Have Trouble Sleeping?

The Sleep Mineral

Struggling with restless nights? A new study suggests that a specific form of magnesium could help you sleep better—and feel sharper during the day.
Researchers found that Magnesium-L-threonate significantly improved sleep quality and daytime functioning in adults who reported sleep problems.
Participants with self-reported sleep disturbances were divided into two groups—one receiving the magnesium supplement and the other receiving a placebo. Over the course of the study, researchers tracked their sleep patterns, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
The group supplementing with Magnesium-L-threonate experienced notable improvements in sleep efficiency, reduced nighttime awakenings, and better overall sleep quality. They also showed improvements in daytime cognitive performance, including focus and mental clarity.
Researchers believe Magnesium-L-threonate’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes it especially effective in enhancing magnesium levels in the brain. Magnesium plays an important role in regulating neurotransmitters and reducing neural excitability, which helps promote relaxation and better sleep.
If you struggle with poor sleep and groggy mornings, Magnesium-L-threonate might be worth trying. While general magnesium supplements can support relaxation, this specific form appears to be especially effective for brain function and sleep quality. The study found that 1,000 mg (1 gram) per day was effective.
Of course, good sleep hygiene is still most important. A dark, cool room, a consistent bedtime, and limiting screen exposure before bed will only enhance the effects of any supplement you take. 

Do Cheaters Prosper in the Gym?

Do Cheaters Prosper in the Gym?
When it comes to lifting weights, strict form is often preached as the golden rule. But what if a little momentum—a slight “cheat”—could help you grow more muscle?
New research suggests that a little extra momentum won’t hurt your muscle building in the gym — as long as you’re still doing full range of motion and pushing hard. 
Researchers divided participants into two groups: one that performed upper-body resistance exercises with strict form and another was allowed to use more body language (think leaner forward and swinging your hips and elbows on biceps curls). Over a training period, both groups followed identical volume and intensity recommendations
Both groups saw increases in muscle hypertrophy, with no significant difference between those who lifted strictly and those who did “cheat reps.”
On paper, this all makes sense. Research suggests that a key driver of muscle growth is total mechanical tension and pushing your body near failure. The “hard reps” help push your muscles to grow, so as long as you’re maintaining high intensity, prioritizing tension, and pushing near failure, muscle growth should be similar. 
But that doesn’t tell the entire story. The cheat rep group — as you might expect — was able to perform more reps and complete more total volume. In fact, they did nearly twice the volume as the strict group, and yet muscle gain was similar. 
So while cheat reps didn’t prevent muscle growth, it also didn’t lead to more muscle growth. So those extra reps without good form not only didn’t have an additional benefit, but it’s possible that cheating could lead to a higher likelihood of injury.
The best approach to training is focusing on a full range of motion and good form. But if you need to cheat, just because sure it’s strategic so that excessive momentum does not remove tension from the target muscle, which can reduce effectiveness.

8 Weeks to Better Biceps & Triceps

Build better biceps and triceps in just 30-40 minutes. This awesome arm workout can be completed independently or added to your current program for extra gains.

WORKOUT SUMMARY
  • Main GoalBuild Muscle
  • Workout TypeSingle Muscle Group
  • Training LevelBeginner
  • Program Duration8 weeks
  • Days Per Week1
  • Time Per Workout30-40 minutes
  • Equipment RequiredBarbell, Cables, Dumbbells, EZ Bar
  • Target GenderMale & Female
  • Recommended Supps: Protein and Creatine

Workout Description

One of our most common requests is to create a plan specifically for biceps and triceps. Our readers want a plan that can be added in as the arm routine in a “bro split” workout or one that can accompany push/pull/legs and even full-body workouts.

If that sounds like you, look no further. 

This program will help you build better biceps and triceps in just 30-40 minutes. It’s versatile enough to be completed independently or added to your current program for extra gains.

How the Workout Works

You will alternate biceps and triceps with a couple of forearm exercises added in for good measure. While one muscle group is working, the other is recovering from the work you did while preparing for the next set. 

