Dan Gilliland's Secret Key to Health

Max Muscle QuadraCuts Thyroid Support

2009-08-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle QuadraCuts Thyroid Support

Our thyroids are like our car idols. When your car idol is too slow your car won't start during a cold spell. If you get your car started it will stall, and run really rough. If your thyroid is slow you can feel cold, have low circulation, depression, arthritis, and many more symptoms. The ingredients of Guggul, Coleus forskohlli, Ashwagandha, B vitamins in ThyrX help regulate healthy thyroid activity. Coleus forskohlii can mimic thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) by activating a gene in thyroid cells. L-Tyrosine mixed with iodine increases the levels of the fat burning thyroid hormones T3 & T4 and the fat burning stimulant adrenal hormones epinephrine and noradrenaline. The combination off all of QuadraCuts Thyroid Support act in synergism to help optimize your Thyroid activity.

Servings = 30 servings/2 capsules per serving

Directions = As a dietary supplement, adults take 2 capsules per day. For best utilization, take between meals.

Ingredients = Guggul, Coleus forskohlli, Ashwagandha, B vitamins, and many more

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle QuadraCuts Night Time Review

2009-08-03T11:26:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle QuadraCuts Night Time

QuadraCuts Night Time helps relaxes you at night to relieve fat attracting stress during the day. QuadraCuts Night Time contains L-Carnitine, 7-Keto DHEA, Garcinia, Valerian, Melatonin and many other relaxing fat burners. When we become stressed a fat attracting hormone called cortisol gets produced and one of QuadraCuts Night Time major effects is to combat this hormone. 7 Keto DHEA is clinically proven very effective in suppressing Cortisol. L Carnitine acts as an enzyme to break a part fat allowing it to be burnt as energy. QuadraCuts Night Time helps relieve stress and keep your metabolism running on all cylinders while you sleep at night.

Servings = 30 servings/2 capsules per serving

Directions = As a dietary supplement take 2 capsules in the evening shortly before bedtime or as recommended by a health care professional. Never consume before driving or operating machinery. For maximum results, 4 capsules may be taken before bedtime.

Ingredients = L-Carnitine, 7-Keto DHEA, Garcinia, Valerian, Melatonin

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle Triple Whey Protein

2009-08-03T11:24:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle Triple Whey Protein

Triple Whey Protein is a cost effective high quality protein powder. Triple Whey Protein contains Whey Protein Concentrate ,Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate and L-Glycine. Most people don't take enough of clean sources of protein Triple Whey Protein provides an easy solution. Triple Whey Protein contains immune boosting beta-lactoglobulins, alpha-lactalbumin, serum albumin,immunoglobulins, lactoperoxidase, lactoferrin, glycomacropeptides, and lysozymes. L-Glycine helps produce Growth Hormone. Triple Whey Protein is an economical protein filled with high quality growth factors to give you the muscle growth you are looking for.

Servings = 65 servings/1 scoops per serving

Directions = Mix one scoop in 6-10 ounces of water,juice,non-fat milk,soy milk or any cold beverage of your choice.You can drink it 2-3 times per day as an excellent protein supplement.Triple Whey Protein is instantized so you can stir it with a spoon or shake it without a blender.Try mixing one or two scoops with 8 to 12 oz of your favorite liquid in a blender with 1 cup of ice.Add fresh,frozen or canned fruit like strawberries,bananas and pineapple for a great way to get your daily fruit and make your shake taste even better.Add an extra scoop of Triple Whey Protein for a super protein shake that exceeds 50 grams of protein.

Ingredients = Whey Protein Concentrate ,Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, L-Glycine

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle CoQ10 review

2009-08-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle CoQ10 review

CoQ10 is a coenzyme that is involved in the energy production of every single cell in your body. CoQ10 supplementation can help people who aren't able to produce enough CQ10 naturally. Most people who either get heart disease or gum disease seem to not produce the typical amounts of CoQ10 as the general population. CoQ10 has been shown in some clinical studies to reverse gum deterioration. CoQ10 is a promising supplement involved in the energy production of all of our cells. If our cells aren't able to produce the correct amount of energy our cells will either get sick or die earlier than programmed.

Servings = 60 servings/1 per day

Directions =Take one softgel daily with food.

Ingredients = CoQ10

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle Folic Acid

2009-08-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle Folic Acid

Folic Acid is a B vitamin that works with B12 for healthy red blood cell formation. Folic Acid is important not only for transporting oxygen but also protecting against neural tube defects in fetuses. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women planning or capable of pregnancy take a daily supplement containing 400 - 800 mcg of folic acid. A clinical study done on fertility issues shows that men with diets low in Folic Acid have more problems conceiving than men who have proper supplementation. Folic Acid is an extremely important supplement to take for reproductive issues and to help with fortifying red blood cell production.

Servings = 250 servings/1 per day

Directions = Take one tablet daily with food

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle MSM

2009-08-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle MSM

MSM is an organic sulfur molecule. Max Muscle's MSM contains methylsulfonylmethane. The MSM form of sulfur is an essential mineral for the formation collagen protein. Collagen is the protein that forms hair, skin, nails and connective tissue. MSM is a nontoxic alternative to the anti-inflammatory solvent DMSO. MSM is a very effective anti-inflammatory supplement that helps form collagen protein.

Servings = 120-40 servings/ 1-3 capsules per day

Directions = Take 1-3 capsules per day.

Ingredients = MSM

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle Quadra Cuts Extreme

2009-08-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle Quadra Cuts Extreme

Quadra Cuts Extreme is a stimulant based time release dieting aide. Quadra Cuts Extreme contains Green Tea, Caffeine, Synephrine, carnitine, arginine and other fat burning substances. Quadra Cuts Extreme helps increase metabolism and decrease appetite. Synephrine is the closest legal substitute to ephedra. Carnitine acts as an enzyme to break fat down to burn it as energy. Quadra Cuts Extreme ignites your metabolism and slows down your cravings for bad food.

Servings = 30 servings/2 tabs per serving

Directions = Test your tolerance by taking 1 tablet with food. If well tolerated, take another tablet 4 hours later with food. After tolerance test you may take 2 tablets with food or up to 8 oz of water without food. Do not take after 6 PM. May cause sleeplessness. Do not exceed 6 tablets per day.

Ingredients = Green Tea, Caffeine, Synephrine, carnitine, arginine and other fat burning substances.

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle's SynerB12

2009-08-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

SynerB12

SynerB12 is a combination of the best forms of B12. SynerB12 contains methylcobalamin, andenosylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, cyanocobalamin, folic acid, P5P and several other nutrients. SynerB12 helps you increase your oxygen absorption. Methylcobalamin is the most bio-available form of Vitamin B12. Methylcobalamin is considered the most important form of Vitamin B12. SynerB12 is designed to be the best way to increase oxygen absorption without stimulants.

Servings = 30 servings/1 tab per serving

Directions = As a dietary supplement take 1 melt tablet daily with food or as directed by your qualified health care provider.Place melt tablet on tongue until dissolved.

Ingredients = methylcobalamin, andenosylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, cyanocobalamin, folic acid, P5P,

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle Prostate Support Softgels

2009-08-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle Prostate Support Softgels

As men age their prostate can get sick and swell, Max Prostate Support Softgels is designed to help keep the prostate healthy. Max Prostate Support Softgels contains Pumpkin Seed Oil, Saw Palmetto, Nettle, Pygeum, green tea extract many many other protecting nutrients. Max Prostate Support Softgels helps with healthy circulation, acts as an antioxidant and helps with healthy prostate function. The German Kommission E has approved Pumpkin Seed Oil for problems of Stage 1 or 2 levels of Benign Prostate Hypertrophy. Many of the herbs in Max Prostate Support Softgels interfere with IGF-I receptor signaling which can cause Prostate problems. Max Prostate Support Softgels helps protect against swelling of the prostate.

Servings = 30 servings/2 per day

Directions = Take one softgel twice daily.

Ingredients = Pumpkin Seed Oil, Saw Palmetto, Nettle, Pygeum, green tea extract

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle ThermXX Fat Burner

2009-08-03T10:50:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle ThermXX

ThermXX ignites your fat burning ability 7 different ways. ThermXX contains Citrus aurantium,Synephrine HCl, Garcinia cambogi, Hoodia gordonii, Naringin and many other diet aide supplements. There are many reasons why your fat burning ability may have plateaued; ThermXX has 7 different ways to melt the fat away. Many of ThermXX ingredients support your Thyroid and provide nutrients that keep your metabolism going. ThermXX contains many herbs that provide a proper water effect. ThermXX helps make sure you get to your weight loss goals.

Servings = 40 servings/3 caps per serving

Directions = As a dietary supplement test your tolerance by taking one (1) capsule in the morning. If well tolerated take another capsule four (4) hours later. After tolerance test,you may take up to three(3) capsules,one (1) to two (2) times daily with eight(8) ounces of water with or without food. DO NOT TAKE AFTER 6PM.MAY CAUSE SLEEPLESSNESS.DO NOT EXCEED SIX (6) CAPSULES DAILY.

Ingredients = Citrus aurantium,Synephrine HCl, Garcinia cambogi, Hoodia gordonii, Naringin

available @ Max Muscle San Diego

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product informantion is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle's Xtinguisher

2009-08-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

max Muscle Xtinguisher

Xtinguisher is a lactic acid buffering pre-workout formula. Xtinguisher contains Beta-Alanine, L-Histidine, L-Citrulline-DL-Malate, L-Taurine, Magnesium and many more energy producing nutrients. Xtingguisher buffers lactic acid buildup that interferes with cellular energy production. Magnesium acts to balance calcium's role in muscle contraction and relaxation. Beta-Alanine, L-Histidine form to produce Carnosine to buffer acidic pH and help ensure proper cellular function. Xtinguisher helps maintain proper cellular function so you can keep working out instead of burning out.

Servings = 30 servings/ 2 level scoops

Directions = As a dietary supplement mix 2 scoops with 12 - 16 oz of pure cold water. Stir briskly or shake in a closed container until mixed. Consume 30 minutes prior to exercise. Add ice, sweetener, or increased water content to customize taste preference. Can be taken with or without food. Best results are seen within 3-4 week range. Can be taken on training days as a pre-workout formula or on non-workout days.
Ingredients = Beta-Alanine, L-Histidine, L-Citrulline-DL-Malate, L-Taurine

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product informantion is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle XTR Extreme Review

2009-08-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle XTR Extreme

XTR is the best tasting BCAA post workout formula made. XTR Extreme contains L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine, L-Glutamine, L-Glycine and many other muscle growth amino acids. Branch Chain Amino Acids are important for muscle recovery and XTR Extreme has an easy to drink mix to improve muscle recovery. XTR Extreme contains Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate to help with the production of vasodialating Nitric Oxide. XTR Extreme contains Growth Hormone enhancing L-Glycine. XTR Extreme helps improve muscle recovery and performance.

Servings = 30 servings / 2 scoops per serving

Directions = As a dietary supplement mix two (2)level scoops (approximately 14.3 gm) with 8-12 ounces of pure cold water or juice of choice. Stir briskly or shake in a closed container until mixed. Best if consumed immediately before or after a workout or within 30 minutes of preparation. Adds sweetener,increase water or juice content for taste preference.

Ingredients = L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine, L-Glutamine, L-Glycine

available @ Max Muscle Sports Nutrition

Please read all label information and warnings. Check with your sports association before consuming these products. Use only as directed on the label. Do not exceed recommended dosage. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Max Muscle's Max Anabol EXT Perfect Post Cycle Treatment

2009-08-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

Max Anabol EXT is the most powerful testosterone enhancing supplement Max Muscle makes. Max Anabol EXT makes the perfect post cycle treatment because of the combination of testosterone enhancing ingredients. Testofen fenugreek extract proven clinically to increase free testosterone by 98%. Studies have also shown that another major ingredient in our formula called ActivAli lowers the muscle destroying and fat increasing hormone cortisol.

Another novel ingredient in Max Anabol EXT is 20-Hydroxy Ecodysterone from the herb Cyanotis vaga has been used by the Russians for centuries. They refer to it as an adaptogen and may decrease cortisol and increase the repair of DNA. Max Anabol has a host of many other supporting ingredients that support hormone replenishment and decrease stress and increase recovery.

1. Powerful testosterone enhancing supplement
2. Perfect post cycle treatment
3. Testofen is proven to increase free testosterone by 98%
4. ActivAli lowers the stress hormone cortisol
5. Supports hormone replenishment and decreases stress and increases recovery

Cortisol is an enemy of muscle growth.

2009-08-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

Cortisol is a stress hormone put out by our adrenal glands. Many people who are hooked on stimulants may also have high Cortisol levels. Stimulants like coffee produce 2 other stress hormones called epinephrine and norepinephrine. Epinephrine works hand and hand to trigger for more production of Cortisol.

Cortisol is a key marker of over-training. Do you wonder why you see so many people in the gym who workout out hard and get no growth? Cortisol may be the culprit. Too much Cortisol is caused by bad stress.

Cortisol can increase fat while breaking down muscle. Cortisol increases Insulin's ability to produce more of a fat accumulating hormone called Leptin. Overweight people have high amounts of Leptin. There are many studies showing that stress increases fat around the belly area. Cortisol in smaller doses can work in concert with epinephrine and norepinephrine to speed up the amount of glycogen forced out of the liver to be burnt as energy. These 2 results show that there is a chemical difference between good and bad stress.

Too much Cortisol breaks down muscle for energy and inhibits collagen production and decreases amino acid uptake into muscles. Cortisol can break down collagen in skin ten times faster than any other type of protein. Collagen protein also makes up our connective tissue.

Cortisol acts as a pro-inflammatory hormone to balance potassium and sodium to bring pH back to normal. Supplementation of Magnesium to further balance electrolytes lowers Cortisol. When the body is too acidic many immune system enzymes do not activate. Cortisol can shut down parts of our immune system but can be protective against toxins from bad bacteria.

Cortisol counter acts Nitric Oxide by helping constrict blood vessels in our arms and legs. Cortisol is part of our fight or flight protection system.

Cortisol is produced to counter allergy symptom causing histamine. Cortisol helps control rheumatoid arthritis by regulating potassium.

Cortisol is not a bad hormone but only acts bad when it gets out of balance because of too much bad stress in our lives. Too much stress leads to being a flabby pencil-neck.

