A SNS Stack: A student's perspective on Focus XT, Agmatine, and DAA

[JJ22]

https://sportandsupplements.com/product_images/uploaded_images/Serious_Nutrition_Solutions.png

I want first acknowledge and thank SNS for the opportunity to log Focus XT, Agmatine, and DAA . I have always respected SNS’s and their direction as a company. Their main company goals are to provide:

Top Quality Products - They are GMP approved and I have seen numerous independent analyses on their products. The ingredients they choose are effective; no pseudo-science driven formulation.

Cost Effective Prices - Their products are competitively priced while still using efficacious dosages. They also supply a lot of bulk ingredients which helps to fill holes your supplement lineup while keeping costs low.

Best Customer Service in the Industry - Just take a look at their board presence. Top notch. I also received the package promptly compared to other promo's I have taken part of. I have been impressed how they handle themselves.

In my opinion, they are one of the few solid companies left in an industry that leaves much to be desired.

With that said, I quickly jumped on this opportunity as it fits perfectly with where I am in life. I fully intend to provide a honest perspective despite this log being sponsored. Before we start, below is a little primer on the SNS products I will be using over the course of this log.


Focus XT Information

Link to the bb.com store: http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/sns/focus.html

Focus XT contains 30 scoops per container.

Ingredients per scoop:
Focus XT Blend 9800mg of:
Choline Bitartrate
L-Tyrosine
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol Bitartrate)
Vinpocetine
Huperzine A
---
Caffeine 200mg

Proposed Benefits:
• Improved Mental Focus
• Mental Alertness and Concentration
• Mental Clarity
• Anti-Stress Properties
• Maximizing Energy Levels
• Optimal Mental Performance
• Concentration
• Memory
• Improved Endurance
• Pre-Athletic Activity Energy and Focus
• Increased Fat Burning During Exercise
• Improved Mind-Muscle Connection
• Combating Overtraining
• Pre-Workout Energy and Focus

How I will use Focus XT: I will use Focus XT typically preworkout or prior to a study session, areas where I will need it most as school finishes out.
-----------------------

Agmatine Information

Unfortunately not sold on BB.com. Find more information at http://www.seriousnutritionsolutions.com

Agmatine contains 250 mg of Agmatine per capsule, 90 capsules per bottle.

Agmatine is Commonly Used For:
Dramatic & Long Lasting 'Pumps'
Improved Recovery
Improved Endurance
Improved Performance
Improved Body Composition Including Increased Lean Muscle & Decreased Body-Fat

Summary of Benefits:
Increased Nitric Oxide Syntheses
Inhibit NO Synthase (the enzyme responsible for NO breakdown)
Stimulation of L.H. (Luteinizing Hormone) & G.H. (Growth Hormone) Levels
Promote a Healthy & Positive Mood (Anti-Anxiety & Antidepressant Properties)
Promote Nutrient Delivery to Muscle Cells
Supports Overall Anabolic Environment
Enhanced Insulin Response
Neuroprotective Support
Cardiovascular Health
Antioxidant Role

How I will use Agmatine Sulfate: I will be using 1g (4 caps) preworkout as I believe its the most cost-effective way to beneficially dose it.
----------------------

DAA Information

Unfortunately not sold on BB.com. Find more inforation at http://www.seriousnutritionsolutions.com

DAA Powder contains 3 grams (3000 mg) of Sodium D-Aspartic Acid per serving. 50 servings per container.

DAA Powder is commonly used for:
Increasing Natural Testosterone Levels
Increased Lean Muscle & Strength
Improved Libido
Improved Erection Quality
Improved Duration of Intercourse & Perceived Orgasm Intensity
Improved Nitric Oxide Levels
Nootropic Benefits

DAA Powder Highlights:
Contains Sodium D-Aspartic Acid (the type shown effective in human studies)
Contains the exact dosage used in human studies (3.12 grams per day)
Non-Steroidal/Prohormone free
No Proprietary Blends

How I will use the DAA powder: I will consume 1 scoop a day; half scoop in the morning on an empty stomach and the other half scoop preworkout. Thus, 3g a day for 50 days.



That concludes the primer. Now, more about myself, training protocols and where this log is headed.

[JJ22]

About me: I am currently 22 years old, natural, with around 1.5 years of serious lifting and diet experience. Like others, I lifted with no real sense of direction nor emphasis on diet since high school; gains were rapid at first and peaked relatively fast. As a sophomore at the University of Minnesota Duluth, I weighed 215 pounds at 5’10”; I was overweight and suffering from debilitating inflammatory skin conditions that happened to propagate during the same time. I decided to make a change; I completed 10 weeks Ultimate Diet 2.0, lost 30+ pounds and simultaneously my skin conditions were greatly reduced.

With those results I was hooked and have spent an ever increasing amount of time diving into nutrition and exercise literature. I’ve also changed my outlook on my career goals and I now want to incorporate a fitness profession alongside my future goals of graduating medical school and becoming an Endocrinologist. I am currently at the University Of Minnesota Duluth pursuing a Biology B.S.. After graduation, I will be hopefully accepted into the graduate nutrition program at the University Of Minnesota Twin Cities. Medical school will have to wait until after graduate school; truly believe chasing your passion and sharing it with others is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Physique as of March 2011: I have recently transitioned into a lean gain phase. As such, calories and training intensity has increased. I also have dropped cardio from my workout plan. Though I am not in the exact condition as pictured below, I believe it gives you a good perspective of where I am at. That is alright as my goal is to add as much lean mass as possible while attenuating fat mass.

Cut results from January 14th to March 14th... 57 days spent actually cutting with a four day above maintenance break.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_vDKxqPMtlMY/TYyxi9ioqsI/AAAAAAAAAE4/8rrllGa1-aE/s1280/Pre%20post%204.png
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_vDKxqPMtlMY/TYyxjUIdtPI/AAAAAAAAAFA/SV_gcBex_Rc/s1280/Pre%20Post%202.png
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_vDKxqPMtlMY/TYyxjiJu5uI/AAAAAAAAAFE/hGUre56nkug/s800/Pre%20Post%203.png
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_vDKxqPMtlMY/TYyxmMaPSKI/AAAAAAAAAFM/D9yJrML5hbc/Pre%20Post.png
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_vDKxqPMtlMY/TY_fmVApnNI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/G0lGci7FXl8/s1280/Log%202.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_vDKxqPMtlMY/TY_fmK6HyMI/AAAAAAAAAIM/qA7SGyDQvjI/Log.jpg
http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/JJ22/

Goals of this Log:
1. Increase strength in compound exercises with a favorable strength to body weight ratio.
2. Maintain a lean, balanced physique while gaining mass.
3. Increase conditioning and work capacity.
4. Promote and influence others to become proactive about their health by starting or maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes both resistance exercise and nutritious, whole-food choices.

Goals in regards to the SNS stack:

1. Maintain intensity in the gym and finish the final two weeks of my undergraduate career strong.
2. Analyze SNS’s products (Focus XT, Agmatine, and DAA) as they pertain to the previous goal.
3. Provide honest, and timely feedback.

[JJ22]

The Training Protocol
The workout will be a hybrid between Doggcrap (DC) training and Myo-Reps. I will use an EOD workout program split into push and pull workouts. I will use three different push/pull workouts (A1,B1,A2,B2,A3,B3) that use different exercises that are rotated through similar to DC training. At least two exercises per body part will be used.

A typical work set will begin with a fatigue set that is brought to one rep before failure to a recruit a maximal amount of motor units. After the fatigue set, I will rest a predetermined amount of breaths and then perform a series of work sets. The number of sets are undetermined. Auto-regulation based on how I feel on the given day will determine how many sets I will be able to achieve; sometimes I will feel fresh and hit numerous PRs while other days due to sleep, stress or other variables I won’t beat the log book. The idea is to do the maximal amount of work per day given your status. In addition, the last two sets go to complete failure and use a static hold for as long as possible with extreme stretching after each body part.

This hybrid workout uses the DC training principles of complete failure, extreme stretching and periodization of exercises. Myo-Reps brings auto-regulation and control of fatigue. Overall, I will use intensity to recruit a maximal amount of muscle fibers and progress with load, volume, and total time under tension. I keep a training log book and I will use it to beat my previous PRs and gauge my progress.

Workouts are periodized using different exercises and rep ranges on the first fatigue set that’s taken 1 rep before failure. I stay in a certain rep range for 2 weeks. The ranges include 15-20 (my deload), 12-15, 10-12, 8-10, 6-8, and 3-5 reps. Depending on the rep range, a proportional amount of breaths for rest (lower for higher volume workouts) are used after the fatigue set and a predetermined number of reps are done after the rest. I have no set volume for each workout; its auto-regulated. Like DC training, I chase complete failure on the last two sets and resist/static hold as long as possible during the eccentric on the last set. I will then go into an extreme stretch for as long as possible.

Ex: BW Dips + 70lb for 12 reps on the first fatigue set. Rest 10 deep breaths and do a set of 4 reps. Continue with sets of 4 reps after 10 breaths of rest. Once the sets get close to failure, hit failure on the last two sets with a static hold/resist the eccentric.
Notation: BW Dips + 70lb for 12 +4,4,4F,3F. F indicates failure.

I rotate through three different exercises for each body part on push day or pull days. Ex: A1, B1, A2, B2, and so on. *Extreme stretching after each body part.

A general guideline of what I do (subject to change).

A1: Weighted Dips, Cable Flies, Chest ISO Hammer Strength Machine (depends), Smith Military press, Lateral Raises, Overhead rope tricep press, Abs, Calves
A2: Decline Hammer Strength Machine, Chest ISO Hammer Strength Machine, Chest Flies (depends), Military Press, Lateral Raises, Cable Tricep Kickbacks, Avs, Calves
A3: Incline DB, Push ups off DB, Chest Iso Hammer Strength Machine (depends), Front Delt DB Raise, Lateral Raises, BTN Dumbell Press,Abs, Calves
B1: Weighted Chins, T-Bar Rows, Dead Lift, Wide Stance Leg Press, Facepulls, Hammer Grip Cable Bicep Curls
B2: Weighted Pull ups, Chest Supported Row, Rackpulls, Facepulls, Squats and Neutral Grip Cable Bicep Curls
B3: Weighted Hammer Chins, Seated Rope Rows, SLDL, Facepulls, Narrow Leg Press and Neutral Grip Cable Bicep Curls

[JJ22]

Implementation of Intermittent Fasting
Martin Berkhan’s leangains style of intermittent fasting will be used with emphasis on high protein and high carb macros on workout days while lower carb, higher fat macros on off days. Typically, I will use a 16 hour fast with an 8-hour eating window. On off days, I may use up to 20-hour fasts. I eat a clean, healthy and cost-effective diet with the majority of my calories post workout. I will shoot for 2-3 meals in the eating window, typically spaced 4 hours apart based on muscle protein synthesis research by Layne Norton.

Typical carb choices will include: brown rice, oatmeal, white potatoes, beans and popcorn, whole wheat tortillas.
Typical protein choices: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, tuna, eggs, milk, whey protein, casein protein, protein fluff.
Typical Fat choices: Eggs, almonds, peanut butter, olive oil, coconut oil, fat from meat.

Resistance training days coincide with a higher carb day: currently ~2,800 calories, (271 PRO, 350 CHO, 34 FAT) Typically: 825g Brown Rice or 1125g Baked Potatoes, 15oz chicken, 250g Grapefruit, 160g Blueberries, 2.5 scoops SmartPowders Whey, 60g Oats, 3 cups milk, 2 Whole Wheat Tortillas, 200g Broccoli flowerets, 1.5 scoops TruScience Milk Protein. I typically eat all of it post workout meals to break my 16hour fast. I usually ate two meals total, the last meal being the tortillas, broccoli, milk and the milk protein.

Off days taper calories down with protein high. Currently a ~1,400 calorie diet (270g PRO, 27g CHO, 27g FAT) Typically: 36oz chicken, 6 fish oil caps, 400g broccoli flowerets, 8 egg whites, 1.5 scoops Truscience Milk Protein. This day served as my large deficit compared to my resistance trained refeed days.

[UncleWade]

IN for this!

Good luck - looks great so far! :D

[halberstram]

In! This dude knows what he is doing, follow along..

JJ what your bf% at now? You don't look higher than 6.

[JJ22]

Day 1
Weight:169.6lb
Sleep: 7hr

Push: 12-15 + 4x with a 10 breath pause
*This workout will be repeated in 2 weeks time. Everything perfectly recorded and will be used as motivation to KILL next time this workout is up.

Flat DB:
65lb db x 9 + 3,3,3F,3FH
*Still a tad bit heavy but felt much better than last week. I am getting better control over the movement and strength should go up rather quickly. Triceps were again fatigued from previous push workout. I may have to move this exercise to after Hammer Decline Machine.

