Bodybuilding
Lactic Acid is Good For Your Muscles
Perhaps you have heard that lactic acid is the cause of all-sports ailments. Cause of it athlete feel bad, cause to it sore muscles, occur cramps, develops anoxia. In fewer words, lactic acid is the number enemy of any athlete. But this attitude is not true since lactic acid is actually not such a bad thing. According to biochemical composition lactic acid is a by-product breakdown of glucose and glycogen in the process called glycolysis.
The first two syllables - glyco - refer to glucose (its molecules combine to form glycogen, stored in the muscles) and the end "lease" means the splitting of the decay. In fact, lactic acid is a molecule of glucose which is split in half. Glycolysis is very necessary for our body. Why so? The explanation is that during the glucose decay are formed some special agents that muscle cells use as energy fuel.
Under the influence of the impact of training, glycolysis is extremely accelerated and the pyruvate formed is too much. Not all of them is used, thus excess pyruvate is just converted into lactic acid.
What Causes The Pain?
Despite this is one of the most common misconceptions which have been explained in hundreds of articles, it continues to be very common among athletes. First of all have to be mentioned that lactic acid has nothing to do with delayed muscle pain, the same that you feel in a day or two after a hard workout.
Must Read: Diet For Muscle Building – Most Common Misconceptions
This pain occurs because of microscopic tears of fibers during the eccentric (negative) phase of the movement. Yes, it is oddly enough, but namely lowering of weights leads its damage! And if during the training someone instead of you let down the weight your work with, and you would have had only to pick it up, then the muscle would not hurt! And it is scientifically established fact!
But the concentric contraction (lifting weights) does not cause microscopic damages. But the paradox is that precisely while lifting weight is produced the biggest amount of lactic acid! And if the cause of pain is lactic acid, then after the concentric movements the body must get sick even harder. But in reality, it is just the opposite!
Must Read: Reliefor Review Pain Relief Cream
Must Read: Best Way to Gain Control Over Back Pain While Doing BodyBuilding
Do You Need a Message to Get Rid of Lactic Acid?
Almost all massage therapists will tell you that massage helps your body to get rid of lactic acid. Also, they say that after the message is advised to take a warm bath to finally release the body of this mischief.
Despite all these, there is no evidence that massage and warm bath release the body of lactic acid.
It is clear that the accumulation of lactic acid leads to a weakness (in other words, during a workout the muscles get tired.) Maybe if immediately after a workout to do massage, recovery will be faster? Let's see what say on this matter scientists.
Namely, on this subject specialist from the University of Northern Iowa, have recently conducted an interesting study. For the beginning, the participants in the experiment have run on the treadmill. They all were experienced runners and well fulfilled the task for 4-6 minutes, brought themselves to exhaustion, and thus sharply raised in their blood the level of salts of lactic acid.
And then the scientists had to figure out how massage, passive recreation and quiet cycling influence on this lactic acid. Specialists have done a blood test of athletes immediately after the race, but the second time after 20 minutes after ending one of three modes of recovery.
The results have shown that nor passive recovery nor massage did not affect the level of lactic acid salts!
But 15-20 minutes of quiet ride a bike reduces it. Of course, this does not mean that message is useless. But it just has nothing to do with lactic acid!
How Lactic Acid Works?
Accumulating, lactic acid hinders muscle contraction, nerve conduction, and energy production. This is one reason why you get tired while training. And yet, lactic acid is not just a waste of energy production. The irony is you that it is by itself a source of energy.
Carbohydrates, which we get from food, not just go to the liver, to turn it into glycogen. In the beginning, they get into the bloodstream, and then in muscles, where they are converted into lactic acid. After this salt of lactic acid return in the bloodstream and enter the liver for conversion into glycogen. Sometimes on the way they use as fuel other tissues, such as heart tissue, liver, and kidneys.
