What is Ursolic Acid? Build muscle, increase testosterone, block estrogen, and burn fat with 3-beta-3-hydroxy-urs-12-ene-28-oic acid.

Ursolic Acid or 3-beta-3-hydroxy-urs-12-ene-28-oic acid. That's a mouth full. The king of performance supplementation, Patrick Arnold has been talking alot about it recently and for good reason.

According to the Encyclopedia of Supplements, "This polyphenol found in the skin of apples has been shown to increase muscle growth and strength by increasing production of IGF-1 and reducing the amount of testosterone that gets converted to estrogen. It has also been shown to increase fat loss while simultaneously building more muscle. "

The cool thing is that no cycling is required for this supplement.

They suggest that you take 250 - l,500 mg 30-60 minutes before workouts. Patrick Arnold sells a version that is applied topically since oral ingestion has a low bioavailability. Taking it with a fat source is another way to increase the absorption.

If it does half of what's stated, it's worth buying. Especially at the price it can be obtained for.

Sources:

The Encyclopedia of Supplements. Jim Stoppani Flex. 29.10 (Dec. 2011): p196.

Breaking new research on ursolic acid shows increases in brown fat production and confirms muscle building potential

New Natural Anabolic Discovered

Ursolic acid: apple anabolic

Ursolic acid is an all round sports supplement

Testosterone levels go off the scale with holy basil

Links to articles on Ursolic Acid:
http://www.sciencedaily.com
http://www.cell.com

Some of My Favorite Muscle and Supplement Websites

Websites I’ve been a satisfied customer of or have received great info from in no particular order:

TIGERFITNESS

Luckyvitamin

Supplementdeals

True Nutrition

Protein Factory

Nutrabio

Purebulk

Universal

Universal Animal

SupplementReviews

Bodybuilding.com

T-Nation

Oldschool Trainer

Natural Bodybuilding - Matt Ogus

Yo Elliott!

TwinMuscleWorkout

Nick Wright Bodybuilding

Ergo log

Patrick Arnold

Nutraplanet

Vitacost

Swanson Vitamins

Building Brawn

TF Supplements

Ironman Magazine

Muscle and Fitness

Men’s Health

Men’s Fitness

Muscular Development

MuscleMag

House of Pain

New York Barbell

Westside Barbell

Ironmaglabs

Suppversity

Body Builder's Edge

What the Supp?

Diesel Strength

FYI - I currently am not a affiliate of any of these sites. If you want me to receive some compensation then use my links for Amazon or the ads in the margins.  That could change at anytime. I am hoping to build some relationships in the future. I will update this blog in the future should my relationship change. Kinda like facebook.

Thanks and I hope these posts are of some benefit to you.

Product Review: MHP T-Bomb II - The Heavy Lifter of Testosterone Boosters and Brandon Cass.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Brandon Cass who is chasing the 900 lb deadlift. We were talking about test boosters and he mentioned that I should give MHP T-Bomb II a hard look.

Well, I did and it has all the components you want in a test booster. Along with being popular among my friends.

Here are the highlights:

FENUGREEK

Fenugreek  contains a high level of furostanolic saponins that work to increase the release of luteinizing hormone from the pituitary gland. LH tells the testicles to increase testosterone production. In addition, studies have shown that men taking fenugreek for eight weeks can double their strength gains.

EURYCOMA LONGIFOLIA

You probably know this as tongkat ali or long-jack this herb works directly on the Leydig cells in the testes to significantly boost testosterone and decrease cortisol levels. 

STINGING NETTLE LEAF

Stinging nettle raises testosterone levels by keeping the testosterone molecule free of a carrier protein known as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). When T is free it binds with androgen receptors in muscle cells. Testosterone can't be used for muscle growth if it's not free.

SAW PALMETTO BERRY EXTRACT

Saw palmetto berry extract is rich in fatty acids and phytosterols that inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. 5-alpha converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and inhibiting this enzyme keeps testosterone levels up.

CORDYCEPS

Cordyceps is a fungus that grows on insects like caterpillars and ants. You will sometimes hear it referred to as a mushroom and it does cool stuff, like maintain hormone levels, increasing the body's resistance to stress, improving cholesterol profiles, regulating insulin release, and boosting energy along with mental focus.

