Supplements for training

[muttley]

I tried supplements (not for martial arts but because I was trying to "beef up" a bit), I personally found them to have no benefits, I was not able to lift more, I did not notice any increase in size. The only thing I noticed was a decrease in my bank balance!

I now realise that the best way to feel good is to train as hard as you possibly can, eat a good varied diet, and drink water, generally look after yourself.

[Nidan Melbourne]

I tried supplements (not for martial arts but because I was trying to "beef up" a bit), I personally found them to have no benefits, I was not able to lift more, I did not notice any increase in size. The only thing I noticed was a decrease in my bank balance!

I now realise that the best way to feel good is to train as hard as you possibly can, eat a good varied diet, and drink water, generally look after yourself.

Basically yeah! Supplements are only used as an aid in working hard. Because a lot of people take it and don't train to get the results they expect.

Gaining Muscle Size takes time

[Spartacus Maximus]

Did both whey protein and creatine for just a couple of years in University. The results were just barely noticeable but there was a nasty surprise. A bladder irregularity that took nearly two years to reverse. It could have been permanent if I had failed to stop when I did.

[Lupin1]

I take some Vitamin D during the winter as the number one place people get it is from the sun, which we don't get much of in winter here (dark when I go into work, dark when I come out).

You can definitely feel the difference (like how you just feel better when you get more sun).

[Nidan Melbourne]

Did both whey protein and creatine for just a couple of years in University. The results were just barely noticeable but there was a nasty surprise. A bladder irregularity that took nearly two years to reverse. It could have been permanent if I had failed to stop when I did.

That sucks that it occurred to you dude. Were you training quite consistently that required the protein + Creatine?

Usually only those who are dedicated to building mass like really building it will use those powders.

[Spartacus Maximus]

Back then I lifted weights every other day in addition to going to the dojo. I also bicycled everywhere I had to go. I only consumed the supplements on tge days I weight trained but it was enough to mess me up. Besides the bladder issue, I was also left with swelling and scarring on my limbs. These faded after I stopped but are still visible.

In retrospect, I am convinced that muscle strength and size can only be gained slowly through natural training. Functional strength for lifelong health is more important than just getting bigger for the sake of it.