The average human has between 3.5 and 4 grams of creatine per kilogram of muscle. (1.59 to 1.81 grams per lb. of muscle)
What does creatine do?
Provides additional energy to your muscles:
When you perform an action such as lifting a weight or sprinting, your body needs a very quick response supply of energy. This energy comes from a molecule called Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP for short) when it is transformed into ADP (Adenosine diphosphate). Your body doesn't have an endless supply of ATP and so you are only able to exert yourself for a short period of time. When Creatine is introduced into your body in the form of a supplement, it transforms the ADP back into ATP and thus provides you with an additional energy source.
Cellular Hydration:
Creatine acts as a volumising agent by pulling water into the muscle tissue and increasing the volume of muscle - a 'pumped up' look.
Lactic Acid Buffer:
When you exercise over a long period your muscles will start to become fatigued and you will feel 'the burn'. This is a process of lactic acid building up within the muscles. Creatine has been shown to delay the build up of lactic acid and allow the user to extend their normal period of strenuous activity.
Enhances Protein Synthesis:
It is believed that creatine places the body in a more anabolic state which is ideal for protein synthesis to occur and greater muscle (mass) development. The development of mass, however, is also reliant upon resistance training and proper nutrition.
Do I need to take creatine to add muscle (mass)?
No. Creatine is just one of the many supplements currently available to assist you in developing your physique.
If I take creatine but don't perform any resistance training (weights) will I add muscle (mass)?
No.