Hammer Decline Machine:
50lb x 15 + 6/6F/6FH

Cable Chest Flies:
22.5lb x 12 + 4/4/4/3F supersetted into 1 arm at a time: 12.5 x 12/6
Extreme stretching afterwards

Cable Front Raises:
30lb x 12 + 6/6/6F supersetted into 35lb plate x 18

Cable Lateral Raises:
30 x 12 + 5/5/5F supersetted into 5lb plate x 28

Cable Overhead Tricep Press:
100lb x 12 + 3/3/3F/3F supersetted into 15lb db OHP x 12

Abs:
Leg Raises x 12,12
Cable Crunches: 62.5 x 20, 72.5 x 10,10

Calves:
Leg Press 225lb x F,F,F
-------
Solid, solid workout. I feel like I am progressing nicely and gaining more reps here and there. Although I can’t completely tell without my old numbers, I know I am doing more total work.

Today marks the first dosings of DAA and Focus XT.

Agmatine: Dosed 4 caps preworkout ( dose # 1 out of 22.5 workouts). Pumps are again definitely very noticeable. Vascularity also has increased despite my weight gain. Not as big of a pump as nitrates solo, however, pumps seem to last longer when used together.

DAA: First 3g dose today (dose #1 out of 50 days). 1.5g preworkout and 1.5g at 5P.M. Can't analyze much today as it was the first initial dose. I haven't used sodium DAA before, curious as to how the effects compare to standard DAA. I've used straight DAA and it was great for libido (which is low ATM after coming off a cut.) Libido has gotten better recently and hopefully will be accelerated as this log continues. Taste is more sour that regular DAA. Should mix nicely into the Blue Razz Focus XT.

Focus XT: One of my favorite formulas for preworkout energy and focus; excited to use it for a full tub versus samples.

Dose #1 out of 30 servings. Have never tried Blue raspberry Focus XT before. Mixed it with 8oz of water and the taste is spot on, better than Xtend IMO which has a BCAA type of aftertaste. Blue Razz Focus XT also has a sour kick which I enjoy. It will definitely look forward to drinking this flavor over the coming weeks.

Throughout the workout I felt energized and focused, not so much as products containing 1,3dimethylamylamine, but very good nonetheless. Mind muscle connection was there.

It is about 6 hours postworkout and I am still focused and productive. I built this SNS log, built an extensive spreadsheet for my workouts, cooked 12lbs of chicken, and updated this log and my other log.

I am now focused on finishing my 45 minute seminar on intermittent fasting that I will present on Wednesday to my Seminar Class. Should be interesting as I bust a lot of nutritional myths.

I can't wait to take questions on meal frequency and breakfast.

That's all the updates for now folks. I will for sure update on Monday after working out.
____
Diet for lifting days:
3000 calories, 266g PRO / 416g CHO (347g Net) / 43g FAT
20 oz chicken
15g Coconut oil
75g Popcorn
2 whole wheat tortillas
60g Oats
1.5 scoops SP whey
1.5 Scoops Truscience Milk Protein Isolate -> made into fluff
1,000g baked potatoes
205g Green Beans
240g Blueberries

Diet for off days:
1700 calories, 241g PRO / 7g1 CHO (52g NET) / 55g FAT

Average for the days: 2,350

Song of the Day:
yLJ-EPuW1UE
I only listen to trance, instrumental, or house music when busy typing. Huge contrast to my lifting playlist.

[JJ22]

In! This dude knows what he is doing, follow along..

JJ what your bf% at now? You don't look higher than 6.

Don't know really. I have the noticeable "topped off" glycogen look now that i didn't have while I was cutting. Water retention is a bit higher. Midsection has lost definition, but I am ~7-8 pounds over my cut weight.

I've gorged quite a bit with so many events that randomly came up. Poor timing to end my cut, but that is how life swings. I have also cut cardio but plan to reintroduce sprint work, HITT style in the summer when I head home.

Overall, I'm happy with where I am considering the unplanned dietary extravaganzas. I will hunker down my diet better and fight urges to gorge (my hunger is finally dialing down post cut).

[Mr.Cooper69]

This log looks incredible bro, subbed. In4epicpostworkoutmeals

[FormulaLT1poweR]

Awesome bro!

Another great layout...no disappointments here!

In4TheHaul!

[Doc.Happy]

I want first acknowledge and thank SNS for the opportunity to log Focus XT, Agmatine, and DAA . I have always respected SNS’s and their direction as a company. Their main company goals are to provide:

Top Quality Products - They are GMP approved and I have seen numerous independent analyses on their products. The ingredients they choose are effective; no pseudo-science driven formulation.

Cost Effective Prices - Their products are competitively priced while still using efficacious dosages. They also supply a lot of bulk ingredients which helps to fill holes your supplement lineup while keeping costs low.

Best Customer Service in the Industry - Just take a look at their board presence. Top notch. I also received the package promptly compared to other promo's I have taken part of. I have been impressed how they handle themselves.

In my opinion, they are one of the few solid companies left in an industry that leaves much to be desired.

.

this is why i rep for them. anyone who ever gets the chance to visit with steve will know without a doubt that he is all about quality and a product that works! he impresses me with his knowledge and work ethic every day!



great start to the log, wow, im super impressed with your 3 months transformation!
cant wait to know your thoughts!

[SoftballNerd]

Looks (insert your own cuss/swear word here) EPIC!!!

Sub!!!

[JJ22]

this is why i rep for them. anyone who ever gets the chance to visit with steve will know without a doubt that he is all about quality and a product that works! he impresses me with his knowledge and work ethic every day!


great start to the log, wow, im super impressed with your 3 months transformation!
cant wait to know your thoughts!


I can definitely see his hard work is paying off; SNS gets talked about more almost daily it seems. Hopefully he will pop in the log.

I know I should edit the pictures as the dates are deceiving. Transformation actually was only 57 days of actual cutting (January 14th to March 14th excluding a 4 day break from cutting). Very satisfied with the results.

[FormulaLT1poweR]

You've got some incredible veins...

[em-dubya]

Very nice 3 months progress pics!!!!!!
Good luck with the stack:)

[JJ22]

Very nice 3 months progress pics!!!!!!
Good luck with the stack:)

I really need to edit these pictures haha... but the cut was actually done in 57 days (Jan 14th to March 14th with a four day break).

Thanks for stopping in btw. I can't wait to get this log actually rolling.

[SNS8778]

Thank you for the kind and positive words in your opening post. I really appreciate those, as well as the very thorough and detailed setup that you are doing with this log.

Absolutely fantastic progress pics.

Observation about Focus XT vs 1,3 products:
You stated that it didnt have the kick that 1,3 products have, but that the mind muscle connection is there, and that you were still productive and focused hours after using, and I didnt see if you commented on the lack of crash that some experience with 1,3 products, but that is a big point of the product - Clean energy and focus, improved mind muscle connection, and no crash.

For those that like 1,3, we sell it as a stand alone in Adrena-G in 25 mg capsules, so they can always stack it with 1,3 if they want an extra kick.

[JJ22]

Thank you for the kind and positive words in your opening post. I really appreciate those, as well as the very thorough and detailed setup that you are doing with this log.

Absolutely fantastic progress pics.

Observation about Focus XT vs 1,3 products:
You stated that it didnt have the kick that 1,3 products have, but that the mind muscle connection is there, and that you were still productive and focused hours after using, and I didnt see if you commented on the lack of crash that some experience with 1,3 products, but that is a big point of the product - Clean energy and focus, improved mind muscle connection, and no crash.

For those that like 1,3, we sell it as a stand alone in Adrena-G in 25 mg capsules, so they can always stack it with 1,3 if they want an extra kick.

The energy was definitely clean and smooth versus the sudden kick of 1,3. I don't however experience crashes from 1,3 so I typically don't mind it in the preworkout context. Never really need it for studying as caffeine + nootropics do the trick.

However, since 1,3 is a pretty powerful stimulant, I prefer to dose it by myself so I know how much I am getting. Adrena-G or other quality bulk powders would definitely work well here. I agree that it is a good idea to exclude 1,3 from Focus XT for the people who are crash sensitive and while still having Adrena-G as an option. Well thought out product line that can stack very nicely with each other.
-----
On another note, fasted for a full 24 hours today for the first time. Was easier than expected and never once felt hungry. I was highly productive and may incorporate longer fasts on days I am sedentary studying for convenience (I love HUGE meals). Had a few cups of green tea and was itching to use Focus XT. I will use it tomorrow though when I have less sleep. Gotta keep intensity up in the gym!

Dosed 3g of DAA as well today. (#2/50). Nothing to report as of yet.

[JJ22]

Day 3


Weight: 169.6lb


Sleep: 5.5 hours

B1 Pull Day

Chins:
170.5 + 5lb x 10 + 3,3, 6FH
*Weight belt broke on the third myo-rep set. Grrr….

Machine Chest Supported Row:
35lb x 15 + 8,8,8
*Need to use the hammer strength machine instead. This machine I used today doesn’t have the right feel when I pull. I can’t get my shoulders down and back without angling my forwards away from the vector of force. Too much forearm recruitment.

Deadlift:
225 x 12 + 6,6,6,6
*Felt great. Will definitely be able to up the weight as form is coming along nicely.

Face Pulls:
110 x 10 + 6,6,6,6
*New pr

Lat Width Pull Down:
60lb x 16 + 6 into extreme stretching

Neutral Stance Leg Press:
Sled + 10 plates x 12 + 4,4,4,4 into extreme stretching

Traps:
315lb x10 + 5,3F 225lb x 6

Rope Curls:
112.5 x 13 + 4,4,4F strip set into 62.5 x 6F into superset Wide curls 15lb db x 6
*Holy pump. My brachialis was beyond pumped and the dip between the medial deltoid and brachialis insertion really stood out.
----
Fasting length: 18.5 hours. Workout was done fasted.
Diet:
~ 3000 calories, 266g PRO / 416g CHO (347g Net) / 43g FAT
20 oz chicken
15g Coconut oil
75g Popcorn
2 whole wheat tortillas
60g Oats
1 scoop ON Hydrowhey
0.5 scoop Smartpowders Whey
2 Scoops Tempro Protein -> made into fluff
1,000g baked potatoes
205g Green Beans
240g Blueberries
-------
Overall extremely solid workout. With only 5.5 hours of sleep, I felt good and Focus XT really gave an extra push for energy. I can’t get over how good this tastes, even masks DAA quite well (not that DAA tastes bad, quite sour and works well with Focus XT). If they made this into a drink, I’d enjoy it every day.

Agmatine is definitely ramping up the pumps. It’s almost crazy how fast the pumps come on. My forearms have ridiculous vascularity and I noticed during my set for arms my brachialis stood out more than normal. I also feel like I’m eeking more reps out and more total work. I’ll gauge how I recover from this workout and adjust calories / training appropriately.

3rd Dose of DAA today. 3g again. Can’t say I have noticed much other than a slight boost in motivation. DAA’s effects are usually felt within 1.5 weeks for me, so it will be interesting if there are any differences with Sodium DAA versus bulk DAA.

I’ve also been extending my fasts just a little longer than normal. I just work better on an empty stomach and would much rather save time prepping meals at once. Not really worrying about muscle breakdown as I broke the 24hr fast yesterday with a 1,700 calorie meal. Must have been digesting well into the fast today haha.

Off to finish a cover letter and resume and then study reproductive endocrinology. Still got a good buzz from focus xt. No crash... just smoothness!
-------
Video of the day
AHnq6DWFjVM
 

[Doc.Happy]

wow, thats a great workout. nice job on the deads. i think the DAA take a bit to build up in the system. great that you are getting such good pumps out of only 3 caps of the agmatine.

good luck studying endocrinology. it was one of my favorites. now i remember nothing :D

[em-dubya]

Nice log so far!
What brand of DAA have you used in the past? I usually see strength and libido increases within 1 to 1.5 weeks

[JJ22]

Nice log so far!
What brand of DAA have you used in the past? I usually see strength and libido increases within 1 to 1.5 weeks

NP ~ 3g daily for 4-6 weeks. Never used Sodium DAA before.

I agree, within 1 to 1.5 weeks I typically get muscle hardness, strength, libido increases as well as slight alpha male feel.

I respond well to DAA in my experience.

[Synapsin]

In :)

[JJ22]

Well today is the big 45 minute seminar about Intermittent Fasting and shortly after I will be lifting weights... should a good time. I'll have updates later tonight about the stack.

Time to kill it!

[JJ22]

Day 5


Weight: 167.6lb


Sleep: 5.5 Hours

Push Day

Dips:
170.0 + 65lb x 12 + 4,4,2FH
*PR… Yeah buddy!

Incline DB:
60lb x 7 + 4/3/2F/2F
*Felt extremely soild here. Not sure if that’s a PR or not however.

Machine Flies:
65 x 12 + 4/4/4/4FH
*PR on top set as well as myo-rep reps. RIDICULOUS pump.

Front Delt Raises:
45lb plate x 20 +5/5/5/5F super setted into 20lb db x 28 alternating
*Tried it with a plate instead of a cable. I think I may like it better and stick with it on this workout.

Lateral Cable Raises:
32.5 lb x 12 + 7/6/6F supersetted into 5lb plate x 28
* PR!