CHRYSIN

 5,7-di-hydroxyflavone (Chrysin) is a flavonoid compound that inhibits the aromatase enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen. Additionally, research from Texas Tech University, in Lubbock, finds that it enhances the testes ability to convert cholesterol into steroid hormones such as testosterone.

DIM (Diindolymethane)

Diindole helps to neutralize the negative effects of high estrogen levels. This results in keeping testosterone levels up without aromatization (the process in which testosterone is converted to estrogen, which leads to excess water and fat retention).
 

Source Citation (MLA 7^th Edition)

Stoppani, Jim. "MHP T-Bomb II: an up-close look at MHP's testosterone booster." Joe Weider's Muscle & Fitness Aug. 2012: 74. Academic OneFile. Web. 30 Oct. 2012

Lessons for the Hardgainer: How Tim Ferriss of The Four Hour Body gained 34 lbs in four weeks. Occam’s Protocol

In his excellent book on self-experimentation, The 4-Hour Body, Mr. Ferriss describes his process of putting on 34 lbs of muscle in 4 weeks.

A brief discussion can be found on his blog in the Geek to Freak post. Even if you don't read the entire book, you should at least pay extremely close attention to the "six basic principles" on his blog post. You will add size just by following them.

Mr. Ferriss follows a minimalist approach to training. Using only a few exercises and a minimum low volume all out set routine.

3-workout split:

1.   Pushing movements

2.   Pulling movements

3.   Legs

Stay strong my friends!

Man's testosterone level sky-high from ActivaTe Xtreme

That's the headline from this story on Ergo-Log. Of course it appears that the level of aromatase was also high.

That just means you had better stack it with a anti-estrogen product.

What is Creatinol-O-Phosphate? Patrick Arnold says it will supercharge your muscle growth.

From the Prototype Nutrition website:

Creatinol-O-Phosphate (COP) is an amazing compound that was originally developed in Italy as a drug for patients with cardiac insufficiency. Studies went on to show that COP had an amazing ability to rapidly increase both skeletal muscle strength and endurance. How COP works in the muscle cell is not entirely known but it may work in a manner similar to creatine. Unlike creatine however COP does not require loading and its effects are felt rapidly. Anecdotal reports have also suggested that COP has a remarkable ability to help relieve chronic muscular aches and pains.

"I have been working with supplemental COP longer than just about anyone (8 years) and I think I know a little bit about the stuff. Although you may find COP in other nutritional supplement formulas, to my knowledge it has never been sold in dosages that I know are high enough to be truly effective. Therefore, Prototype Nutrition has formulated COP into an easy to consume effervescent formula for rapid absorption - finally allowing the consumer the ability to ingest effective doses of COP."- Patrick Arnold

So come experience the magic of COP with Prototype Nutrition Effervescent COP 

Effervescent COP - E-Pharm Nutrition

[Scientific literature has demonstrated the ability of COP to do the following]
• Increase muscular endurance and strength
• Decrease oxygen consumption during exercise
• Rapidly increase ATP levels in muscles
• Buffer lactic acid and lowers lactate/pyruvate ratio



 

References:

Maggi GC, Triulzi M. Farmacocinetica Del Creatinolo O-Fosfato Nell'Uomo. Archivio di medicina interna. 1980; 31(11): 297-304.

Marzo A, Ghiradi P. Pharmacological and Toxicological Properties of Creatinol-O-Phosphate. Plasma turnover, fate and excretion rate, subcellular distribution in isolated perfused heart and metabolic behaviour. Drug Res. 1979a;29(II): 1452-1456.
Gaggino R, Delfino C, Menichetti G, Odaglia G, Metabolic aspects of anaerobic lactaid maximal sport performances. Effect of treatment wit Creatinol O-Phosphate. Medicina dello sport. 1984; 37: 85-92.
De Gasperi R, Giusti V, Rapelli S, Matriadonna C. Influenza del creatinolo o-fosfato sulla contrazione muscolare aspettin biochimica. Archivio Medicina interna. 1981; 3: 351-358.
Stout JR, Cramer JT, Mielke M, O'Kroy J, Torok DJ, Zoeller RF. Effects of twenty-eight days of beta-alanine and creatine monohydrate supplementation on the physical working capacity at neuromuscular fatigue threshold. Journal Strength Cond Res. 2006 Nov; 20(4):928-31.