There are fewer sets than you may be accustomed to seeing because this workout is based on intensity instead of volume. In other words, if you do this the proper way, you won’t need more sets to get the job done.

With two minutes of rest between sets, you should be able to change weights and sip water while catching your breath. 

Rear shot of a fit female doing a dumbbell bicep curl in the gym.

Rep Execution and Tempo

This isn’t only about how many reps you do but how you do them. The goal is to eliminate as much momentum as possible, so those muscle fibers do all the work.

That is why you will perform each rep with a specific tempo, or speed with each portion. When you perform the concentric (lifting) portion of the weight, count “one-thousand one, one-thousand two.” When the muscles are flexed (static position), you will hold that for another two-count. You will then perform the eccentric (lowering) of the weight to a four-count. 

Because of this, you should have a partner or spotter ready to assist if necessary – especially on the close grip bench press. If you do that alone, you will not be able to do it as you should because you could get pinned by the weight.

Effort

You will notice that the reps range anywhere from six to ten for your sets. When you are doing these sets, you should gauge the effort for them. As the reps go down, the weight and effort will go up. The only set that is taken to failure is the final set of each exercise. So, using a 1-10 scale for effort (10 being the most), your effort should be as follows.

  • 10 reps – Level 6 effort
  • 8 reps – Level 8 effort
  • 6, 20 reps – Level 10 effort

There is no way to universally determine the weight everyone should use. Trial and error is going to be the best bet for you. The sets of 10 are warm-ups, and the sets of 8 are to help you prepare for the final set. 

The set of 6 is your all-out, do-or-die set. You should give everything you have to the weight. If you get five reps, don’t sweat it this time but make sure you get six next time. If you don’t get past four, go lighter. If you get seven, go heavier.

By the time you reach failure, you shouldn’t be able to perform another rep under the previously mentioned guidelines, even if you were getting paid to.

That set of 20 is a mental challenge as much as a physical one. As you go through that set, you may be tempted to speed the reps up. Don’t do it. Go light, and even take a brief break if you must, but no more than ten seconds.

Complete the 20th rep with the same cadence you did the first. If you like pumps, you will be very satisfied with them, but you also may be in too much pain to enjoy them at the moment. So, film that set so you can post it and look back at it fondly. Make sure you tag us as well so we can see it.

Fit man doing bicep curls with an EZ bar in the gym.

8-Week Workout for Better Biceps and Triceps Workout

This should take you no longer than 30 minutes, 40 at the absolute max. The workout involves at least three different forms of resistance. The barbell or EZ-Curl bar allows you to lift more weight with both arms. The dumbbells allow you to concentrate on each side individually, and the cable keeps tension on the muscle throughout the entire range of motion.

ExerciseSetsReps
Strict Curl (see notes below)310, 8, 6
Close Grip Bench Press310, 8, 6
Incline Dumbbell Curl28, 6
Lying Tricep Extension28, 6
Hammer Curl28, 6
Single Arm Overhead Extension28, 6
Reverse Grip Cable Curl120
Straight Bar Tricep Extension120

How to Perform a Strict Curl:

  • Grab a pair of dumbbells or a barbell and stand against a wall. The back of your arms should be pressed against the wall.
  • Position your feet around shoulder-width apart.
  • Moving only at your elbows, slowly curl the weight up as far as possible, squeezing the biceps at the top of the movement.
  • Pause, and then slowly lower the weight.
  • Repeat for desired reps.

FAQ

Can I replace any of the exercises if needed?

You can. If you don’t have a wall for strict curls, then do normal barbell curls or EZ-Bar curls while not allowing yourself to cheat the reps up. If you train at home and don’t have a cable machine, use bands or do a bodyweight movement like close grip push-ups in place of push-downs. If all you have are dumbbells, make it work as best as you can.

Can I add more exercises?

If you feel you need more than this, I would advise checking out more of our awesome workouts here on Anabolica. Remember, this one is not only a stand-alone workout but is also designed to accompany other programs if desired. If you are doing a full-body program, then you are working the biceps and triceps already either directly or indirectly.

Should I do drop sets or cheat reps to make it even more intense?