:BTN db Press
75lb x 10 + 4,2,3,4F supersetted into 40lb db x 8 strip setted into 20lb db x 8
*PR

Abs:
Decline BW x 20, 10lb plate x 8,8,8F, Decline x 5F

Calves:
Sled + 10 plates + 50lb x 18 + 9,6F supersetted into 6 Plates x 12
*PR
----
Fasting length: 19.5 hours. Workout was done fasted.
Diet:
~ 3000 calories, 266g PRO / 416g CHO (347g Net) / 43g FAT
20 oz chicken
15g Coconut oil
75g Popcorn
2 whole wheat tortillas
60g Cherrios
1 scoop ON Hydrowhey
0.5 scoop Smartpowders Whey
2 Scoops Tempro Protein -> made into fluff
1,000g baked potatoes
205g Green Beans
240 Strawberries
1 banana
-------
Amazing day to say the least. Killed my seminar and people were left with a speechless look on their face once I demonstrated my results with fasting. It’s one thing to research a topic but it’s a whole nother thing to go out and apply it in the real world. It really concluded my seminar well and people were impressed. I stayed for an extra 25 minutes answering questions.

After the seminar went well, I had such a natural high going. I immediately enjoyed my Focus XT on the way to the gym and I was in heaven! Only 5.5 hours of sleep, but I felt unstoppable prior to even lifting and when focus XT start to come on, I knew I was going to have a solid workout. Intensity, focus, mind muscle connection, everything was spot on. Did my normal warm up and I was already pumped… literally. Agmatine is really working its magic and it’s unreal the pumps I’m getting. If I had a lifetime supply of this, I’d be stoked everyday in the gym. The vascularity and pump is truly addicting. I’m definitely already looking forward to smashing Friday’s workout. Still have 19.5 workouts with Agmatine left (Yes counting haha).

DAA is also starting to ramp up. I’m was feeling quite the libido boost today and in the gym my strength was up. I also look quite a bit more dense. This was my 5th dosage today, so based on past experience this is where I typically start feeling the effects. Should ramp up nicely in the coming weeks. Will push extra hard in the gym to make the most of it.

I’m also really digging the longer fasts. Working out with just BCAA in the system is great. I feel lean (little water retention), strong, and pumps are more noticeable. I don’t think I’ll be doing preworkout meals anytime soon, only fasted with BCAA from here on out.

Overall, I’m on cloud nine. Going to be up till 4 A.M. grinding work out for school. I love still having a mental buzz prior to doing work. Really keeps me motivated.
-------
Video of the day
JCOURZ-yx4E

Anyone hear his performance of One Mic with Damian Marley@ Coachella? Watched it live on you tube a couple weeks ago, gave me the chills.

[Doc.Happy]

great job on the seminar! im sure everyone was very impressed.

dont know how you function on only 5.5 hrs of sleep though!

[JJ22]

great job on the seminar! im sure everyone was very impressed.

dont know how you function on only 5.5 hrs of sleep though!

Probably the most sleep I will get for the next 1.5 weeks. 4-5 hours is pretty much set in stone. I'll catch up on sleep later! ha

[em-dubya]

great job on the seminar! im sure everyone was very impressed.

dont know how you function on only 5.5 hrs of sleep though!

Aren't you an early riser too? If you dont get to bed soon u will find out also:):)

[Mr.Cooper69]

Aren't you an early riser too? If you dont get to bed soon u will find out also:):)

hahahaha

This log is outstanding. I love the premise behind IFing. I think we've discussed this, but I'm a non-religious IFer. I eat very little during the day, but if I get a hunger pang I will eat. I also don't train fasted, but I train at night. What are your thoughts on the benefits of all out IFing vs following it loosely?

Strong seminar and EVEN STRONGER dips. +65 lbs for 12, do want.

[JJ22]

hahahaha

This log is outstanding. I love the premise behind IFing. I think we've discussed this, but I'm a non-religious IFer. I eat very little during the day, but if I get a hunger pang I will eat. I also don't train fasted, but I train at night. What are your thoughts on the benefits of all out IFing vs following it loosely?

Strong seminar and EVEN STRONGER dips. +65 lbs for 12, do want.

IMO, I'd either fully do IF or stick to a more normal eating plan. If you can deal with the hunger pangs, then I guess its really up to you.

I rarely if ever get any hunger pangs because I stick to at least 16 hours fasted. I honestly don't get hungry until 4-5 P.M. I think there is some research indicating ghrelin and how it syncs with your habitual meal times so it makes sense to stay on a routine.

As you know though, the beauty of IF is really the release from neurotic nutritional myths and the convenience. If the way you're eating now is working well for you, then keep it. However, I think its worth a shot to try a more routine approach to IF, you may like it even more. It's always fun to experiment.
---
On another note, had to skip my date with the 48oz steak challenge tonight. Will crush it no problem Sunday. I'll take some pics and maybe rep that SNS shirt I got haha. They have my plaque up as well on the table, I can't wait to see it.

[Mr.Cooper69]

IMO, I'd either fully do IF or stick to a more normal eating plan. If you can deal with the hunger pangs, then I guess its really up to you.

I rarely if ever get any hunger pangs because I stick to at least 16 hours fasted. I honestly don't get hungry until 4-5 P.M. I think there is some research indicating ghrelin and how it syncs with your habitual meal times so it makes sense to stay on a routine.

As you know though, the beauty of IF is really the release from neurotic nutritional myths and the convenience. If the way you're eating now is working well for you, then keep it. However, I think its worth a shot to try a more routine approach to IF, you may like it even more. It's always fun to experiment.
---
On another note, had to skip my date with the 48oz steak challenge tonight. Will crush it no problem Sunday. I'll take some pics and maybe rep that SNS shirt I got haha. They have my plaque up as well on the table, I can't wait to see it.

in4picsofthatmammoth

Yeah, I basically eat in the most convenient way for me.Maybe I should give straight IF a shot, though training fasted sounds difficult.

[Clickster]

Outstanding log.

I am a little late but those are some pretty impressive transformation pics.

[JJ22]

Well.... it's 1:30 A.M. and my alarm is set for 4:30. Two tests tomorrow, lifting session and then a party bus.

I'm so looking forward to sleep this weekend.

[Mr.Cooper69]

Well.... it's 1:30 A.M. and my alarm is set for 4:30. Two tests tomorrow, lifting session and then a party bus.

I'm so looking forward to sleep this weekend.

Get it!

[Synapsin]

Party bus...let's just say the last time I was on a party bus, the night didn't end so well, lol.

[antihero]

Party bus...let's just say the last time I was on a party bus, the night didn't end so well, lol.

Party buses always end well. If it didn't, yourdoinitwrong.

[Doc.Happy]

hmmmmmmmmm i obviously missed out on something in my 7 years of college! never even heard of a party bus! :)

[antihero]

hmmmmmmmmm i obviously missed out on something in my 7 years of college! never even heard of a party bus! :)

This is what I'm talking about:

http://www.bachelorvegas.com/limo/partybus.html

[JJ22]

I don't have my training log with me as I'm out and about already. I'll update you guys tomorrow. Basically, set new PRs on a few lifts despite only sleeping for around 3 hours.

Next up, PARTY BUSSSS

[antihero]

I don't have my training log with me as I'm out and about already. I'll update you guys tomorrow. Basically, set new PRs on a few lifts despite only sleeping for around 3 hours.

Next up, PARTY BUSSSS

Yeah buddy!

[JJ22]

Good news, test went well and party bus was a riot or at least what I remembered of it haha.

Bad news, computer busted (BSOD on startup) until Thursday when the campus store can get me my computer back / tell me whats wrong with it. Going to have to hold tight for updates as I wait for my computer because I literally don't have any quick access to a computer and would have to walk to campus just get on the internet.

Till then I'll keep my training logged and will hopefully have a big update on Thursday after working out.

DAA is really kicking in btw, strength is definitely on the up and up.

Stay tuned!

[Synapsin]

Awesome about your test and party bus, not so much for the PC troubles. We all get PC troubles from time to time, so don't sweat it man, good luck and I hope all is well.

[antihero]

Are you finished up with finals? Do you have any study material on there?


Good news, test went well and party bus was a riot or at least what I remembered of it haha.

Bad news, computer busted (BSOD on startup) until Thursday when the campus store can get me my computer back / tell me whats wrong with it. Going to have to hold tight for updates as I wait for my computer because I literally don't have any quick access to a computer and would have to walk to campus just get on the internet.

Till then I'll keep my training logged and will hopefully have a big update on Thursday after working out.

DAA is really kicking in btw, strength is definitely on the up and up.

Stay tuned!

[SNS8778]

Party bus...let's just say the last time I was on a party bus, the night didn't end so well, lol.

I'm curious to hear about this haha.


This is what I'm talking about:

http://www.bachelorvegas.com/limo/partybus.html

That isnt fair though. Not all of us live in Vegas. :D


Good news, test went well and party bus was a riot or at least what I remembered of it haha.

Bad news, computer busted (BSOD on startup) until Thursday when the campus store can get me my computer back / tell me whats wrong with it. Going to have to hold tight for updates as I wait for my computer because I literally don't have any quick access to a computer and would have to walk to campus just get on the internet.

Till then I'll keep my training logged and will hopefully have a big update on Thursday after working out.

DAA is really kicking in btw, strength is definitely on the up and up.

Stay tuned!

Congrats on the final and the partybus; sorry to hear about your cpu.

[Doc.Happy]

i hate computer problems. will be looking forward to reading about all the new PRs :D

[antihero]

That isnt fair though. Not all of us live in Vegas. :D

:p .

[JJ22]

Are you finished up with finals? Do you have any study material on there?

Just finished all my finals. It has been such a grind, 12 hours of sleep in the last 4 days. I'm exhausted but still pushing forward.


i hate computer problems. will be looking forward to reading about all the new PRs :D

Wish I could have set more, but my rest has been sub-optimal for sure.

** Totally forgot to mention about my computer. Somehow my power button when depressed when on battery power will boot into a media center program that I deleted off the partition. As such, when it would boot it would bug out. Luckily, the computer place was able to fix it and I didn't lose any data. I usually back up all my stuff to a flash drive and gmail for redundancy, but I didn't need any of my documents for finals week. I was able to focus on just class work though without being distracted by the computer.... a blessing in disguise?

Either way, it just added to the laundry list of stress I had this week.

Anyways, a big boy update is due. Here we go!

[JJ22]

I was going to detail my workouts, but frankly my mindset was to get in an out of the gym quickly as possible throughout the week. My numbers weren't as good and I was definitely feeling the lack of sleep on my recovery / strength; 3 hours of sleep everyday since Sunday isn't very conducive to training.

Nevertheless, I still pushed pretty hard in my workouts. My notes have been sloppy in my training book and I used different exercises / machines that were open just to cut time. I did however set new PR on my squats on 3 hrs of sleep... 285 x 4/4/4 (old pr was 285 x 3/3/3). My strength is definitely on the rise / maintained even with the very low sleep and diet fluctuations.

Pumps are still getting better IMO and today I was extremely pumped (best pump I've had in so many workouts). The onset of the pumps are so quick after dosing 4 caps of Agmatine ~40 minutes pre-workout. Just warm up, 1 work set and the pump is on the rest of the workout. However, I was still tired and dragging mentally so the numbers just weren't there. At least I looked huge... right? Haha.

DAA has definitely kicked in. Libido is crazy high ATM and its nice that my stress levels will go now so I can really gauge how DAA is working.

I've used Focus XT liberally over the week for studying / exercising. My schedule literally has been, sleep by 2 A.M., wake at 5 A.M., enjoy Focus XT, study, study, study, Focus XT pre lifting, lift, study, study. Rinse and repeat. Wasn't fun but Focus XT definitely aided my ability to concentrate and have sufficient energy levels. I also noted my short-term recollection of knowledge seemed to be better. I thought this could have been just placebo, but with even my reduced sleep I was able to retain information better.

Overall, I am really happy with this stack's performance during finals week. My motivation, energy, mood, pumps and to an extent my strength were all maintained quite well despite the sleep deprivation. I will use the next few days to really rest up and get ready for my new poundages. I am now finished with my 10-12 rep range and will be transitioning into my 8-10 rep range workouts. Volume is going down as the weights will ramp up which is definitely welcomed. These higher volume workouts have been hard as I always take a little longer to recover from them and when compounded with low sleep, it has been rough.

My gym choice will now vary as the university has closed for only summer holders. I'll try to get into a Snap / Anytime saturday morning before I walk for graduation. I also achieved my goal of Summa Cum Laude, top 3% of class. Pretty excited for that!

Duluth has been a great four years and I enjoyed my time here. It will feel weird to finally say goodbye to this place that has been my home for so long. Hopefully, I'll know back from U of M Twin Cities in regards to my nutrition masters soon. Another step in the journey.

---------------

On another note, I want to study for a personal training certification this summer and I was thinking about the NSCA or ASCM particularly. Anyone have any experience with these organizations or others? Input? I have all summer to study for the tests and I am definitely motivated to do so as I like the field of study. I want to be able to coach / train athletes and motivated individuals in the future so whichever I choose has to fit that best. I've also been throwing around the idea of just working to get both, would never hurt.

Well that is it for tonight everyone. I will now go into hibernation for as long as possible! Hopefully you are still following along, I will get back to my detailed approach on saturday so consider this week a minor bump in the road.

Cliffs, TLDR
Sleep deprived ~3 hours of sleep a day.
Killed my finals and will graduate Summa Cum Laude.
Maintained energy, focus and concentration with Focus XT.
Libido on the rise despite stress. DAA kicking in.
Agmatine still providing unreal pumps dosed at 1g preworkout.
New gym, summer plans?