Get Your Freak On: TEST FREAK PROMOTES TESTOSTERONE RELEASE THROUGH 7 KEY MECHANISMS!*

Pharmafreak Test Freak - 1 Selling Testosterone Booster - Hybrid Pro - Testosterone Stimulator - 120 Capsules - Boost Testosterone - Helps to Increase Muscle Mass, Energy, Stamina, Libido and Recovery Time - Guaranteed 2 Year Shelf Life!

TEST FREAK PROMOTES TESTOSTERONE RELEASE THROUGH 7 KEY MECHANISMS!*

MECHANISM 1:

Supports the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates a cascade of biochemical reactions in the body that promotes testosterone production.*

MECHANISM 2:

Supports natural testosterone production by stimulating luteinizing hormone (LH) release from the pituitary gland.*

MECHANISM 3:

Provides the clinically-surmised building blocks needed to support greater testosterone production in the Leydig cells.*

MECHANISM 4:

Promotes a decrease in the biodegradation of testosterone by the liver.*

MECHANISM 5:

Naturally reduces the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).*

MECHANISM 6:

Naturally reduces the conversion of testosterone to estrogen by inhibiting aromatase.*

MECHANISM 7:

Promotes stimulation of Leydid cells, which potentially promotes increase in testosterone synthesis and secretion.*

**************** See also 7 Steps to Higher Testosterone ****************

Great Deal Found: The Hemavol Heavy Hitters Stack (Combo)

Here it is. I am currently in no way affiliated with these guys. (Except being a customer.)

Looks like a good deal to me. Don't know how long the price will last! As of today it's $26.99

The Hemavol Heavy Hitters Stack (Combo)

The Hemavol Heavy Hitters Stack: The Grand Slam Savings Stack!

NutraPlanet is proud to announce that we have once again teamed up with IForce Nutrition to bring you yet another HEAVY HITTING combo special! The new flavored Hemavol has quickly grown to be one of the all-time best and favorite pump products on the market today. So, let's face it, who does NOT like Hemavol powder? ... As we are sure many will LOVE Hemavol + FREE EXTRA GOODIES!!!
FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, DON'T DELAY!

Each Combo Stack Includes The Following:

• 1X Hemavol Powder (32 Servings) (ON SALE!)

• 1X FREE iForce Athletic Multi-Vitamin (56 caps) ($45 Value!)

• 1X FREE iForce Wrist Wraps ($20 Value!)

• 6X FREE Compete Samples ($10 Value!)

Leucine is King (Part 5): Leucine metabolites - HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate) and HICA (leucic acid or alpha-hydroxy-isocaproic acid)

Leucine metabolite HMB stimulates the synthesis of cholesterol in the muscle cells, inhibits cortisol and activates the classic anabolic signal molecule mTOR.



Beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate, or HMB, has been shown to benefit muscle recovery and growth at just 3 grams per day.  It has been suggested that for fat loss, a trainee should take 1.5 to 3g of HMB three or four times per day, preferably on an empty stomach (between meals) or prior to exercise.

For muscle growth and strength gains, beginning lifters can take 3g per day; experienced lifters need up to 12g daily in two or three divided doses. This could become an extremely expensive proposition for most folks as HMB is a costly supplement.



HICA or alpha-hydroxy-isocaproic acid or leucic acid is also a by-product of the branched-chain amino acid leucine. HICA works by inhibiting muscle breakdown through its ability to block the action of catabolic enzymes known as metalloproteinases. With less muscle breakdown, muscle growth is enhanced. Research studies done on athletes show that HICA can increase muscle growth even when the athletes were overtraining. Studies have shown that taking 500mg of HICA three times per day with meals was quite beneficial for mass gain.



On workout days take one dose of HICA with your pre-workout shake and another with your post-workout shake.



Fortunately for you, I found a product that contains leucine, HMB and HICA in a synergistic formula that is bound to get you the gains you want.