This won’t be necessary. If the muscle can’t do the job with the weight you’re using, then the set serves the purpose. I get that there isn’t much volume, and many lifters feel “more is better.” In this case, better is better.

What day of the week should I put this in?

Ultimately, that answer will be based on the program you are doing. I can suggest that you do not do this before a push or pull workout because you don’t want to impact your potential on those sessions. After all, the arms are still fatigued. A good placement for this would be as the last workout before an off day. 

Can beginners do this workout?

If you know how to perform the exercises, you can do this one. Just make sure you push yourself while doing your best to stay safe. That spotter or training partner can serve you well.

Is this suitable for women?

Sure is. As long as your nutrition, cardio, and recovery support your goal, this will help you. Take it on as is.

Conclusion

Whether you add this into one of the other programs we have or use it as the arm option in your bro-split, make sure you keep this to once every seven days. After eight weeks, you should see some solid results that will make you want to cut some sleeves off your shirts or buy one of our M&S tank tops.

Can’t Stop Eating Sweets? (Even When Full)

Why You Can’t Stop Eating Sweets (Even When You’re Full)
You know that moment after you finish a meal and you have room for one bite of dessert — but you somehow become ravenous once the treat hits your lips? Your hunger might have nothing to do with willpower. It’s your brain chemistry at work.
New research suggests that dopamine can override your body’s natural “I’m full” signal—making it easier to eat for pleasure, not hunger.
Researchers explored how the brain balances eating for your body’s energy needs (homeostatic eating) with eating for pleasure (hedonic eating). They focused on two opposing forces: dopamine neurons that drive the desire to eat and neurons that carry GLP-1R (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors), which typically signal fullness and reduce food intake.
You might recognize GLP-1 as the hormone that’s activated in the new weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. These new medications are so effective because they regulate appetite and blood sugar beyond what you can normally activate through diet or exercise. 
When you’re enjoying food, your dopamine circuit ramps up and suppresses your satiety signals. So, even if you’re full, your brain keeps saying, “Keep going, this is delicious.”
The scientists studied this pathways in mice, and when dopamine neurons were blocked, the mice consumed less high-fat, high-sugar food—even though the same food was available.
In other words, a surge in dopamine — which you can get from your favorite dessert — dampen the response of GLP-1R neurons, which normally suppress appetite. So the drive to eat dessert — and then the moment when the deliciousness hits — can result in you eating far more than you want. 
So what does this mean for your everyday health?
It confirms what many of us feel: cravings and pleasure-driven eating aren’t just about discipline. They’re the result of brain circuits that actively oppose your body’s satiety system.
And yet, mind-control or not, it’s up to you to take control of your hunger. To work with your biology, not against it:
Focus on foods that activate fullness signals (like those high in protein and fiber).Eat slowly (take at least 20 minutes per meal) to give satiety hormones time to work before dopamine takes over.If you know dessert is a problem either pass on it or do so with such a small serving size that you’re not a dopamine victim.And if you find yourself eating when you’re not hungry, know that it’s not about weakness—it’s your brain’s reward system doing exactly what it’s designed to do.
Understanding how dopamine and hunger systems compete can help you make better decisions when cravings hit—and reduce the guilt that often follows.

Need Better Sleep?

