Chocolate Bliss. Bodybuilding, bodyshaping and Fitness Walking nutrition.

Feel free to use this article for your web site or e-zine as long you include the author bio and make sure all links are live and working. Please dont change anything in the article. If you use the article, let me know where. 25 years of blood, sweat and tears literally go into my articles, please be courteous back. I wish you the best success if you use my article. This article is copyright protected by Nature Boy Bodybuilding 2004. Thanks so much! Kevin the Nature Boy.

Start of article.

Chocolate Bliss. Bodybuilding, bodyshaping and Fitness Walking nutrition.

You have been on your crusade to shed your layer of cellulite by watching your nutrition needs. You have been training hard in the gym bodybuilding, bodyshaping and putting the elasticity back into your muscles. You diligently had been Fitness Walking to burn the fat. You cant believe how much better you feel about yourself both physically and mentally. If you can have some chocolate bliss it would be a perfect world. Well now you can.

You are probably telling yourself, hey Nature Boy, did you slip on some deer dung in the wild and hit your head on an Oak stump. No I didnt. Excuse me, it was a White Pine.

First lets start with the ingredient list
1, A box of chocolate sugar free, fat free instant pudding.
2, A chocolate whey protein. (I use Optimum 100% Whey Protein) Whey protein mixes easily.

Thats it!

So simple. Just mix a scoop of whey protein into a serving of the instant chocolate pudding. You can add a sliced banana to it and still keep it low in carbohydrates. The fruit will add natural fiber and other nutrients.

As a bodybuilding treat, this will help you keep in a positive nitrogen balance.

Nitrogen balance needs; As a bodybuilder you would like to stay in a positive nitrogen balance to ensure growth. A negative balance will make the body cannibalize muscle tissue to feed the muscles you just worked. A bad thing if you want growth. Nitrogen from protein is the best way of receiving it. Egg and milk products naturally high in nitrogen. Whey protein is excellent.

The blissful stats:

Total calories-145
Fat grams-1.5
Carbohydrates grams-10, 1 gram as sugar
Protein grams-23

Well you have to pardon me. My head hurts from hitting it on that White Pine stump. Enjoy your chocolate bliss.
Jeopardizing your health is the last thing Nature Boy wants. Please check with your doctor before starting a fitness program. We want to make this a healthy start to a better lifestyle.

Start of article.

Chocolate Bliss. Bodybuilding, bodyshaping and Fitness Walking nutrition.

You have been on your crusade to shed your layer of cellulite by watching your nutrition needs. You have been training hard in the gym bodybuilding, bodyshaping and putting the elasticity back into your muscles. You diligently had been Fitness Walking to burn the fat. You cant believe how much better you feel about yourself both physically and mentally. If you can have some chocolate bliss it would be a perfect world. Well now you can.

You are probably telling yourself, hey Nature Boy, did you slip on some deer dung in the wild and hit your head on an Oak stump. No I didnt. Excuse me, it was a White Pine.

First lets start with the ingredient list
1, A box of chocolate sugar free, fat free instant pudding.
2, A chocolate whey protein. (I use Optimum 100% Whey Protein) Whey protein mixes easily.

Thats it!

So simple. Just mix a scoop of whey protein into a serving of the instant chocolate pudding. You can add a sliced banana to it and still keep it low in carbohydrates. The fruit will add natural fiber and other nutrients.

As a bodybuilding treat, this will help you keep in a positive nitrogen balance.

Nitrogen balance needs; As a bodybuilder you would like to stay in a positive nitrogen balance to ensure growth. A negative balance will make the body cannibalize muscle tissue to feed the muscles you just worked. A bad thing if you want growth. Nitrogen from protein is the best way of receiving it. Egg and milk products naturally high in nitrogen. Whey protein is excellent.

The blissful stats:

Total calories-145
Fat grams-1.5
Carbohydrates grams-10, 1 gram as sugar
Protein grams-23

Well you have to pardon me. My head hurts from hitting it on that White Pine stump. Enjoy your chocolate bliss.
Jeopardizing your health is the last thing Nature Boy wants. Please check with your doctor before starting a fitness program. We want to make this a healthy start to a better lifestyle.

