Why supplements can give beginning bodybuilders false hope

So you’ve decided to start a new bodybuilding program to transform your body into a more muscular physique. What should be your first step to reach your new goal? If you’re thinking of buying the latest supplement fad, I would caution you to take a step back and think about the long-term consequences of such an approach. You may be looking for shortcuts that will transform your body quickly and easily without a lot of effort on your part. That’s quite understandable – you’re eager to obtain results as quickly as possible. That’s why many people begin to consider buying a host of supplements before they have even settled on their exact weight training program or a diet plan. However, these quick fixes rarely help you achieve your goals in the long run.

Take a deep breath and get ready for this: I believe that few if any supplements are necessary to gain muscle. I refer specifically to steroid alternatives and other supplements meant to enhance muscle growth without any further action from the consumer. (A careful distinction must be made here between these kinds of supplements which may not be necessary or even safe in the long term, and other supplements which promote general health such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and the like. I would also exclude protein supplements that simply provide food in a convenient manner.) At best, steroid alternatives may provide muscle growth that could have been achieved naturally and safely. At worst, they may cause the user long-term harm, either in health hazards or in their finances.
Everyone can experience huge muscle growth by following progressive strength training and increasing calorie consumption. Simply put, you need to gradually lift heavier weights and eat more food. Repeat until you achieve the desired results. You don't need to consider questionable steroid alternatives, or even more reliable substances such as creatine, until you have practiced basic principles and achieved as much success as you can. You can then consider something like creatine to give you an extra little boost for advanced progress. Be careful not to believe all the hype when you begin a new strength training or bodybuilding program. You have to commit to long-term learning and long-term training. Learning to rely on supplements first can put a heavy load on your bank account and ingrain some pretty unhealthy habits like choosing quick fixes instead of learning discipline and commitment.
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Jon Cardozo (Jcardozium) provides beginning bodybuilders with tips to gain muscle naturally. Visit his website for more information on how to gain muscle at http://maximum-muscle-gain.com