The 3 Factors That Make or Break Your Sleep
If you want better sleep, forget the gimmicks—science says a few key habits can make all the difference. 
A thorough study from the Human Phenotype Project found that sleep quality is deeply connected to your lifestyle, your microbiome, and the temperature of your bedroom.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 6,000 individuals, looking at 448 diverse sleep characteristics across 16 body systems to uncover which factors had the biggest impact on sleep duration and quality. 
Their findings revealed three key insights that could help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling truly rested.
The lifestyle variables include many of the usual suspects, such as drinking alcohol, a lack of exercise, too much stress, eating right before sleep, and spending time on devices. Cutting back on any of those can help improve your sleep.
But there were less-obvious changes too.
Your microbiome—the trillions of bacteria in your gut—doesn’t just affect digestion; it plays a major role in sleep regulation. The study found that people with higher microbial diversity had better sleep efficiency and fewer nighttime awakenings and less sleepiness. The scientists believe it’s because gut bacteria help regulate serotonin and melatonin, two hormones that influence sleep.
On the flip side, poor gut health—often caused by too much ultra-processed foods, antibiotics, or low fiber intake—was linked to sleep disturbances and even insomnia.
If you want to improve your sleep, you don’t even need supplements. You can feed your gut the right way by eating more fiber (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains), consuming fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, or kimchi, and avoiding excessive processed foods and sugar.
These diet changes have an additional benefit of keeping you leaner, which also helps because the study found a strong link between body fat and sleep apnea. 
The study also found that if you want to feel more rested, process information better, and help protect your brain against degenerative disorders like dementia, your bedroom temperature can make or break your sleep quality.
❝ Warmer bed temperatures (above 70°F or 21°C) were associated with more restless sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and increased wake-ups throughout the night.
The study found that people who slept in cooler environments (around 65°F or 18°C) experienced deeper sleep and fewer awakenings.
A cooler room mimics the natural drop in body temperature that occurs before sleep, helping you fall asleep faster and stay in restorative sleep longer. On the other hand, warmer bed temperatures (above 70°F or 21°C) were associated with more restless sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and increased wake-ups throughout the night.
If you struggle with sleep, try lowering your bedroom temperature, using breathable bedding, and even taking a warm shower before bed (which helps cool your body down).

Beginners Fat Loss

This 4-day program is designed to help you burn fat without burning too much time on the clock. You’ll also learn the basics of fat loss nutrition and recovery.

WORKOUT SUMMARY
  • Main Goal: Lose Fat
  • Workout Type: Split
  • Training Level: Beginner
  • Program Duration: 8 weeks
  • Days Per Week: 4
  • Time Per Workout: 45-60 minutes
  • Equipment Required: Barbell, Bodyweight, Cables, Dumbbells, Machines
  • Target Gender: Male & Female
  • Recommended Supps:
  • Protein
    Creatine
    Multivitamin
    Pre-Workout (optional)
    Fat Burner (optional)

Workout Description

It’s said that how you start something is the key to how successful you’ll be. This statement rings true, especially when applied to fitness and weight loss. Many people who want to lose weight and get in shape start working out and become so confused about what to do versus what not to do, that they eventually get frustrated and give up. 

At M&S, we’ve found that if you can get started and move in the right direction, you’ll be more likely to remain committed, which then helps them achieve the success they are looking for.

That’s why we created this eight-week program. Beginners can get started, commit to a simple routine, and eliminate all the noise around them. 

This routine involves four weight training sessions and scheduled cardio sessions that will help you develop positive habits, move forward, and start seeing the progress that will motivate you to take this to the next level and make fitness a part of your lifestyle.

Additionally, we will cover a couple of other components like nutrition and recovery so you will be prepared to make this time “the time” you begin the process of changing your body and life positively.

Fit man doing barbell curls in the gym.

8 Week Fat Loss Workout for Beginners Overview

For the next eight weeks, you will be weight training and performing cardio sessions every other day. That means you will train one day, then take the next day off. The cycle repeats until you have completed eight weeks.

This plan is meant to be simple, yet effective.

Below we have included a couple of training and cardio schedule examples for you, but certainly modify it based on what works best for you.

Nutrition

You will find out that your nutrition will be even more important than the workouts. That is why we are covering this first. In the spirit of simplicity, the first lesson for weight loss is that the calories you take in must be less than the calories you burn every day.

You can figure out how many calories you need per day by using our Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) calculator. You simply follow the directions for the calculator to get the total calories you need every day to maintain your body now.

Once you get that number, subtract 500, which gives you the number of calories to eat per day. Eating 500 less is important because one pound of fat is equal to 3,500 calories. If you eat 500 calories below your BMR per day, then you should expect to lose one pound a week.

Once you know that number, you can begin setting up your nutrition plan. Our Fat Loss Guides can help you do that quickly. Once you have your nutrition plan in place, we can get to the training.

Water is going to be crucial as well. Make sure you drink at least half of your body weight in ounces. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, then drink 100 ounces of water per day. 