Kevin Doberstein has been a natural bodybuilder for the past 25 years. 15 years as a gym owner.Kevin was once quoted give me a barbell and flat bench and I will give you a bench press, give me raw broccoli to eat and I will give you gas. For more articles about bodybuilding, bodyshaping and nutrition you can visit his site and join his newsletter at www.nature-boy-bodybuilding.com. You can contact him at natureboy_bodybuilding@hotmail.com.

Bodybuilding overtraining

Read the original article

When you train to much you simply won't grow from it period!

This simply means you can not resolve overtraining by increasing your sleep.

Which ultimately means you have to cut back on your workout, or even take time out fromworking out for about two weeks.

You have to realize when your not working for two weeks your body will still grow for a period up to a week.

But now your still asking yourself how is this possible.

Well think of it as this you've been working out for 8 to 12 weeks straight with maybe one or two days off of a week.

That still is not enough time for the whole body to grow.

So for that first week your body is still healing itself and catching up to the intense workout you have done, and will actually see yourself getting bigger.

Now I'm not saying to go cheat on your diet but you can also cut back on your protein and carbs because your not going to be using the excess carbs for energy.

Into your second gradually add push ups, pull ups, and body squats to your workout.

This way when you start working out again your body will be primed.

Here is a little workout for this.

Do these workout routines three time a week:

Two sets of push ups 25 reps each

Two sets of pull ups 15 reps each

Two sets of body squats 20 reps each

And do a lot of stretching which will reduce the risk of overtraining.

Bodybuilding overtraining

Read the original article

When you train to much you simply won't grow from it period!

This simply means you can not resolve overtraining by increasing your sleep.

Which ultimately means you have to cut back on your workout, or even take time out fromworking out for about two weeks.

You have to realize when your not working for two weeks your body will still grow for a period up to a week.

But now your still asking yourself how is this possible.

Well think of it as this you've been working out for 8 to 12 weeks straight with maybe one or two days off of a week.

That still is not enough time for the whole body to grow.

So for that first week your body is still healing itself and catching up to the intense workout you have done, and will actually see yourself getting bigger.

Now I'm not saying to go cheat on your diet but you can also cut back on your protein and carbs because your not going to be using the excess carbs for energy.

Into your second gradually add push ups, pull ups, and body squats to your workout.

This way when you start working out again your body will be primed.

Here is a little workout for this.

Do these workout routines three time a week:

Two sets of push ups 25 reps each

Two sets of pull ups 15 reps each

Two sets of body squats 20 reps each

And do a lot of stretching which will reduce the risk of overtraining.

Webmaster of Boeafitness.com
Boeafitness.com

 

Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement - NO Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is a free form gas produced by the body in order to communicate with other cells. It is created when enzymes break down the amino acid arginine. The main benefit of nitric oxide is its role in controlling the circulation of blood and regulating activities of the brain, lungs, liver, stomach and other organs. It also helps in the control of blood pressure, dilates blood vessels to cause penile erection and is used by the immune system to fight viral, bacterial and parasitic infections.

It is the ability of nitric oxide to increase blood flow that is of most interest to bodybuilders who can benefit as follows:

1. The increased blood flow delivers more nutrients to the muscle cells thus helping them to grow during the adaptation and recovery phase.

2. Its ability to reduce inflammation helps muscles that have been subjected to extreme stresses.

Given its close relationship with arginine care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

It is the ability of nitric oxide to increase blood flow that is of most interest to bodybuilders who can benefit as follows:

1. The increased blood flow delivers more nutrients to the muscle cells thus helping them to grow during the adaptation and recovery phase.

2. Its ability to reduce inflammation helps muscles that have been subjected to extreme stresses.

Given its close relationship with arginine care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

Rick Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement - Ecdysterone

Ecdysterone is a powerful compound that can help to maximise your genetic potential to build muscle. It exists in the herbs Rhaponticium and Cyanatis Vaga. Although it has been known about for many years the expense associated with its extraction meant it was not viable for commercial production. Recent advancements in extraction technology, through in-vitrio cultivation, have made wholesale production possible.

