The Best Anabolic for Your Muscles.

In the history of sport and exercise, humans have been searching for the best methods to enhance physical ability while maintaining the highest levels of recovery at the same time.  Various methods have included using olive oil massages in ancient Greece and Rome, cold baths, hot baths and steam rooms, doing lighter versions of exercises the following day, the use of steroids and the use of NSAIDs.

All of these methods are very effective both for building muscle and for recovering from strenuous workouts.  The one method that is never mentioned is one that combines science and physiology.  It is the use of water.  Not bathing or cleaning with it but drinking it.

Muscles are composed of 79% water.  When we first wake up in the morning, we are severely dehydrated as we breathe out moisture all night long while we are sleeping.  Our muscles are depleted and require water, so the first thing we should do in the morning is drink a litre (2 large glasses of 12-14 ounces) of water to wake up, perk up our energy levels and rehydrate our bodies, particularly to refill our muscles with the water they have lost over-night.

The second instance where we should be drinking water is immediately after we exercise.  Our muscles have been worked very hard and need to be re-hydrated and the water also helps to flush out lactic acid produced from exercises.

This is one of the most anabolic things you can do immediately after a workout.  Continuing to re-hydrate the next day when your muscles are recovering is also vital for growth.

The amount of water that should be consumed depends on the size of the person and their level of physical activity, but a litre of water first thing in the morning and at least half a litre after a workout is the minimum recommended, in addition to regularly drinking water during the day.

Drinking enough water to foster muscle growth and keep energy levels high is one of the simplest and most effective ways to build muscle.