Why during the formation of glycogen occurs, this workaround process? The explanation is that the salts of lactic acid are released from the bloodstream faster than glucose. This allows spreading coming with food carbohydrates without changes of insulin and no accumulation of fat.
In addition, lactic acid is often used by the body as an important source of energy and raw materials for the synthesis of glucose and glycogen. When you train with high intensity, lactic acid, produced under the fast muscle fibers, turn into slow fibers and provides them with energy fuel.
Approximately 75 percent of the lactic acid produced during exercise, is used as fuel. The remaining 25 percent is converted into glucose in the liver and kidneys. Thus, any excess of lactic acid is not accumulated, instead of in the blood is maintained at an adequate level of glucose.
And this is especially important for long-term training. But that's not all. Did you know that during the study was shown that muscles which were not involved in work (leg muscle, for example) released lactic acid from its glycogen stores? This lactic acid along with bloodstream come into the liver and is converted into glucose. A glucose, in turn, is sent to the active working muscles and serves as a raw material for the restoration of glycogen. Thus, a lactic acid o non-working muscles help recovery the working ones.
Exchange Control:
In order for glucose to pass through cell membranes, it needs insulin. The molecule of lactic acid is half of the glucose molecule and hormone support it is not necessary, as it is very easy to pass through cell membranes. In addition, the muscles produce a large amount of lactic acid in the bloodstream, and there it also serves as a potential fuel for energy production.
As you see lactic acid is not is not the worst enemy, but a good friend of a bodybuilder. And do not believe those who say otherwise!
Bodybuilding
2nd Edition of Natural Bodybuilding Competition Facts
Natural bodybuilding competitions are designed to promote and celebrate athletes who build their physiques without the use of performance-enhancing drugs. These events emphasize fair play, health, and the natural development of muscle mass and definition.
The second edition of natural bodybuilding competitions has gained momentum globally, particularly focusing on drug-free athletes. These competitions are hosted by various organizations like the INBA/PNBA (International Natural Bodybuilding Association/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association) and OCB (Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders).
In 2024, several notable events have been planned, including the INBA Natural Universe and INBA World Cup, both of which emphasize natural bodybuilding through rigorous drug testing policies. These events aim to showcase competitors who adhere to strict drug-free protocols, and winners often earn pro cards allowing them to compete in higher-level professional competitions.
These competitions focus on categories like men's bodybuilding, classic physique, and women's figure and bikini, among others. Athletes undergo polygraph and urine tests to ensure compliance with natural bodybuilding standards. The winners often receive medals, trophies, or pro status
Bodybuilding
Primal Movements: Our Ultimate Guide for Maximum Results
Primal movements are fundamental, natural movements that our bodies are designed to perform. Incorporating these into your training can enhance strength, mobility, and overall fitness. Here’s an ultimate guide to primal development and movements for bodybuilders:
Buy Cut Long 300 by Dragon Pharma
Understanding Primal Movements
Primal movements are basic, functional movements that mimic the natural actions humans have performed for thousands of years. These movements are essential for developing a strong, balanced, and resilient body. They can be categorized into seven primary patterns:
Related Article: How Much Do You Know About B-AET? A Fat Burner You’ve Been Missing
- Push
- Pull
- Squat
- Lunge
- Hinge
- Rotate
- Gait (Locomotion)
The Seven Primal Movement Patterns
Push
Description: Involves moving a weight or resistance away from your body.
Examples: Push-ups, bench press, overhead press.
Muscles Worked: Chest, shoulders, triceps.
Pull
Description: Involves drawing a weight or resistance towards your body.
Examples: Pull-ups, rows, bicep curls.
Muscles Worked: Back, biceps, forearms.
Squat
Description: A fundamental lower-body movement where you lower your hips from a standing position and then stand back up.
Examples: Bodyweight squats, barbell squats, goblet squats.
Muscles Worked: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.
Lunge
Description: A single-leg movement that involves stepping forward, backward, or to the side and lowering your hips.