Ecdysterone has been subjected to over 50 studies with the following major findings:

1. It increases lean muscle mass.

2. It increases endurance.

3. It stimulates metabolism.

4. It decreases blood sugar levels.

5. It reduces fatty tissue.

6. It prevents loss of muscle mass and promotes growth of muscle fibers.

7. It is suitable for both men and women and has no known side effects.

Ecdysterone seems to create a kind muscle building environment in the body by maintaining a positive nitrogen balance and by increasing protein synthesis. The recommended dose for Ecdysterone is 80-120 mg per day although dosages of up to 600 mg per day can be safely taken.

Ecdysterone has been subjected to over 50 studies with the following major findings:

1. It increases lean muscle mass.

2. It increases endurance.

3. It stimulates metabolism.

4. It decreases blood sugar levels.

5. It reduces fatty tissue.

6. It prevents loss of muscle mass and promotes growth of muscle fibers.

7. It is suitable for both men and women and has no known side effects.

Ecdysterone seems to create a kind muscle building environment in the body by maintaining a positive nitrogen balance and by increasing protein synthesis. The recommended dose for Ecdysterone is 80-120 mg per day although dosages of up to 600 mg per day can be safely taken.

Rick Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement - BCAA's

BCAA stands for branched chain amino acids and is increasingly being recognized as an important supplement in the field of sports nutrition. In short the term refers to three essential amino acids - leucine, isoleucine and valine.

Amino acids are widely known as the building blocks of protein. When protein food is eaten it gets digested into individual amino acids and short chains of amino acids that are sufficiently small to be absorbed into the bloodstream. They are then used by the body to build and repair tissues amongst other things.

Amino acids are split between those classed as essential and those labelled non-essential. This simply means that essential amino acids cannot be made by the body, whereas non-essential amino acids can. There are nine essential amino acids and each must be obtained from the diet. The nine essential amino acids are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.

Non-essential amino acids are just as important as the essential variety and the term simply means they can be made by the body from vitamins and other amino acids. The non-essential amino acids are alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, cystine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine and tyrosine.

The BCAA's are especially important to athletes because they are metabolized in the muscle rather than the liver. This means that they can be used either to build new proteins or be burned as fuel to create energy. Supplementing with BCAA's has been shown to result in measurable gains in both muscle strength and size. Taken before a workout BCAA's can improve performance and delay the onset of fatigue. They also operate as anabolic agents allowing the body to burn fat and not muscle.

As a supplement that has no reported side effects, branched chain amino acids offer many benefits to the serious bodybuilder.

Amino acids are widely known as the building blocks of protein. When protein food is eaten it gets digested into individual amino acids and short chains of amino acids that are sufficiently small to be absorbed into the bloodstream. They are then used by the body to build and repair tissues amongst other things.

Amino acids are split between those classed as essential and those labelled non-essential. This simply means that essential amino acids cannot be made by the body, whereas non-essential amino acids can. There are nine essential amino acids and each must be obtained from the diet. The nine essential amino acids are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.

Non-essential amino acids are just as important as the essential variety and the term simply means they can be made by the body from vitamins and other amino acids. The non-essential amino acids are alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, cystine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine and tyrosine.

The BCAA's are especially important to athletes because they are metabolized in the muscle rather than the liver. This means that they can be used either to build new proteins or be burned as fuel to create energy. Supplementing with BCAA's has been shown to result in measurable gains in both muscle strength and size. Taken before a workout BCAA's can improve performance and delay the onset of fatigue. They also operate as anabolic agents allowing the body to burn fat and not muscle.

As a supplement that has no reported side effects, branched chain amino acids offer many benefits to the serious bodybuilder.

Rick Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

 

Benefit of Glutamine for Bodybuilding

Glutamine is the most abundant of all non-essential amino acids in the body. When the body is busy rebuilding tissue from weight-lifting workouts, amino acids play an important role. Of all of the amino acids, Glutamine is the most used. In this article you can learn how this supplement can help you.

Glutamine is the most abundant of all non-essential amino acids in the body. When the body is busy rebuilding tissue from weight-lifting workouts, amino acids play an important role. Of all of the amino acids, Glutamine is the most used. In this article you can learn how this supplement can help you.

