Building muscle takes a long amount of time if done correctly, and done ethically. But we can shorten this lengthy process quite a bit by following some general techniques in exercising, nutrition, and scheduling. The first thing to note that if the body is "hungry," it isn't going to build muscle. That means one should always have some sort of food in them- fasting is usually a poor idea. In particular, the body needs protein to help build the muscles being worked out. Steak, peanut butter, and special shakes or candy bars are usually good sources of protein. It is constantly in the news how some athletes "cheat" in their profession by using steroids. This is because steroids build muscle mass at a very quick pace, at which normal athletes couldn't keep up with. It also presents serious health risks that can prove to be critical to one's own health. Clearly, one shouldn't use steroids unless they have a valid medical reason and counsel from a physician. As previously mentioned, hydration is another thing that can count against muscle building if not observed. When the body is dehydrated, it will send a signal to the one working out to go get a drink. At this point, the body is already hydrated- which goes to show that drinking a bit of water every now and then can help one keep hydrated through an extended workout. This allows one to workout longer, and gain more effect from a routine. The actual workout can now begin after one's body is properly nourished. A workout should be strenuous enough to tire the body, but not so much that it pulls muscles and ligaments. A trainer can help a consumer through the process of building muscle mass the most effective way, as they can take different factors about a person and make a customized routine for working out. Be very careful not to overwork the body. There have been many documented cases where muscle will actually start to deteriorate from exercising it too much. Other times, muscle may expand too quickly, usually with the use of steroids, and seriously rupture muscle tissue. If this occurs, regenerative therapy will have to be ensued, and progress will be lost. Final Thoughts Seeing results can sometimes take a great deal, so don't be discouraged with progress being slower than what you'd like. Also be sure to take breaks, get plenty of sleep, and enjoy the healthy body you are in the process of creating.
If you've been struggling to build muscle, this could be one of the most important articles you read this year. As I write this, the year 2007 is drawing to a close. However, it doesn't matter when exactly you read this, for the message will be relevant for the rest of your life. I wish to speak to you briefly about the most important component in muscle building (and throughout other areas of your life, for that matter). What is this crucial component of any strength training or mass building program? It's Consistency.
You may have heard this at various times in your life. You've heard it stated in different adages like "inch by inch it's a cinch" and "try, try again" along with a dozen other clichés. You probably brushed it aside at the time, since our tendency is to search for the magic bullet - the one key that will unlock all of our desires with the least amount of effort. Unfortunately, we inevitably learn that there is no magic bean that can replace due diligence, determination, and, most of all, consistency. Despite the constant marketing efforts from the companies on TV and radio, the latest supplement or exercise machine will fail to give you as much benefit as a solid program followed over many weeks and months. Always remember that our greatest successes in life almost always come from many small individual choices over time. This seemingly small choices you make each day will have a cumulative effect over time.
You should consult books to gain the right knowledge, but you must understand that any muscle building program will require a significant commitment over a long period time. These courses give you the knowledge to succeed, but you must apply them consistently to achieve any real long-term results. Personally, I've often chased the latest fad only to be disappointed and eventually start all over again. Jumping from program to program will give you nothing. Reading a popular fitness book without taking action will do nothing to build muscle, nor will an inconsistent effort in the gym. If you make a decision that you're in this for the long haul, you have essentially guaranteed your success from the very beginning. Any flaws can be corrected, and any obstacles can be overcome as long as you're committed to achieving your goals.
Both Chris Channing & Jon Cardozo are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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