Examples: Forward lunges, reverse lunges, lateral lunges.
Muscles Worked: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.
Hinge
Description: Involves bending at the hips while keeping a neutral spine.
Examples: Deadlifts, kettlebell swings, hip thrusts.
Muscles Worked: Hamstrings, glutes, lower back.
Rotate
Description: Involves twisting or rotating the torso.
Examples: Russian twists, woodchoppers, cable rotations.
Muscles Worked: Obliques, abdominals, lower back.
Gait (Locomotion)
Description: Involves movements that propel the body forward.
Examples: Walking, running, crawling, bear crawls.
Muscles Worked: Full body, with emphasis on legs and core.
Benefits of Primal Movements
Functional Strength: Primal movements enhance your ability to perform everyday tasks efficiently and safely.
Improved Mobility: These movements promote flexibility and range of motion, reducing the risk of injury.
Balanced Development: By working multiple muscle groups, primal movements ensure balanced muscle development.
Core Stability: Many primal movements engage the core, improving overall stability and strength.
Increased Caloric Burn: Compound movements like these burn more calories, aiding in fat loss and conditioning.
Incorporating Primal Movements into Your Training
Warm-Up: Start with dynamic stretches and light cardio to prepare your body.
Compound Exercises: Focus on compound exercises that incorporate multiple primal movements.
Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or resistance to continue making gains.
Variety: Mix up your routine to prevent plateaus and keep your workouts interesting.
Recovery: Ensure adequate rest and recovery to allow your muscles to repair and grow.
Sample Primal Movement Workout
Warm-Up: 5-10 minutes of light cardio and dynamic stretching.
Workout:
Push: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of push-ups or bench press.
Pull: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of pull-ups or rows.
Squat: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of bodyweight or barbell squats.
Lunge: 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg of forward or reverse lunges.
Hinge: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of deadlifts or kettlebell swings.
Rotate: 3 sets of 15-20 reps of Russian twists or cable rotations.
Gait: 3 sets of 30-60 seconds of bear crawls or sprints.
Cool-Down: 5-10 minutes of static stretching and deep breathing exercises.
1. Warm-Up and Mobility Drills
Start your workout with primal movement-based warm-ups to prepare your body. For example:
- Dynamic stretches: Incorporate lunges with a twist, leg swings, and arm circles.
- Mobility drills: Include exercises like hip circles, cat-cow stretches, and thoracic rotations.
2. Compound Exercises
Add primal movements as the core of your workout. Here’s how you can structure it:
- Push Day: Combine bench presses with push-ups.
- Pull Day: Mix pull-ups with rows.
- Leg Day: Integrate squats and lunges with deadlifts.
3. Supersets and Circuits
Create supersets or circuits that include primal movements:
- Superset Example: Pair squats with pull-ups or push-ups with lunges.
- Circuit Example: Rotate through exercises like kettlebell swings, bear crawls, and Russian twists with minimal rest.
4. Functional Training Days
Dedicate one or two days a week to functional training focused on primal movements:
Sample Functional Workout
-
- Warm-Up: 5 minutes of dynamic stretching.
- Circuit: 3 rounds of:
- 10 push-ups
- 10 pull-ups
- 15 squats
- 10 lunges per leg
- 15 kettlebell swings
- 20 Russian twists
- 30 seconds of bear crawls
- Cool-Down: 5 minutes of static stretching.
5. Active Recovery
Use primal movements on active recovery days to promote mobility and flexibility:
- Activities: Light yoga, walking, or gentle bodyweight exercises like lunges and squats.
6. Progressive Overload
Gradually increase the intensity of primal movements by adding weights or resistance bands:
- Example: Start with bodyweight squats, then progress to goblet squats, and eventually barbell squats.
7. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how your body responds to these movements and adjust accordingly:
- Modify: If a movement feels too challenging, modify it to suit your fitness level.
- Rest: Ensure you’re getting adequate rest and recovery to prevent overtraining.