What glutamine does to the body

Glutamine is the most abundant of all non-essential amino acids in the body. When the body is busy rebuilding tissue from weight-lifting workouts, amino acids play an important role. Of all of the amino acids, Glutamine is the most used. It is also an important fuel source for bodybuilding exercise and used for maintaining normal immune function. The amino acid also increases cell volume through hydration. It creates a anabolic effect for positive growth because of the positive nitrogen balance. It acts like a buffer by setting a negative charge against the positive charge of acids. This in turn gives you longer, more intense workout with less muscle soreness.

Glutamine Side Effects

There is no adverse side effects. Too much Glutamine might be counterproductive and can possibly reduce growth hormone production.

Glutamine Facts

In one study, Glutamine supplements has increased Human Growth Hormone by 430%It provides a positive nitrogen balance for anabolic state. It helps produce high energy adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for muscle contractions.

How to use Glutamine

The best time to take Glutamine is before and after a workout. After a workout it should be mixed with a protein and carbohydrate drink. Because whey protein is naturally high in glutamine, it could be used for the after workout nutrition. It is recommended to take between 6 to 10 grams per day for a bodybuilder who trains on a regular schedule.

If you want more information about using glutamine as a bodybuilding supplement, check out the article http://thor-body-building.tripod.com/id81.html Benefit of Whey Protein.

The author, Kevin Doberstein is a Certified Fitness Trainer who also owns http://medfordskatepark.tripod.com/mainstreetgym/ Main Street Gym in north central Wisconsin. You can check out his web site

http://www.nature-boy-bodybuilding.com/ Nature Boy Bodybuilding and his Nature Boy Bodybuilding Blog http://thor-body-building.tripod.com/natureboyblog/. Natural bodybuilding is the main focus of this blog. Bodybuilding nutrition and fitness articles. Workout exercise programs.

Kevin Doberstein is a Certified Fitness Trainer living in northern Wisconsin. He has been a natural bodybuilder for 25 years.

Bodybuilding Training Tips From a Champion!

Twenty two years ago I feel into the world of bodybuilding by accident. I had absolutely no discipline, determination or confidence in myself. After many championships, Television shows, movie star clients and successful businesses here are a few training tips that have kept me going all these years.


1. MORE THAN JUST LOOKS: Realize exercise is more than just having a great physique. It is about strengthening the mind and heart and soul.

2. KEEP THE BIG PICTURE IN MIND: You will have good days and bad days. One day at a time attitude.


3. BE SOLD OUT! No matter if you are a competitive bodybuilder or just one who does it for a hobby, be sold out for life to exercise.

4. LEAVE YOUR EGO AT THE DOOR. This one will be hard for most of you to do. But to be a champion, you have to get rid of your ego. Your mind is your biggest competitor. In order to improve on your health you need to not be self serving.

5. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER: If you think you know everything, forget, stop right now. You never will. Continue to learn all the time. Most importantly, share your knowledge.

6. HAVE FUN: Most people in bodybuilding are wound way to tight. Loosen up a little.

7. ASK FOR HELP: If you do not know something, ask someone who does.

8. MORE IS NOT BETTER: Put time limits on your workouts.

9. HAVE VARIETY: Never be afraid to change your exercise routine around.

10. HAVE SYNERGY: Incorporate all areas of fitness. Low body fat levels are more important than the size of your biceps.


What every your goals are remember the big picture. You are in this for life, even when the body is not were you want it to be.
Greg Ryan is a best selling author, former employee of Kathy Smith, and high profile fitness expert. LOSE WEIGHT IMMEDIATELY! Discover the common sense way to lose weight with out dieting that the doctors DONT want you to know.
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Choosing the right bodybuilding supplement

Before wasting your money on a pile of bodybuilding supplements you really need to work out what you are hoping to achieve. Don't lose sight of the fact that sound nutrition forms the basis of any muscle building program and no amount of supplementation with the latest and greatest products will make up for bad eating habits. The bottom line is, bodybuilding supplements should be used IN ADDITION to regular food, not INSTEAD OF it.

Now that we've got that out of the way, let's go on to think about what supplements could be of use and this is something that can only be determined by your physical and performance goals. Don't make the mistake of copying your training partners or believing all the garbage spouted in magazine ads. Decide first what you want to achieve and then choose the supplements that will help you reach your goals.

To help you make an informed choice, the most popular and useful bodybuilding supplements available today are listed below, broadly divided into two goal-related categories.

