Quote:
Originally Posted by Rama
I find most protein powders to be the same as long as its a reputable company. I usually buy from Costco or Sam's club. Creatine will help put on a few pounds. The gym for me is better before work-3 or 4 days a week is fine. In my opinion the best exercises are squats, deadlift, bench, shoulder press, pull -ups (or pull-down) and rows. These hit your larger stronger muscles throw in a few others to keep your body in balance. Try and dedicate one month to a workout regime and you will see a noticeable difference. Also a little protein (20-25 grams) before your workout and protein(40 grams) and 80 grams of carbs right after and some before bed. You could add 8-10 poounds in a month with a little work.
Rama is dead on. If I'd change one thing, I'd add a little more protien such as an extra can of tuna a day to what he recommended. Creatine is good but I'm addicted to coffee which acts as a diuretic. With Creatine, you need tons of water. Don't over train. If you go heavy enough and incorporate workouts, four days is all you need. Go to your local library and rent a few pro body builder workouts. No, you're not trying to get huge, but those guys know how to put on muscle.
The extra weight might not be good for your joints if you run competitively. The first years of muscle addition are exponential compared to after you reach a certain point. It's quite possible to add 30 pounds of muscle in a short period of time with your low body weight. Also, be prepared for the stretch marks. Cocoa butter or lotion should help there. One final thing, make sure to warm up your joints thoroughly. At our age, it's too hard to stage a comeback after a serious injury. Good luck.
J