Non-Stimulant Endurance Recovery Stack

2009-08-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

Stacking these three non-stimulant endurance and recovery products together will accomplish several objectives that will lead to success. Combining Max ACM, Max Nitro EXT and XTR will increase your endurance by blocking damage from lactic acid while increasing blood flow and providing energy of your workout. Combining Max ACM, Max Nitro EXT and XTR will increase your recovery by refueling your muscles with needed glycogen, repairing muscle damage with amino acids, keeping your body at the proper pH and keeping nutrients flowing to damaged muscle to increase repair.
Max ACM is a triple carbohydrate stack providing quick delivery of energy producing glycogen to your liver and muscle cells. For every 1 gram of glycogen that fits inside your muscles 3 grams of water is brought in. Glycogen turns into cellular energy giving ATP. Using Max ACM can give you a fuller pump with a more muscular look. The key ingredient that makes Max ACM special is Waxy Maize. Waxy Maize moves through your digestive system the quickest out of any carbohydrate. That means you can refill your energy stores the quickest with waxy maize without any worry about feeling bloated. Max ACM also contains Trehalose which is twice as efficient for releasing energy as glucose. Trehalose is also an antioxidant. Max ACM also contains maltodextrin which is an ideal energy source for high intensity and endurance athletes. Max ACM is a perfect solution for refilling fuel stores and allowing for more cellular energy to be devoted toward muscle repair. Max ACM contains 34 2 scoop servings of 40 g of Carbohydrates. Max ACM contains NO ingredients banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Max Nitro EXT is a combination of the newest Lactic Acid buffer with the Nitric Oxide increasing supplement. GlycoCarn is clinically proven to increase Nitric Oxide. GlycoCarn® is the only dietary supplement to date shows an increase in blood nitric Oxide in human subjects. The combination of beta-alanine and L-histadine provides fuel for our bodies to produce thre amino acid Carnosine. In clinical studies the increase the concentration of carnosine in muscles, decrease fatigue in athletes and increase total muscular work done. Carnosine can inhibit diabetic nephropathy by protecting the podocytes and mesangial cells. Max Nitro EXT has many other supportive nutrients that have protective anti--inflammatory antioxidant activity. Many other nutrients support the production of Nitric Oxide. Max Nitro EXT is filled with clinically proven Lactic Acid buffers and non stimulant supplements that increase Nitric Acid will help repair your muscles helping improve your performance. Max Nitro EXT contains 30 servings. Each serving can be taken 30 minutes prior to exercise. Max Nitro EXT contains NO ingredients banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Max Muscle's XTR is a muscle recovery powder filled with essential amino acids that can be used before or after a workout. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) account for 35% of our of our skeletal muscle. BCAAs when mixed with carbohydrates can increase insulin 221%. The BCAA Leucine is resposible for most of the insulin response. Insulin response from the BCAAs without Leucine is only 66%. Another powerful amino acid inside XTR is L-Citrulline-Malate. L-Citrulline-Malate removes lactic acid and the toxic gas ammonia from muscle cells. Glutamine is another important amino caid in XTR. Glutamine is an anti-catabolic amino acid preventing the breakdown of muscle. Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate inside XTR can increase Nitric Oxide. Max Muscle's XTR is a perfect solution to recover from a hard workout because of it's anti-catabolic response toward exercise. XTR can be used either pre or post workout. XTR contains 30 2 scoop servings. XTR contains NO banned substances by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Timing is everything. When taking supplements it is best to find out when to take them and if mixing supplements will help boost their effectiveness. The law of synergy says 1+1 can equal much more than 2. In the case of stacking Max ACM, Max Nitro EXT and XTR you will see results you have only dreamt of. Many times it is good to give your adrenal system a rest from stimulates and this is the perfect stack to ensure that you continue results while rebuilding your body instead of breaking it down.

Please read all label information and warnings. Check with your sports association before consuming these products. Use only as directed on the label. Do not exceed recommended dosage. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Suppress Your Estrogen w/ Estro Xtreme

2009-05-25T18:17:00.000-07:00

Americell-Labs Estro Xtreme is a a clinically proven anti-estrogen more potent than any supplement for it's generation and category. It is so effective that in some countries it is regulated as a prescription breast cancer drug. In one study its effectiveness proved to suppress 58% of all estrogen.

Estro Xtreme can be classified as a suicide aromatase inhibitor. That means Estro Xtreme permanently attaches itself to the aromatase enzyme responsible for changing testosterone into estrogen. Only when new aromatase enzymes are exchanged does the substances effect start to ware off.

The active ingredient in Estro Xtreme is so effective that in other countries it is used to treat breast cancer patients.

Proper dose in clinical settings is 250 mg per day. The only known side-effect that I know of is a risk of higher LDL cholestrol.

If you want to suppress your estrogen and get a lean, dry look you might want to try Estro Xtreme.

This substance is banned by WADA and is listed on the World Anti-Doping Prohibited List. This substance is legal in the US.

Check with your sports association before consumming this product.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product informantion is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

HCG - Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Use After Anabolic Steroid Cycles for Bodybuilding

2009-05-25T18:15:00.000-07:00

HCG - Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Use After Anabolic Steroid Cycles for Bodybuilding by George Spellwin

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) is a peptide hormone that mimics the action of luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is the hormone that stimulates the testes to produce testosterone. (1) More specifically LH is the primary signal sent from the pituitary to the testes, which stimulates the leydig cells within the testes to produce testosterone.

When steroids are administered, LH levels rapidly decline. The absence of an LH signal from the pituitary causes the testes to stop producing testosterone, which causes rapid onset of testicular degeneration. The testicular degeneration begins with a reduction of leydig cell volume, and is then followed by rapid reductions in intra-testicular testosterone (ITT), peroxisomes, and Insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) – All important bio-markers and factors for proper testicular function and testosterone production. (2-6,19) However, this degeneration can be prevented by a small maintenance dose of hCG ran throughout the cycle. Unfortunately, most steroid users have been engrained to believe that hCG should be used after a cycle, during PCT. Upon reviewing the science and basic endocrinology you will see that a faster and more complete recovery is possible if hCG is ran during a cycle.

Firstly, we must understand the clinical history of hCG to understand its purpose and its most efficient application. Many popular “steroid profiles” advocate using hCG at a dose of 2500-5000iu once or twice a week. These were the kind of dosages used in the historical (1960’s) hCG studies for hypogonadal men who had reduced testicular sensitivity due to prolonged LH deficiency. (21,22) A prolonged LH deficiency causes the testes to desensitize, requiring a higher hCG dose for ample stimulation. In men with normal LH levels and normal testicular sensitivity, the maximum increase of testosterone is seen from a dose of only 250iu, with minimal increases obtained from 500iu or even 5000iu. (2,11) (It appears the testes maximum secretion of testosterone is about 140% above their normal capacity.) (12-18) If you have allowed your testes to desensitize over the length of a typical steroid cycle, (8-16 weeks) then you would require a higher dose to elicit a response in an attempt to restore normal testicular size and function – but there is cost to this, and a high probability that you won’t regain full testicular function.

One term that is critical to understand is testosterone secretion capacity which is synonymous to testicular sensitivity. This is the amount of testosterone your testes can produce from any given LH or hCG stimulation. Therefore, if you have reduced testosterone secretion capacity (reduced testicular sensitivity), it will take more LH or hCG stimulation to produce the same result as if you had normal testosterone secretion capacity. If you reduce your testosterone secretion capacity too much, then no amount of LH or hCG stimulation will trigger normal testosterone production – and this leads to permanently reduced testosterone production.

To get an idea of how quickly you can reduce your testosterone secretion capacity from your average steroid cycle, consider this: LH levels are rapidly decreased by the 2nd day of steroid administration. (2,9,10) By shutting down the LH signal and allowing the testis to be non-functional over a 12-16 week period, leydig cell volume decreases 90%, ITT decreases 94%, INSL3 decreases 95%, while the capacity to secrete testosterone decreases as much as 98%. (2-6)

Note: visually analyzing testes size is a poor method of judging your actual testicular function, since testicular size is not directly related to the ability to secrete testosterone. (4) This is because the leydig cells, which are the primary sites of testosterone secretion, only make up about 10% of the total testicular volume. Therefore, when the testes may only appear 5-10% smaller, the testes ability to secrete testosterone upon LH or hCG stimulation can actually be significantly reduced to 98% of their normal production. (3-5) The point here is to not judge testosterone secretion capacity by testicular size.

The decreased testosterone secretion capacity caused by steroid use was well demonstrated in a study on power athletes who used steroids for 16 weeks, and were then administered 4500iu hCG post cycle. It was found that the steroid users were about 20 times less responsive to hCG, when compared to normal men who did not use steroids. (8) In other words, their testosterone secretion capacity was dramatically reduced because they did not receive an LH signal for 16 weeks. The testes essentially became desensitized and crippled. Case studies with steroid using patients show that aggressive long-term treatment with hCG at dosages as high as 10,000iu E3D for 12 weeks were unable to return full testicular size. (7) Another study with men using low dose steroids for 6 weeks showed unsuccessful return of Insulin-like factor-3 (INSL3) concentration in the testes upon 5000iu/wk of HCG treatment for 12 weeks (6) (INSL3 is an important biomarker for testosterone production potential and sperm production. 20)

These studies show that postponing hCG usage until the end of a steroid cycle increases your need for a higher dose of hCG, and decreases your odds of a full recovery. As a consequence to using a higher dose of hCG at the end of a cycle, estrogen will be increased disproportionately to testosterone, which then causes further HPTA suppression (from high estrogen) while increasing the risk of gyno. (11) For example, high doses of hCG have been found to raise estradiol up to 165%, while only raising testosterone 140%. (11) Higher doses of hCG are also known to reduce LH receptor concentration and degrade the enzymes responsible for testosterone synthesis within the testes (12,13,19 ) -- the last thing someone wants during recovery. While these negative effects of hCG can be partly mitigated by the use of a SERM such as tamoxifen, it will create further problems associated with using a toxic SERM (covered in another article).

In light of the above evidence, it becomes obvious that we must take preventative measures to avoid this testicular degeneration. We must protect our testicular sensitivity. Besides, with hCG being so readily available, and such a painless shot, it makes you wonder why anyone wouldn’t use it on cycle.

Based on studies with normal men using steroids, 100iu HCG administered everyday was enough to preserve full testicular function and ITT levels, without causing desensitization typically associated with higher doses of hCG. (2) It is important that low-dose hCG is started before testicular sensitivity is reduced, which appears to rapidly manifest within the first 2-3 weeks of steroid use. Also, it’s important to discontinue the hCG before you start PCT so your leydig cells are given a chance to re-sensitize to your body’s own LH production. (To help further enhance testicular sensitivity, the dietary supplement Toco-8 may be used)

A more convenient alternative to the above recommendation would be a twice a week shot of 200iu hCG, or possibly a once a week shot of 500iu. However, it is most desirable to adhere to a lower more frequent dose of hCG to mimic the body’s natural LH release and minimize estrogen conversion. If you are starting hCG late in the cycle, one could calculate a rough estimate for their required hCG ‘kick starting’ dosage by multiplying 40iu x days of LH absence, since the testes will be desensitized, thus requiring a higher dose. (ie. 40iu x 60 days = 2400iu HCG dose)

Note: If following the on cycle hCG protocol, hCG should NOT be used for PCT.

For preservation of testicular sensitivity, use 100iu hCG ED starting 7 days after your first AAS dose. At the end of the cycle, drop the hCG two weeks before the AAS clear the system. For example, you would drop hCG about the same time as your last Testosterone Enanthate shot. Or, if you are ending the cycle with orals, you would drop the hCG about 10 days before your last oral dose. This will allow for a sudden and even clearance in hormone levels, while initiating LH and FSH production from the pituitary, to begin stimulating your testes to produce testosterone. Remember, recovery doesn’t begin until you are off hCG since your body will not release its own LH until the hCG has cleared the system.

In conclusion, we have learned that utilizing hCG during a steroid cycle will significantly prevent testicular degeneration. This helps create a seamless transition from “on cycle” to “off cycle” thus avoiding the post cycle crash.

AH-89 Similar to Stanozolol/Winstrol and Legal

2009-05-25T18:10:00.000-07:00

American Cellular Labs AH-89 is mildly anabolic but has great androgenic effects. AH-89 is milder on the liver than Stanozolol because it is NOT 17-alpha alkylated. The addition of tetrahydropyranyl ether to the compound’s structure is a useful protecting group for the stabilization of the compound and makes it longer acting.

AH-89 does NOT convert into estrogen so there is no major bloating or water retention issues. Therefore there should be no need for an anti-estrogen to follow AH-89 use. AH-89 has minimal progesterone conversion activity. AH-89’s cousin Stanozolol is related to progesterone but blocks the receptors for progesterone. AH-89 sounds like the perfect compound to stack with Tren since Tren is also a progestin and a minimal amount may convert to progesterone. AH-89 is a good stacking agent because Tren may intensify some estrogen conversion from any pro-hormones that can potentially do that.

AH-89’s cousin Stanozolol has similar anabolic properties to Dianabol but without the water retention. Because of Stanozolol’s low androgenic properties Stanozolol is commonly stacked with stronger androgenic compounds.

For bulking up AH-89 can be stacked w/ either TT-40 or Mass. For dieting AH-89 can be stacked with Tren. A milder stack can be AH-89 and MMA-3 that can help improve the joints, tendons, and ligaments strengths thus dramatically reducing the chances of injury..

AH-89’s cousin Stanozolol can free up bound testosterone by blocking (SHBG) Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin. Stacking AH-89 with any highly androgenic compound will supercharge that compound because the extra testosterone will less likly be bound up by SHBG.

AH-89’s cousin Stanozolol can act as a IGF-1 stimulator. IGF-1 is one of the most potent natural inhibitors of muscle cell death. IGF-1 can send signals to muscle cells that can lead to muscle growth.

American Cellular Labs AH-89 is mildly anabolic but has great androgenic effects. AH-89 does not convert into estrogen so there is no major bloating or water retention issues. AH-89’s cousin Stanozolol can free up bound testosterone by blocking (SHBG) Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin. AH-89’s cousin Stanozolol can act as a IGF-1 stimulator and can slow down muscle turn-over. Because of AH-89’s low androgenic properties it is commonly stacked with stronger androgenic compounds.

This supplement is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

———

Please read all label information and warnings before buying any supplements.

Check with your Sports Association before consuming any supplement.

Use only as directed on the label. Do not exceed recommended dosage.

These statements have not been evaluated by the F.D.A. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

sources:

Building the Perfect Beast

Anabolics 2006

American Cellular Labs

Chemical Wizardry

WADA 2009 Prohibited List ENG Final 20Sept08

Carbohydrates Save Muscle and Make you Recover Fast

2009-04-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

There is a misconception that Insulin is one of the most powerful anabolic hormones. Insulin is a weak anabolic hormone but a very strong anticatabolic hormone. Anabolism is muscle growth and Insulin is a weak transporter of protein but a very strong transporter of carbohydrates.

Cell death by catabolism is caused by not enough energy from ATP to repair the cell.