Determined to build muscle? This cannot be achieved without dedication, sheer hard work and sound nutrition. With a solid foundation in place you can help the process along with supplements like creatine, whey protein, prohormones, testosterone boosters and amino acids.

Need to lose fat? There is no point in building awesome muscles if they're covered by layers of fat. Once again, the key to success is hard work but you can boost fat loss by using products from supplement categories that include fat burners, stimulant-free products, appetite suppressants and carb blockers.

Many more supplements are available to support your bodybuilding endeavors. These include energy boosters and products aimed at enhancing the condition of your mind and body. As we progress through this series of articles we'll look at each of these in turn.

In the meantime you can find out more by visiting the web site listed below.


Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Muscle Building Supplements to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Moving from beginner to intermediate level bodybuilding

By now you've made significant progress in your bodybuilding career. For the past three to six months you've learnt how to perform the core lifting exercises in a technically correct manner. You've also conditioned the body and developed sufficient core strength to prepare yourself for a whole new level of intensity. Hopefully you've also built some rock solid muscle! But that's only the beginning.

In recent weeks your workouts have probably lost some of their effect so, even though you're lifting bigger weights, your muscles now need even greater stimulation to generate maximal growth. Don't expect miracles though - from this point onwards, every little bit of improvement will take even greater and more intensive work than before.

Because you'll be working your muscles more intensively, they'll also need more recovery time to adapt and grow and that's why you'll be reducing your workouts to three a week. Each primary muscle group trained will now need one full week to recover. After being used to whole body sessions and more workouts per week it may seem as if you're not doing enough but the point is, you'll be working your muscles very, very intensively and making better use of your time.

As you gain more experience you'll be able to tweak or re-design your basic muscle building program to suit your own individual needs, but the program described here should provide a useful starting point. What I'm proposing is basically a 3-split of the body on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

MONDAY (Chest, Triceps, Shoulders)

1. Chest Exercises

Incline dumbbell press - this is a compound exercise that targets the chest but also works the triceps and shoulders to a lesser extent.

Pec-deck flye - this is an isolation exercise that works the pectorals.

2. Triceps

Dips - this compound exercise targets the triceps but also works the chest and shoulders.

3. Shoulders

Front military press - this compound exercise targets shoulders but also works the triceps.

Dumbbell lateral raises - this isolation exercise works the shoulders only.

Bentover dumbbell laterals - this isolation exercise works the rear delts.

WEDNESDAY (Back, Biceps, Forearms)

1. Back

Front lat pulls - compound exercise that targets lats but also works the biceps and mid-back.

Deadlifts - compound exercise that targets the back and quads but also works hamstrings, calves and glutes.

Dumbbell rows - compound exercise that targets mid-back but also works biceps and lats.

Dumbbell shrugs - isolation exercise that works traps.

2. Biceps

Dumbbell biceps curl - isolation exercise that works the biceps.

Dumbbell hammer curls - isolation exercise that works the biceps.

3. Forearms

Barbell wrist curl - isolation exercise that works the forearms.

FRIDAY (Lower Body)

1. Legs

Squats or leg press - compound exercise that targets the quads but also works the hamstrings, calves and glutes.

Leg extension - isolation exercise that works the quads.

Leg curls - isolation exercise that works the hamstrings.

Standing calf raise - isolation exercise that works the gastrocnemius calf muscle.

Seated calf raise - isolation exercise that works the soleus calf muscle.

You could start this program by aiming for two sets of 8-10 reps per exercise but as your strength and size increase you should really introduce techniques that boost the intensity even further. This can be achieved in a number of ways including the use of pre-exhaustion, super sets, partial reps, isometric contractions and forced reps. These techniques are covered in detail elsewhere in this series of articles.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - l-arginine

Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that the body cannot make naturally. It is found in nuts, seeds, chocolate and raisins.

Arginine is used by the body in the execution of many important physiological processes including hormone secretion, output of growth hormone, removal of toxins from the body and enhancement of the immune system. It is also a precursor of nitric oxide which vasodiolates vessels in the body. For this reason arginine is often used to treat conditions such as angina, high blood pressure, cardiac disease, sexual dysfunction and infertility. Recent research has also highlighted arginine's ability to scavenge free radicals, remove bad cholesterol, enhance fat metabolism and regulate salt levels.