Leucine is able to drastically increase protein synthesis by activating mTOR, a signaling molecule that stimulates muscle protein synthesis
— SuppWithThat.com (@SuppWithThatcom) July 30, 2014

References:
7.12 g leucine daily stops muscle loss in elderly 06.06.2016
Leucine stimulates muscle growth without training 17.11.2015
Leucine: a myostatin inhibitor available from your supplements supplier 01.12.2014
Vitamin D3 boosts anabolic effect of leucine19.09.2013
Leucine supplement helps casein build muscles 14.09.2013
Maybe it's possible to stack leucine with HMB24.08.2013
Resveratrol-leucine combo boosts fat burning13.03.2013
Added leucine makes wheat protein as anabolic as whey 29.12.2012
Twelve grams a day of leucine boosts muscle mass 01.04.2012
Not so young any more? Leucine still works – with extra antioxidants 29.01.2012
Amino acid mix with added leucine makes muscles grow faster 10.10.2011
Leucine makes rowers faster 16.02.2011
Leucine supplement boosts fat burning07.02.2011
Most effective leucine dose may be as high as 20 g 05.10.2010
Leucine retains muscle mass when you're not training 30.08.2010
Leucine increases anabolic effect of post-training meal by 16 percent 16.08.2010

StrengthSeries Creatine HMB by Transparent Labs https://t.co/zAhdyEFOSY

— #HelpYouGetGAINS (@whey2muscle) August 30, 2016

Sports & Diet: Pure HMB 3000 mg Powder Unflavored via @PuritansPride https://t.co/H6Arx8BC64

— #HelpYouGetGAINS (@whey2muscle) August 30, 2016

Product Review: Cellucor C4, M5 Extreme, N0 Extreme, NO3 Chrome and COR-Performance Beta-BCAA

When I first heard about the Cellucor products, I laughed. I looked at the ingredients and thought nothing special. That was my take on C4.

What I missed was the one ingredient that kicked it up a couple of notches on the muscle pump level. Creatine Nitrate. If you saw my post on what path does your nitric oxide supplement take, you know that nitrate takes the nitrate to nitrite to nitric oxide path. This means that C4 takes two paths to the muscle pump goal.

O.K., so the science works out. Well, more importantly, I haven't met anyone that didn't like the results they've gotten from C4. Just go to bodybuilding.com and checkout the reviews. As of today, there are some 1,660 reviews and the product is still at a 8.7 out of 10. Impressive to say the least.

Well, I was looking at several of their other products and here are some that I really like the looks of.

M5 Extreme

3g Leucine

3g Creatine Magnapower

2g Creatine Nitrate

2g Arginine AKG 

1g Betaine HCL

1g Citrulline Malate

200 mg Grape Seed Extract 

N0 Extreme

2g Arginine Nitrate

2g Beta Alanine

1g Citrulline Malate

100mg Norvaline

BCAA and no Creatine

COR-Performance B-BCAA

10g BCAA

4g Citrulline

3.6g Beta Alanine

1.5g HICA

Unbelievable Flavor

I am really excited about the COR-Performance B-BCAA! I mean HICA, BCAAs and Citrulline.

Come on man!

BPI Pump-HD: The new entry in the pre-workout arena.

 

BPI Sports Pump HD Pre-Training Power and Energy Fuel Powder, Blueberry Lemon Freeze, 8.8 Ounce

THE POWERFUL PRE-WORKOUT WHERE ENERGY MEETS PUMP*†

WHAT IS PUMP HD?

PUMP HD is a pre-training formula designed to intensify and enhance the quality of your workouts. This advanced formula provides your muscles with sustained hydration allowing you to feel that pump and train for longer. The natural, long lasting energy provided in PUMP HD gets you to power through even the most difficult of workouts while maintaining laser focus throughout the duration of your training. PUMP HD also promotes better cell hydration and volumization for increased muscle fullness and an enhanced pump.*†

WHY IS IT BETTER?

PUMP HD is more than a pre-workout, it’s the ultimate pre-training performance fuel. This all-new, powerful, natural stimulant formula contains key ingredients such as Rhodiola root extract, Green Tea Catechin, and Vitamin B-6 for faster absorption, enhanced endurance, and increased oxygen capacity. What does this mean for you? Smooth, clean energy, prolonged workouts with minimal exhaustion, and a pump like no other.*†

WHAT’S IN IT?

