Steroids

How To Optimize Recovery For Maximal Muscle Growth?

Published

5 years ago

May 25, 2020

Paul

Introduction

First, we will tell you why recovery matters so much, especially if you are a natural for maximal muscle growth. Then, we will give you some tips on how to optimize it, and lastly, a few supplements that can help you achieve your goals. Stay tuned!

Why Do You Need Recovery for Maximal Muscle Growth?

The process of muscle building is simple in theory: you lift weights, which causes micro-damage to the muscle fiber. Then, protein synthesis starts happening, and your body heals the damage, at the same time making the muscle bigger and stronger.

Obviously, for this to happen, you need to exercise, you need protein, and you need to rest as the process only gets triggered in the gym, but the muscles grow while you recover.

This process of repairing the damage lasts 24-48 hours post-workout, depending on many factors such as muscle groups affected, training intensity, current fitness level, etc.

The Dangers Of Overtraining

Athletes and gym fanatics often make a mistake by having following the "one more rep!" approach, always trying to force themselves to do more. That kind of mindset looks at recovery as something subhumans do, which can often lead to overtraining.

The obvious risk of overtraining is not letting your body fully recover from the damage, which can have many negative effects all over your body. These range from injuries, suboptimal gains, but can also affect your immune system, neurological issues, mood changes, and endocrinological changes. The overtraining syndrome is a real issue and is something you don't want to mess with.

But, that doesn't mean that you will become overtrained if you chain 3-4 workouts in consecutive days. Overtraining develops over a prolonged period of high volume + high intensity activities.

If you notice that you are becoming lethargic, stressed, anxious, that your immune system is weaker, or that you are losing sex drive, loss of appetite, and are continually feeling sore, it is probably time to slow down.

Body Parts Matter Too

When talking about gym workouts that are aimed towards hypertrophy and strength, it is important to note that the 24-48h rule of rest between workouts is important only when working one body part. However, training the opposite (antagonist) body part won't cause overtraining. This is why you often have Push/Pull workouts, or body part splits such as Chest/triceps-Back/biceps-Legs/shoulders/abs, and similar. By manipulating your training this way, you are still giving each of your body parts an adequate 24-48 hour rest between workouts, which will allow optimal growth.

And remember, compound movements that involve the hip joint (squats and deadlifts, and their variations), as well as pullups and presses tax the body much more than isolations that only target one muscle group. Therefore, never train squats and deadlifts on consecutive days, and if you can, put them at least 3-4 days apart. Monday for deadlifts, Friday for squats.

It Is Important To Have Off Days

Although you can arrange your workouts so that your body parts are activated interchangeably, there's one thing that is always on - your CNS. When working out hard every day, your body gets taxed a lot, as it has to go through the recovery process over and over again. To make sure it does recover fully, it is essential to have at least one day off every week. Only one day is an option if you are following a classic "bro split," where you only focus on one muscle group per day. But, if you are training several groups, two days per week off might be a better idea. If you are training full-body, you should do it three times per week, with four off days.

Of course, nothing is set in stone, these are recommendations for most people. But, it is best to stick to them and see how you feel and then adjust accordingly.

Don't Forget To Recover Between Sets

Recovering between sets will allow your muscles to perform optimally and enable you to reach your goals faster. There are different theories, and rest times between sets differ based on your goals. If your goal is strength, you should aim as long as you need to between sets, as you are going to try singles anyway. Therefore, 3-5 minutes, or even more, between sets is not unusual.

If you are training for size, you are usually somewhere in the 8-12 rep range. That means you are using less weight, but are still going reasonably heavy, and close to failure. In this case, resting 2-3 minutes is optimal.

If you are training for endurance or looking to lose fat via weight training, you are probably doing higher reps with lighter weights. If that is the case, 1-2 minutes between sets is enough. Or, you can choose two opposite exercises and do supersets, one after another.

8 Hours Of Goodness

People, you need to worry about your sleep schedule, just as much as you worry about your workout programs. There's no going around it, if you lack sleep, your gains will suffer.

Sleep is responsible for energy levels, of course, and if you are drowsy, your workout quality will drop. But, sleep also has essential roles in normal hormone production. Fail to sleep enough, and you will start gaining fat, even if you are not in a surplus. Also, HGH is released during sleep, which is another important factor in muscle growth.

