Bodybuilding

Human Growth Hormone Role In Bodybuilding

Published

11 years ago

February 20, 2014

Zizou

Human Growth Hormone is that wonder element in our body which prevents aging and can throw you several decades away when used. It helps to build muscle fast, burn fat, increase libido and elevates the overall energy level. Pretty sure you have heard it mentioned in many discussions regarding fast muscle building and getting a younger look. Why you need it and what are ways to get bigger through it usage find further in this post.

HGH as Natural Hormone:

Human Growth hormone (HGH) is a naturally occurring hormone produced in the pituitary gland which is responsible for cell growth and regeneration. Despite it remains in the bloodstream for very few time after being secreted, liver manages to turn it into one of the most anabolic factor called insulin-like growth factor-1, or in short IGF-1.

Due to this hormone high amounts of muscle mass can be added with easiness. Aside from this, HGH plays a key role in maintaining all types of human tissue, including nervous ones. What is bad about HGH is that it peaks on puberty years and begin to drop down in your 20’s.

With aging, HGH gets lower in lower; hence building muscle in your 40’s is more difficult than in your 18’s. Normally, the pituitary gland of a healthy adult man produces about 5 nanograms per milliliter, while the female body produces a double dosage during childbearing.

Synthetic HGH:

Synthetic HGH

Because of great effect, HGH has on muscle growth it began to be largely produced as a synthetic hormone back in 1980. It is a potent anabolic hormone which helps to build muscle fast, redress sexual problems and gives more energy.

Among other properties of HGH are:

Good impact in burning fat. Professional bodybuilders used it over the years to keep lean muscle mass while being on a calorie deficit.
It increases sleep quality. For supporting a high protein synthesis process is not enough to get those 8 hours of sleep. The qualities of rest time are also very important. The sleep has to be restful, deepful and refreshful.
Makes bones stronger.
No androgenic effect. On this chapter, HGH has priority to testosterone, as the first one present no androgenic activity- no aromatization or water retention- when used in limited dosage. Therefore, it can be easily stacked with test and used to build a big body.

Must Read: Top 4 Frauds about Steroids, HGH, and anti-aging

How to Increase HGH level Naturally?

Everyone wants to resort to drugs as little as possible. We always look up for natural ways to solve our problem, and if there are any we implement them and check how they work. The same can be said about HGH. You can buy HGH drug and use it to enhance body performance or try to increase it without an HGH prescription.

Over the time, two main factors have proved to have a tremendous influence in elevating HGH level in the body: weight training and resting. The more you work out, the more HGH the pituitary gland secret, hence more IGF-1 is transported into the bloodstream.

About 75% of total HGH amount is released during the rest time. That’s why it's so important to sleep 8-9 hours a day with the possibility of a nap throughout the day. Please note that this type of HGH is not as potent as those released during weight training, being more a power charger. But you need it you want to get maximum benefits from your workouts.

Supplements For Boosting HGH Level:

A multivitamin course can improve HGH level but in a very law degree. Instead, there are many HGH releasers or also called secretagogues largely used for boosting HGH level. Most popular of them are arginine, glutamine, glycine, and others. Studies done on this subject are quite reluctant, stating that the effectiveness of any HGH releasers depends on several factors like:

Have to be used in large amounts, which may cause some side effects as diarrhea or nausea.
Have to be carefully mixed in quite strict proportions which vary according to the brand, which is quite complicated for an individual.
Timing is very important as well. You have to know when to take them- after/before a workout, on empty stomach or with a meal, etc- in order to make them work.

As long as you can respect with strictness all these rules, chances are that HGH releasers would work for you. In all other cases, you are advised to go with specialty supplements like Growth Factor-9.

Build Huge Muscle Using Synthetic HGH:

Build Huge Muscle Using Synthetic HGH

Really huge muscle gains come when artificial HGH is being used. Whether you like it or not, to pack on big amounts of muscle mass and work out like a pro you need to get into account the benefits HGH have on your body. Taken orally, HGH would be less efficient as it is absorbed by the stomach before getting into the bloodstream. That’s why the best version of synthetic HGH is an injectable one.

Human Growth Hormone Cycles and Dosage:

HGH Cycles and Dosage

Human Growth Hormone has to be taken for long cycles, for 16 weeks minimum for example. The short administration would be a waste of money with no noticeable results. Supplementation with HGH for 6 months is considered to promote biggest gains in muscles mass. This means that you have a good budget to afford an HGH cycle. If you can’t, it’s better the leave this idea at all.

Must Read: Dosing of HGH in Anabolic Steroid Cycles

Dosage differs on purpose, 1IU per day (International Units) being taken for therapeutic goals. For enhancing body performance 2IU are advised to be taken, while for a more pronounced anabolic effect you are recommended to double the dose. 5IU daily would cause even more muscle gains, but be aware side effects with HGH are rare, but still present when overused.

Must Read: HGH and Testosterone Cycle and Dosages – PROs and CONs

Human Growth HormoneDrug Side-Effects:

Side Effects

As we said, HGH has no androgenic effects, therefore no water retention or aromatization will occur while using it. Even when therapeutic dosages are exceeded, side effects are still very rare. The biggest drawback of HGH steroid use is that it might shut down your own HGH hormone production.

It’s worth noticing that this effect can be permanent so that an HGH supplementation would be needed for your entire life. HGH is a key factor in building muscle mass. By knowing ways to manipulate its level in your body, you can build muscle faster.

With or without the use of drugs, you need to keep your HGH level as high as possible, since only so you can see your dream coming true: a great sculpted body that makes both men and women envious.

Related Topics:Bodybuilding Hgh Human Growth Hormone

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Zizou

Building muscle mass is what I like to talk about. If your aim is to build a solid body, then my posts would be very beneficial to you. I always want to know your opinion, so don't hesitate to drop a line below or contact me.