[Mr.Cooper69]

I was going to detail my workouts, but frankly my mindset was to get in an out of the gym quickly as possible throughout the week. My numbers weren't as good and I was definitely feeling the lack of sleep on my recovery / strength; 3 hours of sleep everyday since Sunday isn't very conducive to training.

Nevertheless, I still pushed pretty hard in my workouts. My notes have been sloppy in my training book and I used different exercises / machines that were open just to cut time. I did however set new PR on my squats on 3 hrs of sleep... 285 x 4/4/4 (old pr was 285 x 3/3/3). My strength is definitely on the rise / maintained even with the very low sleep and diet fluctuations.

Pumps are still getting better IMO and today I was extremely pumped (best pump I've had in so many workouts). The onset of the pumps are so quick after dosing 4 caps of Agmatine ~40 minutes pre-workout. Just warm up, 1 work set and the pump is on the rest of the workout. However, I was still tired and dragging mentally so the numbers just weren't there. At least I looked huge... right? Haha.

DAA has definitely kicked in. Libido is crazy high ATM and its nice that my stress levels will go now so I can really gauge how DAA is working.

I've used Focus XT liberally over the week for studying / exercising. My schedule literally has been, sleep by 2 A.M., wake at 5 A.M., enjoy Focus XT, study, study, study, Focus XT pre lifting, lift, study, study. Rinse and repeat. Wasn't fun but Focus XT definitely aided my ability to concentrate and have sufficient energy levels. I also noted my short-term recollection of knowledge seemed to be better. I thought this could have been just placebo, but with even my reduced sleep I was able to retain information better.

Overall, I am really happy with this stack's performance during finals week. My motivation, energy, mood, pumps and to an extent my strength were all maintained quite well despite the sleep deprivation. I will use the next few days to really rest up and get ready for my new poundages. I am now finished with my 10-12 rep range and will be transitioning into my 8-10 rep range workouts. Volume is going down as the weights will ramp up which is definitely welcomed. These higher volume workouts have been hard as I always take a little longer to recover from them and when compounded with low sleep, it has been rough.

My gym choice will now vary as the university has closed for only summer holders. I'll try to get into a Snap / Anytime saturday morning before I walk for graduation. I also achieved my goal of Summa Cum Laude, top 3% of class. Pretty excited for that!

Duluth has been a great four years and I enjoyed my time here. It will feel weird to finally say goodbye to this place that has been my home for so long. Hopefully, I'll know back from U of M Twin Cities in regards to my nutrition masters soon. Another step in the journey.

---------------

On another note, I want to study for a personal training certification this summer and I was thinking about the NSCA or ASCM particularly. Anyone have any experience with these organizations or others? Input? I have all summer to study for the tests and I am definitely motivated to do so as I like the field of study. I want to be able to coach / train athletes and motivated individuals in the future so whichever I choose has to fit that best. I've also been throwing around the idea of just working to get both, would never hurt.

Well that is it for tonight everyone. I will now go into hibernation for as long as possible! Hopefully you are still following along, I will get back to my detailed approach on saturday so consider this week a minor bump in the road.

Cliffs, TLDR
Sleep deprived ~3 hours of sleep a day.
Killed my finals and will graduate Summa Cum Laude.
Maintained energy, focus and concentration with Focus XT.
Libido on the rise despite stress. DAA kicking in.
Agmatine still providing unreal pumps dosed at 1g preworkout.
New gym, summer plans?

You are my hero.

[antihero]

Just finished all my finals. It has been such a grind, 12 hours of sleep in the last 4 days. I'm exhausted but still pushing forward.



Wish I could have set more, but my rest has been sub-optimal for sure.

** Totally forgot to mention about my computer. Somehow my power button when depressed when on battery power will boot into a media center program that I deleted off the partition. As such, when it would boot it would bug out. Luckily, the computer place was able to fix it and I didn't lose any data. I usually back up all my stuff to a flash drive and gmail for redundancy, but I didn't need any of my documents for finals week. I was able to focus on just class work though without being distracted by the computer.... a blessing in disguise?

Either way, it just added to the laundry list of stress I had this week.

Anyways, a big boy update is due. Here we go!

Very happy to hear that the computer issue didn't hinder your studies any. Sometimes not having access to the distractions of the internet can definitely be a blessing. And I'm also happy to hear the the Focus XT was able to help you through the marathon.

[SNS8778]

I am glad that you are pleased with the Focus, especially during such a hectic time for you.

I really appreciate you taking time to do the log with all that you have going on.

[Clickster]

I am glad that you are pleased with the Focus, especially during such a hectic time for you.

I really appreciate you taking time to do the log with all that you have going on.

I was just about to post the same thing.
It is incredible and awesome of you to still get this type of log in while all this is going on in your life.

I very much appreciate your efforts.

[JJ22]

Well random updates again over the course of the weekend. It was graduation this weekend so I was definitely busy with family and other events. Finally free to update!!

Graduation was awesome, I placed in the top 15 students in the Science and Engineering school (500+ students). I am definitely happy with myself and its nice to know the hard work has paid off.

Came home from graduation and we grilled out. I must have ate at least 5,000 calories. Four steaks, three chicken breasts, and three mounded plates of food of: mashed potatoes, vension with cream of mushroom/tomato sauce/ veggies with butter toasted almonds. Add fruit and about 6 rice crispy bars, and I was satisfied.

Next day took down the Texas Roadhouse challenge again, 48oz steak, 1lb mashed potatoes, 4 dinner rolls, and a side salad in 13 mins 40 seconds. Overall, I got the calories in this weekend to say the least. Also rested up so I was definitely able to push the weights. On to the workouts.
-----

I was able to snag a 1week pass at Anytime Fitness so I got to workout on Saturday (pull) and decided to squeeze in another workout a day early on Sunday (push).

I recorded much of what I did, but its hard to gauge where I was when all the machines, angles, and weights were different. I'll post the highlights:


Weight: 171.6lb


Sleep: 5.5 Hours

Push Day

Dips:
BW+ 60lb + 17.7 lb chains 9 x 3 /3 / 3F / 2F
*Chains definitely changed the dynamics of the movement. Bars were closer together and I went deeper as well. Felt awesome.

Incline DB:
60lb x 8 + 4/3/3F/3F/2F
* PR compared to Day five. Got more reps and the movement felt more fluid.

Cable Flies:
25 x 12 + 4/4/4/4FH
*New machine, no idea how this is.

DB Presses:
40lb db x 8 x 3/3/3/3F

Upright Rows:
Bar + 40 x 12 x 12 x 12
* PR!

:BTN db Press
75lb x 9 + 3,4,3,3F supersetted
*More reps on the myorep set.

Abs:
Medicine ball and cable crunches

Calves:
125lb on the donkey calf raise x 20 + 15/15/15
----
Fasting length: 12.5 hours. Workout was done fasted @ 6:30 A.M.m
-------


Weight:169.4lb


Sleep: 6.5 hours

Pull Day

Chins:
170.5 + 15lb x 8 + 2,2,3,2,2FH
*Every rep was only counted if my chest touched the bar. Controlled eccentric… pump was crazy in the biceps

Seated Row:
80 x 12 + 4,4,4,3F
*Different machine, different weights… hard to gauge progress.

Deadlift:
245 x 10 + 6,6,6
*Felt great. Bumped the weight up twenty pounds and got two less reps but same myoreps. Overall, progress.

Face Pulls:
80 x 10 + 3,3,3,3
*Machine feels way different than what I’m used to

Neutral Stance Leg Press:
Sled + 6 plates x 12 x 12 x 10 x 10 into extreme stretching
*Each rep was bottomed out and had an explosive concentric with controlled eccentric.

Traps:
90lb plates x 15 x 15 x 15

Rope Curls:
120 x 7 … 100 x 4/4/4
*machine felt different again.
----
Fasting length: 13.5 hours. Workout was done fasted.
-------
I was kinda rushed for time both days as I had graduation and family commitments. With the new machines and weights as well as the time crunch it was difficult to find where I was at progress wise. However, I set quite a few PRs and felt amazing during both workouts.

Again, Agmatine is providing a unique pump especially when dosed 45 minutes pre-workout. I’m going to try to convince my GF to let me borrow her camera so I can get some pictures up of the pump/vascularity before, during and after the workout. I can say without a doubt now though that the pump is just as good as nitrates and when combined, it’s scary how great it feels.

DAA has definitely kicked into gear. Libido is still on the rise and I’m feeling more “full.” I just feel more energetic and alpha in the gym as well as during the day. I really wonder where my T levels were at after my cut as I never had felt that drawn out or lethargic after cutting.

Focus XT + Agmatine is becoming one of my favorite preworkout stacks. Focus XT still hasn’t lost its ability to drive the mind muscle connection. I’ve been really focusing on hitting my middle back and I have found greater ability isolating the muscles out.

I'll have to figure out how many servings I have left of the stack, shouldn't be hard back counting the Agmatine. I've been in such a time crunch that I've been just trying to squeeze what I can in. I have this whole week off, so I'll really focus on killing it!

I'll be packing all week and getting busy work knocked out before I head out.
-------

[XxCashMoneyxX]

Running the same stack and the DAA is definitely ramping my libido....im ready to go all times of the day ;)....haha but seriously its great so far...also agmatine and focus XT have been delivering great results with my recent work outs....seriously is a great preworkout stack! Th energy and focus is awesome with absolutely no jitters...check my log out if you have time!

[Doc.Happy]

congrats on the graduation placement! wow!

great news on the agmatine pumps, focus' focus, and DAA libido and alpha feel!

thanks for the very informative log as well. i enjoy reading them!

[SNS8778]

Congrats on making the Top 15.

Impressive appetite lol.

[JJ22]

Running the same stack and the DAA is definitely ramping my libido....im ready to go all times of the day ;)....haha but seriously its great so far...also agmatine and focus XT have been delivering great results with my recent work outs....seriously is a great preworkout stack! Th energy and focus is awesome with absolutely no jitters...check my log out if you have time!

Toss me the link, I'll definitely follow along. Glad you're enjoying the stack as much as I am!


congrats on the graduation placement! wow!

great news on the agmatine pumps, focus' focus, and DAA libido and alpha feel!

thanks for the very informative log as well. i enjoy reading them!

Thank you.

The stack has been everything I expected plus more. Agmatine is quite the surprise.


Congrats on making the Top 15.

Impressive appetite lol.

Thank you as well.

Gotta have the appetite to fuel the workouts! After this log, I'll transition into a more bulk style phase. Should be interesting eating 4k clean.

[SNS8778]

Gotta have the appetite to fuel the workouts! After this log, I'll transition into a more bulk style phase. Should be interesting eating 4k clean.

I've got a helluva an appetite and I dont think I could even eat 4k clean lol.

[JJ22]

Gotta run errands right now ... but I thought I'd quickly update that today I felt like I switched beast mode on. Squats, back movements... everything was on point even with one less day of recovery.

This stack keeps getting better and better.

[Synapsin]

Awesome to see you've had time to keep working so hard, and congrats on graduating top of your class, I hope convocation was fun :)

[Mr.Cooper69]

Gotta run errands right now ... but I thought I'd quickly update that today I felt like I switched beast mode on. Squats, back movements... everything was on point even with one less day of recovery.

This stack keeps getting better and better.

Likewise today. Keep on rollin bro!

[Doc.Happy]

better and better is what we like to hear!

[antihero]

Gotta run errands right now ... but I thought I'd quickly update that today I felt like I switched beast mode on. Squats, back movements... everything was on point even with one less day of recovery.

This stack keeps getting better and better.

Great. The long term recovery effects of agmatine are quite impressive.

[JJ22]

Great. The long term recovery effects of agmatine are quite impressive.

This. Combined with DAA I have added more total work as well had the ability to increase training density.

[JJ22]

Another long day of packing / helping others pack.

Diet was crazy high in calories for my off day:

Arbies Market Fresh Reuben
7 Extra Large Eggs
32 oz chicken breast
1.5 pounds broccoli
2 scoops TempPro
200g blueberries
1/2 cup milk

One meal.
-----
Will be working out tomorrow and I'll do a 2-day update. Keep it locked!

[Mr.Cooper69]

Another long day of packing / helping others pack.

Diet was crazy high in calories for my off day:

Arbies Market Fresh Reuben
7 Extra Large Eggs
32 oz chicken breast
1.5 pounds broccoli
2 scoops TempPro
200g blueberries
1/2 cup milk

One meal.
-----
Will be working out tomorrow and I'll do a 2-day update. Keep it locked!

Hey not too high at all! Busy day though. Lots of chicken breast = lots of protein...me like the macros. Do you do whole eggs or egg whites?

[JJ22]

Weight: 171.6lb


Sleep: 8 Hours

Pull Day

Pull Ups:
172 + 10lb x 8 + 2,2,2,3FH
*New PR

Seated Neutral Grip Rows:
100lb x 9 + 3,3,3,3,FH super setted into 40lb x 14
*Crazy amount of additional volume

Squats:
225 x 10 + 4 … x 8,8
*Decided to work in the higher rep ranges (8-10). Felt nice and tight.

Leg Press:
6 plates x 15 into extreme stretching.
*Legs were beyond pumped. Had to start breathing inbetween the 10+ reps. Next time 20 reps.