Anabolism is caused by a supercompensation reaction caused by catabolism. The best training method for anabolism is to trigger the use of all muscle fiber types. Taking the complete spectrum of muscle fibers to the edge of ATP deprivation creating a catabolic reaction and triggering a supercompensatory environment creates large amounts of anabolism.

The path from carbohydrate to ATP = carbohydrate -> Glucose-6-phosphate -> glycolysis -> Pyruvic acid -> acetyl coA -> Citric Acid cycle -> 2H+ and 2e- -> Electron Transport chain -> ATP

Carbohydrates need Insulin to be transported into muscle and liver cells for storage. Insulin can slow down the burning of fat and speed up the storing of fat. Insulin is doing this because it is prioritizing carbohydrate usage and contributing to storing calories the most effective way as fat. This process is called glycogenesis. All carbohydrates are forms of sugar and all of them get broken down into glycogen by glycogenesis.

Insulin is one of the only hormones which drops during exercise. The main reason is due to increased efficiency due to mechanical pumping while exercising. If insulin did not drop during exercise blood sugar would drop to rapidly and your workout would be done very quickly.

Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load are 2 ways carbohydrates are measured on their effect on Insulin. The Glycemic Load is the more important metric. Gylcemic Index measures the speed that your body can break down the carbohydrate into glucose. Glycemic Load is a measure of how much Insulin will be released when eating a certain amount of food. The more Insulin the less fat your body will burn and the more your body will prioritize on using carbohydrates as energy.

Carbohydrate literally means watered carbon. Carbohydrates by divination attract water wherever they are present. When you are tired while eating enough food you may be dehydrated. Your body needs water to transport carbohydrates. Your body needs carbohydrates to transport water.

The Journal Obesity Research showed "Carbohydrate consumption--acting via insulin secretion and the "plasma tryptophan ratio"--increases serotonin release; protein intake lacks this effect." Low Serotonin can cause depression and high serotonin can cause euphoria. Carbohydrates can become addicting and give people a drug like effect.

There are several different types of carbohydrates used by Max Muscle, Amylopectin, Maltodextrin, Trehalose, Dextrose, Lactose & Fructose.

Amylopectin is a high molecular weight carbohydrate that quickly passes through the stomach getting to the intestines. Amylopectin quickly increases blood glucose levels and increases insulin levels. Amylopectin is perfect for improving glycogen storage very quickly after exercise. Amylopectin should only be used as an after workout recovery supplement. Amylopectin raises insulin so much that long term regular use causes insulin resistance. Insulin resistance can lead to diabetes.

Maltodextrin is easily digestible, being absorbed as rapidly as glucose. Maltodextrin can be derived from any starch, usually rice, corn or potato.

Trehalose is a disaccharide formed from starch. It has high water retention capabilities.
Trehalose is also an antioxidant.

Dextrose is the biologically active form of glucose. Dextrose is closest in chemistry to blood sugar.

Lactose is left in trace amounts in certain whey protein powders. Lactose is a disaccharide. Many people don't have enough of the enzyme lactase to digest lactose. None of the Max Muscle proteins have enough lactose to cause me any problems. I am highly lactose intolerant.

Fructose is a monosacchride found in many foods including honey. Fructose is derived from the digestion of sucrose. The difference between crystalline fructose and high-fructose corn syrup is 98% fructose vs. 50/50 split of fructose and glucose.

Carbohydrates are the most misunderstood part of the American diet. If used properly carbohydrates can save muscle keep you hydrated and give you tons of energy. If misused carbohydrates can make you fat and turn you diabetic. Carbohydrates can be addicting. For athletes carbohydrates are the fastest way to recover and stop muscle damage. Make sure you time your carbohydrates correctly and you will stay successful in your athletic endeavors

What Probiotics Can Do For You - Introducing Ganeden BC30

2009-04-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

Have you ever have been to the Doctor when you are sick and been prescribed Antibiotics? Antibiotic drugs are some of the most prescribed medications by Doctors world wide. The main side effect of antibiotics is that they kill bacteria indiscriminately, including good bacteria. Our bodies contain large amounts of good bacteria. Many times when we are sick we are overwhelmed with so much bad bacteria, viruses, yeasts or parasites that our good probiotic bacteria can’t deal with it and we become sick.

Probiotic bacteria is very important. Other than protecting you from bad bacteria good bacteria produces enzymes. Almost everything that happens in your body is controlled by enzymes. Enzymes are known to be involved in over 4,000 biochemical processes.

The main problem with probiotic supplements is the absorption into our intestines. Many probiotics are already dead before you even buy them. Most probiotic labels only guarantee their strength at time of manufacturing. Many probiotics need to be refrigerated. If they can’t live at room temperature how can you expect them to live at 98.6 or higher if you have a fever.

Right now a leading yogurt manufacturer is involved in a class action lawsuit for misleading their customers on their special brand of probiotic yogurt. Unfortunately science shows most probiotics in yogurt don’t survive the long journey to your intestines where probiotics are most effective as natural supplements.

Introducing the probiotic Bacillus coagulans known as Ganeden BC3o. BC30 is is surrounded by a natural protective shield allowing it to safely get into our intestines without being damaged. BC30 has a proven safety record of over 50 years. BC30 is proven to not only get to the intestines but to grow once it gets there.

BC30 is proven so stable it can be added to foods. In addition to food products, BC30 is currently used in a broad range of applications including dietary supplements, animal health products, feminine hygiene and topical applications.

BC30 is granted US Patent 6849256 for the “Inhibition of pathogens by probiotic bacteria.” Right now their is a patent pending for Bacillus coagulans bacteria for treating IBS.

“A method of reducing a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome, comprising identifying a patient suffering from or at risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome, and administering to said patient a composition comprising Bacillus coagulans bacteria.”

Science is in the corner of Ganeden BC30 and it is available in Max Muscle’s Max Crunch Protein Bar.

The Two Basic Forms of Strength Training

2009-04-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

notes from Mel Siff's Supertraining book by Dan Gilliland

There are two basic forms of Strength Training, functional resistance training and structural resistance training. Functional training is used more for sport specific type training. Structural resistance training is more used for general muscle growth. Most bodybuilders follow structural resistance training. There is no 100% functional training. Metabolic change always happen so some structural training is always involved.

During strength training several metabolic changes are happening. Intermuscular coordination, intramuscular coordination, facilitatory and inhibitory reflexes and motor learning.

Intermuscular coordination is the synchronisation or sequence of action between different muscle groups producing a joint movement. Certain muscle can be inhibited or disinhibited to help achieve the movement.

Intramuscular coordination of muscle fibers is caused by either of these 3 methods, number coding, rate encoding or pattern encoding. Number encoding is the control of muscle tension by activating or deactivating a specific amount of muscle fibers. Rate encoding controls the amount of tension by modifying the frequency of muscle fibers firing. Pattern encoding controls the muscular tension by synchronization of the firing of different muscle fiber types.

Facilitatory and inhibitory reflexes regulate intra and inter-muscular coordination by promoting adaptive changes in our reflex systems.

Motor learning is the mind/body connection involving specific movements. Skill increases as intensity increases because conditions change under increasing load.

Strength Training involves an even increasing amount of muscular coordination caused by either the growth of more muscle or greater neural coordination or both. Their are many different aspects of how coordination can be achieved. It is important to understand how coordination is achieved because differing training methods will effect these methods differently. Our bodies adapt very quickly to training stimulus. Understanding how to leverage the different aspects of adaptation will lead to always being ahead of the adaptive curve. Building a foundation using our neural adaptive skills will propel us forward to success in our strength training goals.

Plain Old Glutamine vs. Max Muscle's GlutaMatrix

2009-03-29T15:06:00.000-07:00

Glutamine is one of the most important amino acids created in your body. Glutamine has been studied clinically for over 15 years showing extremely effective wound healing effects. Glutamine is one of the only amino acids to pass the blood/brain barrier. Glutamine's cousin Glutamate is a key neurotransmitter. Glutamine's other cousin Glutamic acid is a precursor for another neurotransmitter GABA. GABA typically causes relaxing, anti-anxiety and anti-convulsive effects. Metabolites of glutamine quench the neurotoxic gas Ammonia. Ammonia effects neurotransmitter triggering of protein production. Glutamine also acts as an anti-inflammatory in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and preserves the liver protective amino acid Glutathione. Glutamine has a strong attraction to the gut. A large amount of glutamine is needed to maintain gut heath.

Max Muscle's GlutaMatrix contains several different versions of Glutamine. Free form Glutamine discussed in the paragraph above. N-acetyl-L-glutamine is a more stable version of glutamine. Stability is a key component of an active delivery system. Glutamine Ethyl Ester make sure a more rapid absorption of Glutamine gets to the damaged muscle cells. GlutaMatrix delivers an acid stable form of glutamine to assure the glutamine does not get broken down by your stomach acid.

Max Muscle's GlutaMatrix is designed for your muscle building and recovery needs. GlutaMatrix contains the best forms of the most important muscle building amino acid available. GlutaMatrix comes in an unflavored powder or capsules.

77% reduction of the UT Infections

2009-03-09T19:45:00.000-07:00

Hibiscus sabdariffa

More than only anti-adherent, it acts - among other strains - against E. coli and Candida albicans. The data of the In-vivo study conducted since january 2008 shows a decrease of the urinary infections by 77%, with a very significant Student value (p<0.001), as a new confirmation of the efficiency of UTIrose.

It's you new and natural way to develop efficient products against UTI.

Tren - the Most Popular Pro-Hormone

2009-03-09T19:42:00.000-07:00

Tren is a legal cousin to Trenbolone. Trenbolone can bind to androgen receptors 300% better than Testosterone. Tren is a 5a reduced compound so it can NOT to convert to harmful DHT. Tren is a Progestin and by definition can NOT convert into estrogen. Tren is known to build high quality muscle. Tren is known for having a diuretic effect. Tren is also known for increasing the Thyroid hormone T3 leading to more of your calories being burnt by increasing your metabolic rate.

Tren and any pro-hormones should NOT be used by women or anyone under 21 years of age.

Trenbolone has similar strength results as Dianabol, Anapolon 50, and Testosterone.

If Tren is stacked with either TT-40 or Mass it would be a similar stack to Trenbolone & Testosterone. The results can add up to a lot of muscle gain. Mass is a methylated compound similar to testosterone slowing the breakdown in the liver. TT-40 is a compound that the body breaks down easier but has a shorter half-life.

If Tren is stacked with AH-89 (legal Stanozolol cousin) similar results may happen when Trenbolone & Stanozolol are combined. Mega-strength is usually the result of the combination of Trenbolone & Stanozolol.

Using Tren for more than an 8 week cycle is NOT advisable.

Trenbolone is clinically proven to turn your urine rust color because of the unused metabolities leaving your body.

Tren is the most popular pro-hormone because it's effects are what most men want from a pro-hormone. Lean body mass gains while burning more calories is what most men want. Since Tren is a diuretic it is advisable to drink lots of water while using it.

If you use Tren during a drug tested sport you will come up positive for using a banned substance.

Check with your sports association before consumming this product.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product informantion is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Crack Down on Vitamins Again?

2009-03-09T19:24:00.000-07:00

GAO report - Dietary Supplements: FDA Should Take Further Actions to
Posted by: "Douglas Kalman" dkalman@miamiresearch.com dougkalman
Mon Mar 2, 2009 12:28 pm (PST)

New GAO Report Finds Need for Additional FDA Oversight of Dietary
Supplements

<http://energycommerce.house.gov/index2.phpoption=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=1509>

<http://energycommerce.house.gov/index2.phpoption=com_content&task=view&id=1509&pop=1&page=0&Itemid=1>

Rep. Henry A. Waxman (D-CA), Rep. John D. Dingell (D-MI), Rep. Bart
Stupak (D-MI), and Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) released a new Government
Accountability Office (GAO) report identifying several factors that
limit FDA's ability to protect consumers from unsafe dietary
supplements. These factors are limits on FDA's authority to obtain
information about dietary supplements on the market, few FDA resources
devoted to dietary supplement oversight, and limits on FDA's authority
to remove unsafe dietary supplements from the market.

The report calls for additional FDA regulatory authority to ensure
better FDA oversight of dietary supplements, including enhanced
registration of dietary supplement facilities and expanded reporting of
adverse health effects of supplement products. The report recommends
that FDA issue guidance to industry to clarify which supplement
ingredients are new and to submit evidence of safety before they can be
marketed. The report also notes the need for more consumer outreach and
education.

"I am troubled that the FDA lacks the basic information necessary to
protect consumers from unsafe dietary supplements," said Rep. Waxman,
Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee. "The FDA clearly needs to
have more resources to give consumers real protection. I intend to work
with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that FDA has the tools it needs
to address this and other important public health missions."

"We know that there are problems with the FDA. Reports like this show us
just how deep the problems run," said Rep. Dingell, Chairman Emeritus of
the Energy and Commerce Committee. "FDA is woefully unprepared to deal
with dietary supplements and in its current condition, FDA can not fix
the problem. FDA needs the resources and adequate authorities so the
agency can start addressing this problem. The GAO findings are quite
valuable and Americans will be quite distressed as they learn just how
ineffective the FDA has become in regulating dietary supplements."

"Based on GAO's analysis, we can add dietary supplements to the growing
list of products that show the FDA is failing at its core mission of
protecting the public's health," said Rep. Stupak, Chairman of the
Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee. "We need new leadership in
place at the FDA to finally begin the task of recommitting the agency to
protecting the American people from unsafe food, drugs, medical devices
and now dietary supplements. The FDA should review and quickly implement
GAO's recommendations, particularly working to expand efforts to collect
adverse event data from consumers in order to better understand the
problems encountered with use of dietary supplements."

"There are 29,000 varieties of dietary supplements on the market today
with 1,000 new products being introduced each year. Many of these
products are safe; I take my vitamins every day. The problem is that
some supplements contain concentrated extracts of herbs and botanicals
mixed with other ingredients that can be harmful," said Assistant Senate
Majority Leader Durbin. "Our experience with ephedra should convince
everyone that the FDA should have the regulatory authority it needs to
protect the American consumer. I will continue work with my colleagues
in Congress and with the administration to make sure we do to everything
we can to protect the public health."

The GAO report, Dietary Supplements: FDA Should Take Further Actions to
Improve Oversight and Consumer Understanding
<http://energycommerce.house.gov/Press_111/20090302/gaoreport.pdf> ,
states that a lack of information is one of the most significant factors
that limit the FDA's ability to identify and properly act on safety
concerns regarding dietary supplements and foods with added dietary
ingredients. GAO recommends that the FDA issue guidance on new dietary
ingredients and clarify the difference between dietary supplements and
foods with added dietary ingredients to prevent firms from circumventing
safety standards by simply reclassifying their products as dietary
supplements. The report noted the need for improved education and
outreach efforts to increase consumer understanding of the safety and
efficacy of dietary supplements and foods with added dietary
ingredients. And GAO also recommends that the FDA be given additional
authority to require firms to self-identify as dietary supplement
companies, to provide information about their dietary supplement and
dietary additive products and ingredients, and to report adverse events.