Read More: Cellular Alchemy to Restore Testosterone Levels
Sample Weekly Routine for Primal Movements
Monday: Push Day
- Bench Press
- Push-Ups
- Overhead Press
Tuesday: Pull Day
- Pull-Ups
- Rows
- Bicep Curls
Wednesday: Leg Day
- Squats
- Lunges
- Deadlifts
Thursday: Functional Training
- Circuit of primal movements (as outlined above)
Friday: Active Recovery
- Light yoga or walking
Saturday: Full-Body Workout
- Combination of push, pull, squat, and hinge movements
Sunday: Rest Day
By incorporating these primal movements, you’ll enhance your functional strength, mobility, and overall fitness. If you have any specific goals or need further customization, feel free to ask! Happy training.
For optimal performance in primal movements before a bodybuilding competition, consider these supplements:
Pre-Workout Supplements: These can provide energy and enhance performance. Look for products containing creatine, nitric oxide stimulators, and caffeine.
Post-Workout Supplements: Essential for recovery, including protein powders, BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids), and multivitamins.
Fat Burners and Metabolizers: These can help in reducing body fat while maintaining muscle mass. Ingredients like green tea extract and L-carnitine are popular.
Adaptogens: Supplements like ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea can help manage stress and improve endurance.
Conlusion
Primal movements, which include squatting, lunging, hinging, twisting, walking, pushing, and pulling, benefit from a strong foundation of functional strength and mobility. Ensuring your body is well-nourished and recovered will help you perform these movements effectively.
Incorporating primal movements into your bodybuilding routine can lead to significant improvements in strength, mobility, and overall fitness. By focusing on these fundamental patterns, you can build a well-rounded, resilient body that performs well both in and out of the gym.
Bodybuilding
Are Nootropics a Better Option to AAS?
Nootropics in bodybuilding refer to supplements or substances that enhance cognitive functions such as focus, memory, motivation, and mental clarity. While traditional bodybuilding supplements focus on muscle growth, strength, and endurance, nootropics target the mental aspect of training. Improved focus and motivation can lead to better workouts, more consistent training, and ultimately better results.
Must Read: A New Caffeine? What You Need to Know about Teacrine
Here are some common nootropics used in bodybuilding:
Caffeine: Widely used for its stimulant effects, caffeine can boost energy, focus, and endurance during workouts.
L-Theanine: Often combined with caffeine, L-Theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness, helping to balance out the jittery effects of caffeine.
Alpha-GPC: A source of choline that supports the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for cognitive function and muscle contraction.
Rhodiola Rosea: An adaptogen that helps reduce fatigue and improve mental resilience, making it useful for both physical and mental performance.
Bacopa Monnieri: Known for enhancing memory and reducing anxiety, Bacopa is popular for those who want to stay mentally sharp during intense training phases.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom: A natural nootropic that supports brain health, cognitive function, and reduces mental fatigue.
Phenylpiracetam: A racetam-class nootropic that is known for its stimulating effects and ability to enhance focus and mental energy, which can be beneficial during challenging workout sessions.
Stacking Nootropics With AAS
Stacking nootropics with anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) in bodybuilding can be an advanced approach to optimizing both physical and mental performance. Here’s a guide on how to combine these substances effectively:
Understanding the Purpose of the Stack
Combining nootropics with AAS aims to enhance not only muscle growth, strength, and recovery (which AAS focus on) but also mental aspects like focus, motivation, and mood (which nootropics address). This stack can help bodybuilders push through plateaus, manage training stress, and maintain peak performance.
Common Nootropics to Stack with AAS
Caffeine + L-Theanine: Enhances alertness and focus while reducing anxiety. Helps with energy and focus during intense workouts.
Alpha-GPC: Boosts acetylcholine levels, improving mental clarity and enhancing the mind-muscle connection.