The best approach to do this is drinking most of the water in the morning. That way, you are drinking less throughout the day, and you will be less likely to get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.

Cardio

Cardio is going to be essential for this. Aside from the workouts, you should plan on doing 20–30-minute cardio sessions. Ideally, this could be done separately from the weight training workouts. You can either do it first thing in the morning, or later in the day. 

If time is not on your side, then go ahead and do the cardio after the weight training.  Weights followed by cardio is the best strategy for fat loss if you must do them together.

Beginners should focus more on simply doing the work and being consistent, which is why doing steady-state cardio such as walking to increase your daily step count or Zone 2 cardio on a machine is recommended. 

High-intensity interval training may be too challenging if you are new to training, but you can build up to that once you complete this program or are comfortable with a regular fitness routine.

Lean man on the stairmaster in the gym.

The Workouts

Free weights are very beneficial for fitness newcomers, and we are aware that many people reading and following our programs train from home. That is why most of the exercises shown here will be with dumbbells or body weight. 

These workouts are split between the upper and lower body. You will target each major muscle group once per session.  One abs exercise is included with each workout so you can target the core.

The “A” workouts will have you use heavier weights for lower reps to help with building muscle. The “B” sessions have different movements for higher reps to focus on endurance and burning calories.

The workouts are designed to be short but sweet. Since these are made for beginners, there is not as much volume as intermediate or advanced trainees may prefer. If that applies to you, fear not, because we have many other workouts to consider here on Anabolica.

Example Program Schedules:

Training + Cardio Schedule Option 1 (Same Day, Separate Times)

  • Monday: Cardio (AM), Workout 1 (PM)
  • Tuesday: Rest
  • Wednesday: Cardio (AM), Workout 2 (PM)
  • Thursday: Rest
  • Friday: Cardio (AM), Workout 3 (PM)
  • Saturday: Rest
  • Sunday: Cardio (AM), Workout 4 (PM)

Training + Cardio Schedule Option 2 (Post-Weight Training)

  • Monday: Workout 1 + Cardio 
  • Tuesday: Workout 2 + Cardio
  • Wednesday: Rest
  • Thursday: Workout 3 + Cardio
  • Friday: Workout 4 + Cardio
  • Saturday: Rest 
  • Sunday: Rest 

Fit man wearing a black tank top doing shoulder presses in the gym.

8 Week Beginner Fat Loss Workout

Workout #1 – Upper Body Workout A

ExerciseSetsRepsRest
Dumbbell Pullover21045 sec
Dumbbell Bench Press21045 sec
Arnold Press21045 sec
Dumbbell Curl21030 sec
Overhead Tricep Extension21030 sec
Lying Leg Raise21030 sec

Workout #2 – Lower Body Workout A

ExerciseSetsRepsRest
Goblet Squat21045 sec
Hip Thrust21045 sec
Walking Lunge210, each leg45 sec
Stiff Leg Deadlift21030 sec
Standing Calf Raise21030 sec
Oblique Crunch210, each side30 sec

Workout #3 – Upper Body Workout B

ExerciseSetsRepsRest
Bent Over Dumbbell Row22045 sec
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press22045 sec
Dumbbell Reverse Fly22030 sec
Cable Curl22030 sec
Straight Bar Tricep Extension22030 sec
Plank230 sec30 sec

Workout #4 – Lower Body Workout B

ExerciseSetsRepsRest
Squat Jumps22045 sec
Standing Glute Kickback220, each leg45 sec
Leg Curl22030 sec
Leg Extension22030 sec
Seated Calf Raise22030 sec
Sit-Up22030 sec

Fit man sitting on the floor and doing stretches in the gym.

Recovery

Working out is important, but it will only be as effective as your recovery from those workouts. Fortunately, that doesn’t have to be complicated, either. These simple tips can help you properly recover from the workouts and prepare for the next one.