USPF California Powerlifting Newsletter March 2009

2009-03-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

USPF California Powerlifting Newsletter
March 2009
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The D1 (single ply) California State Championship is coming up on March 28 along with the D2 (Monolift, Multiply) California State Championship on March 29 in Los Alamitos, CA. Entry deadline is March 6. No late entries accepted after March 10.
Entry forms can be obtained by going to www.powerliftingca.com then click on the upcoming meets.

March 28, 43rd USPF California State D1 PL, BP, DL Championship
Single ply with walkout squats using combo racks.
Location: Los Alamitos, CA
Meet Director: Steve Denison
Phone: 661-333-9800
Email: PWRLFTRS@MSN.COM

March 29 USPF California State D-2 Powerlifting and Benchpress Championship
Location: Los Alamitos
Meet Director: Steve Denison
Phone: 661-333-9800
Email: pwrlftrs@msn.com
Definition of USPF D-2 allows double ply bench shirts and the full use of the monolift which will be used at all D-2 meets.
squat suits can be double ply with a double ply briefs with legs. USPF D-2 meets follow GPC rules.

Past meets results have been posted for the USPF American Pro Invitational Cup and the LA Fit Expo Benchpress and Deadlift Challenge from Jan 24-25.
Go to the meet results section on www.powerliftingca.com

The D1 and D2 West Coast meet results from Feb 21 have been posted as well.

Check out the USPF California Forum to post your comments and the new Training Log section:
http://wvuspf.com/smf1/index.php/board,2.0.html

Joe Dentice will be hosting the Las Vegas Open and the Collegiate Nationals on April 4th at UNLV. Go to the upcoming meet section on www.powerliftingca.com

April 4, USPF Collegiate National Powerlifting Championship (PL, BP, DL, PP)
Location: Las Vegas, NV (UNLV)
Meet Director: Joe Dentice
Email: lvjoe700@aol.com

April 4, USPF Las Vegas Open PL, BP, DL, PP
Location: Las Vegas, NV (UNLV)
Meet Director: Joe Dentice
Email: lvjoe700@aol.com

Mark Bell will be hosting the Sacramento Open on Sunday, April 26.
Entry forms are available online in the upcoming meet section at www.powerliftingca.com

April 26, USPF Sacramento Open PL, BP, PP Championship
Location: Sacramento, CA
Meet Director: Mark Bell
Phone: 530-574-1070
Email: smellybell80@yahoo.com

A few tips on the squat from Super Training Gym in Sacramento.

1- If you are a new lifter start out with fairly loose gear. Take your time to learn how execute the movements properly. Having looser gear will allow you learn your gear faster. When you are comfortable with what you got you could have a seamstress take the suit in or order a smaller one.

2- Continuing on from my point in tip # 1 it is a good idea to have different levels of squat suits. We all work hard for our money but we all bust our ass in the gym to. Invest the time and money to acquire 2 or 3 squat suits.Years ago you would call Titan or Inzer and say I need a "Training Suit" This would tell them ok this guys measurements say that he needs a 52 suit but for training we will get him the next size up. The bigger suit will allow you train with better form, but it will make you work hard for the bigger weights. A suit that is too tight can cripple your form.

3- Make sure you are ready for game day. There are many factors that go into getting you ready to lift big on the platform. A huge factor is where your head is at. If your head is 3 quarters of the way up your arse then chances are you will NOT perform well on game day.
Set yourself up to do well by working on weak points. Start to work your weak points about 6-8 weeks prior to the meet. A week point could simply that you get nervous and mess up the commands given by the judges. Take the time to have training partner yell the commands to you. Another issue could be you have a hard time walking weights out. Well why not practice it? If your looking to squat 500 pounds for the 1st time in a comp why not walk that weight out and more in training. Also visualize yourself nailing that weight in the contest over and over again.

4- Lastly get your gear squared away. Like I mentioned earlier take the time to learn your gear. Order your gear 8-12 weeks before your contest so you have plenty of time to work in it. Do not change your gear last minute.

5- The more lifts you make the more fun you have. Well you need Personal Records to but if you make a lot of your lifts let's say 7 out of 9 then I bet you beat a lot of your own records anyway. Your day on the platform starts with the squat. Set up your attempts so you have a good shot at going 3 for 3. If your goal is to squat 500 then you may want to open pretty light with like 402-424 to get in the meet, then go to a new PR or close to it 474, then go for 500. Now if 474 moves like crap and it was just brutal make a small jump of about 12 pounds and just focus on padding that total. Those extra 12 pounds could mean a lot towards reaching your total goal for the day.

None of what I mentioned is true...Just kidding! None of what I said is set in stone every lifter is different so find what works for you.

If anyone has any questions please write me on my training forum at www.SuperTrainingGym.com

If your not getting better then your getting worse,

Mark JackAss Bell
Owner of Super Training
www.SuperTrainingGym.com

May 2, USPF San Diego Open PL, BP, DL Championship
Location: San Diego, CA
Meet Director: Steve Denison
Phone: 661-333-9800
Email: PWRLFTRS@MSN.COM
Get entry form at www.powerliftingca.com Upcoming meet section

May 23, USPF Military Nationals PL, BP, DL Championship
Location: Venice Beach
Meet Director: Steve Denison
Phone: 661-333-9800
Email: PWRLFTRS@MSN.COM
Get entry form at www.powerliftingca.com Upcoming meet section

May 24, USPF Muscle Beach BP/DL Championship
Location: Venice Beach
Meet Director: Steve Denison
Phone: 661-333-9800
Email: PWRLFTRS@MSN.COM
Get entry form at www.powerliftingca.com Upcoming meet section

Max Muscle's Max Gourmet Gainer

2009-03-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

The newest maximum muscle performance weight gainer from Max Muscle is Max Gourmet Gainer. Max Gourmet Gainer is the best tasting weight gainer made. Gourmet Gainer is densely packed with the clinically proven performance enhancing carbohydrate to protein ratio of 2:1. Gourmet Gainer is ideal to take up to 4 times per day. The best time to take Gourmet Gainer is right after your workout. The special blend of insulin enhancing carbohydrates will trigger an anti-catabolic cascade that will trigger lots of muscle growth.

1. Gourmet Gainer is the best tasting weight gainer made
2. clinically proven performance enhancing carbohydrate to protein ratio of 2:1
3. take up to 4 times per day
4. take Gourmet Gainer is right after your workout
5. trigger an anti-catabolic cascade that will trigger lots of muscle growth

Max Muscle's Quadra Cuts Thyroid Support

2009-03-09T19:07:00.000-07:00

The newest diet product Quadra Cuts Thyroid Support helps balance your Throid.

Our thyroids are like our car idols. When your car idol is too slow your car won't start during a cold spell. If you get your car started it will slall, and run really rough. If your thyroid is slow you can feel cold, have low circulation, depression, arthritis, and many more symptoms. Many of the ingredients in ThyrX help regulate healthy thyroid activity. Coleus forskohlii can mimic thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) by activating a gene in thyroid cells. L-Tyrosine mixed with iodine increases the levels of the fat burning thyroid hormones T3 & T4 and the fat burning stimulant adrenal hormones epinephrine and noradrenaline.

There are several ingredients containing, thyroid regulating, iodine. Iodine is the most common element to balance the thyroid. Many other ingredients help fat loss by increasing your metabolic rate by other factors other than your thyroid.

1. Our thyroids are like our car idols
2. If your thyroid is slow you can feel cold, have low circulation, depression, arthritis, and many more symptoms
3. Coleus forskohlii can mimic thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
4. L-Tyrosine mixed with iodine increases the levels of the fat burning thyroid hormones T3 & T4
5. Quadra Cuts Thyroid Support helps fat loss by increasing your metabolic rate by other factors other than just your thyroid.

Max Muscle's Max Gourmet Protein

2009-03-09T19:03:00.000-07:00

Max Muscle's best high protein low carb solution is Max Gourmet.

Max Gourmet is designed to make you feel full and satisfied with it's creamy smooth goodness while delivering you low calories. Max Gourmet is high in protein, low in carbs and delivers a proper amount of heart healthy essential fatty acids. The addition of IgG immune improving antibodies from Colostrum will keep you healthy. Creatine inside Max Gourmet will increase your anabolic response toward weight training. The essential fatty acids inside Max Gourmet will decrease inflammation while increasing recovery from your workouts.

Max Gourmet is the perfect choice for your meal replacement needs providing added recovery for your workouts.

1. best high protein low carb solution
2. makes you feel full and satisfied
3. high in protein, low in carbs
4. keep you healthy
5. perfect choice for your meal replacement

American Cellular Labs BRN-2

2009-03-09T18:58:00.000-07:00

American Cellular Labs brings you one of the strongest fat burners available anywhere called BRN-2.

A key ingredient in BRN-2 is a novel vitamin B1 derivative, that is a non-addictive brain stimulant and can reduce fatigue, memory difficulties, and intellectual tiredness; it may also speed recovery. NN-Dimethyl-PEA inside BRN-2 increases the hunger suppressive brain hormone serotonin. Synephrine HCl inside BRN-2 is the safest alternative to ephedra. Synephrine encourages epinephrine to move glycogen out of your liver encouraging a quick turnover of carb storage and more calories being burnt. Octopamine inside BRN-2 increases motor control, concentration and muscle glycogen by increasing norepinephrine. Yohimbine HCl inside BRN-2 is a beta-2 agonist and has similar fat burning qualities to ephedra and also increases nitric oxide therefore acting as a vasodilator lowering blood pressure. Evodiamine inside BRN-2 increases both norepinephrine and epinephrine and has strong anti-tumor activity protecting against breast cancer.

There are many other herbs and fat burning nutrients mixed in BRN-2 that will prove to you that American Cellular Labs knows how to put together a product that will successfully allow you to get you the results you want.

1. One of the strongest fat burners available anywhere
2. Vitamin B1 derivative, that is a non-addictive brain stimulant
3. NN-Dimethyl-PEA suppresses hunger
4. Synephrine HCl safest alternative to ephedra
5. Moves glycogen out of your liver encouraging a quick turnover of carb storage and more calories being burnt

Understanding Insulin

2009-03-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

Understanding Insulin
rewritten by Dan Gilliland originally written by Eric Cressey

Insulin is a very complex hormone. Insulin can be a very strong athletic hormone, even stronger than some illegal steroids. Insulin's main job is to shuttle carbs into your muscle cells to store for energy. When the muscle cells are full insulin shuttles carbs to be storing them in your liver. At the same time Insulin either stops or slows down the amount of carbs released from your liver. It can take several days to reload your liver with carbs. Your liver is a reserve tank, you have to be careful of emptying because it can take days to refill.

Insulin can slow down the burning of fat and speed up the storing of fat. Insulin is doing this because it is prioritizing carb usage and contributing to storing calories the most effective way as fat.

Insulin can slow down the breakdown of muscle. Insulin can increase the building of muscle when enough amino acids are in place. You may know of the "golden hour" after a workout. Insulin is responsible for the golden hour. If you time your meals correctly you will never need drugs to create muscle growth.

The hormones glucagon, growth hormone, cortisol, and the catecholamines epinephrine and norepinephrine do the opposite of insulin.

Glucagon is mostly found in high amounts when a person is experiencing hypoglycemia. Insulin is produced to counteract the hypoglycemia & blood sugar balance happens.

Growth Hormone counter-acts many actions of Insulin's carb storage and stopping of fat burning. GH does work with Insulin to create an anabolic enviroment for muscle growth. GH can increase the effects of Insulin Growth Like Factors which make Insulin more effective at lower amounts.

The stress hormone Cortisol counters Insulin's effects by blocking the uptake of Insulin causing Insulin resistance. Cortisol increases the storage of fat. Cortisol encourages the breakdown of muscle tissue.

Epinephrine and norepinephrine do the opposite of Insulin. Epinephrine is very good moving at moving glycogen out of your liver encouraging a quick turnover of carb storage and more calories being burnt. Both epinephrine and norepinephrine increase the burning of fat and have muscle saving qualities.

Insulin decreases as long as you do sub-maximal exercise. The more movement of your muscles do the more Insulin gets squeezed into your muscles and the more efficient it becomes. Glucagon increases over long duration workouts to slowdown the amount of carbs being burned. The amount Growth hormone increases with the amount of intensity you put into your workout.

Timing your foods to use the power of Insulin to your advantage will be the driving force behind your dieting success. Craving bad food only happenes when your body is out of balance. Put your body back into balance and you can eat anything you want because you will only want what's good for you. The best time to eat simple carbs is right after you have worked out. Your body needs simple carbs to quickly fill your muscles and liver up with glycogen. When you get full control of your Insulin your whole life will change for the better.

Getting the Most Out of Your Workout?

2009-03-09T18:44:00.000-07:00

Too many people choose Bodybuilding Exercises when working out in the gym while training for a sport. When training for a sport you need to choose exercises that closely mimic the motion you do while doing your sport.

While chosing exercises you must be carefult to choose exercises that create Positive Transfer of Skills and cause a minium of Negative Transfer of Skills.

In the article "Principles of Choosing Exercises in Training" published in Theory and Practice of Physical Culture, 6:5-7, 1969 by V.S. Avanesov - (Master of Sports U.S.S.R., Lenin Institute of Physical Culture) translated in Yessis Review of Soviet Sport interpreted by Dan Gilliland, V.S. Avanesov explains how to construct a system that minimizes the amount of Negative Transfer of Skills.

Negative Transfer of Skills can best be explained as "the incompatibility of chosen exercises suppressing the effectiveness of the work and expressed on the level of inadequate execution."

To achieve a Positive Transfer of Skills you have to resolve which exercises are most similar to the functional movement of the athlete during the sport being played. For instance, the Bench Press is not the best movement to improve a golf swing but if you would look into twisting core speed movements you would get a better result.

The conclusion of the paper suggests to "choose exercises according to their level of favorability in relation to the competitive exercise & bring to a minium the use of exercises that interfere with the function of the main competitive exercise."

Choose exercises based on how closely they resemble and relate to your competitive sport. The crispness of your play in your chosen sport will weigh heavily on how atuned your central nervous system is trained to function toward the movements most used in your chosen sport. How closely your exercises resemble your sport during the week relates to how well you will play during game day.

Foundation of Westside Training Confirmed

2009-03-09T18:43:00.000-07:00

The basic foundation of Westside Barbell Club's training philosophy is oscillating back and forth between Maximum Strength Training and Speed Training the same body parts every 72 hours.

Westside's theory of training rests on the fact that burnout happens if you train above 90% of your 1 Rep Max for 3 - 5 weeks in a row. But if you drop your training down below 90% you will detrain Maximum Strength.