Related Article:: The Importance of Sleep for Bodybuilders

How much sleep is enough? You already know that 8 hours is optimal for most people. There are exceptions, of course, but most will need 7-8 hours of quality sleep. If you can't do it all at once during the night, it is OK to have an afternoon nap, as long as you reach your goal. Just remember to have an afternoon and not an evening nap, as it can mess with your night sleep if you do it too late.

Tips To Optimize Sleep:

Have a sleep schedule, and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time, whenever possible
Don't drink coffee, pre-workouts, or anything caffeinated 6 hours before bed
Sleep in a dark and quiet room, use dark curtains, eye covers, and earplugs if you have to

Feed Your Muscles during Recovery

To grow muscle, you need exercise, and you need protein. Muscles are built in the process of protein synthesis, therefore, this macronutrient is essential.

Whey protein is always the best choice if you are aiming to increase your protein intake through supplementation. Whey has the best absorption and will go to the muscles very quickly.

Find it Whey ➢ HERE

If you need something that is going to feed your muscles slower, but over a longer period, Casein protein is your best choice. This is a classic "slow" protein that is most often used before sleep, to give the necessary aminos to your muscles while you sleep. Of course, if you are vegan, or you just can't tolerate dairy products, plant proteins are a good option too. They will give you all that you need and are usually organic and free of toxins.

Eat Carbs Too

Many gym bros often treat carbs like enemies, as they think carbs ruin those hard-earned abs instantaneously. Yes, it's true that most junk food like candy and soda is filled with sugar, but that doesn't mean carbs are bad. It only means that junk food is junk.

Find it Orgain ➢ HERE

But, when you work out super hard, your body's glycogen gets depleted, which is the main fuel used for highly intensive activities. Glycogen is a form of sugar that is available in the muscles themselves and is used first during the intense activities, as it is already there. So, the best way to refill your glycogen reserves is to eat carbs, which will make sure your body is fully ready for your next hardcore session.

Read more about:: How To Bulk Up Without Getting Fat

Up Your Caloric Intake

This one is not for everyone, but, in some cases upping your caloric intake is worth considering. If you are training super hard, going very heavy and doing it frequently, this can cause a caloric deficit on its own. So, if your plan is to lose weight and you are in a deficit anyway, this can be too much. Therefore, if you are feeling lethargic, or especially achy, it is a good idea to up your calories on non-workout days, so that you can recover well. Also, if you want to go extra hard, upping your carbs on workout days will give you the necessary kick.

Find Casein ➢ HERE

Incorporate Light, Non-Lifting Days

We know that you are hardcore, but if you want to avoid overtraining, you should plan some light days into your schedule. These can be anything from taking a walk, a slow-paced bicycle tour, stretching and foam rolling, going for a swim, or signing up for a yoga class. Anything that is low-intensity but promotes circulation is a good option, as the blood flow will help the muscles heal up better. Plus, you are probably very tight anyway, and doing some yoga poses won't kill you.

Use Deload Weeks for Recovery

Deloads are controversial, as many claim that they don't work. But, if something can potentially prevent overtraining, we say it is a good idea to consider it. A deload week is a week where you cut back on total weight use, training volume, or frequency, or all three. So, you can go for 50% of your 1RM, just going through the motions. Or, you can keep the weight, but reduce the number of sets you do. Alternatively, you can replace exercises, doing simpler and easier versions. For example, instead of the bench press, you can do pushups.

The idea is to recover by working, so you don't get lazy, and your muscles still get a fair amount of stimuli and circulation. But, in the deload weeks you don't redline them. Athletes who favor deloads say they help them go through plateaus, prevent injuries, and feel much better overall. Athletes who hate deloads claim that they are a waste of time. Try it, and see what works for you.

If You Are Juicing, You Still Need To Worry About Recovery

It is a common thing to hear how steroid users don't need to worry about recovery, as being enhanced means having much better recovery on its own. That is not exactly so.

While being enhanced does mean that you will recover better, that also means you will train more, and that you will still need recovery. Think about it logically - juicing will let you train harder and more frequently. If you want to do that and maximize your enhanced gains, you will still need to take care of your sleep, nutrition, supplementation, and everything else we described in the article above. If you8 don't want to maximize your gains, then why are you taking steroids at all?

Must read:: How Long Does Recovery of Natural Testosterone Take After a 12 Week Steroid Cycle Plus PCT?