Rhodiola Rosea: Mitigates stress and fatigue, which is crucial during heavy steroid cycles where physical and mental stress is higher.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Promotes cognitive health and neuroprotection, helping you stay sharp during longer cycles.
Bacopa Monnieri: Reduces anxiety and improves memory, supporting better recovery and relaxation outside the gym.
Tips for Stacking
Start with Lower Doses: If you’re new to either nootropics or AAS, start with minimal doses and gradually adjust based on how your body responds. Stacking too much too soon increases the risk of side effects.
Cycle Both Nootropics and AAS: Just like AAS, it’s wise to cycle nootropics to avoid tolerance buildup. For instance, you might use nootropics for 6-8 weeks and then take a break, aligning this cycle with your AAS cycle.
Prioritize Liver and Organ Health: Both nootropics and AAS can stress the liver and other organs. Incorporate liver support supplements like milk thistle, NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine), and TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid).
Stay Hydrated and Maintain Proper Nutrition: Both nootropics and AAS can increase metabolic demands. Staying hydrated and following a nutrient-rich diet ensures better overall performance and health.
Related Article: Protein Powder Supplement Comparison – Which Type To Choose?
Sample Stack for a Cutting Phase
Nootropics: Caffeine + L-Theanine, Alpha-GPC, Rhodiola Rosea
AAS: Testosterone Propionate, Trenbolone Acetate, Anavar (Oxandrolone)
Support Supplements: Liver support (NAC, TUDCA), multivitamins, omega-3s
This stack can help maintain muscle mass, enhance focus and energy during workouts, and support mental well-being during calorie deficits.
Sample Stack for a Bulking Phase
Nootropics: Lion’s Mane, Bacopa Monnieri, Alpha-GPC
AAS: Testosterone Enanthate, Deca-Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate), Dianabol (Methandrostenolone)
Support Supplements: Joint support (collagen, glucosamine), digestive enzymes, liver support
This combination can boost cognitive function, improve recovery, and support the intense training needed for mass-building phases.
Stacking nootropics with AAS can offer significant benefits for bodybuilders aiming for peak mental and physical performance. However, it’s critical to approach this strategy with caution, considering the possible interactions and side effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any stack, especially one involving AAS and nootropics.
Possible Side Effects Associated With Nootropics
While nootropics can enhance cognitive function, focus, and motivation, they can also cause side effects, especially when used in high doses or stacked with other supplements like anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Some common side effects associated with nootropics in bodybuilding include:
1. Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances
Many nootropics, especially stimulants like caffeine, can lead to difficulties falling asleep or maintaining restful sleep. This is particularly problematic if taken late in the day, as sleep is critical for recovery and muscle growth.
2. Anxiety and Nervousness
Nootropics that stimulate the central nervous system (e.g., caffeine, phenylpiracetam) can increase anxiety, jitteriness, or nervousness, especially when combined with other stimulants or during periods of high stress.
3. Headaches
Certain nootropics, particularly racetams (like piracetam or aniracetam), can deplete choline levels in the brain, leading to headaches. Supplementing with choline sources like Alpha-GPC can help mitigate this side effect.
4. Gastrointestinal Issues
Some nootropics may cause nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea, especially if taken on an empty stomach or in high doses.
5. Mood Swings and Irritability
Nootropics that affect neurotransmitter levels (like dopamine or serotonin) can lead to mood swings, irritability, or even depressive symptoms if used improperly or if taken in combination with AAS, which can already impact mood.
6. Tolerance and Dependence
Frequent use of certain nootropics, particularly stimulants, can lead to tolerance, where increasing doses are needed to achieve the same effect. This can also result in dependence, where users feel they need the nootropic to function optimally.
7. Overstimulation
High doses or the wrong combination of nootropics can cause overstimulation, leading to symptoms like rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and excessive sweating. This can be particularly risky during intense workouts.
