If you want to build up lean muscle mass as quickly as possible, then the answer is a resounding yes. Whether you are a professional bodybuilder or just someone who wants to add more strength to their routine, it is imperative that you know when to take Creatine. This will ensure you get the most out of this potentially great supplement. When you are researching the best ways to take Creatine, make sure you keep in mind that this substance is used mainly as a dietary supplement. It should be consumed roughly one hour before you plan your workout.
There are many different reasons why you might consider taking Creatine. While there are no absolute rules on when to take Creatine, studies have demonstrated that supplementing with it 30 minutes prior to your workout and immediately afterward as part of a post-workout drink can significantly increase its effectiveness. Another reason for taking it right away is when an individual has been training very hard and their muscles are sore and stiff as well as not being able to produce sufficient quantities of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). For this particular situation, Creatine can provide the additional energy it needs to perform properly. The Creatine is broken down into two molecules, thus creating ATP which is used to make energy for the muscles to grow. If one fails to replenish the supply of ATP, the muscles will simply not be able to grow any further.
The next question is when to take creatine. The best times to take Creatine are not during your work out but rather during your post-workout meal and immediately following your workout. Studies have demonstrated that taking Creatine just prior to and immediately following your workout session can maximize its effects. This is due to the fact that your muscles are at their freshest and therefore optimized for growth when they are cleaned out and ready for another productive work out. Therefore, if you are trying to increase the amount of Muscle mass you gain then you should load your muscle cells with more Creatine so that they can sustain the increased production of ATP (your source of energy during your working out) longer.
However, the question remains on when to take Creatine. You can never overuse Creatine. It does not work like a drug where you can take as much as you need and it will give the same positive results. So, there is no way that you can overuse Creatine. You can also take it but the best option is to take it just before and immediately after your workout session. In this manner, you can optimize the effects of Creatine by maximizing the amount of ATP (which is the source of energy for the muscles) that is made available to the muscles.
So, when should you take Creatine? The answer is simple. The most beneficial timing for taking Creatine is in the morning just before your workout. You should take 50 grams of Creatine with 4 glasses of water per day for the best results.
Creatine is most beneficial when taken at the right time. For instance, an athlete who works out four times a week should take a minimum of two grams of Creatine with 4 glasses of water per day. An individual who weights around 180 pounds should take about one to two grams of creatine per body weight. These are recommended dosage values and they are certainly effective in promoting a high-intensity, intense workout.