There are several reasons why arginine appeals to bodybuilders:

1. It prevents the retention of water under the skin thus minimizing bloating and helping to create a ripped appearance.

2. It helps the body to retain nitrogen that is essential to the muscle building process.

3. Its vasodilating abilities support muscle growth.

4. It enhances protein synthesis.

5. It helps to boost the immune system allowing harder training and minimizing the minor illnesses that come from overtraining.

With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - l-taurine

 Taurine is the second most abundant amino acid in the muscle after glutamine. It performs several useful functions and can act in a way similar to creatine in that it expands cells by helping the muscle to hold more water, thus increasing cell volume. The added benefit for bodybuilders is that these expanded muscle cells boost hydration and stimulate greater protein synthesis giving an enhanced muscle fullness.

The best time for bodybuilders to take taurine is thirty minutes before training and again immediately afterwards as this will heighten the effect of training. With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.


Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - l-tyrosine

L-tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a role in the creation of protein. The body can make it from the amino acid phenylalanine but nutritional sources include animal meats, wheat, oatmeal and seafood.

It performs a multitude of important roles in the body including the alleviation of depression, enhancement of thyroid efficiency, strengthening of the immune system, prevention of neurological degeneration and protection of the skin.

Bodybuilders find it useful for several reasons:

1. It offsets the stress and fatigue associated with intensive training.

2. It helps in the retention of muscular protein.

3. It heightens mental alertness thus helping to offset mental fatigue.

With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - l-carnitine

 L-carnitine is synthesized in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine but it can also be found in nutritional sources such as red meats, dairy products and avocados. Its main role in the body is to help metabolize food into energy. L-carnitine does this by transferring long chain fatty acids into mitochondria where they are oxidised to produce energy.

L-carnitine is heart friendly and has been used for many years in the treatment of heart disease. Studies have shown that it can increase the heart's output and function, stimulate energy supply to the heart and improve overall cardiac performance.

Many bodybuilders use it for the following reasons:

1. It promotes muscle growth.

2. It increases energy.

3. It helps to burn fat.

4. It helps to prevent muscle fatigue.

L-carnitine is a relatively safe supplement provided the manufacturer's recommendations are followed. As with all supplements, remain aware that l-carnitine could be contained in other products so read the labels carefully to ensure your daily intake does not exceed four grams.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - l-lysine

 Lysine is an essential amino acid therefore it must be obtained from the diet as the body cannot produce its own. It is an essential building block for all protein in the body and can be found in animal meats, fish, dairy products, legumes and brewer's yeast. It performs many useful functions in the body and has proved to be especially useful in treating herpes and cold sores. Lysine also increases the absorption of calcium so it may help to prevent and treat osteoporosis.

To the bodybuilder, lysine offers many benefits:

1. It helps build muscle protein.

2. It helps maintain nitrogen levels.

3. It supports the production of hormones.

4. It speeds up recovery from injury or overtraining.

Although lysine can be readily obtained from many foodstuffs, supplementation can enhance the effects noted above. No problems have been reported with normal usage but high doses exceeding 15 grams can cause stomach problems and cramp.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - BCAA's

 BCAA stands for branched chain amino acids and is increasingly being recognized as an important supplement in the field of sports nutrition. In short the term refers to three essential amino acids - leucine, isoleucine and valine.

Amino acids are widely known as the building blocks of protein. When protein food is eaten it gets digested into individual amino acids and short chains of amino acids that are sufficiently small to be absorbed into the bloodstream. They are then used by the body to build and repair tissues amongst other things.

Amino acids are split between those classed as essential and those labelled non-essential. This simply means that essential amino acids cannot be made by the body, whereas non-essential amino acids can. There are nine essential amino acids and each must be obtained from the diet. The nine essential amino acids are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.

Non-essential amino acids are just as important as the essential variety and the term simply means they can be made by the body from vitamins and other amino acids. The non-essential amino acids are alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, cystine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine and tyrosine.

The BCAA's are especially important to athletes because they are metabolized in the muscle rather than the liver. This means that they can be used either to build new proteins or be burned as fuel to create energy. Supplementing with BCAA's has been shown to result in measurable gains in both muscle strength and size. Taken before a workout BCAA's can improve performance and delay the onset of fatigue. They also operate as anabolic agents allowing the body to burn fat and not muscle.