  • Eight hours of sleep every night
  • Stretching and mobility work post-workout
  • Meditation
  • Proper Supplementation

Conclusion

This program is meant to serve two purposes – kick start your weight loss journey and make it simple to follow so you are more likely to stay consistent and see success. Eventually, you will need to challenge yourself in the gym and make personal diet changes, but that can wait until you find it easier to make this lifestyle a habit. If you are ready to take this on and change your physique for the better, then let us know how you progress on this routine so your success can inspire others to achieve their own.

Workout Template

If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it 100 times: some of the best workouts appear almost too easy — but they can be an incredibly effective way to become stronger and transform your body.
To the untrained eye, workouts with lots of exercises, bells and whistles, and unique movements are the key to excellent results. 
To the expert, a workout with fewer movements, more intensity and focus, and a planned progression gets the job done.
How it works
Each workout is just two exercises, one lower body and one upper body. But you’re not limited to a single movement; you can do variations of the exercises. (For example, Romanian deadlifts instead of deadlifts, single-leg squats instead of back squats, overhead presses instead of bench presses, etc.)
You’ll do three work-up sets, where you progressively add weight to prepare yourself for the working sets. You’ll do two work sets, with the last set being maximum effort and stopping about 1-rep short of failure. You’ll use longer rest between sets (2 to 3 minutes). You can do 3 to 4 weekly workouts and follow this pattern to get stronger on these four primary lifts. 
Workout 1
Exercise 1: Deadlift (rest 2-3 minutes between sets)
Set 1 (work-up/warmup): 8-10 reps
Set 2 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 6-8 reps
Set 3 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 2-4 reps
Set 4 (add weight): 5-8 reps
Set 5 (add weight): as many reps as you have left (stopping 1-rep short of failure)
Exercise 2: Bench press (rest 2-3 minutes between sets)
Set 1 (work-up/warmup): 8-10 reps
Set 2 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 6-8 reps
Set 3 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 2-4 reps
Set 4 (add weight): 5-8 reps
Set 5: (add weight): as many reps as you have left (stopping 1-rep short of failure)
Workout 2
Exercise 1: Front or back squat (rest 2-3 minutes between sets)
Set 1 (work-up/warmup): 8-10 reps
Set 2 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 6-8 reps
Set 3 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 2-4 reps
Set 4 (add weight): 5-8 reps
Set 5: (add weight): as many reps as you have left (stopping 1-rep short of failure)
Exercise 2: Any row variation (rest 2-3 minutes between sets)
Set 1 (work-up/warmup): 8-10 reps
Set 2 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 6-8 reps
Set 3 (add weight, work-up/warmup): 2-4 reps
Set 4 (add weight): 5-8 reps
Set 5 (add weight): as many reps as you have left (stopping 1-rep short of failure)
Give it a try and start your week strong!

Number You Won’t Forget: 11 Years

NUMBER YOU WON’T FORGET: 11 YEARS
NUMBER YOU WON’T FORGET: 11 YEARS

The next time someone tells you to take a walk — even if walking is not your favorite thing to do and you disagree — it’s probably the right move.

Recent research suggests that walking a little more often could help you add as much as 11 years to your life, depending on your activity level.

I’d say the Number You Won’t Forget: 11 Years … wouldn’t you agree?

For people who are not active, adding 30 to 45 minutes of walking per day can have a dramatic life-extending impact. And even if you’re already active, adding more movement can give you a boost, too.

If you increase your daily movement up to approximately 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day, the study suggests you could add anywhere from 2 to 5 more years to your life.

The connection between walking and lifespan might be a byproduct of how movement helps keep you healthier and protect against the most common forms of death.

In another study, scientists analyzed data from 196 peer-reviewed articles, including more than 30 million people.

They found that people who did at least 75 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week reduced their risk of premature death by nearly 25 percent. And that’s because they lowered their risk of cardiovascular disease (leading cause of death) and cancer.

Put another way, cranking up the intensity for about 11 minutes per day — such as sprinting up the stairs several times — could be all it takes to experience the benefits.

No matter how you approach exercise, the research is clear that it doesn’t matter what type of movement you prefer or even if you go to the gym. But it does matter that you move often and daily.

If you have any questions on how you can optimize your health and fitness, feel free to Contact Us and we will assist you in whatever way possible to accomplish your goals!

