast 6:30
2.) Morning snack 8:30-9
3) Lunch: 11:00 (thats my lunch period in school)
4) After Noon Snack: 1:30
5) Little Meal: 4:30..lets say a Peanut Butter Jelly
6) Dinner: 6-7:30..whenever Dinner is served

i also take a shake before i go to bed and eat a fruit..bananas..watermelon, peach. whatever you like

Part 1: Remix is right. You just shocked you body. Have you went lifting again? What happened your next session? Proteins will stop the swelling and just remember to give yourself ample rest times the next time you work that body part out. Don't go full force again if you are still sore, you need rest or you'll just damage you efforts in gains. Potassium [found in all fruits, mostly all veggies, and milk] is great for relief in cramps and general soreness. Some people get sore more so than others. Just the ways your body works...Don't over work yourself, give ample rest times, and eat right.

Part 2: Agreed except for two parts. Dinner, you don't have to avoid carbs. Just make sure they are complex carbs [which is basically WHOLE wheat like in bread or pastas, or in the case of rice, BROWN rice... The second is to buy casien and whey mixes like previously stated....



Thanks a lot remix.

As far as chocolate goes? Completely stay away from it or what?

DARK chocolate is the best for you...If you can stand the taste [a lot of people don't like it]. My grandpa loved it and since I always looked up to him, I liked it from a young age...

How do you consume the pills, swallow with water? And if you taste it, does it taste horrible because I don't like to force myself to eat something I won't enjoy. Besides Protein which I enjoy sometimes.

I am a pro at swallowing pills. In supplements I take every dosage at once, so up to 6 pills [Depending what I'm taking, if I'm on medication, I have terrible allergies] and I take it with either water or milk in the morning and then again with my protein before my workout.

Fish oils are in a capsule. If you can swallow pills it's nothing. Just depends on how you can take pills.

I bolded something I found interesting. Do you not like fish? If that's the case, you can buy Omega 3 loaded eggs to "replace" the 3's or take the fish oil capsules....The hens are fed a special diet to add more Omega 3's to their eggs. The eggs cost more, but they aren't unreasonable. Under 3 dollars for a dozen; Maybe around 2 dollars, I can't quite remember. You should be able to get them at any MAJOR grocery store.

[quote="remix6"whats everyones opinion on muscle milk? Shits expensive but is it worth it?

does it replace creatine or protein if your gonna combine 1 with another?

is it Creatine + Muscle Milk(i think this is it..?)

or do you take Muscle Milk with Protein?

Muscle milk is a blend of those 2 but which 1 do u stop using with MM?[/quote]

I am currently taking:
Creatine Monohydrate [in the form of capsules]
Hydoroxycut Hardcore [weight loss, energy, caffine pills]
Multi-vitmain [obvious]
Muscle Milk

http://www.cytosport.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=1

The website for Muscle Milk.

http://www.cytosport.com/media/ProductSupplementalFactsImage/supp_mm.jpg

* Increases your body's natural production for Creatine.
* Has 32 grams of Protein per serving [more if you drink it with milk, remember, Both Whey and Casien are the proteins found in milk].
* Increases metabolism and adds healthy/good fats...

I just started taking Muscle Milk 2 weeks ago. I will most likely be a long term customer. I absolutely love it. I was using a GNC time release blend but got fed up of GNC prices and went to Vitamin World. Decided to try MM and the flavor is great and it has everything I wanted and more.

I have creatine left over, but I plan to stop taking it when I run out and just have MM's natural production be my creatine...

Muscle Milk also comes in 25 flavors. I am using Mocha Joe. I am getting Banana and Blueberry next. I am a big fan of artificial banana flavoring and I like to add real blueberries to my blueberry shakes and figure I can do the same with protein.....I also like to get 2 flavors for a varity. I love coffee, but Mocha Joe is getting a bit old.