On days where Westside members are training below 90% they increase their speed to the point where they create just as much force as would be created if they wer lifting above 90% of their 1 rep max.

In a paper published in the Soviet Journal "Track and Field", 9:14, 1975 called "How Much? Or How" written by V. Petrovsky and republished in "Yessis Review of Soviet Sport" highlights how much Intensity should be used.

In various previous studies it has been proven that absolute intensity of training and the amount of volume of weight moved have an inverse relationship. The more absolute intensity you experience the less volume of training you can take before burnout happens. The more volume of training you do the less absolute intensity you can handle.

Relative Intensity is a better tracker of near-term training performance than Absolute Intensity. Relative Intensity measures the relationship between Intensity and Volume. In 1972 several Sprinters trained with Higher Volume but lower Absolute Intensity and did not do well in competition because the lack of speed/strength.

V. Petrovsky comes to the conclusion that Absolute Intensity should be 55 - 60% of total Sprinter training. That equals 2 -3 workout sessions of the 5 - 6 workout sessions per week performed.

Are Depth Jumps Useful?

2009-03-09T18:40:00.000-07:00

"Are Depth Jumps Useful"
Track and Field, 12:9 1967
Юрий Verhoshanski

Translated in Yessis Review of Soviet Sport
hightlighted by Dan Gilliland

What are Depth Jumps?
Why would someone do them?
When would someone do them?
Are Depth Jumps effective?

Many years ago Dr. Verhoshanski noticed during the Triple Jump the athlete would get a longer jump because the tension created by landing and jumping again.

The Russians call this effect "the shock method". The west calls this effect "Plyometrics". The idea is that gravity causes your central nervous system to ignite more muscle fibers than usual to deal with the shock.

Dr Verhoshanski invented the training style of Plyometrics to increase strength by shocking the central nervous system to produce more power from your muscles. This method can create more speed and power that you can transfer to your sport.

Depth Jumps done off a box increases performance in multiple sports.The most important part of a Depth Jump is your rebound from your landing. If you add weight to your body you will increase maximum strength but you will slow down your dynamic strength.

The KEY ADVANTAGE to Depth Jumps is that it improves reaction time. If you raise your optimum box height before your body is ready you will slow down your reaction time.

The optimal height of the box for the athletes studied is 2 feet 6 inches to develop maximum speed. To develop dynamic strength a box height of 3 feet 9 inches is optimal.

The best way to prepare for Depth Jumps is to jump in place holding 70 lbs. The article doesn't really explain how to hold the weight. If you hold pair of 35 lb dumbbells you should be able to do it. Just be careful with any new exercise. Always start light and work up to your own comfort level.

A prepared athlete only needs to Depth Jump 2 times per week. The less prepared athlete only needs to Depth Jump once per week. 10 reps per set with 2 sets per workout are usually sufficient. An Expert may want to superset with 2 heights, doing 10 reps with each height for 2 sets. The total number of Depth Jumps per workout, even for an expert, shouldn't exceed 40 reps in total.

Project Westside PowerBeach: проект западзапад властьберег

2009-03-09T18:38:00.000-07:00

I have switched my training over from the traditional Eastern Bloc Progressive Periodization over to Block Periodization perfected by Westside Barbell.

Westside Barbell Club trains year-round to promote strength gains. Westside style focuses on building Speed-Strength and Power year round. Many of the theories proven by years of Westside Barbell Club breaking records left & right come from clinical sport specific studies done by rhew Russians and other Eastern Bloc scientists.

I have been training using methods I pieced together from reading translated Russian texts. Until a couple of weeks ago I didn't have a full understanding of how to use my knowlege to put together a program that will make me strong and that will keep me healthy.

The Westside way of doing things is the best training system I have found to take me to the next level.

This is the 1st article of many to be written in the future about how to use the Westside Strength Training System to your advantage. No matter what your sport or your gym I will show you how to modify your training to get the best strength results of your entire life.

My goal for 2009 is to get Westside Certified. Westside Barbell Club training style is amazing, I haven't felt better in my life. At age 43 I am stronger, better & faster than ever.

Be on the look out for many more reports. 2009 will be a Record Breaking Year for me. What about you?

Train Harder and Longer With Xtinguisher

2008-09-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

Do you want to train harder and longer?
Do you want more explosive power?

Do you want better recovery?

Max Muscle's new Xtinguisher can deliver the punch you want to take you to a new level you never thought possible.
The advanced stack of scientifically proven ingredients will surprise you by increasing your performance without stimulants while giving you the results you want. You can use Xtinguisher anytime, day or night. Unleash your true nature and experience greater workouts and faster recovery time.

The breakthrough formula of Xtinguisher the best stack of Lactic Acid buffering substances known to science. Since the resent introduction of Beta-Alanine & Histidine, athletes reaching from the Olympics to the Olympia have been chomping at the bit to get their hands on the best formula that supports these novel ingredients. Xtinguisher is that formula.

Our Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Phil Harvey has added many other ingredients to pump up the Xtinguisher formula. These ingredients not only buffer Lactic Acid but speed up recovery time and remove toxins from your body.

Lactic Acid is the enemy of your workout. Your body won't work if you become too acidic from Lactic Acid. Xtinguisher gives you the nutrients to turn Lactic Acid back into energy for you to get what you want from your workouts.

Warning: You may experience blood engorged muscular pumps causing you to feel beyond huge.

Expect only the highest purity, quality, potency & results from Max Muscle.

Chocolate Can Increase Brain Blood Flow

2008-08-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

Dark Chocolate high in flavanols similar to the bioflavaniods in fruits and expecially grapes can increase blood flow in the brain by increasing more Nitric Oxide.

http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Cocoa-flavanols-may-boost-blood-flow-in-the-brain/?c=rhc%2BPi6aUoG6qA7rB7r9AA%3D%3D

Source: Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment.
Volume 4, Pages 433-440
“Cerebral blood flow response to flavanol-rich cocoa in healthy elderly humans”
Authors: F.A. Sorond, L.A. Lipsitz, N.K. Hollenberg, N.D.L. Fisher

“We show that two weeks of regular FRC intake, providing 900 mg of cocoa flavanols daily, resulted in a significant increase in peak cerebral blood flow response in the middle cerebral artery.”

Eating Fish Cut Risk of Macular Degeneration in Half

2008-08-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

"Eating oily fish at least once per week compared with less than once per week was associated with a halving of the odds for [Neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration]NV-AMD."

Oily fish consumption, dietary [omega-3 fatty acid] [DHA] docosahexaenoic acid and [omega 3 fatty acid] [EPA] eicosapentaenoic acid intakes, and associations with neovascular age-related macular degeneration

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 88, No. 2, 398-406, August 2008
© 2008 American Society for Nutrition

http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/88/2/398?etoc

Fat Kids Can Have Liver Damage

2008-08-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

A lot of fat kids can have liver damage caused by having fatty livers. A study was done to show if being an overweight kid causes a fatty liver. The answer to the study is yes.

"An elevated [high intrahepatic triglyceride]{liver fat} IHTG content in overweight adolescents is associated with [Dyslipidemia is elevation of plasma cholesterol and/or TGs or a low HDL level that contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. - Merck Manual] {too much cholesterol or triglycerides} dyslipidemia and with insulin-resistant glucose metabolism in both liver and skeletal muscle."

http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/88/2/257?etoc

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with hepatic and skeletal muscle insulin resistance in overweight adolescents1,2,3

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 88, No. 2, 257-262, August 2008
© 2008 American Society for Nutrition

Playing Yourself

2008-08-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

"You are never really playing an opponent.
You are playing yourself, your own highest standards, and when you reach your limits,
that is real joy."

Arthur Ashe (1943–1993)
Professional tennis player

Broccoli Can Reverse Damage Caused to the Heart

2008-08-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

"A UK study has found consuming broccoli can reverse damage caused to the heart blood vessels of diabetics due to the presence of a sulfur compound."

http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Publications/Food-Beverage-Nutrition/NutraIngredients/Research/Broccoli-can-reverse-diabetic-heart-damage-say-researchers/?c=rhc%2BPi6aUoEN3UqRG1jcwA%3D%3D

“Our study suggests that compounds such as Sulforaphane from broccoli may help counter processes linked to the development of vascular disease in diabetes,” said Thornalley.

Diabetes

Published online August 4, 2008, as db06-1003

"Activation of NF-E2-related factor-2 reverses biochemical dysfunction of endothelial cells induced by hyperglycemia linked to vascular disease"

Authors: Mingzhan Xue, Qingwen Qian, Adaikalakoteswari Antonysunil, Naila Rabbani, Roya Babaei-Jadidi, and Paul J. Thornalley

Doctors Don't Know Enough About Nutrition: Latest Survey

2008-08-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

The lastest survey published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition says Doctors don't know enough about nutrition. "Only 14% [of the 54% of physicians that completed the survey] felt physicians were adequately trained to provide nutrition counseling." Interns who did take Nutrition courses were more critical of physicians who didn't. 77% of physicians completing the survey aggree that "nutrition assessments should be included in routine primary care visits".

Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol. 27, No. 2, 287-298 (2008)
Published by the American College of Nutrition

http://www.jacn.org/cgi/content/abstract/27/2/287?etoc

Green Tea Improves Circulation

2008-08-08T10:48:00.000-07:00

Green Tea improves blood circulation by being a vasodilator. Green Tea significantly decreases levels of the bad cholesterol, oxidized LDL. Green Tea also decreases the levels of an immune protective enzymes that fights oxidized LDL, called anti-oxidized LDL IgM antibodies.

Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol. 27, No. 2, 209-213 (2008)
Published by the American College of Nutrition

Green Tea Reduces LDL Oxidability and Improves Vascular Function

"This study found that consumption of green tea extract by women for five weeks produced modifications in vascular function and an important decrease in serum oxidizability."

Whole Foods Market

2008-08-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

Whole Foods Market announced a much-reduced quarterly profit and said it would open fewer new stores than it had intended over the next year. The natural-food retailer’s nickname is Whole Paycheck, but sales have slowed as customers forgo ingredients for their arugula and fennel salad so that they can afford to fill their cars.

from The Economist

Diligence

2008-08-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

"Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth."

Proverbs 10:4

We Are Our Friends

2008-08-01T12:04:00.000-07:00

"Whenever we look at life, we look at networks"
--Frijof Capra

We hangout with people we identify parts of our personality with. We are the sum of our personal freinds personalities.

Phosphatidylserine Can Block Muscle Damage

2008-07-31T13:40:00.000-07:00

Taking 600 mg of phosphatidylserine (PS) can lower the muscle damaging hormone cortisol by increasing the testosterone to cortisol ratio. The researchers suggest that phosphatidylserine is effective combating exercise-induced stress.

The effects of phosphatidylserine on endocrine response to moderate intensity exercise
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2008, 5:11doi:10.1186/1550-2783-5-11

"The findings suggest that PS is an effective supplement for combating exercise-induced stress and preventing the physiological deterioration that can accompany too much exercise. PS supplementation promotes a desired hormonal status for athletes by blunting increases in cortisol levels."

http://www.jissn.com/content/5/1/11

Doctors Wasting Money on Ineffective Scans

2008-07-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

Seems that Doctors continue to think they are technicians instead of healers. So many times instead of a patient getting healed by their Doctor the patient has to wait 6 weeks for test results to come in before the Doc will do anything of purpose. Within those 6 weeks the patient has already healed themselves or gotten way worse. It seems Doctors are relying too much on technology instead of their own knowlege as healers.

""Insurers, led by WellPoint Inc. and Magellan Health Services Inc., are increasingly rejecting imaging procedures recommended by U.S. doctors as the companies work to trim $30 billion a year they say is wasted on the tests.

CT and MRI scans that allow doctors to peer inside the body can cost as much as $2,000 each. Almost 50 percent of scans for some conditions fail to improve patients' diagnoses or treatment, according to a report issued today by America's Health Insurance Plans, a Washington-based trade group."

http://blog.lib.umn.edu/schwitz/healthnews/137163.html

Bad Bacteria Makes People Fat

2008-07-25T14:07:00.000-07:00

Scientists have found a form of bacteria found in large doses in obese people and not in skinny people. Right now it is not totally proven if the bacteria causes fatness or if fatness causes more of the bacteria to grow. The bacteria Firmicutes may cause infectobesity. In future the newest diet pills may kill specific bacteria that causes fat gain & adding good bacteria that causes fat loss.

Tests on Mice show when they are loaded with bacteria called Firmicutes and low in another bacteria called Bacteroidetes they get twice as fat as other Mice on the same diet.

Common sense dictates that having the right kind of bacteria will make you healthier. You can do this already by picking up a good Pro-biotic that can withstand room temperatures. Many pro-biotics that need to be refrigerated have already died before they even get to the store shelves.

http://microbioresearch.blogspot.com/2008/07/overweight-blame-bacteria-in-your-gut.html

Attitude

2008-07-23T10:39:00.000-07:00

YOUR OWN MENTAL ATTITUDE IS YOUR REAL BOSS. - Napoleon Hill

While your time and your labor may be subject to the demands of your employer and others, your mind is the one thing that cannot be controlled by anyone but you. The thoughts you think, your attitude toward your job, and what you are willing to give in exchange for the compensation you are paid are entirely up to you. It is up to you to determine whether you will be a slave to a negative attitude or the master of a positive one. Your attitude, your only master in life, is entirely within your control. When you control your attitude toward events, you control the eventual implication of those events.

This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

Artichoke Can Lower Cholesterol

2008-07-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

"There was a modest, but statistically significant [cholesterol lowering] effect detectable between the two [Artichoke vs. placebo] groups,"

http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/ng.asp?n=86296&c=rhc%2BPi6aUoF1DtxGYi6Zhg%3D%3D

Source: Phytomedicine
Doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2008.03.001
"Artichoke leaf extract (Cynara scolymus) reduces plasma cholesterol in otherwise healthy hypercholesterolemic adults"
Authors: Bundy, R., et al

Lycopene is Just Effective as Statins

2008-07-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

A study done on Rabbits shows that lycopene is just effective as statins to reduce arterial plaque that causes atherosclerosis. If the study can be copied with similar results in humans people wouldn't have to worry about the side-effects caused by statins.

The authors of the study think the results are so compelling that lycopene can be used as a preventive for atherosclerosis.

"Supplements of the lycopene, the carotenoid that give tomatoes their red colour, may be as effective as statins to reduce the formation of plaques in the arteries that cause atherosclerosis, says a new study with rabbits."

http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/ng.asp?n=86269&c=rhc%2BPi6aUoHFeUXIsJT%2F6Q%3D%3D

Positive Thinkers Don't Slack

2008-07-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

When people are positively convinced a treatment will work in real world conditions they are more likely to keep to the treatment. If patients are not convinced the treatment will work, they will slack on the treatment. If the slackers had pressure from someone they trust they were more likely to stick to the treatment.