As a supplement that has no reported side effects, branched chain amino acids offer many benefits to the serious bodybuilder.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - tribulus

Tribulus terrestris is a herb that comes from a plant found in Asia. It has been used in the past by many cultures for the treatment of liver, kidney and cardiovascular diseases. It has also been used as a diuretic and to treat infertility. In recent years strength athletes in eastern Europe are reputed to have used it to enhance performance.

It is believed to enhance testosterone levels by encouraging the production of lutenizing hormone. Studies have shown that when lutenizing hormone levels are increased, the natural production of testosterone also increases.

It is difficult to assess the validity of tribulus as a muscle growth enhancer because none of the studies carried out have appeared in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Its proponents do suggest that it can prove useful when stacked with 100 mg of DHEA and 100 mg of androstenedione but this takes us into the equally uncertain territory of prohormones which we have covered in a separate article.

If you do wish to experiment with tribulus you can take 750-1250 mg per day divided between meals. Some people experience stomach upsets but this can be minimized by taking it with food. There's no guarantee that tribulus terrestris will help you grow bigger muscles but many users report a much improved sex drive!

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.


Know your bodybuilding supplement - ZMARichard MitchellZMA is a scientifically designed anabolic mineral formula containing zinc monomethionine aspartate, magnesium aspartate and vitamin B-6. Studies have shown that it has a clinical effect on testosterone levels when taken in a combination containing 30 mg of zinc and 450 mg of magnesium per day. The most famous study conducted by Lorrie Brilla at Western Washington University indicated that this combination could raise testosterone levels by as much as 30%.

Bodybuilders can obviously benefit from taking ZMA, specifically in the following ways:

1. It increases the body's natural production of testosterone thus boosting its capacity for building lean muscle.

2. It increases levels of growth hormone.

3. It helps sleep if taken 30-60 minutes before bed thus enhancing rest and recovery.

ZMA has no known side effects but it must be taken in the proper dosage to the exact proportions used in most studies - that is 11 mg of vitamin B-6, 450 mg of magnesium and 30 mg of zinc.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - nitric oxide

Nitric oxide is a free form gas produced by the body in order to communicate with other cells. It is created when enzymes break down the amino acid arginine. The main benefit of nitric oxide is its role in controlling the circulation of blood and regulating activities of the brain, lungs, liver, stomach and other organs. It also helps in the control of blood pressure, dilates blood vessels to cause penile erection and is used by the immune system to fight viral, bacterial and parasitic infections.

It is the ability of nitric oxide to increase blood flow that is of most interest to bodybuilders who can benefit as follows:

1. The increased blood flow delivers more nutrients to the muscle cells thus helping them to grow during the adaptation and recovery phase.

2. Its ability to reduce inflammation helps muscles that have been subjected to extreme stresses.

Given its close relationship with arginine care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.
Know your bodybuilding supplement - HMBRichard MitchellHMB stands for beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate. It is a metabolite of leucine, one of the body's essential amino acids, with small amounts found naturally in catfish, grapefruit and alfalfa.

It has become very popular amongst athletes in recent years mainly due to the role it plays in the synthesis of muscle tissue. HMB has been subjected to many studies that have reached some interesting conclusions. One study showed that supplementation with 3 grams of HMB per day increased participants' strength by a factor of three compared with placebo takers. Supplementing with the same amount also saw a reduction in bad cholesterol compared with the placebo group.

Clearly there is significant scientific backing for claims that HMB can speed up muscle growth, strength, endurance and fat loss. There are no known side effects when taken properly in amounts ranging from 3-5 grams each day. It should be taken before training or at bed time for best results.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Know your bodybuilding supplement - methoxyisoflavone

 Flavones are the latest big supplement to hit the market. Methoxyisoflavone is a non-hormonal anabolic compound that has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, increase protein synthesis and improve recovery from exercise.

During tests that led to the issuing of a patent for methoxyisoflavone the following findings were noted:

1. It was found to be more anabolic than anabolic steroids without any of the side effects.

2. It increased lean body mass significantly within 30 days while producing no androgenic effect.

3. Cortisol levels were reduced and nitrogen levels increased considerably.

Flavones can be safely taken by men and women who want to boost their lean muscle gains without risking the hazards associated with taking anabolic steroids. A dose of 400-800 mg can be taken daily, split over two doses. Its effects can be enhanced by taking it with protein due to the ability of protein to force nutrients into muscle cells.