Face Pulls:
70lb x 10 + 5,5,5,5F

Lat Width Pull Down:
80lb x 8 supersetted into 60lb x 14

Traps:
315lb x10 + 5,3,3F 225lb x 9
*PR

Neutral Grip Barbell Curls:
Bar + 40lbs x 6 + 3,3,3,3F super setted into

Cable Curls
60lb x 15 + 6,3
*MONSTER pump after this super set
----
Fasting length: 16.0 hours. Workout was done fasted.
Diet:
~ 3600 calories, 300g PRO / ? CHO / ? FAT
20 oz chicken
15g Coconut oil
75g Popcorn
2 whole wheat tortillas
60g Oats
1 scoop ON Hydrowhey
0.5 scoop Smartpowders Whey
2 Scoops Tempro Protein -> made into fluff
1,000g baked potatoes
205g Green Beans
240g Blueberries
+ Arbies Market Fresh Sandwich

-------------------------------



Weight: 172.0lb


Sleep: 7 Hours

Push Day

Incline DB:
70lb x 9 +3,3,3,4F,2F
*Felt excellent. Didn't pr on the fatigue set, but a new PR for myoreps!

Hammer Decline Bench:
75lb x 8 + 3,3,3,3,4F s
*Pretty sure this is a pr. Crazy amount of volume.

Machine Flies:
70lb x 6 into 50 +4,4,4,5F into extreme stretching.
*CRAZY pump. Stretch marks are getting bigger.... growin' yeaaah buddy.

Upright Rows:
Bar + 40lb x 28 + 10,8,8F supersetted into 10lb db x 15
*Deltoids are really adding width to my frame.

Front Delt Raises:
20lb db x 22 + 6,6,6F
*Crazy pump again. Really adding some nice mass and shape to the deltoids while being safe on my shoulders.

Tricep DB Skull Crushers:
30lb db x 10 + 4,4 ..... 8,8 super setted into 40lb DB OHP x 8 supersetted into 20lb db x 8
*PR on the fatigue set. Would have PR'd on the myoreps.... people started talking to me.

Abs
200lb x 20 + 10,8,8F

Calves
10 plates x 22 + 8,8,8,8F
*New PR on both the fatigue and myorep sets.
----
Fasting length: 16.0 hours. Workout was done in the morning.
Diet:
~ 4,300 calories, 350PRO / ? CHO / ?FAT
20 oz chicken
60g Oats
2 Scoops Tempro Protein
140g Cherrios
0.5kg Broccoli
240g Blueberries
+ Arbies Market Fresh Turkey and Bacon Ranch Sandwich
+ Out to eat tonight
-------
Another memorable workout with multiple PRs. Weights are feeling lighter. I'll update my thoughts on my workout a little later however. Gotta run out to a formal dinner right now!

Update:
Overall, these last workouts have been just killin' it. Weights are beginning to feel light and I've added a bunch of volume to my routine. However, I can still recover adequately in time for my next workout. Agmatine is still providing consistent, skin-tight pumps that makes me push harder for more and more volume to extend the feeling.

DAA in the past has naturally increased my strength as well as mood. This time around however has been much more pronounced; it could be a combination of coming off a hard cut during stressful classwork or the Na-DAA that is more soluble. In general, I'm in a happier, more energetic mood and its been nice to finally just let loose and focus on killing the weights + whatever busy work for the day.

Focus XT has really provided the mind muscle connection. One of my goals was to add mid back thickness with facepulls and deadlifts. I definitely feel the better contractions and addition total work being applied to this area will add some solid mass.

Between all three supplements, my expectations have definitely been surpassed. I am really greatful for SNS picking me to do this log, as it came at the perfect time in my life. I really hope more people will try these supplements, as I believe I have some new staple products.

I also have been eating a bunch of food day in and day out. Haven't accumulated much fat if any, weights are going up and still feeling lean. I'll cap this lean bulk phase off with a 3 week cut prior to jumping into a an extended mass gaining phase. Should be fun.

Tomorrow I'll be packing up my life the whole day. So much random stuff to take care off. Going to hit the bed early, get my 8hrs and grind it out tomorrow. Will kill the weights early Saturday morning prior to actually moving. I will be going from Duluth to Rochester (4 hour drive) and then Rochester to St.Cloud (2.5 hour drive) the following day. I won't have access to internet as I'll be busy helping others who went in with the mover with me. Next update should be around Sunday night or Monday with a double workout update. Most likely the latter.



***Ugh wtf... I had a pull workout double update typed out and it only saved one. I'll get Tuesdays workout up... ETA 4 hours.

[JJ22]

Hey not too high at all! Busy day though. Lots of chicken breast = lots of protein...me like the macros. Do you do whole eggs or egg whites?

Whole Eggs for the saturated fats + choline. Egg whites when I'm dieting typically.

[Mr.Cooper69]

The computer problems continue :p. Strong incline pressing dude!


Whole Eggs for the saturated fats + choline. Egg whites when I'm dieting typically.

Same reasons I use em, even when dieting :). I always thought if you're gonna go the egg white route, you may as well go the chicken breast route, to save money and flavor (walden farms BBQ on any chicken breast makes it fantastic).

[antihero]

Same reasons I use em, even when dieting :). I always thought if you're gonna go the egg white route, you may as well go the chicken breast route, to save money and flavor (walden farms BBQ on any chicken breast makes it fantastic).

Agreed. Lately I've been using Pace Salsa Verde, and it's delicious.

[JJ22]

The computer problems continue :p. Strong incline pressing dude!



Same reasons I use em, even when dieting :). I always thought if you're gonna go the egg white route, you may as well go the chicken breast route, to save money and flavor (walden farms BBQ on any chicken breast makes it fantastic).

Try Chipotle Tabasco Sauce.... amazing.

[Doc.Happy]

DAA in the past has naturally increased my strength as well as mood. This time around however has been much more pronounced; it could be a combination of coming off a hard cut during stressful classwork or the Na-DAA that is more soluble. In general, I'm in a happier, more energetic mood and its been nice to finally just let loose and focus on killing the weights + whatever busy work for the day.

i have spent hours talking with steve over the past 8 months or so and i personally believe that you are experiencing better results because the product is 100% what it says it is on the label. the form is the best for absorption and the amount is what is listed. SNS may be a small company but IT is about quality and not just popularity with steve!

thanks for such a great and detailed log!

outstanding workouts as well.

have a fantastic friday!

[antihero]

i have spent hours talking with steve over the past 8 months or so and i personally believe that you are experiencing better results because the product is 100% what it says it is on the label. the form is the best for absorption and the amount is what is listed. SNS may be a small company but IT is about quality and not just popularity with steve!

thanks for such a great and detailed log!

outstanding workouts as well.

have a fantastic friday!

Excellent point Deb. When you use high quality raw ingredients such as we do, the difference can really be noticeable over "comparable" products.

[JJ22]

Definitely agree with your comments. Quality sources do matter and I would definitely spend a little extra to insure I'm getting what I'm paying for.

[JJ22]

Weight:173lb


Sleep: 7.5 Hours

Push Day

Dips:
173 + 90lb x 7 + 5,3,4F
*PR. Felt extremely strong in this movement and my shoulder isn’t nagging me anymore.

Incline DB:
70lb x 6 + 3F/2F/2FH
*Pretty impressed with my strength after the dips. Less volume, however my fatigue set was pretty heavy..

Machine Flies:
75lb x 15 + 4/4/4/4FH
*New machine however the movement feels superior to the one I used in Duluth; much more fluid with a better contraction in the upper pecs which is an area I am really targeting.

Front Delt Raises:
25lb db x 19 +5/5/8/6F super setted into 25lb db x 5 alternating
*Was on a roll here but decided to help an old friend with 140lb db bench press mid set.

Upright Row:
60 lb x 30 + 8/8/8F supersetted into 10lb plate x 15 into 5lb plate x 16
*Upright rows performed the way Charles Glass does it really isolates the medial deltoid head. One of my favorite new movements.

BTN db Press:
80lb x 7 + 5/5/4F strip setted into 40lb db x 6 strip setted into 20lb db x 8
*Couldn’t hit the volume or weights compared to previous weeks. Chalked it up to my other PRs.

Abs:
Cable rope crunches 100lb x 12 + 7/6/6F into decline body weight crunches x 5/5 into cable rope crunches 60lb x 18

Calves:
Donkey Calf 90 x 22 + 9F/8F/8F
*PR
----
Fasting length: 16.5 hours. Workout was done fasted.
Diet:
~ 3,500 calories
20 oz chicken
15g Coconut oil
75g Popcorn
2 whole wheat tortillas
60g Oatmeal
4 Scoops Tempro Protein
225g Raw Brown Rice
500g Broccoli
240g Strawberries / Blueberries
3 Slices of whole wheat toast
-------
It was my first gym session back at Gold’s Gym in St.Cloud. Grand total for the whole summer was $78 and that includes unlimited tanning. My insurance will also pay $20 a month for me to workout, so I am very happy with the deal I got. Previous summer I paid $180 for a reference point.

I was going to include my pull day on Saturday morning, however, Anytime Fitness locked me out. Specifically woke up at 6:30A.M. to squeeze in a workout prior to moving but my FOB wouldn’t open the door. Oh well, Gold’s Gym >>>> Anytime. I drove straight home and just did pull ups / chins off my garage rafters. I also did bent over rows, curls and squats. I tried drag curls for the first time. I found it really hit the brachialis well. I will rotate this exercise in more. Overall, for a makeshift workout it was SOLID. My legs are feeling the volume I did (DEEP squats with 155lb x 20 + 15/15/15/20). The rest of the workout used various weights and what not so I didn’t really record them. Just chalked that day up.

My push day today was amazing. Dips felt so light, hitting a brand new PR. I got a lot of comments about how lean I was compared to the last time the regulars had seen me. I wish they could have seen my post-cut conditioning but I am only 7-10lbs over my lowest weight of the cut so I am still pretty lean. It’s so nice to lift with the regulars again, the familiar faces really push you harder. I can’t wait to solidify my routine here at Gold’s Gym so I can really crush numbers over the coming weeks.

Been eating quite a bit as of recently and I can definitely tell in the strength department. Still lean at around 173 lbs now, however, I am stronger than ever. I’ll hopefully be able to snag my mom’s camera and take some updated progress pics. I’ve added a good bit of mass IMO.

Again, the stack is definitely providing the extra oomph to push harder and harder. Focus XT still hasn’t lost any of its effect and I can really isolate particular body parts so well. The mind muscle connection is something that really has to be built over time, however, even with newer movements I feel like I am using the correct muscles effectively.

Agmatine… pump = amazing, nuff said. It literally is an all workout fullness. It was pretty funny, the person who sold me my gym membership asked how was the workout (prior to me even lifting) because my bicep veins were already popping out. I had the biggest grin because I knew that was only ~25% of my vascularity during a usual workout. He was pretty shocked when I told him I hadn’t worked out yet.

DAA’s effects have leveled off over the weekend. While there hasn’t been recent increases in libido or mood, both have been maintained well above pre-stack levels so I am quite happy. Weights have felt so light as of recently as well.

I really need to figure out how many servings of all the supplements I have. I have lost track over the busy week and it’s only to get more busy. I still have my 16 x 10 trailer to unload + car as well as my brother’s wedding this weekend, so I have plenty of stuff to get ready prior to Saturday. I’ll keep the log updated whenever I can but it might be sporadic with the influx of relatives coming and the busywork I got.

I'll keep everyone posted though for sure.
-----------
Video of the Week
K8MkVIe9xGc

[Mr.Cooper69]

Very strong dips, 2 plates now wow!

I cracked up at the Agmatine story...vascularity before lifting = winning.

With DAA, it will eventually level off once you hit saturation, but the effects on mood and such will continue.

I really want to see your progress pics. You are very strong for your size.

I followed your advice and tried IFing today hehe. It was a carbup, so I'm about to sit down and feast on 250g CHO :).

[JJ22]

Very strong dips, 2 plates now wow!

I cracked up at the Agmatine story...vascularity before lifting = winning.

With DAA, it will eventually level off once you hit saturation, but the effects on mood and such will continue.

I really want to see your progress pics. You are very strong for your size.

I followed your advice and tried IFing today hehe. It was a carbup, so I'm about to sit down and feast on 250g CHO :).

Yeah, the agmatine pre-workout pump literally had me grinning. Good stuff.

I'll definitely try to get my progress pics up. I don't have the luxury of using the GF's camera anymore as we don't live in the same city but I'll see what I can do.

You should give IF an honest try. It would be awesome IMO when studying for the MCAT. I find that when I'm fasted I am very productive and alert. I haven't done a workout with any preworkout nutrition in ages and I don't regret it one bit.

----------------------------------------------------


Weight:173.6lb


Sleep: 8 Hours

Pull Day

Chins:
173.6 + 35lb x 6 + 2,2,2,2FH
*PR

Neutral Grip Seated Row:
120lb x 11 + 3,3,3,3,4FH super setted into Wide Grip Seated Row 60lb x 15 + 6

Overhand Grip Deadlift:
315lb x 1/1/1/1/1 into 225lb x 10 + 5/5
*Form is solid. Lots of hip drive at the bottom of the movement.