Positive thinkers stick to treatment http://www.sciencealert.com.au/news/20081107-17648-2.html

"We found a person's beliefs about the treatment's effectiveness, their confidence in sticking to the treatment, and their understanding of the condition's health risks, were more important than the severity of the disease."

Drug Companies cutting back CHEAP Perks

2008-07-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

"The U.S. pharmaceutical industry revised its code of conduct, banning gifts to doctors such as pens, mugs and restaurant meals. The changes don't limit thousands of dollars doctors collect for speaking and consulting."

The changes are a cosmetic, cheap headline getter while business as usual can keep going full steam ahead. The Drug companies can still hook up their clients with lavish meals in house while doing business as usual.

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601202&sid=awty4zXTxepE&refer=healthcare#

Castration NOT ANSWER for Prostate Cancer

2008-07-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

Localized prostate cancer rarely helped by hormone therapy - LA Times

"Medical castration to treat such tumors doesn't extend survival, and its side effects outweigh any potential benefit, a study finds."

http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-sci-prostate9-2008jul09,0,4425615.story

http://www.healthnewsreview.org/review/review.php?rid=1391

"The results of the study in question show that at least in this case (older men with localized prostate cancer) that the drive to do something does not necessarily result in doing better. As the story indicated, hormone therapy, like most treatments, is not without important side effects that affect health and quality of life and so its use needs to be considered in terms of the benefit it has been demonstrated to provide."

Character

2008-07-21T14:25:00.000-07:00

CHARACTER IS ACCURATELY REFLECTED IN ONE’S MENTAL ATTITUDE. - Napoleon Hill

Without a strong foundation built on positive character traits, success will not long endure. It is virtually impossible to fake good character. Phonies are quickly spotted because they haven’t the substance and determination to maintain the charade. Developing good character begins with a positive attitude. Your desire to be a good, decent, honest, considerate person must first take place in your mind. When you make the decision to become a person of character, you will also find that you are much more willing to do the right thing simply because it is the right thing to do.

This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

Mississippi Fattest State in the Union

2008-07-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Almost a 1/3 of adults in Mississippi, Tennessee & Alabama are obese. People in the heart of the south have to cut back on the hogs feet and grits.

The south has a lot of poor people and a lot of fat causing foods are cheap.

The measurement used in this survey is not accurate for athletic people. The measurement is called BMI. BMI measures your height vs. your weight and doesn't take in account muscle density.

There needs to be a more accurate follow up to this survey. Even if the results aren't accurate, this survey is showing a big problem with the American Health Care system. People wonder why we have skyrocketing health care costs when almost 1 in 3 people in certain areas are clinically obese? Our Health Care System starts at our diner table.

Mississippi remains most obese state, CDC reports http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/M/MED_OBESITY_STATES?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

Attitude towards Defeat

2008-07-21T10:51:00.001-07:00

IT ISN’T DEFEAT, BUT RATHER YOUR MENTAL ATTITUDE TOWARD IT, THAT WHIPS YOU.

There are many things in life that you cannot control, but you can always control your attitude toward them. Defeat is never permanent unless you allow it to be so. When you have a positive attitude, you will recognize failure for the impostor that it is and realize that it is really a learning experience, a valuable lesson that will help you succeed with the next attempt. Ask yourself: What could I have done differently that would have altered the outcome? What can I do in the future to minimize problems and mistakes? What did I learn from this experience that I can put to good use next time? If you approach obstacles and setbacks with a positive attitude, you will be surprised how quickly you can turn defeat into victory.

This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

Creatine: Even More Anabolic than You Think

2008-07-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

Using supplemental Creatine increases the amount of IGF-1 (Insulin Growth Like Factor 1) inside muscles. IGF-1 is a catalyst for Insulin and is produced by Growth Hormone. IGF-1 stimulates cell growth and lengthens cell life. IGF-1 can protect against cell and DNA damage by way of an enzyme family called AKT. AKT builds muscle and slows down cell death. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akt

Creatine increases Growth Hormone production. Acute creatine loading enhances human growth hormone secretion.

Growth Hormone increases the amount of IGF-1. Correlations of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I): effects of exercise and abuse by athletes.

Effect of Creatine Supplementation and Resistance-Exercise Training on Muscle Insulin-Like Growth Factor in Young Adults
IJSNEM, 18(4), August 2008,
http://www.humankinetics.com/IJSNEM/viewarticle.cfm?jid=t746qp3Yq234bLK6z366yvx4v683v3tUk843w2kzh232nT73e&aid=16023&site=t746qp3Yq234bLK6z366yvx4v683v3tUk843w2kzh232nT73e

"These findings indicate that creatine supplementation during resistance-exercise training increases intramuscular IGF-I concentration in healthy men and women, independent of habitual dietary routine."

Blood Sugar and Alzheimer’s Risk: Connection?

2008-07-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

Men with low insulin secretion at age 50 had a significantly greater risk of Alzheimer’s.

http://www.realage.com/ct/tips/6373

One of the theories of factors leading to Alzheimer’s is that it is diabetes of the brain. The brain runs on carbohydrates and if the brain cells develop insulin resistance the brain can't run correctly. If we don't produce enough insulin our brain won't be able to absorb the carbs it needs to runn correctly.

Stress Hormone Causes Aging

2008-07-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

The stress hormone cortisol causes pre-mature aging of the immune system. Cortisol shortens a protective cap called telomere that allows the cells to keep dividing. The shorter the telomere, the shorter the cell's lifespan will be. Telomeres shorten every time a cell divides the telomere shortens, acting like a clock for each cell.

The reason cancer cells are so strong is because their telomeres don't shorten enough during cell division. A healthy cell lives a proper and preset time. An unhealthy cell either lives too short, not allowing the body to replace it time, or too long, allowing uncontrolled growth.

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-07/uoc--usi071508.php

Fat Parents Influence Fat Children

2008-07-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

Parents of overweight households tend to create overweight children. Not only is it caused by the overall diet of the family it is also due to expressed fat genes.

A woman's bodyweight before and during pregnancy has a large influence on the future wieght of her child. Children born to women who dad gastric bypass sugery are 1/2 as likly yo become obese.

A study done on Folic Acid mixed with other supplements shows that in mice the legacy of fatness can be broken.

Waterland, R.A., Travisano, M., Tahiliani, K.G., Rached, M.T., Mirza, S. (2008). Methyl donor supplementation prevents transgenerational amplification of obesity. International Journal of Obesity DOI

http://scienceblogs.com/notrocketscience/2008/07/obesity_amplifies_across_generations_can_folaterich_diets_st.php

Being Right

2008-07-17T11:38:00.000-07:00

IF YOU ARE SURE YOU ARE RIGHT, YOU NEED NOT WORRY WHAT THE WORLD THINKS.

If you are ever to achieve noteworthy success in your life, you must be willing to stand apart from the crowd. Success is something that is achieved by the minority, not the majority, of people. You will also discover as you climb the ladder of success that there are many who, out of jealousy or envy, will belittle your achievements. Nevertheless, if you have the courage of your convictions, nothing can deter you from your course. You develop confidence in your beliefs by doing your own thinking and by constantly testing and revising your knowledge. Use W. Clement Stone’s R2A2 Principle to Recognize and Relate, Assimilate and Apply information from any field to help solve your problems and direct your thinking.

This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

Maximum Muscle Podcast # 2

2008-07-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

Maximum Muscle Podcast # 2

1. Fitness Muscle & Nutrition News
a.Prohormones
Looks like Tren, methyl-1-test & the legal cousin to Winni V will be banned sometime later this summer

b.2/3 of Americans are Too Fat

c. Gene Expression of Creatine

2. Max Muscle Supplement Spotlight
a. ThyrX
Our thyroids are like our car idols. When your car idol is too slow your car won't start during a cold spell. If you get your car started it will slall, and run really rough.

If your thyroid is slow you can feel cold, have low circulation, depression, arthritis, and many more symptoms.

Many of the ingredients in ThyrX help regulate healthy thyroid activity. Coleus forskohlii can mimic thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) by activating a gene in thyroid cells.

Diiodo-L-Tyrosine mixed with iodine increases the levels of the fat burning thyroid hormones T3 & T4 and the fat burning stimulant adrenal hormones epinephrine and noradrenaline.

There are several ingredients containing, thyroid regulating, iodine. Iodine is the most common element to balance the thyroid.

Many other ingredients help fat loss by increasing your metabolic rate by other factors other than your thyroid.

3. Nutrient Timing
a.How to use Dieting Supplements
1. 8 - 12 week fat burning plan
A. Crash diets don't work. Your body goes through too much of a change and can't adjust to become balanced at your targety weight. If you have to put a lot of effort into change there has to be a lot of resistance to that change. Find the key to releasing the resistance to change. When you are proactive about change you will keep the results you see. You have to make your weight management a lifestyle change instead of something to do for a wedding.

Many people only look at the scale when they are losing weight. If you aren't taking in enough protein while you are burning fat you will also lose muscle. The more muscle you have the higher your metabolism will be. Muscle is your friend to help you burn fat.

You want to eat at least 6 times a day. Simply look at how many calories you burn + how many calories you need to maintain and subtract 500 - 1000 kcals per day. Many people feel this is difficult so we at Max Muscle provide our Maxformation Nutritional Counceling.

Simple supplements that can be used to help with dieting.
1. ThyrX which is our spotlight product of the week.
2. ThermXX which is our powerful fat burner & diuretic with strong appetite support without being too strong of a stimulant.
3. Femme Lean is our new Women's fat burner helping lower fat & appetite caused by hormonal disturbances
One of the active fat burning and pleasure giving ingredients in chocolate is in Femme Lean. Most of the pleasure of chocolate without the calories.
4. Anabol Cuts does exactly what most men are looking for; it helps build muscle while helping burn fat.
The mixture of Slimaluma that can help you slim your waist and Testofen which can increase your free testosterone. With the addition of Green Tea and Caffeine will feel a boost in the gym helping fire up your motivation to train to build muscle and burn fat.

4. Workout Timing
a.Circuit Training
Bootcamps: How to get the maximum out of them and how to fit them into your life.

The whole Bootcamp style workouts are huge. Many people get great results from Bootcamps but if done too often, for too long will result in overtraining.

The HIT (High Intensity Training) method is great to burn fat but if you do it too many times per week or too many weeks in a row you will burn out.

Bootcamps are great to start your general training cycle and strengthen your cardiovascular system while continuing to build muscle.

You will easily bring up your endurance while toning your body from doing Bootcamp training. Bootcamps are great to get you in shape when coming out of off-season or layoff. But be prepared for your cardio system to be taxed to it's max.

5. Lessons from the Masters
Napoleon Hill
bio
Napoleon Hill was the 1st self-help guru. Mr. Hill was a newspaper reporter who had the luck to interview the riches man in the world at the time, Andrew Carnagie. The interview was orginally last only 2 hours but lasted 2 days. At the end of the interview Carnagie asked Hill to become his unpaid intern for life. In exchange Carnagie would introduce Hill to everyone in Carnagie's circle including Ford, Edison, Westinghouse,the board of directors of US Steel and other millionaires. Carnigie wanted Hill to study and formulate a system of how to become successful from all of his interviews of the great men of his time.

Hill's 1st book "Think and Grow Rich" has been used as a platform for many of today's self-help gurus. A lot of Tony Robbins philosophy is formed on the backbone of Hill's philosophy. The majority of book and movie "The Secret" is a feel good version of Hill's philosophy.

Napoleon Hill's philosophy can be used by anyone and in almost every situation. It can easily be applied for getting better workouts and taking better care of yourself. You can also learn how to take the success you find in the gym and move it out into the rest of your life.

Next week I will start an overview of Hill's 1st chapter of Think and Grow Rich and give you my take on how to apply it to you exercise training and how to apply it to the rest of your life.

http://feeds.feedburner.com/DansMaximumMusclePodcast

Maximum Muscle Podcast # 1

2008-07-16T13:56:00.003-07:00

Maximum Muscle Podcast will take you to the fast track of muscle growth, fitness and better nutrition.

This 1st Podcast describes what the future will hold.

I will explain why you can get great advice from a Championhip winning Powerlifter with 17 years of nutrition experience from working in the Sports Nutrition Industry. I am currently working for Max Muscle Sports Nutrition. This podcast and all of the opinions from the podcast and my blog are my opinions and not those of Max Muscle Sports Nutrition.

My goals and mission of Maximum Muscle Podcast is:

1. I will inform you of the newest and most important nutrition and muscle building news.

2. I will spotlight Max Muscle products and explain what result to expect from the product.

3. I will put into context how to mashup your workouts with your supplements. Some people have no idea why they are taking what they are taking. Growing mass while losing weight will never happen. Taking a dieting, appetite suppressing supplement while trying to pack on mass won't work.

4. Lessons From the Masters is a how to do from the All time Great & Successful people the world has ever known. Everyone from Napoleon Hill, Anthony Robbins, Arnold, Jay, Ronnie, Sun Tzu and many, many more.

http://feeds.feedburner.com/DansMaximumMusclePodcast

Be Imaginative

2008-07-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

"Imagination is the true magic carpet."
--Norman Vincent Peale

“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”
--Albert Einstein

"Stepping outside the world of the known, of "reality", is one of the most important steps you can take. As children we step into the world of our imaginations naturally. As adults we have often been conditioned out of it, through one too many admonishments to stop day dreaming. Make a commitment to yourself to spend a little time each day in the world of your imagination. It could be 5 minutes, or an hour, or more. The important thing is that you spend time inside your imagination, your creative side regularly. Every great accomplishment, breakthrough, and discovery was preceded by a great imagination and a great deal of day dreaming."

Be Imaginative from http://inspirinet.com/

Pop Culture

2008-07-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

Even when the experts all agree, they may well be mistaken. - Bertrand Russell

Just because an idea is popular doesn't mean it's right. A long time ago people thought the world was flat and the earth was the center of the universe and everything revolved around it. WRONG!!!!!!!!

