Written by MuscleTech Research & Development
10 October 2006
 

MuscleTech Research Report

By MuscleTech Research & Development

 

Bodybuilding Q & A

 

Q:  What's better for building huge biceps, a straight bar or an EZ-curl bar?

A. The debate over whether to use a straight or EZ-curl bar has been going on for decades. Researchers at Bloomsburg University tried to put an end to this debate. They put the two bars head-to-head and tested whether the different hand positions resulted in a different recruitment of muscle fibres.1 The difference wasn't significant. In fact, the difference was so small that, in terms of muscle growth and strength gains, it doesn't matter which bar you use, though the EZ-curl bar does tend to put less strain on your wrists and elbows. To sum it up, use a grip that you find most comfortable.

 

Q: With my work, training and family commitments, I often have a tough time meeting my daily protein requirements. Is there anything that can help supply me with the protein I need to build muscle?

A. There are numerous convenient protein supplements available today that are helping bodybuilders achieve their nutritional goals. Two examples are Nitro-Tech Ready-To-Drink shakes (RTDs) and Nitro-Tech high-protein/low-carb bars from MuscleTech R&D. The Nitro-Tech RTDs contain 45 grams of muscle-building protein and are low in both carbs and fat. These RTDs are an amazing protein surge that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. All you have to do is gently shake, open and enjoy! Nitro-Tech high-protein/low-carb bars contain 35 grams of high-quality protein and come in seven amazing flavors. These are two advanced supplements that'll allow you to follow a bodybuilding lifestyle despite your busy schedule. Now there's no excuse for not getting the protein you need just because you're on the go!

 

Q: I have thick and meaty triceps at the top, but not much at the bottom. What can I do to bring this area up?

A. The truth is that your genetics may be holding you back a little in this area, but don't worry- you can still add size to this area with proper stimulation. The bottom part you're referring to (the long head) is the largest of the three triceps heads and it functions to extend the elbow and straighten the arm. If you find that this area needs more work, try adding overhead dumbbell extensions to your routine. Always keep your elbows still and you'll be able to isolate the long head much better.

 

Q: I want to get shredded, but with so many fat-loss supplements out there, I'm confused as to which one I should use.

A. When looking for an advanced fat-loss supplement, look for products that have research supporting their ingredients. One such supplement is ephedra-free Hydroxycut by MuscleTech R&D. When added to your diet and weight-training program, ephedra-free Hydroxycut can help you support fat loss, reduce food cravings, increase energy and boost your metabolism. In fact, a study conducted on the primary ingredient in ephedra-free Hydroxycut (calcium/potassium salt of 60 percent HCA extract from Garcinia cambogia) showed that subjects lost an average of 10 pounds in just eight weeks when they added it to a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet and did 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio, five times per week.2  In another study conducted on key ingredients in ephedra-free Hydroxycut (green tea extract containing caffeine and 90 milligrams of epigallocatechin gallate), subjects increased calorie burning, thermogenesis and fat oxidation.3 Ephedra-free Hydroxycut is helping bodybuilders get super-shredded!

 

Q. I've heard you should take a week off from the weights every four to six months. What do you think about this?

A. The main priority of lifting is to damage the muscle and then give it enough time to rebuild and grow. Unfortunately, because of our limited time for rest in our busy lives, recovery is often only partially complete by the time you train that muscle again. This can lead to stunted growth or a plateau. Take one or two weeks off from the gym every four to six months to allow your muscles to fully recover. After that, you'll be fully rested and ready to throw around the big weights!

References

1. Mookerjee, S., et al. (1999). Med Sci Sports Exerc, 31(5):S116.

2. Preuss, H., et al. (2002). FASEB J,16(5):A1020.

3. Dullo, A., et al. (1999). Am J Clin Nutr 70:1040.