Face Pulls:
80 x 16 + 6,6,6
*New Machine

Hack Squat:
455lb x 1 into 405 x 3/3/3
*My favorite machine at Gold’s Gym. Even after dead lifts I was still able to put some volume in.

Traps:
100lb db x 10 + 5/4

Hammer Curls:
35lb db x 8 + 3,3,3F into drag curls 50lb x 10 / 10 into wide db curls 20lb x 8
----
Fasting length: 18.5 hours. Workout was done fasted.
Diet:
~ 3,400 calories
20 oz chicken
15g Coconut oil
75g Popcorn
2 whole wheat tortillas
60g Oats
3 servings Tempro Protein -> made into fluff
250g raw baked rice
200g Brocolli
240g Blueberries/Strawberries
+ Whatever else I munched on

-------
Second Gold’s Gym workout in the bag and logged. Strength is still on the rise even though my volume tolerance has gone way up. Pretty happy I nailed a new PR on chins as well as getting my form down solid for deadlifts. I really hope to ramp up both of these lifts over the near future and hopefully pull 405lb DL by end of summer.

Not much new to report in regards to the SNS stack as all of them have leveled off or maintained their effectiveness. Overall, I am very pleased with the stack and the motivation it gives me to kill every gym session possible.

I do have a few more zits which I usually have around this time when dosing DAA. Also, for some reason my hunger has been out of control as of lately and I am eating everything in sight. I’m at 173.6lbs now which is + 10 lbs over my lowest cut weight (163lb ish). Not bad for almost two months of lean gaining. I attribute this mostly to the fact that I really strive for intensity each workout as well as the favorable strength and volume increases the SNS stack has given me.

Another note… I have been sleeping very well. May be the new change in scenery or bed, however, I am digging getting my rest in.

Another long day tomorrow grinding out stuff for the wedding. Should be fun.

-------
Video of the day
L9eKBMp6xnA
I love legit hip hop or rap.
 

[Doc.Happy]

great job on the deads and the rest of the workout. when it comes to deads, it should all be about form and not numbers :D

sleep is indeed a wonderul thing, i think i need more of it :D

have a great day!

[JJ22]

Just givin' a heads up. Been extremely busy with relatives from Canada, Philippines, etc for my brother's wedding yesterday. I haven't had access to my computer room since it was converted into a bed room plus we have been busy catching up. If you know any Filipinos, they LOVE to talk till 2-3 in the morning. It's nice being around the family haha.

I have Friday's and Sunday's workout logged.... let me just say they were awesome. I'll have full details when my relatives leave... eta Wed.

Hang tight guys and enjoy the day today... don't forget what Memorial Day is about either!

[em-dubya]

Have a great Memorial day w/ your family:)

[Synapsin]

Have a good day man!

[SNS8778]

Happy Memorial Day to you as well.

[antihero]

Definitely agree with your comments. Quality sources do matter and I would definitely spend a little extra to insure I'm getting what I'm paying for.

The beautiful part is that with our prices, you rarely ever have to spend more than an alternative. For example, (the last time I checked) our DAA powder was actually a slight bit cheaper (price per serving) than the retailers housebrand DAA.

The quality and price cannot be beat when it comes to SNS!

[JJ22]

Sleep: 6 Hours

Push

Military Press to Chest
135lb x 7 + 2/2/2/2/2/2
Haven’t done this exercise in ages. Decided to do it to see how it felt as I’ve been doing shoulders only with isolation style movements.

Incline DB Press
55lb db x 9 + 3/3/3/3FH

Flat Hammer Strength Press
90lb x 8 + 2/2/2/2FH

Machine Flies
80 x 15 +5/5/5/5 (8b)

Lateral DB Raises
25lb db x 18 + 5/5/5/8F
SS 20lb db x 5
SS 10lb db x 10
SS 5lb db 10/10/10

Reverse Grip Tricep Push Down
75lb x 15 flipped grip for 20 total + 5/5/5/4F/ flipped grip 8
Finally have my machine back that I can pull up tricep push downs with a reverse grip. If you maintain constant tension it feels very different compared to other movements. Once I am close to failure with the grip, I’ll flip the grip to the normal grip and hit failure.

-------

Sleep:8 Hours


Pull

Pull Ups:
BW + 15lb x 6 + 2/2/2FH/1FH

Close Grip Seated Rows:
140lb x 10 + 3/3/3/3

Pendlay Rows:
100lb x 5 + 6/6/7

Straight Bar Seated Rows
100lb x 10 + 4/4

Squats:
285lb x 5 + 3/3/3 supersetted into leg press
*PR

Leg Press:
10 plates x 10 + 5/5/5F into extreme stretching.

Incline Dumbbell Curl
35lb x 6 + 3/2/3F SS into Hammer Curls 15lb db x 10 + 5/5

Trap Machine:
225 x 8 + 10/5 225lb x 9
*PR

Fasting length: 16.0 hours. Workout was done fasted.

--------------------

Sleep:7.5 Hours


Push

Incline DB Press
80lb db x 5 + 2/1F -> 70lb db x 4/4F

Decline Hammer Machine
90 x 10 + 6

Wide Hammer Machine
90lb x 10 + 8/6

Machine Flies
80lb x 15 + 5/5/5 -> Extreme Stretching

Shoulder Press Machine
135lb x 11 + 8/6/4

Lateral DB Raises
10lb db x 20 + 8/10/8 ss into 5lb x 18F

DB Skullcrushers
35lb db x 7 + 2F/2FR/1FR SS into 15 x 5 SS into 5 x 20

Donkey Calf Press
115lb x 18 + 8/8/5F

-----
Huge update!!

Over the course of the weekend I've had to squeeze early morning workouts and sleep on the floor cause of the wedding and the relatives staying until today. So to make it simple, I was very very pinched for time this weekend but I still got all my workouts in. Diet was absolutely horrible, 4 days of eating out / buffets / drinking and I'm at around 183lbs as of today. Obviously a lot of water retention but also a good amount of fat gain. I am going to take the next 4 weeks and do a small recomp / fatloss phase and get into a "harder" condition. Got a bit soft as of late and I won't have it.

I have put on a good bit of mass however and strength is definitely at the highest its been at for a variety of movements. I'm especially excited about my squat numbers, +3 reps over the fatigue set last time and +3 more myoreps as well. Very very happy with these results this quickly. DAA has definitely helped increase my strength quicker. Still feeling great, motivated and energetic. No increases in mood as noted before. A leveled off feel.

Pumps are still on point with agmatine. With the increased fat gain I've had decreased vascularity but the pumps are prominent nonetheless. I can't wait to harden up a bit here and have the photos to show some progress.

Still enjoying Focus XT and haven't gotten sick of the flavor yet, love every ounce of it! It's been really helpful for morning workouts as I'm not used to rolling out of bed and being at the gym within 40 minutes. It's been great to use throughout this lean gain phase.

Overall, still as happy with this stack as day 1. I FINALLY have nothing planned for the next few weeks. Gonna really fine tune my workout log and more detail to come!

I also received my NSCA CSCS textbook as well. 600+ pages of exercise knowledge. I'll knock out a chapter tonight as I plan on taking the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist test this august. Should be a fun read and definitely a change in pace... I'm actually studying for something I'm interested in for once!

Hope everyone enjoyed the weekend!

******
http://www.ampedtraining.com/2011/physique/intensity-training-failure-muscle-gain
^ A good read. I incorporated much from this into my routine and I've noticed accelerated gains.

[JJ22]

The beautiful part is that with our prices, you rarely ever have to spend more than an alternative. For example, (the last time I checked) our DAA powder was actually a slight bit cheaper (price per serving) than the retailers housebrand DAA.

The quality and price cannot be beat when it comes to SNS!

Yeah I definitely agree. Very competitive pricing even compared to bulk powder suppliers.

[Doc.Happy]

the push/pull training is something that i have never done but it seems like a lot of people really enjoy it.

glad to hear that life is going to be settling down some. i know that i am always relieved for the calm after the storm!

good luck with your mini cut. you are a very dedicated young man :D

[SNS8778]

Nice update. Glad that you are pleased with everything.

What are you going to be doing/taking for the recomp or do you know yet?

[JJ22]

Nice update. Glad that you are pleased with everything.

What are you going to be doing/taking for the recomp or do you know yet?

For recomp or full fatloss I'll be doing pretty much maintenance ~ -50% on off days and maintenance ~ +20% on lifting days. EOD push/pull with LISS cardio / walking on off days.

So basically nothing will physically change other than a decrease in workout volume based on recovery. My diet will be manipulated to decrease calories. The majority of calories will be taken out of fat. While my hormones will take a slight beating, I won't cut for 8 weeks like I did before and keep it to at most 4 weeks. I think it's a better strategy than doing extended cuts plus I should have DAA the majority of the cut to keep testosterone high.

Diet:
Off days: 1,500 calories, 20 fat, 60 carbs (22 fiber), 269 protein ~1.5g pro/bw
On days: 2,650 calories, 27 fat, 344 net carbs (408 with fiber), 221 protein ~ 1.25 pro/bw
Net average: 2,100 calories. Maintenance: 178lb x 14.5 = 2,581 calories

Same approach I used as last time.

At the moment, only ECY is planned to be used during this phase. I've gotten a good grasp at how Focus XT works so I believe it won't skew my impressions of that product if that is what you're concerned about. However, if you would like me to keep it just to Focus XT, I can gladly do that as well.

[JJ22]

Weight: 178.6lb


Sleep: 8 Hours


Fasting Length: 18.5 hours


Pull workout (6-8 rep range, + 1-2 myo reps, 18 breath breaks)

Hammer Chins:
BW + 40lb x 5 + 2/2/2/1FH (18 breath)
* PR.

Pendlay Rows
135lb x 10 + 5/5/5
*Decided to try this exercise. Strict form was used. I think I may rotate this to after seated rows as I can’t feel the movement in the lower lats with heavier weight. However, if I use lighter weight and really focus on form, I can and will use this exercise.

Seated Neutral Hammer Grip Rows
135lb x 8 +3/3/3 ss into neutral grip with lat bar 100lb x 3/3/3 (18 breath)

Face Pulls
100lb x 14 + 8/8F -> Extreme Stretching (18 breath)
*Felt good. Mid back was definitely isolated and shoulders were brought down and back.

Deadlift
325 x 2 -> 315 x 2/1 -> 225 x 8
*PR. 325lb felt light but my grip is still be far my limiting factor. If I had more grip, I could pull 385lb+

Squat
285 x 5 + 3/3/4
*PR. Form felt nice and tight. Breaking parallel by a long shot with good hip drive. Done after deadlifts and I still hit a PR… yeah buddy!

Leg Press
10 Plates + 20lb x 10 + 4 -> Extreme Stretching (15 breath)
*PR especially considering the volume prior.

Incline DB Curls:
35lb db x 6 + 3/3F/2FR/2FR (18 breath)

Hammer Curls and Wide Grip DB Curls
Hammer: 20lb x 5 ss into 10lb x 5 ss into 5lb x 8
Wide Grip DB Curls: 10lb x 6
*Performed immediately after incline db curls

Smith Machine Traps
225lb x 15 + 6/4
----
Diet:
1,000g Russet Potatoes
15 oz Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
1 Large Grapefruit
60g Oats
1.5 scoops Smartpowders Whey
2 Whole Wheat Tortillas
140g Strawberries
60g Blueberries
2 Scoops TempPro
200g Broccoli florets
65g Raw popcorn kernels
----
2,650 calories, 26g fat, 408 carbs with 66 fiber, 227 protein
----
Freaking awesome workout filled with PR’s everywhere, what a great way to start off this recomp phase. I’ve been dealing with a nagging shoulder pain as I have a 0.75in calcium deposit in it. However, pulling seemed to have no problem and the PRs came easily today. The EPOC from this workout must be insane as well as the thermic effect of eating 1,000g potatoes, 60g oats, 15 ounces chicken, 1.5 scoops whey, and 1 grapefruit postworkout; I am literally sweating just typing this update.

I can’t say it enough but I love Focus XT on pulling days. The mind muscle connection in the back is amazing and facepulls / whatever other exercise that focuses on mid back has been far easier than normal. The blend is not too heavy nor not too light, it’s been perfect for lifting and studying.

I counted up my pills and I have 5 workouts left at 4 caps of Agmatine and 1 workout with 2 caps. I might just toss the two extra for the last two workouts to make the dosage 5 caps. I’m definitely going to miss the pump as it’s been addicting to say the least. I’ll have to make every workout count even more haha!

Wish I could get blood work to see my hormonal change since the extended cut. It’d be interesting to see where I am at but qualitatively I feel great. Every day I feel good, workouts are going great and my mindset is really there. I really like DAA in this regard.

Bottom line, another solid day, life is good! The stack is dwindling, but I’m pleased with my progress thus far. Thanks for sticking with the log during my busy weeks. I’ll finish it out strong for you!
---
Video of the Day:
0P_Z7hWVZdo
*I dig Black Thought’s piece. Good stuff.

[em-dubya]

I'm not surprised on the PRs - you are running the perfect stack to attain them;):)

[JJ22]

I'm not surprised on the PRs - you are running the perfect stack to attain them;):)

I know, I've been on a roll as of lately. Hopefully with the change in diet, I can still maintain PRs while I cut some fat.

