Natural bodybuilding involves increasing muscle size and strength through a controlled diet and weight training without the use of performance-enhancing drugs. A high protein, complex carbohydrate diet is recommended, along with supplements and adequate hydration. Patience and dedication are required, and research and experimentation are necessary to find what works best for each individual.
Natural bodybuilding is the practice of working the body to increase muscle size and strength without the use of performance-enhancing drugs or steroids. Natural bodybuilding emphasizes a controlled diet and regimented weight and strength training combined with a moderate amount of cardiovascular exercise. The use of multivitamins and dietary supplements to increase levels of essential nutrients such as vitamin E, calcium, and B vitamins is a recommended part of every natural bodybuilder’s diet. Professional natural bodybuilders who participate in competitions use supplements that have been approved by their bodybuilding association.
The diet of a natural bodybuilder is high in protein and abundant in complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, oatmeal, and potatoes. It is recommended that carbohydrates be eaten earlier in the day. Protein should be eaten throughout the day, including enough whey protein to make sure the body gets a sufficient amount of amino acids.
Many natural bodybuilders start their day with a whey protein shake to kick the body out of the catabolic fasting state it enters during sleep, when amino acids are depleted. Feeding the body protein upon waking prevents it from eating muscle. Even natural bodybuilders need to get enough omega-3 and monounsaturated fats in their diet, as well as drink no less than a minimum of eight glasses of water per day.
Natural bodybuilding is not for everyone. Patience is required. It takes longer to see results with natural bodybuilding than with drug-enhanced bodybuilding, but both require the same amount of dedication and discipline that is valuable in the long run.
Successful natural bodybuilders learn to challenge their bodies regarding their bodies limitations. They spend years learning different techniques, discovering which ones work best for them, and recognizing which ones work best for others. They also spend a lot of time learning outside of the gym, researching and keeping up with current bodybuilding and diet trends via the internet and the library.
Probably the hardest step is getting started. A novice may experience fear and intimidation the first time he enters a gym with more experienced bodybuilders. Natural bodybuilding is a long and difficult journey that can seem overwhelming at first and has its share of daunting moments, but an aspiring bodybuilder who takes the time to prepare mentally and perhaps spiritually will find the journey rewarding.
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