VITAMIN B-6

Vitamin B-6 is an essential component for hemoglobin to form and necessary for healthy oxygen transport.*†

CORDYCEPS

Cordyceps is a research-backed ingredient that supports performance and energy. Results from a scientific study has shown that Cordyceps may support an energy productive metabolism as well as anti-fatigue.*†

CYCLOCREATINE PCR

This form of creatine ensures a steady supply of creatine to the body. CycloCreatine may improve strength functions and increase muscle cell volumization.*†

GLYCEROL

The Glyercol present in PUMP HD is easily absorbed and may delay the need for hydration for improved efficiency in exercise and an overall more muscular look.*†

CITRULLINE SILICATE

Citrulline Silicate is a powerful proprietary complex that allows the blood vessels in your body to expand for optimized blood flow, which in turn, means heightened performance and endurance.*†

GREEN TEA CATECHIN

Green Tea Catechin has been shown to utilize fatty acid in the body as a source of energy. Studies have also shown that Catechins have the ability to increase endurance through maximizing oxygen absorption.*†

New BCAA Drink: Anabolic State from Nutrabiolics adds HICA to the mix.

Anabolic State isn't the first to add HICA (Alpha-Hydroxyisocaproic Acid) but it is the first to add it at a price regular humans can afford on a monthly basis. The thing that makes this potentially special is HICA or leucic acid. HICA is a leucine metabolite that supposidely kicks protein synthesis into overdrive. Combined with BCAAs, glutamine and lysine, this should be a powerful formula.

This seems to be a great formula. 10 grams (10,000 mg) of muscle building amino acids. Designed to kick protein synthesis into high gear.

Ever wonder what the difference is between those on "the juice" and regular dudes? 

Recovery and protein synthesis.

This formula helps with both without the fines and potential for jail time.

Give it a shot.

30 Servings	Fruit Punch
Supplement Facts
Serving Size 1 Scoop (12.5g)
Servings Per Container 30
Amount Per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4
Carbohydrates	1g	0%
Sugar	0g
Anabolic Amino Complex	10,000mg	†
HICA (Alpha-Hydroxyisocaproic Acid)
Micronized L-Leucine
Micronized L-Isoleucine
Micronized L-Valine
Micronized L-Lysine
Micronized L-Glutamine
* Percentage of daily values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
† Daily Value not established

L-Arginine Plus - Finally the proper dose for a arginine product for baby boomers.

I talk to most guys who think that they can take 500 mg of arginine and get the results that their wives want. Nope. Underdosed for most. Especially the baby boomers. L-Arginine Plus has 5000 mg of arginine. This is a secret that bodybuilders know that the general public hasn't caught on to yet.

This product, while pricey has the dose you need.

Ingredients found in L-arginine Plus.

L-arginine, L-citrulline, Red Wine Extract, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Folate (Folic Acid), Magnesium, 72 Trace Minerals and Astragin.

Man Up! Universal Animal: Real Old School Iron Big Veiny Muscle

I love their ads. I love their shirts. And I love their products. A straight up kitchen sink approach.

Animal Pak is the king of multivitamin formulations. Multivitamin mineral blend, amino acids, a performance complex, a antioxidant complex and digestive enzymes.

Animal Stak has testosterone boosters, growth hormone support, nitric oxide (vasodilators), anti-estrogen, DHT blockers, cortisol inhibitors and liver detoxifiers.

Animal Cuts has a Thermogenic Complex, Metabolic Complex, Thyroid Complex, Diuretic Complex, Nootropic Complex, Cortisol Inhibiting Complex, CCK Inhibiting Complex, Bioavailability Complex.

Animal Flex has a Joint Construction Complex, Joint Lubrication Complex and a Joint Support Complex.

Universal products aren't made for wussy, I can't take all those pill fellas. The Animal products are made for squat til I puke, go until failure dudes who want to get big and strong.

Home Gym Essentials

Bands: I would start here. For less than $30 you can do a full workout routine. You won't get Phil Heath big but you will get started.


Don't take my word for it. Check out the Muscle and Fitness 4-Week Strength Band Challenge.

Doorway Pull Up Bar: This is the next thing I would get if on a budget. Besides pull ups you can use it for push ups and tricep dips.

Dumbbells: You can get alot done with just dumbbells. This is another good place to start for a low price. Get star locks and add weight as you go.

Barbell Set: A barbell and a imagination are all you need for a complete workout.

Bench: This is the next logical step.

Power Cage or Squat Rack: Now you are in the big league.