Conclusion

As you can see, recovery is extremely important for Maximal Muscle Growth. Taking care of it is not hard, but it is not very fun, as it requires you to be idle. This is the central reason why many gym fanatics ignore recovery, as it is not something you put on your Instagram story.

But, even though it sounds boring and unimportant, ignoring it is all but smart and can lead to injuries and health issues. Yes, sometimes it is better to take it slow and easy, if you want to maximize gains, even if you are a hardcore gym maniac.

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Steroids

Tips on How to Store Peptides and HGH

Published

1 week ago

January 9, 2025

Sane

When peptides are mixed with bacteriostatic water (BAC water), their longevity is highly influenced by how they are stored. Correct storage is crucial, as improper conditions can compromise their quality and reduce their efficacy.

Explore: Hypertrophy Training Program

Key Storage Guidelines

Room Temperature: Peptides tend to degrade rapidly at room temperature, lasting only a few hours to a day. It's best to use them immediately in this condition.

Refrigeration (2-8°C): When stored in a refrigerator, peptides mixed with BAC water can remain stable for 2-4 weeks. However, some peptides may degrade more quickly than others, so limiting storage to around two weeks is safest.

Freezing (-20°C or lower): For prolonged storage, freezing is the best option, maintaining peptide stability for several months. It is important to avoid multiple cycles of thawing and refreezing, as this can degrade the peptides.

It's important to note that storage guidelines can differ depending on the specific peptide, so always check for the particular recommendations to ensure maximum longevity and effectiveness.

NOTE: Peptides reconstituted with Sterile Water only remain potent for 2-3 days, even under ideal storage conditions. This is because sterile water lacks the antibacterial properties of BAC water, leading to faster bacterial growth and peptide degradation.

Finding Containers to Store Peptides and HGH

You can find containers for storing peptides and HGH at various online retailers and specialty stores. Here are a few options:

Edge Peptides: They offer a range of storage containers suitable for peptides, including glass and high-quality plastic vials.

Peptide Sciences: This site provides information on peptide storage and offers appropriate containers.

Muscle and Brawn: They have guidelines on peptide storage and sell containers designed for this purpose.

Make sure to choose containers that are chemically inert, such as glass or high-quality plastic, to avoid any reactions with the peptides. Additionally, ensure the containers are tightly sealed to prevent contamination and degradation.

What Would Be the Best Peptides and HGH for Beginners?

For beginner bodybuilders and athletes, it's important to start with safe and effective options. Here are some of the best peptides and human growth hormone (HGH) supplements:

Peptides for Muscle Growth

Ipamorelin: Stimulates growth hormone production, aiding muscle growth and fat loss.

CJC-1295: Enhances growth hormone release, promoting muscle growth and improving sleep quality.

Hexarelin: Stimulates growth hormone release, aiding muscle gain and cardiovascular health.

Sermorelin: Increases growth hormone production, beneficial for muscle growth.

GHRP-6: Stimulates growth hormone release, increasing energy levels and aiding muscle growth.

HGH Supplements

CrazyBulk HGH-X2: Boosts HGH production, increases energy levels, and helps build muscle mass.

HyperGH 14x: Promotes muscle growth and improves performance.

GenF20 Plus: Maintains optimal HGH levels, aiding in muscle growth and anti-aging.

PGH-1000: Enhances strength and stamina.

Sytropin: Supports physical fitness, anti-aging, and andropause.

Summary

Storing peptides and human growth hormone (HGH) properly is crucial for maintaining their effectiveness and ensuring safety. Peptides should ideally be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8°C for up to 2-4 weeks when mixed with bacteriostatic water, while freezing them at -20°C or lower extends their stability for several months, but avoid thawing and refreezing. When reconstituting peptides, use bacteriostatic water instead of sterile water to maintain potency for a longer duration (2-4 weeks versus 2-3 days). Use chemically inert containers, like glass or high-quality plastic vials, and ensure they are tightly sealed. Maintain sterility during reconstitution and storage to prevent bacterial contamination.

Use reconstituted peptides as soon as possible to avoid degradation in solution. Popular peptides for muscle growth include Ipamorelin, CJC-1295, Hexarelin, Sermorelin, and GHRP-6, while CrazyBulk HGH-X2 is a common supplement to boost HGH production. Always check the specific storage recommendations for each peptide, as they can vary.

