Fat Loss 4 Idiots Secret

Friday, July 31, 2009

Eating in Phases for Improved Muscle Strength and Endurance

By Barry M. Newman

You can only increase strength, endurance and muscle size by following a consistent training program and a proper nutritional plan. Training programs of pro bodybuilders and athletes are divided into several phases or stages with different performance objectives tied with specific nutritional requirements for each phase. The bulk of muscle development takes place during the off-season phase wherein a bodybuilder eats protein-packed small meals throughout a day.

There are other phases besides off season. Each phase requires an athlete to alter his or her nutritional program in terms of the amount of carbohydrates, protein and supplements in support of his or her training regimen for the specific phase. Knowledge of these phases can help you maximize the results you get out of all the effort you put in training.

The Off Season - the goal of this phase is to build as much muscle as possible. According to Louise Burke, author of the book "Practical Sports Nutrition", bodybuilders support their performance outcome by eating high amounts of protein and healthy carbs throughout the day. They typically follow a consistent schedule of these foods to make sure they're meeting their protein requirements and may design their eating plan around their workouts to further enhance results.

Hypertrophy Phase - during this phase, it is common practice to follow a very rigid eating plan that means eating every 2-3 hours - even overnight. The goal here is to eat just enough food to maintain weight and allow the body to increase strength. This is done with careful selection of muscle-building foods and healthy carbs that provide sustainable energy.

Competition Preparation - This phase starts 6 to 16 weeks before a competition. Calorie intake is restricted for a consistent weight loss leading up to the event. This is done to preserve all the muscle built up during off season while reducing body fat. This is easily achieved with a low-fat, high protein diet scheduled around each training session.

Cutting - The cutting phase takes place a couple of weeks or days before a competition. This involves a higher degree of calorie restriction than competition prep to burn fats rapidly. Most bodybuilders depend on supplements for their nutritional needs as they reduce their calorie intake. Circuit training sessions are often done during this phase coupled with an increase in resting time to help the body recover.

Post Competition - many bodybuilders resort to binge eating immediately after the competition since they've been on a near starvation diet for up to 6 months prior to competition. This can be a health hazard for many, especially for those that end up gaining a lot of weight in a very short period of time. Bodybuilders who want to avoid weight gain during this stage can ease themselves into a healthier eating program so that they can maintain some of the results they worked so hard for and not compromise their health in the process.

Each phase requires changing from one diet to another that it is hard for most bodybuilders to keep up with their nutritional plans. Work with a dietitian or a nutritionist to help you in developing a sound nutritional program for a successful career. - 17274

About the Author:

0 Comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]

<< Home