Using Creatine Effectively
What is Creatine?
Chances are, if you have ever picked up a fitness magazine you’ve heard of creatine. It has become one of the most popular supplements over the last decade. But what IS creatine, exactly?
Creatine is a naturally occurring organic acid found in humans. It’s also found in red meat. Creatine helps supply energy to muscles in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which you may remember from your old biology class. Roughly 95% of creatine ends of being stored in your muscles.
Plenty of research has been performed on creatine, proving its safety and benefit in sports training. Increased ATP production, courtesy of creatine, may boost your strength in the gym. Studies have also shown that it may improve lean muscle mass.
Using Creatine
Since creatine is naturally found in red meat, do you need to supplement it? Supplementing with creatine is a good idea if you’re trying to build muscle. Although it is found in red meat, much of it is destroyed during cooking.
Before using any supplement or beginning any new training program you should consult with your physician. If you do decide to use creatine, there are plenty of great products to choose from. A detailed usage guide and review of the best products is available on the best creatine information website.
Most creatine supplements should be used in a “cycle”. Cycling the supplement entails using it for several weeks or months before taking a break for an equal amount of time. Doing this allows you to enjoy the maximum effects. You should also consume plenty of water when using creatine. Make sure to follow the supplement’s instructions carefully. As always, lift safely!