Methoxy can also be stacked safely with ZMA to maximise testosterone gains, or ecdysterone to increase protein synthesis, maintain a positive nitrogen balance and keep the body in an anabolic state.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this article.

Planning An Effective Bodybuilding Routine For Your Lifestyle

You can have all the knowledge in the world about bodybuilding but if you don't have a plan you can follow and actually do it you will remain just another muscle wannabe nerd!

So in Lesson Four we are going to cover important aspects of putting together an executable and followable bodybuilding routine to gain muscle as fast as you humanly can!

If you missed any of the previous lessons you can get them here: http://www.gainmuscleandlosefat.com

Bodybuilding RoutineTip-32:You Must Be Consistent.

When putting together a bodybuilding routine you can follow you need to make it so you can consistently follow it! It is nice to have all these lofty intentions of how your going to change your life completely to gain muscle but this is not realistic and ends up in failure! When making a plan take into consideration your commitments and realistically assess when will be the most likely time you should workout in order to always follow through! The same goes for your eating schedule!Be creative!

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-33:Make Your Bodybuilding Routine As Easy As Possible

I am not talking about your training here! But when it comes to making a workout and eating plan you can stick to, the easier it is for you to follow the more likely you will follow it! For example if you are not one to cook, don't make your schedule to cook for three hours every morning before work. If you are not one to get up real early then don't make a schedule that has you working out at 5 am in the morning before work!

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-34:Plan Ahead

Make your schedule before you start your weight gain program and know it before you start! if you don't plan ahead chances are way too high you won't follow through with all your meals and workouts!

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-35:Stick To Your Plan!

Stick to your bodybuilding routine no matter what! A plan is there for a reason.

Stick to it, be consistent and you will see results! Mentally prepare to do this and see yourself following through at night before you go to bed.I pyche myself up for squat day for a full day before by seeing myself squatting my goal weight in my mind!

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-36:Consider A Training Partner Or Coach To Keep You Accountable

When someone else is relying on you or you make a commitment to a training partner or coach you are much more likely to stick to your bodybuilding routine!

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-37: Educate Yourself On Weight Gain And Muscle Growth To Keep Motivated.

By continually reading and learning about bodybuilding you keep yourself motivated and involved in your plan.

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-38:Continually Challenge Yourself.

Dont shy away from the challenge you face in bodybuilding, face it head on!Plan your weights and goals ahead of time and take progress measurements to motivate yourself by your successes!

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-39:Make Your Routine Interesting.

Most bodybuilding routines can get real stale faster than you are putting on muscle by following them! Don't be afraid to change up your bodybuilding routine but of course this has to be done in an effective way. My Four Phase Plan lays this all out for you so your bodybuilding routine is always new, challenging and mindless to follow.

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-40:Keep Accurate and Scheduled Measurements of Your Progress.

Right from the start of any bodybuilding routine keeping accurate measurements is a must!

By keeping accurate and scheduled progress measurements you can quickly and easily determine what you are doing wrong and what you are doing right.

My book Underground Mass Secrets takes you through doing this step by step and is the only source I know of that provides a point by point trouble shooting section to help you quickly correct your mistakes and quit wasting time doing torture sessions in the gym for nothing!

Bodybuilding Routine Tip-41:Keep a Training And Diet Log.

This goes along with keeping accurate and scheduled measurements of your progress. It also helps you to look back and see what you have been doing in your bodybuilding routine that has given you good results. Another benefit of having a training and diet log is it prevents you from cheating on yourself.

By writing down everything that you are eating you are less likely to eat junk food you did not have in your plan.My course comes with a great easy to follow system for tracking your progress,measuring bodyfat and recording your training and diet to ensure fast muscle gain without spinning your wheels!

You can read more about my complete easy to follow muscle building course at http://www.gainmuscleandlosefat.com

James Jordan

Get The full 51 lesson Build Muscle Mini Course Free by going to James Jordans site http://ww.gainmuscleandlosefat.com