Louie Simmons: How to Do the Squat

2008-07-14T17:51:00.000-07:00

By: Louie Simmons
How to Do the Squat
What is good squat form?
What does it take to develop a great squat? First you must develop the hips, hamstrings, spinal erectors, glutes, and abs. Without a strong posterior chain (the muscles on the back of the body), you will not sit back into the proper squat position. That’s right. Sit back, never down. If the knees go forward in the yielding phase, they could hit the floor and the hips still would be above parallel. I talk to strength coaches from major universities on how to squat. I tell them that we have 24 guys who have squatted over 800 and six over 900 by box squatting with a wide stance. Many times these coaches will reply, I like Olympic squatting. One reason I guess is that Olympic squatting is what they were brought up on. But why do powerlifters use a wider stance? Because you use more muscle, and isn’t that what we’re after on the sports field? Only a wrestler would find himself in the weakest joint angles of an Olympic squat. That’s probably why there are no old, great Olympic lifters. Their joints are gone. When a prominent pro basketball coach said that Olympic squats were the best for his players and that a two-times bodyweight squat was all an athlete needs, I realized that a weak coach can only produce weak players. This coach and many like him must have a huge library and a very small weight room. Take Ben Johnson, for example. He squatted 620 at about 200 pounds. That’s three times bodyweight! Football players' careers are being shortened not by the competition but by the fact that they are too frail compared to 10 years ago. I saw Brett Favre come out of the locker room and squat cold with the linemen using the same weight. That's like having five quarterbacks protecting your quarterback, and that's bull. Let's get to squat technique, starting with the feet. They should be pointed straight forward. This forces the hip muscles into play. It is much harder to break parallel because the hip extensors and flexors are put in a very strong position for flexion. Turn the feet outward slightly if you are not flexible or if you are very thick in the waist and upper thighs. If you see someone who walks with their feet turned outward, they have weak hamstrings. As far as shoes go, Converse Chuck Taylor's are best. Don't have $100 shoes and a 10-cent squat. When squatting, think about pushing your feet out, not down. This will ensure that the hip muscles are working correctly. Push your knees out the entire time, starting from when you are unracking the bar. You should feel this in the hips. Next, start pushing the glutes to the rear as thought you are searching for a hair that is too far behind you. Arch the lower back and keep the chest up. Lean forwards as much as necessary to keep the bar over your center of gravity. To ensure correct bar placement, raise the chest and pull the shoulder blades together, to place the bar back as far as possible. This creates better leverage. However, if one carries the bar too low, it causes the lifter to bend forward, destroying leverage. What stance should you use? Everyone should box squat with a wide stance, because this builds the all-important hip muscles. Thirty years ago, the great Jim Williams said to train as wide as possible and pull your stance in, to a point, to break parallel at meet time. If you watch a great squat technician, you will notice that he bends only at the hips, the knees don’t go forward, and his back does not move. While descending in the squat, never squat down. Always squat back! If you push the glutes back, the knees will not go forward. In fact, if you sit back far enough, the shins will be past vertical. This is only possible with box squatting. And it’s important because this causes a great stretch reflex. Also, by forcing your knees apart, you are significantly increasing your leverage, by shortening the distance between the hip and the knee joint. If you pull your knees together, you increase this distance and create poor leverage. In addition, this is a sign of weak hip muscles. After breaking parallel, you must first push against the bar. After all, the bar is what we are trying to raise. Unfortunately, you see many lifters who push with their feet first. This causes you to bend forward Into a good morning position, which is opposite of what you are trying to achieve, in addition to being dangerous. When your back bends, you are likely to miss a squat or get injured. Most people think of squatting as a multi-joint muscular action. I see it as flexion of the spinal erectors and hip flexors and slight flexion of the knees. It’s much like trying to jump onto a high box; you flex as much as possible in the beginning and hope you make it. Others push gradually through the lift; just enough to accommodate the external force that is being applied. As far as equipment, in a meet, wrap the knees toward the inside. This means wrap one clockwise and the other counterclockwise. This helps to stabilize them. Wear a suit that allows the knees to be forced outward ad the glutes to be pushed out to the rear. Don't wear straps that are too tight. This will cause you to bend over. In training wear a suit with the straps down and a belt. This will help the technical aspects of squatting. When someone must wear full gear for 3-4 weeks before a meet, their technical skill is low. To summarize, build the posterior chain: calves, hams, glutes, lower and upper back. Strong abs are a must. They are what you lean on to descend and push off of to ascend. Out of our top 100 squat-ters, four use an upright back position. That means that 96% lean forward, with - of course - a great arch. While descending, the glutes move first and the head and bar move last. So, in the concentric phase, the opposite happens. You must push against the bar first. One workout per week must be devoted to speed (box squatting) and one for maximal effort, with a variety of core exercises such as good mornings and squatting with special bars that change your center of gravity. To all strength coaches: the next time you have your athletes do Olympic squats, ask yourself why. The joint angles are not advantageous for the stretch reflex. If a lineman were to use that position on the field, he would easily be pushed backward. The Olympic lifts require flexibility. There are many drills better suited to increase flexibility. Everyone thinks the Olympic lifts are so quick. While your cleans at 60% look fast, so do our box squats at 60%. The athlete who can power clean 400 uses 240(60%). The lifter who can squat 800 uses 480 (60%). Who do you really think would be faster and stronger? Compared to a powerlifter, an Olympic lifter can’t squat with the Sunday paper. A kid that can hang clean 400 would look frail to an 800 squatter. And don’t forget, in Olympic lifting, as the bar is raising, the lifter is lowering himself, making it appear that they are moving the bar at great speed. Olympic lifting is the biggest bust in the United States. We have not placed a single lifter on the "A" list, yet strength coaches still advocate the Olympic lifts.

http://sreishus.blogspot.com/2008/07/squatting.html

Stupid Ss as Stupid Does

2008-07-14T17:34:00.001-07:00

A NEGATIVE MIND SPAWNS ONLY NEGATIVE IDEAS.

It is a physical impossibility for a negative mind to generate positive thoughts. When you allow yourself to dwell on the negative aspects of life, negative thinking expands to fill all of your thoughts until there is no room for positive thoughts to grow. It becomes an endless cycle. The habit of negative thinking generates more and more negative thoughts, which the mind attempts to turn into physical reality. The result is a life of despair and hopelessness. Develop the habit of eliminating negative thoughts the moment they appear. Start small at first. When you first hear that inner voice that says, "I can’t do this," put the thought out of your mind immediately. Instead, concentrate on the task itself. Break it down into manageable parts and complete them one at a time. When the job is finished, tell your doubting self: "You were wrong. I could do it, and I did!"

This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

Unparalleled Success

2008-07-08T14:42:00.001-07:00

"Think of yourself as on the threshold
of unparalleled success. A whole,
clear, glorious life lies before you. Achieve! Achieve!"

Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919)
Scottish-American industrialist

Pessimism

2008-07-08T14:36:00.000-07:00

"Pessimism is an excuse for not trying and a guarantee to
a personal failure." - NA

Only You have the Power to Accept NO

2008-07-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

"Never let anyone tell you no who doesn't have the power to
say yes."

Eleanor Roosevelt (1884–1962)
U.N. diplomat, humanitarian, U.S. first lady

2008-07-08T14:31:00.001-07:00

IT IS ALWAYS SAFE TO TALK ABOUT OTHERS AS LONG AS YOU SPEAK OF THEIR GOOD QUALITIES.

The old adage "If you can’t say something nice about someone, don’t say anything at all" is especially valid today. In any organization, regardless of size, the rumor mill works overtime when it comes to negative gossip. And you can be sure that unkind things you say about others will very quickly find their way to them, for it is also a truism that those who talk about others to us talk about us to others. Not only should you not speak badly ofothers-you should not participate in conversations in which others do. Spend your time with those who focus on important things, and you will never have to apologize for an unkind word uttered in a moment of weakness.

This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

Being Happy

2008-07-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

"If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy, and inspires your hope."

--Andrew Carnegie.

Joining Forces

2008-07-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

SOMETIMES IT IS WISER TO JOIN FORCES WITH OPPONENTS THAN TO FIGHT THEM.

What a better world this would be if we worked together in harmony toward the achievement of our shared goals instead of engaging in petty disputes and turf battles. When you allow yourself to be dragged into personality conflicts, game playing, arguments about who gets the credit, and disagreements about trivial issues, they only drain your energy and sour your attitude. Plus you waste valuable time that could be spent on far more important matters. When you make an effort to understand others’ motivations, you may well discover that your opponents have far more in common with you than you think. When you cage your ego and look at the situation from the other person’s point of view, you can almost always find a way to work together for your mutual advantage.actually looking forward to going to work.

This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

Heart Attack Survivors Still Not Pro-Active

2008-07-08T13:27:00.000-07:00

Still far too many Heart Attack survivors are not paying attention to their bodies. Too many are still not aware of the risk they are still living under. Far too many people think the Hospitals and Doctors are in charge of their Patients health. Doctors and Hospitals only can help and offer assistance and education. It will always be the Patient who is in charge of Patient health.

http://www.sciencealert.com.au/news/20080207-17601.html

"Forty-six per cent of patients had "low knowledge levels" and 43 per cent thought they were at no higher risk of having another heart attack than other people their age, Professor Sharon McKinley from University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Nursing, Midwifery and Health (NM&H) and Professor Kathleen Dracup, Dean of the School of Nursing at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) reported to the American Heart Association."

Understanding Stroke Effects at the Cellular Level

2008-07-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

A stroke happens when a blood vessel bursts in the brain. The free-radicals from blood and the lack of oxygen causes brain cell death. The brain can repair the damage by rerouting the signals going to the effected brain cells to other brain cells. At least in the case of this study, the brain cells started doing double duty instead of changing jobs. Further study has to be done to confirm this.

http://scienceblogs.com/neurophilosophy/2008/07/researchers_watch_brain_rewire.php

Discovering Your Real Strength

2008-07-08T13:01:00.000-07:00

NO ONE COULD RIDE A HORSE IF THE HORSE DISCOVERED ITS REAL STRENGTH. THE SAME THING IS TRUE FOR PEOPLE. - Napoleon Hill

Horses are massive, gentle creatures who are by far larger and stronger than the men and women who handle them, yet they docilely obey the commands they are given. It doesn’t seem logical that a large, powerful animal would allow itself to be mastered by a human being, yet we have been able to use our intelligence to dominate the animal kingdom. You can use these same forces to allow the positive side of yourself to dominate the negative. A Positive Mental Attitude allows you to tap the source of great power that resides within you, enabling you to accomplish things you never before believed were possible.
This positive message is brought to you by the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Visit us at http://www.naphill.org. We encourage you to forward this to friends and family. They can sign up for this free service at our web site.

The Real Costly Health Care Dilemma

2008-07-08T12:24:00.000-07:00

As American Medicine advances further into finding cures for just about everything, fewer and fewer mainstream people can afford these advancements. One powerfully successful cancer drug costs up to $ 100,000 a year but can only extend the lifetime of a cancer patient a few more years. American Medicine is looking more and more like a war between Drug Marketing firms, Doctors who want to save their patients at any cost and the public who want to feel better vs. Insurance companies and Doctors really looking at the cost/benefit ratio.

The cost to develop novel drugs is so high that many drug companies are working to extend the patent rights for their already successful drugs.

Because of the American for profit health care system publically traded drug companies are mandated by their share holders to make the maximum dollars from any drug produced. Until America goes toward a European style National Health care system health care companies will charge as much as the market will bare to keep America healthy.

Costly Cancer Drug Offers Hope, but Also a Dilemma

Childhood eczema linked to asthma

2008-07-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

Both eczema and asthma are auto-immune, pro-inflammatory deseases and are some how linked. Even though the underlying common mechanisms between the two aren't understood working in general with an anti-inflammatory diet may help a great deal. Omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil and citrus fruits high in antioxidant filled bioflavinoids are also as well.

http://www.sciencealert.com.au/news/20080807-17623.html

“The incidence of asthma in people from the ages of 8 to 44 who had childhood eczema, was nearly double that of people who had never had eczema,’’ Dr Burgess said.

http://uninews.unimelb.edu.au/articleid_5266.html

Diet Cuts Cancer Risk by 22%

2008-07-06T20:50:00.000-07:00

Mediterranean-style diet cuts cancer risk by up to 22%. It might be possible to cut cancer rates by 12% just by keeping your diet high in omega 3 and cutting your dietary omega 6 fatty acids.

"The study, published in the British Journal of Cancer, monitored the prevalence of all types of cancer from stomach and bowel to liver, cervix and brain tumors. They looked at men and women, and took into account other risk factors, such as smoking and lifestyle."

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-wellbeing/health-news/miracle-diet-from-the-med-858318.html

Beating The Mood Food High

2008-07-02T18:34:00.000-07:00

Get rid of your sweet tooth by not letting yourself get high from your food. Many people have heard the phrase "mood food" and that is the experience of getting high from your food. The major problem is getting fat while getting high from eating junk.

Dopamine regulates appetite and reinforces behavior and opiates triggers cravings and relieves pain. When you eat to release enough dopamine to feel it you are reinfocing bad habits. Cocaine & cristal meth are so addictive because of their effects on dopamine. Opioids are what many addictive pain medications trigger. If you get yourself into the downward spiral of the mood food trap you could become obese before you really try to do anything about it.

Do you want to be part of the 2/3 of Americans that are already too fat? Eat to get good nutrition, not to get high.

http://www.simpleology.com/blog/2008/06/how_you_can_keep_your_sweet_to.html

"Lab experiments on rats showed the cycle of sugar deprivation and indulgence sensitized both the dopamine (which regulates appetite) and opioid (which triggers cravings) receptors in the rodents' brains."

http://www.everydayhealth.com/publicsite/index.aspx?puid=822a64ed-5765-437e-8517-c7a11b593e53&p=1

http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/

Wisdom from Dr. Seuss

2008-07-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

"You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes. You
can steer yourself any direction
you choose."

Dr. Seuss (1904-1991)
Children's book author

Curcumin may offer protection against diabetes

2008-07-02T17:26:00.000-07:00

http://www.lef.org/newsletter/2008/0627_Curcumin-May-Offer-Protection-Against-Diabetes.htm?source=eNewsLetter2008Wk26-2&key=Archive&l=0#article

"Inflammation is believed to play a role in the onset of diabetes type 2 as well as obesity. The researchers suggest that curcumin helps prevent diabetes by reducing the inflammation that occurs in obesity. By suppressing the number and activity of inflammatory cytokines produced by immune cells in fatty tissue, which can damage the heart and insulin-producing pancreatic islands as well as increase muscle and liver insulin resistance, curcumin may help reduce some of obesity’s adverse effects."

Gandhi's 10 Best Ways to Change the World

2008-07-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

1.Change yourself.
“You must be the change you want to see in the world.”

2.You are in control.
“Nobody can hurt me without my permission.”

3.Forgive and let it go.
“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.”
“An eye for eye only ends up making the whole world blind.”

4.Without action you aren’t going anywhere.
“An ounce of practice is worth more than tons of preaching.”

5.Take care of this moment.
“I do not want to foresee the future. I am concerned with taking care of the present. God has given me no control over the moment following.”

6.Everyone is human.
“I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps.”
“It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err.”

7.Persist.
“First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.”

8.See the good in people and help them.
“I look only to the good qualities of men. Not being faultless myself, I won’t presume to probe into the faults of others.”
“Man becomes great exactly in the degree in which he works for the welfare of his fellow-men.”
“I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.”