8. Cognitive Fatigue or Brain Fog
In some cases, nootropics intended to boost focus or clarity can backfire, leading to cognitive fatigue or brain fog. This can happen due to overloading neurotransmitter pathways or poor dosing strategies.
9. Interactions with Other Supplements or Medications
Nootropics may interact with other bodybuilding supplements, medications, or AAS, leading to unexpected side effects. For example, combining stimulants like caffeine with pre-workouts or fat burners can amplify side effects like anxiety or heart palpitations.
10. Long-Term Safety Concerns
The long-term effects of many nootropics are not well-studied, especially when taken in high doses or combined with other substances. Chronic use could potentially lead to neurological imbalances or organ stress over time.
Mitigating Risks
Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with low doses and gradually increase to assess your tolerance.
Cycle Usage: Avoid using the same nootropics daily to prevent tolerance and dependence.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper hydration and nutrition can reduce the risk of gastrointestinal and cognitive issues.
Monitor Your Response: Keep track of how you feel when taking nootropics and adjust accordingly if you notice negative side effects.
Consult a Professional: If you’re stacking nootropics with other substances like AAS, it’s essential to get medical advice to avoid harmful interactions.
While nootropics can offer cognitive and motivational benefits in bodybuilding, responsible use and monitoring are key to minimizing side effects.
Take Away
To conclude, nootropics can help bodybuilders maintain high levels of mental energy, motivation, and focus during training, which is essential for pushing through tough workouts and staying consistent with your fitness goals. However, as with any supplement, it’s important to research and consider potential side effects and interactions.
Don't Miss: Horse Chestnut and Other Supplements to Get Rid of Water Retention
-
Steroids2 years ago
VOX Testing: Why Bodybuilders Must Have It Tested Regularly
-
Steroids1 year ago
Shavers and Other Body Grooming Equipment for Bodybuilders In 2023
-
Steroids1 year ago
ChatGPT and Other Avenues to Find Great Bodybuilding Coaches
-
Steroids1 year ago
Best Oil Recommendations Before Competition for Subtle Shimmer
-
Steroids1 year ago
Powerlifting Vs Power Building: Find Out the Big Difference and When to Shift Between the Two
-
Nutrition1 year ago
Everything Nutritional Food: What’s Too Much Or Too Little
-
Beginners1 year ago
Tren Cycle for Beginners
-
Anabolic Steroids11 months ago
Legality of Anabolic Steroids In Latin America
-
Bodybuilding Products7 months ago
Telmisartan In Bodybuilding: An Expert’s Advice
-
Bodybuilding1 year ago
Competition Prep Cycle for Pro Bodybuilders
-
Bodybuilding9 months ago
List of FDA-Approved Peptides
-
Anabolic Steroids6 months ago
How Much Do You Know About B-AET? A Fat Burner You’ve Been Missing
-
Bodybuilding12 months ago
Chia Seeds in A Bodybuilder’s Diet: An Expert’s Advice
-
Steroids9 months ago
Trenbolone: Why it Remains A Beast In the Market
-
Anabolic Steroids12 months ago
Natural Steroids for Bodybuilding
-
Anabolic Steroids10 months ago
Start The New Year Strong With These Tips
-
Beginners1 year ago
Calisthenics: Secret to Building A Better Upper and Middle Body
-
Bodybuilding11 months ago
Unique Things That Have Redefined Mr Olympia Over The Years
-
Bodybuilding Products6 months ago
TRT Add-ons: The Ultimate Guide
-
Bodybuilding8 months ago
How Much Is Too Much Cardio? Understanding Heart Rate Zones
-
Steroids5 months ago
Major Bodybuilding Peptides Explained
-
Bodybuilding8 months ago
The Importance of Scaptions in Female Athletes
-
Bodybuilding5 months ago
Here Is How To know Your MRV (Maximum Recoverable Volume)
-
Product Reviews5 months ago
Top Vitamins for Skin Health
-
Anabolic Steroids6 months ago
Peptides Vs. Steroids:Real Talk/Guide