Do sports supplements actually work? Do you really need supplements in order to build muscle? Are they worth the money? So many questions with even fewer answers...
Let me help clear it up a bit.
Selecting and using the right supplements can be a very confusing subject, with so many products on the market.
Supplement advertisers will make you believe that their product will turn you into a Mr. Olympia contender overnight.
As active weight trainers we are bombarded with advertisements about the latest break through or wonder supplement that will literally change our bodies overnight.
However, we really need to think about what it is we are expecting from supplements. It’s also important to put supplements into perspective. You can make great gains without supplementation.
However, you cannot make great gains without proper training and nutrition.
Sports supplements enhance and promotes the muscle gains made from hard training and nutrition. Supplements should not replace the food in your diet. It is very important that you understand this perspective.
Supplement Rule #1
Quality Food Should Be The Number One Supplement In Your Diet.
Supplements should only be used once you've built your nutritional foundation and have your diet down to a science. Once you have your diet plan down, and are seeing quality results with your training program, you can add sports supplements to enhance your muscle building program.
I suggest you do your homework when it comes to using weight lifting supplements and make an informed decision before consuming any powder, pill, or brew. Read as much literature as possible on your chosen supplement.
If there is any doubt, save you money. You will also want to ensure that the health supplement manufacturer is well established in the industry and not a fly by night company.
Supplement Rule #2
Make An Informed Choice When Selecting A Supplement
With that being said, supplements can play an important roll in building muscle. Allow me to say this, supplements are meant to enhance an already great program.
If you have the right combination of nutrients and weight training, a proper supplement schedule may serve to enhance your performance by helping you overcome certain stumbling blocks or achieve certain objectives.
Weight lifting supplements can also play an important role as convenience tools in our very busy lives. For example:
- Perhaps there are some foods that you can't eat or don't like. Health supplements can fill in the nutritional gap left by excluding such foods
- Maybe your schedule is so busy that you don't have time to prepare food
- Maybe you want to gain that competitive edge
In order for Supplements to function properly, they must be taken at the proper times and in the proper amounts. Remember to have a consistent diet down to a science before you start taking any supplements.
Supplement Rule #3
Make Sure Your Nutrition And Weight Training Program Is Progressing Before You Take Supplements
You want to make sure you've been following a steady and progressive weight training routine before taking any supplements. Beginners often make the mistake of trying to take too many supplements at the expense of consistently following a routine. Follow a solid routine for at least 6 to 8 weeks before thinking of taking supplements. Once you've assessed your progress, add some basic supplements such as protein powder and maybe some creatine. However, it you're not making any improvements, supplements won't help. Review and assess your routine and nutritional habits.
Alright, let’s go over some of the more popular supplements that may be useful in your weight lifting program. On to the basics...
Protein
To build muscle, you need protein. You need to supply your body with the necessary amino acids found in protein. Protein is the nutrient most responsible for the creation of new muscle tissue.
Without an adequate supply of protein, new muscular growth is not possible. If you lack protein, you radically reduce your chances of building new muscle.
In the worst case scenario, you risk the chance of losing hard earned muscle. Training hard while in a protein deficiency state can be very hazardous to your training regime.
Do protein supplements work? Yes, without a doubt. Quality protein supplements have been shown in clinical studies to work. Protein supplements have been staple in the fitness industry for over 30 years. Add these supplements to your program to enhance protein uptake.
Supplementing with protein in the form of premixed drinks or shakes made from powders can help supply your daily protein needs.
Reference: http://tinyurl.com/7ys43ng
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