A simple question from a newbie - I lift weights 4 times a week and am seeing some improviement in terms of muscle - I currently use Cyclone from Maximuscle as a catch all supplement drink.

I really want to go to the next level and see some real improvement - any recommendations?

BTW - not interested in steroids.

Thanks 

if your looking at getting short term visual gains....creatine is a worth considering...swells your muscle makes it look bigger- i think?

Hi:

I've never used Cyclone but have seen it in the mags.  Anything that has protein, creatine and glutamine is hitting most of the right buttons for muscle growth.

There are dozens of other supplements out there with various claimns attached to them, but without wanting to sound too old school, the bottom line is more to do with working out smart and hard and eating right.

Regards,

Don

Creatine would have to be number one if you want to make good progress, that plus plenty of protein and no crap junk food - it's not just about the supplements you take to make you grow, it's also about the crap you eat that stops you growing properly.

The real key is hard work, good eating and lots of rest.  Remember, you don't grow when you're working out, you grow when you're resting.

everyone i know who lifts big swears by creatine, so it must be doing something for them...

There's too much evidence, not only anecdotal but also from solid scientific research, showing the results from creatine, too doubt it.  But you have to work hard to reap the rewards.

I know it's not a bodybuilding supplement as such, but if you're training hard, don't forget a good multi-vit/mineral daily.  The demands on your body justify it to my mind.

That's true - when i'm training hard i always take a multi vit/mineral, and also omega 3.

Most stuff is over rated - you just have to do the quality workouts, don't you?

The thing to remember about any supplements is quality.. Here's an example, you go into a jewelry store you see 2 watches, one is a Casio, the second is a Rolex, a bit extreme I know but go with me on this....what is the better quality of watch.........The same purpose is with supplements.  Always check the back for the ingredients and compare, Myoplex is a good quality brand as is anything with Dorian Yates label on it.  Go onto Explosive Nutrition.com, there is also a link on this site to connect you.

my friend has been using beta-alanine, swears by it - anyone heard anytihing?