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Steps to Build Muscle 

Steps To Build Muscle

Steps to Build Muscle 

1. Resistance Training

  • Engage in strength training exercises that target multiple muscle groups, such as squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups. 
  • Use resistance bands or weights to provide resistance. 
  • Focus on compound exercises that work multiple muscles simultaneously.

2. Nutrition: 

  • Consume adequate protein to provide the building blocks for muscle growth. Aim for 1.4-2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. 
  • Increase your calorie intake slightly to support muscle building. 
  • Include lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, eggs, and dairy products. 

3. Rest and Recovery: 

  • Allow your muscles sufficient time to rest and recover between workouts. 
  • Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to promote muscle repair and growth. 

4. Consistency: 

  • Stick to your training and nutrition plan consistently over time. Building muscle takes patience and effort. 

5. Additional Tips: 

  • Additional steps to build muscle would include using a creatine supplement and possibly stronger anabolics to enhance muscle growth and strength. 
  • Contact us, a healthcare professional or highly skilled coach or personal trainer for personalized guidance. 

Sample Workout Routine: 

  • Day 1: Chest / Triceps
  • Day 2: Rest
  • Day 3: Back / Biceps
  • Day 4: Rest
  • Day 5: Legs / Shoulders
  • Day 6-7: Active recovery (e.g., walking, swimming) 

We don’t list Abdominals in the above because we feel you can train them very well by pulling in your stomach muscles and tightening them during each of the above exercises. This will train them to be “sucked in” and this will give you that V-tapered look most bodybuilders strive for.

You can, of course, add some extra work to the abs if you feel it necessary.

Remember that building muscle takes time and effort. By following these steps and remaining consistent, you can achieve your muscle-building goals. 

If you need assistance, feel free to contact us any time!

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Is Creatine Bad for Your Kidneys?

Creatine

Is Creatine Bad for Your Kidneys? Here’s What The Science Says…

While this is an “anabolic” group usually dealing with things like steroids, sarms, prohormones and peptides, I feel it would be a dereliction of duty to not occasionally address what should be staples in the life of every bodybuilder and fitness enthusiast… and in this case I am talking about Creatine!

Creatine is anabolic… In a big way!

Creatine is a compound that comes from three amino acids. It is found mostly in your body’s muscles as well as in the brain. Most people get creatine through seafood and red meat — though at levels far below those found in synthetically made supplements.

Benefits of Creatine

Muscle gain

Brain function

Enhances brain function

Enhances muscle volumization

Exercise performance

Better athletic performance

Benefits strength

Blood sugar control

Many of you have asked about Creatine’s kidney safety. After all, it appears to be one of the biggest hesitations, and a new study tried to settle the debate once and for all.

Scientists used one of the most advanced forms of statistical analysis and found creatine supplementation does not harm kidney function.

Researchers conducted a Mendelian randomization analysis—a technique that minimizes confounding variables—to explore whether increased creatine levels have any causal effect on renal function. Instead of relying on traditional observational studies (which can be influenced by lifestyle factors), this method allowed scientists to examine markers associated with creatine metabolism and their relationship to kidney health.

Even when people used larger doses, there was no relationship between higher levels and kidney function. This supports previous clinical trials showing that supplementation does not harm kidney health in healthy individuals, even with long-term use.

However, if you have pre-existing kidney disease, it’s always best to consult your doctor before supplementing.

Creatine is experiencing a renaissance because of the overwhelming amount of research suggesting many potential health benefits. It’s not just that it can make you stronger or help you build muscle, but it might also improve brain health, fight against cognitive disorders, and even improve focus and attention when you’re sleep-deprived.

There are many versions of creatine, but monohydrate is, by far, the most tested and trusted form.

Even when people used larger doses, there was no relationship between higher levels and kidney function.

So, with all of the muscle building, strength and power increasing benefits you can derive from the use of Creatine… this suggests that NOT to use it is a huge disservice to yourself in the quest for muscle mass, stamina and strength.

If you’d like to know where to get a very high quality Creatine product, as well as Protein and other similar products… just send me a message and I’d be happy to share!

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