Remember, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Must Read: Targeted Training for Individual Muscle Groups

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Steroids

Ostarine For Beginners: The Ultimate Guide

Published

3 weeks ago

December 29, 2024

Sane

Ostarine, also referred to as MK-2866 or Enobosarm, is among the most extensively used and researched Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs). Initially developed to combat muscle-wasting diseases, it has gained immense popularity among athletes and bodybuilders for its muscle-preserving and performance-enhancing benefits.

How Does It Work?

Ostarine selectively binds to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, promoting protein synthesis and osteogenesis. Unlike anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), which interact with androgen receptors throughout the body, Ostarine specifically targets certain tissues, reducing the risk of unwanted side effects such as hair loss, high estrogen levels, prostate enlargement, or virilization in women.

Practical Benefits of Ostarine

Muscle Preservation

Ostarine is well-known for its ability to maintain lean muscle mass, especially during calorie deficits. Studies have shown that it prevents muscle wasting while sustaining strength and endurance, making it ideal for cutting cycles (Dalton et al., 2011).

Muscle Growth

Although its muscle-building capacity is milder compared to stronger SARMs or AAS, Ostarine effectively promotes gradual, high-quality muscle gains without excessive water retention.

Improved Recovery

Athletes have reported enhanced recovery times with Ostarine. By reducing muscle breakdown and increasing nitrogen retention, it allows users to train more frequently and intensively.

Bone Health

Ostarine positively impacts bone density. Research indicates its ability to increase bone mineralization, potentially making it a therapeutic agent for osteoporosis (Narayanan et al., 2008). For athletes, this translates to a reduced injury risk and stronger skeletal support during heavy training.

Related Article: Legality of Steroids in Latin America

Potential Side Effects

Mild Testosterone Suppression

Ostarine can suppress natural testosterone production, particularly at higher doses. Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is recommended after cycles to restore hormonal balance.

Dyslipidemia

Like most SARMs, Ostarine can affect lipid profiles, potentially lowering HDL (good cholesterol) and increasing LDL (bad cholesterol).

Elevated Liver Enzymes

Some users report mild elevations in liver enzymes during use, though these usually return to normal after discontinuation.

Long-Term Effects

Unknown As a relatively new compound, the long-term effects of Ostarine on health are not fully understood.

How to Use Ostarine Correctly

Dosage and Cycle Recommendations

Ostarine is typically dosed at 10–30 mg per day, depending on the user’s goals and experience level:

For Cutting: 10–20 mg per day to preserve muscle and aid fat loss.

For Bulking: 20–30 mg per day to promote lean muscle gains.

Cycles generally last 6–8 weeks. Longer cycles or higher doses may increase the risk of side effects, including testosterone suppression. With a half-life of approximately 24 hours, Ostarine allows for convenient once-daily dosing.

Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)

We highly recommend PCT following Ostarine cycles, especially for doses exceeding 20 mg per day, to restore natural testosterone levels.

Ostarine Alternatives

For beginner bodybuilders looking for alternatives to Ostarine, here are some popular options:

RAD 140 (Testolone): Known for its excellent muscle-building and fat-burning properties, RAD 140 is a favorite among those looking to gain lean muscle mass.
LGD-4033 (Ligandrol): This SARM is highly effective for increasing strength and muscle mass, making it a great choice for beginners.
Cardarine (GW-501516): Although not technically a SARM, Cardarine is popular for its ability to enhance endurance and fat loss.
YK-11: This SARM is known for its ability to promote muscle growth and strength, similar to anabolic steroids.
S23: Effective for cutting cycles, S23 helps reduce body fat while preserving muscle mass.
Andarine (S4): This SARM is used for both bulking and cutting, offering muscle preservation and fat loss.

These alternatives offer various benefits and can be chosen based on individual goals and preferences. It's always important to research and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Check Out: Popular Fitness Apps

Overall

Ostarine (MK-2866) is a versatile and beginner-friendly SARM, offering significant benefits for muscle preservation, recovery, and lean growth. Its selective action and mild side-effect profile make it an attractive option for athletes and bodybuilders seeking an edge in performance and aesthetics. However, responsible use, including appropriate dosing, cycle length, and post-cycle therapy, is crucial to minimizing risks and maximizing results.