----
http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/research-review/a-45-minute-vigorous-exercise-bout-increases-metabolic-rate-for-14-hours-research-review.html

A good read for anyone interested in cardio intensities. I am confident that LISS cardio is superior to high intensity cardio for the majority of a diet. The additional calories from EPOC isn't worth blowing yourself out when you could modulate diet first.

[JJ22]

I'll be gone for the weekend after my workout this morning. Unless I can squeeze in an update, I'll have a double update on Monday.

Enjoy the weekend. I know I will as it's summer finally here in Minnesota.

*Quick update, weighing in at 174.8lb in the morning. That's a 11lb drop since the wedding. Can you say excess water and bloat?

[JJ22]

Weight:174.8lb

Sleep:6.5 Hours

Push: 6-8 rep range fatigue set, 1-2x myoreps, 18 breaths for breaks

Incline DB Press
80lb db x 7 + 2/1F -> 70lb db x 3 + 2F/3F

Flat Hammer Machine
115lb x 1 -> 90 x 4F + 4F
*Aggravated my shoulder

Military Press
Pain

Machine Flies
Pain

Shoulder Press Machine
-

Lateral DB Raises
-

DB Skullcrushers
-

Donkey Calf Press
-

-----
I really aggravated my shoulder on the flat hammer machine and it completely took me out of the mindset to lift. I tried military press and machine flies and both were no goes. I decided to do light cable work in the high rep range for shoulders, which ever movement that didn’t hurt.

Though I chalked this workout up, I set a big PR on incline db press… 2 more reps on the fatigue set and same reps. Happy with that.
-----
Fasting Length:14 hours
Diet
28oz chicken breast
+
Huhot Mongolian Grill 4x plates ~ 4,000 calories. Lots of veggies, and fiber.
----


Weight: 176.0

Sleep: 8 Hours

Pull Day:6-8 rep range fatigue set, 1-2x myoreps, 18 breaths for breaks

Chins:
176+ 45lb plate x 5 + 3,2,2,2F/1F(10 second hold). 18 breath breaks
*PR

Neutral Grip Seated Row:
125lb x 10 + 4/4/4/ super setted into Wide Grip Seated Row 100lb x 10 + 8. 15 breath breaks

Pendlay Row
70lb x 15 + 12

Squat
290lb x 7 + 3/3/4
*New PR

Overhand Grip Deadlift:
250lb x 7 + 6/6
*Decided to do a higher rep deadlift with lower rep squats. I’ll keep flipping every other pull workout which is the heavy set.

Leg Press
12 plates x 3 -> 10 plates x 10 + 5/5 -> extreme stretching. 15 breath breaks

Face Pulls:
95lb x 12 + 6,6,6. 10 breath breaks

Incline Dumbell Curl
35lb x 7 + 3/2/3/2F super setted into hammer curls 25lb x 5, 15lb x 5, 5lb x 8

Traps:
225lb x 12 + 6/6
----
Fasting length: 19.5 hours. Workout was done fasted.
Diet:
~ 2,700 calories
15 oz chicken
60g Popcorn
2 whole wheat tortillas
60g Oats
1.5 Scoops Milk Protein Isolate (TruScience)
1000g potatoes
300g Brocolli
240g Blueberries/Strawberries
1 Grapefruit

-------
Wasn’t planning on wrecking this workout, but I did. Last workout I really aggravated my shoulder (I have a ~0.75 inch calcium deposit in my R shoulder). Whenever my form fails, it can cause a week of pain. Yesterday I took heavy dosages of ibuprofen, something like 11 200mg tablets. Inflammation was down today so I figured I could swing a pull workout.

Decided to try 45lb on chins and got it for five reps. Last workout was 35lb on chins for 6, so big PR. Squats also felt great, my previous best was 285lb x 5 and I nailed 290lb x 7 today. My hamstrings were definitely feeling it from my last pull workout, so I decided to do light dead lifts. I tried last week with both heavy deads and squats followed by a super set of leg press. I’ll have to rotate heavy and light days for deadlifts and squats while on this recomp/cut phase.

I’m also weighing in a bit higher than normal, the Huhot is still affecting me. I go there so infrequently that I had to take advantage of it and really gorge myself.

I have three dosages of Agmatine left, which if you can’t tell, is by far my favorite supplement of this stack and has lived up to the hype in my experience. I’ll have three more workouts at 4 caps and one workout at 2 caps. I’ll miss the pump… definitely something you have to experience.

I counted my days dosing 3g a day, and I’m at day 38 of DAA dosage. Only twelve more days left… going to make them count and really chase PRs. Should be exciting as the last two weeks the PRs have came much easier.

Focus XT still providing that kick preworkout. Not much new to report.
----
Listened to a lot of SuperHuman Radio this weekend. I recommend listening to the show; Carl is great at interviews and usually has a solid lineup of people to discuss nutrition and exercise with.

[Mr.Cooper69]

Shame the stack is coming to an end...but you went apesh!t on those chins!

[Doc.Happy]

11 200mg ibuprofen??? that is not good for you. ibuprofen is tough on the stomach not to mention your organs. are you taking any joint supps? i take many different joint supps that have natural antiinflammatories in them as well as additional boswellia so that i can keep my ibuprofen to a minimum. you should look into some other forms of antiinflammation. the last thing you need is a bleeding ulcer.

other than that, great workouts :D i love agmatine. just took my last dose yesterday. dont know why i didnt get more ordered but im going to need to get on that. :D

[JJ22]

11 200mg ibuprofen??? that is not good for you. ibuprofen is tough on the stomach not to mention your organs. are you taking any joint supps? i take many different joint supps that have natural antiinflammatories in them as well as additional boswellia so that i can keep my ibuprofen to a minimum. you should look into some other forms of antiinflammation. the last thing you need is a bleeding ulcer.

other than that, great workouts :D i love agmatine. just took my last dose yesterday. dont know why i didnt get more ordered but im going to need to get on that. :D

For whatever it's worth, I believe when I was on an rx for ibuprofen it was something like ~2,000 mg a day. I tolerate ibuprofen well and I get no GI distress from dosing it. I wanted to megadose it because I didn't want to take any on lifting day or have pain hamper my lifts. I've definitely tapered the dosage however today, as I only plan on taking 6 total ibuprofen today. Thanks for lookin' out though :D

I'm with you on agmatine, I need to pick up a few when they are on sale somewhere.
---
Weighed in at 173.0 today after my carb refeed yesterday.

[SNS8778]

For whatever it's worth, I believe when I was on an rx for ibuprofen it was something like ~2,000 mg a day. I tolerate ibuprofen well and I get no GI distress from dosing it. I wanted to megadose it because I didn't want to take any on lifting day or have pain hamper my lifts. I've definitely tapered the dosage however today, as I only plan on taking 6 total ibuprofen today. Thanks for lookin' out though :D

I'm with you on agmatine, I need to pick up a few when they are on sale somewhere.
---
Weighed in at 173.0 today after my carb refeed yesterday.

That's hardcore. I cant take over 800 mg at a time. I cant even do that on a regular basis.

Cheapest I recall seeing Agmatine is 20.95. I doubt will ever see it much cheaper than that.

Awesome log.

[JJ22]

Weight: 173.6lb

Sleep:4.5 Hours

Push Day:6-8 rep range fatigue set, 1-2x myoreps, 18 breaths for breaks

Flat Hammer Strength Press
95lb x 10

Decline Hammer Strength Machine
90lb x 10,8,7

Dips
Bw x 8,8

Machine Flies
95lb x 10 + 5/5/4F

Front Delt Raises
45lb plate x 20 + 8/8/8F

Lateral DB Raises
20lb db x 16 + 8/8/8F

Db Behind the neck Tricep Press
80lb db x 9
*Slight pain

Dumbell Skull Crushers
35lb db x 8 + 4/6

Cable Crunches
120lb x 10 + 4/5/5

Calves
70lb x 25 + 10/10/10

----
Spent most the workout second guessing my shoulder. I tried a variety of movements and military press still hurt. I retried flat bench with solid form and hit 95 x 10 pretty easy and no pain. I decided not to push it however and just give my shoulder an easier day. As such, nothing was too strenuous and I really went by feel today. More of a pump workout than anything.

Tired as hell today as well. Didn't get any sleep as I couldn't fall asleep and I woke early. Lame combo for a lifting day but with the help of Focus XT I made the most of it.

On another note, my Vibram Fivefingers KSO came into today and I got to use it lifting. What a difference do these "shoes" make. Blows my old Nike Free 3.0s away by a long shot. I can't wait to workout Friday, I feel like I have some huge PRs brewing!
-----
Fasting Length: 19.5 hours

Diet:
15 oz chicken breast
1000g russet potato
60g oats
1 serving Hydrobuilder
1 grapefruit
240g Blueberries / Strawberries
1.5 Scoops Truscience Milk Protein Isolate
2 Whole Wheat Tortillas
60g raw popcorn kernels

[em-dubya]

I commend you for even getting in the gym today ~ I certainly wouldn't on 4.5 hrs sleep:(. I used to be able to but i have to have min 5.5-6hrs now.
I keep hearing good things about the Vibram Fivefingers ,however i know as soon as i purchase some that an idiot at the gym would drop something on my foot.

[JJ22]

I commend you for even getting in the gym today ~ I certainly wouldn't on 4.5 hrs sleep:(. I used to be able to but i have to have min 5.5-6hrs now.
I keep hearing good things about the Vibram Fivefingers ,however i know as soon as i purchase some that an idiot at the gym would drop something on my foot.

Yeah, its a drag to get there with little sleep, but my mood goes down the tube when I can't make a workout.

Yeah, my KSO model doesn't have much to protect the top of your foot but its a trade off that's worth it IMO. The feel definitely has to be experienced, you'd be surprised how much grip they have, even my KSO model. If you ever get a chance, try on a pair at whatever store that carries them.

[mattisbulking]

hey been following your journo and ive decided im gonna try the current supplement stack your on, seems to be getting some good reviews, really looking forward for them to arrive

[JJ22]

hey been following your journo and ive decided im gonna try the current supplement stack your on, seems to be getting some good reviews, really looking forward for them to arrive

Good choice. The products are high quality and I think you will enjoy your results especially if your diet and training are solid.

If you've been on stimulants for a while, I'd take a break before hopping into Focus XT.
----


June 10th, 2011

Weight: 171.6lb

Sleep: 9.5 Hours

Fasting Length: 20 hours


Pull workout (3-5 rep range, + 1-2 myo reps, 20 breath breaks)

Pull Ups:
171.6 BW + 35lb x 5 + 2/2/2F/1FH(10 second static) (20 breath breaks)
*PR: Old one… BW + 15lb x 6 + 2/2/2FH/1FH

Neutral Grip Seated Rows:
120lb x 10 + 4/6/5/5FH (15 breath breaks)

Face Pulls:
100lb x 16 + 8/5/5/5F
*Beginning to really isolate out the middle rhomboids. Good amount of volume.

Deadlifts
315lb x 1, 325 x 2/1/1/1/1
*Deadlifts are much harder in vibrams but they feel way better. I couldn’t move the same weight as last time, but I’m starting off much lower as my Nike Frees had much thicker sole.

Squats:
250lb x 10 x 8 x 6 supersetted into leg press
*Loving my vibrams for squatting. I don’t get that unstable cushiony feel from shoes when unracking the weight. My feet are firmly planted into the ground and I noticed quite a bit more hamstring and glute recruitment.

Leg Press:
10 plates x 10 + 6/6 (15 breath break) into extreme stretching.

Incline DB Hammer Curl
40lb x 5 + 2/2/2/2/2 (20 breath break)
super set: Incline DB Curls 20lb db x 10 + 5/5

Trap Machine:
-
----
Diet:
1,000g Russet Potatoes
15 oz Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
1 Large Grapefruit
60g Oats
1.5 scoops Smartpowders Whey
2 Whole Wheat Tortillas
140g Strawberries
60g Blueberries
2 Scoops TempPro
200g Broccoli florets
65g Raw popcorn kernels
----
2,650 calories, 26g fat, 408 carbs with 66 fiber, 227 protein
----

Very very happy with this workout especially with my pull ups. Last time I hit BW + 15 for 6 reps and today I got BW + 35 for 5 reps. It helps when you are leaning out but I also believe my strength has gone up significantly.

I have two more workouts with Agmatine, hate to finally see only a few orange caps left. It has by far been my favorite of this stack and quite the surprise.

Focus XT still is doing its thing. It has allowed me to study for the NSCA CSCS directly after lifting. Usually I'm unmotivated after lifting, but I find that Focus XT lasts around ~4hours. So I get around 2 more hours of productive studying in. It's been good so far.

DAA, got around 10 servings left if I have scooped correctly. Retaining a tad bit of water, stacking with low dose Inhibit-E would be interesting. Nevertheless, the strength gains have been sustainable and the mood I've had over this log has been pleasant.

Overall, kick ass day!