9.Be congruent, be authentic, be your true self.
“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”
“Always aim at complete harmony of thought and word and deed. Always aim at purifying your thoughts and everything will be well.”

10.Continue to grow and evolve.
”Constant development is the law of life, and a man who always tries to maintain his dogmas in order to appear consistent drives himself into a false position.”

Viagra OK For Olympians

2008-07-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

The World Anti-Doping Committee has approved Viagra to be used in the Olympic Games. Viagra increases Nitric Oxide and therefore increases oxygen uptake, blood flow and decreases blood pressure.

http://rawstory.com/news/2008/AntiDoping_Agency_Viagra_OK_For_Athletes_0630.html

"If you have more oxygen going to your muscles, that's more energy and that makes you a better athlete," said Dr. Andrew McCullough, a sexual health expert at the New York University School of Medicine. "Even if it only gives you a 10 percent increase, in peak athletes that is enough to win."

Power of Placebo in Sport

2008-07-02T12:13:00.001-07:00

A study of the athletic effects of Growth Hormone show the athletes on the fake drug got better performance results than the athletes on the real drug. Placebo is a very real part of effects from treatment. Depending on the attitude of the people administering the treatment a person can be either effected in a positive way, placebo, or have the opposite response called nocebo.

http://dangilliland.wordpress.com/?s=placebo

http://www.sciencealert.com.au/news/20082606-17562-2.html

"The study told us that athletes who were on the dummy drug, but who believed they were on growth hormone, thought their performance had improved and actually showed some improvement in all measures of performance. One test in particular, jump height or power, showed a significantly greater improvement among these incorrect guessers."

http://www.garvan.org.au/news-events/news/are-the-benefits-of-growth-hormone-all-in-the-athletes-mind.html

"There were some men who were 110% sure they were on active treatment, and their cards said they were on placebo. They almost refused to believe it. It was as if some felt they'd been cheated."

Watermelon's Viagra Effect

2008-07-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

Watermelon contains an amino acid that increases blood flow by producing Nitric Oxide. This amino acid called citrulline is being used as a supplement for increasing blood flow and lowering blood pressure. Bodybuilders feel "the pump" when they take citrulline.

ScienceDaily (July 1, 2008) — A cold slice of watermelon has long been a Fourth of July holiday staple. But according to recent studies, the juicy fruit may be better suited for Valentine’s Day. That’s because scientists say watermelon has ingredients that deliver Viagra-like effects to the body’s blood vessels and may even increase libido.

Americans Biggest Drug Addicts in World

2008-07-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

The United States is number 1 in at least something still.

USA! USA! USA! Gooooo USA! (we're the awesomest druggies in the world!)

"According to a new survey the USA has highest level of illegal cocaine and cannabis use in the world. Thank goodness the War for Drugs is working so well! Ohh... wait... that's the war ON drugs and it's supposed to protect us from ourselves and our nasty drug habits. Well anyway.. here's the details on the study:"

Toward a Global View of Alcohol, Tobacco, Cannabis, and Cocaine Use: Findings from the WHO World Mental Health Surveys

You Can Live Long Enough to live Forever

2008-07-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

You Can Live Long Enough to live Forever sounds like a crazy claim but it may come true.

"Do we have the knowledge and the tools today to live forever? If all science and technology development suddenly stopped, the answer would have to be no. We do have the means to dramatically slow disease and the aging process far more than most people realize, but we do not yet have all the techniques we need to indefinitely extend human life. However, it is clear that far from halting, the pace of scientific and technological discovery is accelerating.

According to models that Ray has created, our paradigm-shift rate—the rate of technical progress—is doubling every decade, and the capability (price performance, capacity, and speed) of specific information technologies is doubling every year.4 So the answer to our question is actually a definitive yes—the knowledge exists, if aggressively applied, for you to slow aging and disease processes to such a degree that you can be in good health and good spirits when the more radical life-extending and life-enhancing technologies become available over the next couple of decades.

Longevity expert and gerontologist Aubrey de Grey uses the metaphor of maintaining a house to explain this key concept. How long does a house last? The answer obviously depends on how well you take care of it. If you do nothing, the roof will spring a leak before long, water and the elements will invade, and eventually the house will disintegrate. But if you proactively take care of the structure, repair all damage, confront all dangers, and rebuild or renovate parts from time to time using new materials and technologies, the life of the house can essentially be extended without limit." from Chapt 1 of Fantastic Voyage:Live Long Enough to live Forever by Ray Kurzweil & Terry Grossman M.D.

http://www.fantastic-voyage.net/Chapter1.htm

Bicycle in NYC without being killed using Ride the City

2008-07-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

Bicycle in NYC without being killed using Ride the City

Using a Google Maps mashup you can find your way in a bike through Zoo York and make it home alive.

http://ridethecity.com/

http://www.webware.com/8301-1_109-9980549-2.html?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=Webware

Prosperity Brings Happiness

2008-07-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

"Denmark is the happiest country in the world in our ratings," Inglehart said in an audio statement released by the National Science Foundation, which paid for the analysis.

"Denmark is prosperous -- not the richest country in the world but it is prosperous."

http://www.reuters.com/article/oddlyEnoughNews/idUSN0145488820080701?feedType=RSS&feedName=oddlyEnoughNews&rpc=69

Modeling Success

2008-07-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO IMITATE A SUCCESSFUL MAN THAN TO ENVY HIM.
- Napoleon Hill

Modeling successful people is what will make you great. Napoleon Hill, Tony Robbins, Richard Bandler built their success by finding out what successful people do to become successful. NLP is founded on modeling success.

What You Think of Yourself

2008-07-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

"What you think of yourself is much more important than what others think of you."

--Seneca

Too many people spend too much time and energy buying and doing things they don't want or need, trying to impress people who we don't care about and don't care about us.

Action Hemingway Style

2008-06-30T18:58:00.000-07:00

"Never mistake motion for action."

Ernest Hemingway (1899–1961)
American novelist

Busy work will just keep you busy. Action will get you anywhere you want to go as long as you have a plan and know where to go.

New Pro-Hormone Ban Almost Here

2008-06-30T18:26:00.000-07:00

New Pro-Hormone Ban to go in effect soon.

A long lasting Pro-hormone called Bold increases strength and helps improve endurance will be banned soon.

My personal favorite DMT for strength and protein dependent muscle gains will disappear as well.

Tren is everyone's overall favorite for bodybuilding muscle gains will be banned as well.

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"Boldione is also known by the following chemical name: androsta- 1,4-diene-3,17-dione. DEA has determined that the chemical structure of boldione is chemically related to that of testosterone. The chemical structure of boldione differs from testosterone by only the following two chemical groups: A ketone group at carbon 17 and a double bond between the first and second carbon. The human body would be expected to metabolize the ketone group at carbon 17 into a hydroxyl group that is present on testosterone. Furthermore, the scientific literature reports that the additional double bond at carbon 1 in boldione does not significantly decrease the anabolic activity of the substance (Vida, 1969). Boldione is an anabolic steroid precursor, being metabolized by the body into boldenone (Galletti and Gardi, 1971), which is a schedule III anabolic steroid (21 U.S.C. 801(41)(A)(vi)).

Desoxymethyltestosterone (DMT) is also known by the following names: 17[alpha]-methyl-5a-androst-2-en-17[beta]-ol; and madol. DEA has determined that the chemical structure of desoxymethyltestosterone is chemically related to testosterone. The chemical structure of desoxymethyltestosterone differs from testosterone by the following four chemical features: The lack of a ketone group at the third carbon, a double bond between the second and third carbon, the lack of a double bond between the fourth and fifth carbon, and a methyl group at carbon 17. Each of these four chemical features is known through the scientific literature not to eliminate the anabolic and androgenic activity of the substance (Brueggemeir et al., 2002; Vida, 1969).

19-Nor-4,9(10)-androstadienedione is also known by the following chemical names: 19-norandrosta 4,9(10)-diene-3,17-dione; and estra- 4,9(10)-diene-3,17-dione. DEA has determined that the chemical structure of 19-nor-4,9(10)-androstadienedione is chemically related to testosterone. The chemical structure of 19-nor-4,9(10)- androstadienedione differs from testosterone by the following three chemical groups: A ketone group at carbon 17, the absence of a methyl group at carbon 19, and a double-bond between the ninth and tenth carbon. The human body metabolizes the ketone group at carbon 17 into a hydroxyl group that is present on testosterone. Furthermore, the scientific literature reports that both the absence of the methyl group at carbon 19 and the additional double bond in 19-nor-4,9(10)- androstadienedione increase the anabolic activity of the substance (Vida, 1969). "

http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/fed_regs/rules/2008/fr0425.htm

CLAIMING TECHNORATI

2008-06-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

Technorati Profile

Powerlifting For Beginners: An Intro

2008-06-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

Powerlifting For Beginners

What is Powerlifting?
Powerlifting is a mix of 3 lifts; the squat, the benchpress & the squat. The object of Powerlifting is to lift as much as you can for 1 rep in each of these lifts. Contests are held and a lifter has 3 chances to lift as much as possible.

How is it different from Bodybuilding?
Bodybuilding is completely subjective and the training style is completely different. Powerlifting has very little subjectivity to it. Most of the time judges will give the same type of calls to everyone in the meet. Bodybuilding has more politics in it than Powerlifting. The best way I've found to strength train is doing no more than 5 reps per set. On average I do 3 reps per set and if I want to increase my volume I will increase the number of sets instead of number of reps. I make sure each rep is done in a fast but controlled manner. Bodybuilding training has much more volume involved in it. Most bodybuilders get the best results from doing 5 sets of 8 - 12 reps. Most Bodybuilders do more isolation exercises while most Powerlifters do compound exercises.

Why do I Powerlift instead of Bodybuild?
As a powerlifter you can still maintain the bodybuilder look as long as you pay attention to your diet. Bodybuilders look like they are a lot stronger than they really are. Bodybuilders are training to create more muscle and Powerlifters are training to create more Power. I like to compete in a more objective arena than Bodybuilding. In Powerlifting you either got the lift or you didn't, people don't talk about if you need to work on your delt symmetry.

Why you should at least mix it in to your Bodybuilding routine?
A great way to mix bodybuilding with powerlifting is to Powerbuild. You can build functional strength wile maitaining the look you want.

Government wants to Know about Supplements

2008-06-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

The government wants to hear from people about what supplements they are taking to understand how they are working in real world conditions.

http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jun2008/nccam-06.htm

Time To Talk About CAM:
Health Care Providers and Patients Need To Ask and Tell

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has launched Time to Talk, an educational campaign to encourage patients — particularly those age 50 or older — and their health care providers to openly discuss the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM ). CAM is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine, such as herbal supplements, meditation, naturopathy, and acupuncture.
According to a national consumer survey conducted by NCCAM and AARP, almost two-thirds of people age 50 or older are using some form of CAM, yet less than one-third of these CAM users talk about it with their providers. The NCCAM/AARP survey revealed some reasons why this doctor-patient dialogue about CAM does not occur. The most common reasons survey respondents cited were

* That the physician never asked
* They did not know they should discuss CAM
* There was not enough time during the office visit.

More than one-half of respondents who had talked about CAM with their physician said they (not their physician) initiated the CAM discussion. The telephone survey was administered to a nationally representative group of 1,559 people age 50 or older.

"In an era of genomics and personalized medicine, we need to remember that a key ingredient to good health care is the dialogue you, as a patient, have with your providers," said Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D., NIH Director. "And talking about what CAM therapies you use is an important part of that discussion. This is important for people of all ages."

The Time to Talk campaign is aimed at addressing the need for this dialogue to help ensure safe, coordinated care among all conventional and CAM therapies. Talking not only allows integrated care, it also minimizes risks of interactions with a patient's conventional treatments. When patients tell their providers about their CAM use, they can more effectively manage their health. When providers ask their patients about CAM use, they can ensure that they are fully informed and can help patients make wise health care decisions.

"As frequent users of CAM, people 50 and older need to understand the importance of discussing CAM use with their providers to ensure coordinated, safe care. Simply put, it's time to talk," said Josephine P. Briggs, M.D., NCCAM Director. "Giving your health care providers a full picture of what you do to manage your health helps you stay in control."

NCCAM's Time to Talk campaign encourages patients to tell their providers about CAM use and providers to ask about it by offering tools and resources — such as wallet cards, posters, and tip sheets — all of which are available for free on the NCCAM Web site (nccam.nih.gov) or can be ordered from NCCAM's information Clearinghouse (1-888-644-6226). NCCAM is reaching out to professional associations and consumer organizations to help educate their members about the importance of this dialogue and the availability of NCCAM's campaign materials. As the Federal government's lead agency for scientific research on CAM, NCCAM is committed to educating both consumers and health care providers about the importance of discussing CAM and providing evidence-based information to help with health care decision making.

Get Better & Stay that Way

2008-06-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

Sports psychologist and executive coach Graham Jones 5 Leadership Lessons as published in Harvard Business Review

1. Learn to Love the Pressure
"I never made any sacrifices; I made choices." - Greg Searle

Dan's comment: pressure is what forges us to become better. Pressure focuses us on the importance essence of who we really are. Link to J.K Rowling about getting to her essence by hitting rock bottom.

2. Fixate on the Long Term.
Long term success is paved with small achievements

Dan's comment: without the perspective of long-term success you will never get through the short-term pain. You must start with the end in mind or you will quit before you get there.

3. Iron Sharpens Iron.
Train with people who push you the hardest.

Dan's comment: If you hangout with people who don't push themselves to greatness you will never get moral support from them to push yourself to greatness. Cultures have benchmark ideals and if you want to be bland hangout with bland people. If you want to be great, hangout with other people who also want to be great.

4. Reinvent Yourself.
While it’s good to feel challenged, you need to make sure that any feedback you get is constructive.

Dan's comment: Tony Robbins calls it the power of CANI; Continuing and Never-ending Improvement. You will never be able to hit 100% potential because once you hit your perceived benchmark you are capable of being better. But in order to become better you have to look at the situation differently and come up with a new plan to become better. You can't get there from here. What you are doing is getting you the results you have. If you want different results you have to do things differently. It is the Law of Attraction, what you have is what you really want. If you really want something different you will change to get different. The difference between what you really want and what you think you want is the battle between your real values vs. ego driven desired and perceived values.

5. Celebrate the Victories.
The very best performers do not move on before they have scrutinized and understood thoroughly the factors underpinning their success.

Dan's comment: Celebration is to release the past and move on toward future goals while understanding the now. Using the power of CANI to understand that you are capable hitting or smashing your goals. Celebration is empowering yourself to reinforce victories and to remember how you did it so you can recognize how to get to that sweet spot in your mind and to see a future goal that will happen just as easily.