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Steroids

Mushroom Chitosan for Skin Care: A Plant-Based Option for Skincare

Published

4 weeks ago

December 23, 2024

Sane

Mushroom chitosan is a prominent ingredient in the skincare industry, celebrated for its compatibility with skin, moisturizing properties, and its role in wound healing and skin regeneration. Extracted from the cell walls of specific mushrooms, this eco-friendly, plant-based alternative to traditional chitosan (which is typically derived from shellfish) has recently gained considerable attention. It is swiftly becoming a favored ingredient in products designed to enhance skin texture, reduce inflammation, and improve moisture retention. This article delves into the science behind mushroom chitosan, its skin benefits, and how it compares to other popular ingredients.

Chitosan Overview

Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide traditionally obtained from the exoskeletons of shellfish like shrimp and crabs. However, mushroom chitosan, derived from fungi such as Aspergillus niger and Agaricus bisporus, offers a plant-based, vegan-friendly alternative. It provides similar benefits without the allergens or ethical concerns associated with animal-derived ingredients.

What It Does

Mushroom chitosan exhibits excellent biocompatibility, meaning it works well with human skin without causing irritation or allergic reactions. It is also biodegradable and sustainable, making it a particularly appealing option for eco-conscious consumers.

Mushroom chitosan forms a protective film on the skin’s surface, which helps retain moisture and shields the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and harmful bacteria. This barrier function also enhances the skin’s ability to retain water, making it especially beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

Chitosan Magic

Additionally, chitosan has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent and treat skin infections. It promotes wound healing by accelerating the regeneration of skin cells, making it useful for post-inflammatory conditions like acne scars or minor cuts. Here is a summary of the main benefits of using mushroom chitosan:

Enhanced Hydration

Mushroom chitosan’s film-forming ability helps lock in moisture, maintaining the skin’s hydration levels. This is especially beneficial for dry, dehydrated skin or for maintaining a healthy moisture barrier.

Anti-inflammatory

Chitosan has been shown to reduce inflammation, which can soothe irritated or red skin. This makes it effective for people dealing with sensitive skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.

Chitosan Wound Healing and Skin Repair

Studies have shown that chitosan accelerates the skin’s natural healing process, making it a valuable ingredient for wound care and the recovery of damaged skin. It supports the regeneration of healthy skin cells, which can help minimize scarring and promote overall skin health.

Chitosan Antimicrobial Properties

Its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi can help reduce breakouts and skin infections, providing a natural solution for acne-prone skin.

Anti-aging Benefits

Mushroom chitosan supports the skin’s elasticity and firmness by maintaining moisture levels and protecting it from oxidative stress, making it an effective anti-aging ingredient. By reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving texture, it contributes to a smoother, youthful complexion.

Related Article: Why A Newbie Must Use Electrolytes

Let's Compare it With Traditional Skin Products

Hyaluronic Acid: Mushroom chitosan and hyaluronic acid are both excellent for retaining moisture in the skin. However, chitosan also offers antimicrobial and wound-healing benefits, making it a multifunctional ingredient.

Collagen: Both ingredients aim to improve skin texture and elasticity. While collagen helps firm and plump the skin, mushroom chitosan focuses on moisture retention, repair, and protective qualities, offering a more comprehensive approach to skincare.

Traditional Chitosan: Mushroom chitosan has an edge over traditional shellfish-derived chitosan as it is plant-based and hypoallergenic. People with shellfish allergies can use it safely, and it’s also suitable for vegans and those seeking sustainable skincare options.

Main Products Containing Mushroom Chitosan

Moisturizers and Serums: As a potent humectant, mushroom chitosan is increasingly used in moisturizing products to boost skin hydration, enhancing the skin’s natural barrier.

Acne Treatments: Thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, mushroom chitosan is an excellent ingredient in acne-fighting formulas, reducing bacterial growth while calming inflamed skin.

Wound Healing Creams: Given its regenerative abilities, mushroom chitosan is often included in creams designed to speed up wound healing or reduce scarring, especially for acne-prone skin or post-skin procedures.

Anti-aging Products: Mushroom chitosan’s ability to retain moisture and support the skin’s elasticity makes it a key ingredient in anti-aging serums and creams, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Overall

Mushroom chitosan is an exciting, versatile ingredient in skincare that addresses multiple concerns, from hydration and inflammation to skin repair and protection. As a vegan-friendly, eco-conscious alternative to traditional chitosan, it offers a sustainable and effective solution for enhancing skin health. With its broad range of benefits and gentle nature, mushroom chitosan is poised to become a staple in modern skincare.

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