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Bodybuilding

2nd Edition of Natural Bodybuilding Competition Facts

Published

4 months ago

September 5, 2024

Zizou

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

Drug Testing

Participants undergo rigorous drug testing to ensure they are not using banned substances. This can include urine tests, polygraph tests, and other methods to maintain the integrity of the competition.

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Judging Criteria

Athletes are judged based on several factors, including:

Muscle Mass: The size and volume of muscles.
Symmetry: The balance and proportion of the physique.
Conditioning: The level of muscle definition and leanness.
Presentation: Posing routines and overall stage presence.

Preparation

Competitors often spend months preparing for these events, focusing on strict diet plans, intense workout regimens, and posing practice. The goal is to achieve peak physical condition on the day of the competition.

Community and Support

Natural bodybuilding competitions foster a sense of community among athletes who share a commitment to health and fitness. Many competitors form lasting friendships and support networks through these events.

Starting training for a natural bodybuilding competition is an exciting journey! Here are some key steps to help you get started:

1. Set Clear Goals

Define what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to compete in a specific category like Men’s Physique or Women’s Figure? Setting clear goals will guide your training and nutrition plans.

2. Create a Training Plan

Focus on a well-rounded training program that includes:

Compound Movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups are essential for building overall muscle mass.
Isolation Exercises: Target specific muscles to enhance definition and symmetry.
Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or reps to continuously challenge your muscles.

3. Follow a Structured Diet

Nutrition is crucial for muscle growth and fat loss:

Caloric Intake: Calculate your daily caloric needs based on your goals (bulking or cutting).
Macronutrients: Balance your intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Aim for high protein to support muscle repair and growth.
Micronutrients: Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

4. Incorporate Cardio

Cardio helps with fat loss and improves cardiovascular health. Include both steady-state and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions in your routine.

5. Practice Posing

Posing is a critical aspect of bodybuilding competitions. Practice regularly to perfect your form and presentation on stage.

6. Rest and Recovery

Allow your body to recover with adequate sleep and rest days. Overtraining can lead to injuries and hinder progress.

7. Stay Consistent and Patient

Building a competition-ready physique takes time and dedication. Stay consistent with your training and diet, and be patient with your progress.

8. Seek Professional Guidance

Consider working with a coach or trainer who specializes in natural bodybuilding. They can provide personalized advice and help you stay on track.

9. Join a Community

Engage with other natural bodybuilders for support and motivation. Online forums, social media groups, and local gyms can be great places to connect.

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Qualifications

The qualifications for natural bodybuilding competitions vary slightly between organizations but generally follow these principles:

Drug-Free Status: Athletes must demonstrate they have been drug-free for a specific period, typically between 5 to 10 years. They are required to pass a drug test, usually through urine samples or polygraph tests, to prove they haven't used banned substances like steroids, hormones, or other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Membership Requirements: Competitors often need to be members of the organizing federation. For example, in the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF), athletes must have a valid WNBF membership to compete.

Amateur and Pro Divisions: Most competitions have both amateur and professional divisions. To qualify for a pro division, an athlete must first win an amateur event or obtain a “pro card” by performing exceptionally in a recognized event.

Age and Gender Categories: Athletes are categorized by age and gender. Categories typically include juniors (under 23), open divisions, masters (over 40), and grandmasters (over 50).

Entry and Registration: Competitors must pay an entry fee and complete registration. For certain competitions, a pre-qualification based on past performance may be required.

Distinction Between Natural and Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

The main differences between natural and steroid-based bodybuilding revolve around the methods used to build muscle and the resulting impacts on the body. Here are some key distinctions:

Natural Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Achieved through consistent weight training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. Muscle growth is gradual and sustainable.
Health: Generally safer with fewer side effects. Promotes overall health, including better cardiovascular health, improved metabolism, and increased bone density.
Appearance: Natural bodybuilders tend to have a more balanced and proportionate physique. Muscle definition is less extreme compared to steroid users.
Recovery: Recovery times are longer, requiring more rest between intense workouts.
Competitions: Natural bodybuilding competitions often have strict drug-testing policies to ensure participants are not using performance-enhancing drugs.

Related Article: T3 Application in Building Muscle Mass

Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Steroids significantly accelerate muscle growth and strength gains. Results are more dramatic and achieved in a shorter time.
Health Risks: Steroid use can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage, cardiovascular problems, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects like mood swings.
Appearance: Steroid users often have a more “enhanced” look with larger muscle mass, visible veins, and extreme muscle definition, even in the off-season.
Recovery: Faster recovery times due to the anti-inflammatory effects of steroids, allowing for more frequent and intense training sessions.
Side Effects: Visible side effects can include acne, hair loss, gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men), and changes in secondary sexual characteristics.

Choosing Between the Two

Natural Bodybuilding: Ideal for those who prioritize long-term health, sustainable muscle growth, and a balanced lifestyle.
Steroid-Based Bodybuilding: Often chosen by those seeking rapid and extreme muscle gains, but it comes with significant health risks and ethical considerations.

Take Away

The main advantage of participating in natural bodybuilding events is the emphasis on health and sustainability. Natural bodybuilding promotes muscle growth through consistent training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest, leading to gradual and sustainable results. This approach minimizes health risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs, such as liver damage and cardiovascular issues. Additionally, natural bodybuilding fosters a balanced and proportionate physique, and the strict drug-testing policies in competitions ensure a fair and level playing field for all participants. This focus on overall well-being and ethical competition makes natural bodybuilding a healthier and more sustainable choice.

Bodybuilding

Primal Movements: Our Ultimate Guide for Maximum Results

Published

4 months ago

August 29, 2024

Zizou

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:

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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:

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.

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.