[Doc.Happy]

2000 mg of ibuprofen a day. that will do long term damage to your large bowel. look up collagenous colitis, it is a condition cause in the colon from long term chronic NSAID use. my mom had it and then fractured her colon when they did the colonoscopy trying to find out why she had horrible diarrhea for 6 months.



but onward and on to better things :) very impressive workouts. i dont get the whole fasting workout thing. the more everybody gets into the more stuff is coming out now that it isnt a good thing and that one will use muscle tissue before fat stores. i guess i like to eat too much to get into it and i cant comprehend the whole want to grow muscle and yet we arent going to feed it concept.

have a most fabulous weekend.

[JJ22]

2000 mg of ibuprofen a day. that will do long term damage to your large bowel. look up collagenous colitis, it is a condition cause in the colon from long term chronic NSAID use. my mom had it and then fractured her colon when they did the colonoscopy trying to find out why she had horrible diarrhea for 6 months.



but onward and on to better things :) very impressive workouts. i dont get the whole fasting workout thing. the more everybody gets into the more stuff is coming out now that it isnt a good thing and that one will use muscle tissue before fat stores. i guess i like to eat too much to get into it and i cant comprehend the whole want to grow muscle and yet we arent going to feed it concept.

have a most fabulous weekend.

Ah my workouts aren't "totally" fasted, I typically have ~ 10g BCAA pre. I've found out food, even 2.5 hours preworkout, makes me feel sluggish and my numbers drop despite the performance increases research indicates. Light BCAA pre is a happy medium and I've only noticed better body composition from it.

The best reason to fast is just convenience. I no longer obsess about getting meals every 2-3 hours like I did before. Compared to my old eating style, I see no reason to go back as everything from body comp, mood, energy levels, cognitive ability and performance has increased.

I still like my food... now I just get more of it in one sitting. Haha.

[mattisbulking]

so supplements arrived other day, took DAA,agmatine and focus XT pretty much same time preworkout, for the first hour i felt great, then got to the gym felt sick as a dog heart was pounding at insane levels, was wondering do you actually take them all same time preworkout?

[SNS8778]

so supplements arrived other day, took DAA,agmatine and focus XT pretty much same time preworkout, for the first hour i felt great, then got to the gym felt sick as a dog heart was pounding at insane levels, was wondering do you actually take them all same time preworkout?

DAA and Agmatine have no stimulants in them, so that wouldnt make sense to be attributed to those. DAA can be taken pre-workout, spaced out during the day, or in the morning. Agmatine can be dosed 2 caps twice per day, or 4 caps pre-workout.

Focus XT is used by many for pre-workout purposes, and is pretty low stim.

Not saying the above cannot happen, just would be very uncommon, and unless you are super sensitive to caffeine, it doesnt make sense.

[JJ22]

so supplements arrived other day, took DAA,agmatine and focus XT pretty much same time preworkout, for the first hour i felt great, then got to the gym felt sick as a dog heart was pounding at insane levels, was wondering do you actually take them all same time preworkout?

I do take them all preworkout but you're probably most effected by Focus XT which which is very odd. Do you get similar effects from caffeinated products? Compared to most products, Focus XT is actually pretty light with only 200mg caffeine and no other strong stimulants like geranium or yohimbine.

[JJ22]

June 12th, 2011

Weight: 171.6lb

Sleep: 9.5 Hours

Fasting Length: 20 hours

Push Day:3-5 rep range fatigue set, 1-2x myoreps, 20-24 breaths for breaks

Incline DB Press
85lb x 4 + 0 -> 75 x 4 + 2/2/2F
*Couldn’t manage to get the 85lb db up at the bottom of the motion after the fatigue set.

Wide Hammer Machine
135lb x 8 + 3/4/3F/2F (25 breath pause)

Machine Flies
120lb x 7 + 4FH/3F/3FH -> extreme stretching

Military Press
95lb x 5 + 5/5

Front DB Raises
25lb x 12 + 10/10 (15 breath pause)

Partial Lateral Raises
50lb x 12 -> 65 x 10 + 10/10 superset into lateral raises 10lb x 15 sec static + 5 reps

DB Overhead Press
60lb db x 10 + 4/4/3F (15 breath)

Seated Calves
90lb x 20/20/20
----------
Diet:
1,000g Russet Potatoes
15 oz Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
1 Large Grapefruit
60g Oats
1.5 scoops Smartpowders Whey
2 Whole Wheat Tortillas
140g Strawberries
60g Blueberries
2 Scoops TempPro
200g Broccoli florets
65g Raw popcorn kernels
----
2,650 calories, 26g fat, 408 carbs with 66 fiber, 227 protein
----
Last day with 4 caps Agmatine sulfate… I’ll miss the 1g dosage of Agmatine preworkout. The pumps are definitely amazing. While I’ve always been vascular, Agmatine really took the pump to another level. Very impressed overall with the product.

I have around one more scoop of Focus XT left. I didn’t keep track how many scoops I used during finals week and it must have been around 8 servings. Anyways, Focus XT still hasn’t lost its effect and the MMC is still very present.

DAA is winding down as well. I’ve enjoyed the strength gains over the last few weeks as well as the improved mindset in the gym. Can’t say I’m not satisfied with SNS’s DAA.

[halberstram]

Weight: 173.6lb

Sleep:4.5 Hours

Push Day:6-8 rep range fatigue set, 1-2x myoreps, 18 breaths for breaks

Flat Hammer Strength Press
95lb x 10

Decline Hammer Strength Machine
90lb x 10,8,7

Dips
Bw x 8,8

Machine Flies
95lb x 10 + 5/5/4F

Front Delt Raises
45lb plate x 20 + 8/8/8F

Lateral DB Raises
20lb db x 16 + 8/8/8F

Db Behind the neck Tricep Press
80lb db x 9
*Slight pain

Dumbell Skull Crushers
35lb db x 8 + 4/6

Cable Crunches
120lb x 10 + 4/5/5

Calves
70lb x 25 + 10/10/10

----
Spent most the workout second guessing my shoulder. I tried a variety of movements and military press still hurt. I retried flat bench with solid form and hit 95 x 10 pretty easy and no pain. I decided not to push it however and just give my shoulder an easier day. As such, nothing was too strenuous and I really went by feel today. More of a pump workout than anything.

Tired as hell today as well. Didn't get any sleep as I couldn't fall asleep and I woke early. Lame combo for a lifting day but with the help of Focus XT I made the most of it.

On another note, my Vibram Fivefingers KSO came into today and I got to use it lifting. What a difference do these "shoes" make. Blows my old Nike Free 3.0s away by a long shot. I can't wait to workout Friday, I feel like I have some huge PRs brewing!
-----
Fasting Length: 19.5 hours

Diet:
15 oz chicken breast
1000g russet potato
60g oats
1 serving Hydrobuilder
1 grapefruit
240g Blueberries / Strawberries
1.5 Scoops Truscience Milk Protein Isolate
2 Whole Wheat Tortillas
60g raw popcorn kernels

Just don't use it on anything other than leg day, otherwise you will look stupid.

[Doc.Happy]

raw popcorn kernels??? wow. i dont think i could eat raw popcorn kernals. does your body even digest them? in cattle and horses it often just comes out whole on the other end.

shoes do make a huge huge difference! good for you!

[JJ22]

raw popcorn kernels??? wow. i dont think i could eat raw popcorn kernals. does your body even digest them? in cattle and horses it often just comes out whole on the other end.

shoes do make a huge huge difference! good for you!

Ha, my mistake. I measure 60g raw popcorn kernels and then make it into popcorn using a hot air machine. Should have clarified that.

I can't imagine just eating them raw haha.

[JJ22]

Date: June 14th, 2011

Weight: 171.6lb

Sleep: 6 Hours

Fasting Length: 18.5 hours

Pull workout (3-5 rep range, + 1-2 myo reps, 20-24 breath breaks)

Hammer Chins:
BW + 45lb x 6 + 2/2/2/3FH (24 breath)
*New PR on fatigue set. Hit 6 reps with five extra pounds (old PR ~40lb x 5). I increased the break period so the myorep sets I didn’t worry about today. I was however 178.6 pounds (in the morning) the day of the last workout.

Seated Hammer Grip Rows
150lb x 6 + 3/3/3 (20 breath pause) superset into neutral grip with lat bar 90 lb x 10

Face Pulls
110 x 16 + 5/5/5 -> Extreme Stretching (10 breath)
*New PR. Mid back was definitely isolated and shoulders were brought down and back.

Deadlift
-

Squat
295 x 5 + 3/3/4
*PR.

Leg Press
10 Plates x 12 + 6/4 -> Extreme Stretching (15 breath break).

Incline DB Curls:
40lb db x 4 + 2/2F/1FR/ (24 breath)

Barbell Traps
225lb x 8 + 5/5/5
----
Diet:
1,000g Russet Potatoes
15 oz Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
1 Large Grapefruit
60g Oats
1.5 scoops Smartpowders Whey
2 Whole Wheat Tortillas
140g Strawberries
60g Blueberries
2 Scoops TempPro
200g Broccoli florets
65g Raw popcorn kernels -> Into popcorn :)
----
2,650 calories, 26g fat, 408 carbs with 66 fiber, 227 protein
----
I tried to limit my volume this workout as I’ll be forced to workout a day early the next pull day (Friday instead of Saturday). Nevertheless, I set a few PRs that I am happy with especially chins and squats.

Was my last day of Agmatine Sulfate and Focus XT. Sigh. Back to my old caffeine + whatever stack preworkout. Overall, I have to say I loved both products and they fit perfectly into what I was trying to do. Whenever there is a good deal on either product, I’d be very interested in repurchasing.

The DAA has around 3-4 servings left but effects have definitely leveled off. Thus, I decided to take my final progress pictures for this log even though I have a few servings left. I’ll be gone this weekend and diet will be subpar so I don’t want that to skew the results.

I’ll have the pictures uploaded when I find the cable. I’ll also post my final review of all three supplements.  

[JJ22]

Just don't use it on anything other than leg day, otherwise you will look stupid.

I originally thought I'd do the same thing, but they are far superior to my nike frees that I frankly don't care how stupid they look, I'd still wear them for lifting. The feel is that much better in my opinion.

People either love them or hate them, that's for sure. I'm too busy doing my own thing to really care though haha.

[mattisbulking]

never had any other problem with caffeine related products, my stomachs been tender last few days, wasnt as bad as yesterday though, although my ****s are still really sloppy lol, ill tough it out a few more days see weather its just my body getting useto all the supplements

[em-dubya]

raw popcorn kernels??? wow. i dont think i could eat raw popcorn kernals. does your body even digest them? in cattle and horses it often just comes out whole on the other end.



Now is that with or without your help Doc:p?

[JJ22]

The SNS Stack Final Review

Agmatine Sulfate

90 caps total with 4 caps taken ~45 minutes preworkout. No complicated dosing scheme and it was very convenient to dose it.

Effects: 10/10

Based solely on the pump, Agmatine is one only ingredients I’ve tried that solo that makes such a difference in the pump. I would say it is similar to nitrates in the pump effect and superior to other ingredients like GMS, L-citrulline or L-norvaline. Pumps also seem to last longer and you really feel dense and hard during the workout.

I also felt very good rise in mood during the workout as well as after. While this is largely to Focus XT and DAA, it is reported Agmatine has a nootropic effect. My last dose was only 500mg (2) and I didn’t have that feel compared to 1,000mg (4 caps). Any nootropic effect is just an extra benefit in my opinion as I’d use this solely for a pump.

I’ve also been recovering slightly faster than normal. I also was training under increased calories the majority of the run so that definitely helped. Between DAA and Agmatine, I’d have to say I was able to recover faster and put in more volume each workout.

Would I buy Agmatine with my own money?

Short and sweet, yes. It has been one of the best pump products I have used and it has a complement of other benefits. Would have been interesting running a solo log to eliminate the other SNS supplements as variables but that I can confidently say Agmatine provided effects above and beyond my past experiences with DAA and nootropics/preworkouts.

It can be found around twenty dollars which is competitive priced. For 22.5 workouts (4 cap dosage), it comes out to less than a dollar a serving and that is affordable compared to other pump products.

Overall, I was very impressed. Agmatine surprisingly lived up to the hype, pretty rare for a supplement to do so now a days.

[JJ22]

Blue Raspberry Focus XT

30 servings. Used only one scoop 30 minutes preworkout for the course of the log but I dabbled into ½ scoops for studying purposes. I’d ½ dose it every 2-3 hours when using this protocol.

Effects: 8.5/10 for preworkout and 9.5/10 for studying

Since I have a lot of experience with preworkouts, I’m accustomed to the 1,3-dimethylamine feel. Since SNS has chosen to leave this ingredient out, it doesn’t provide as much amped up energy as 1,3-dimethylamine preworkout products. However, this is one of its greatest attributes! It provides the user with versatility in dosing and can double up as study aid. Want crazy energy? Stack Adrena-G with it or other stimulants of your choice. Want a good, smooth study aid? Dose just Focus XT. Have other bulk powders? Toss them in, as Focus XT’s flavoring can handle it.

Taken by itself preworkout , Focus XT provides smooth and clean energy. Effects last around four hours with about 35-45 minutes until maximum effect. One of its greatest effects is on the mind muscle connection as I mentioned throughout the log. I can really isolate muscle groups and it was noticeable during facepulls, an exercise I’ve always had trouble while trying to hit the rhomboids effectively.

Also, as the name implies, I really enjoyed this product for the focus, both preworkout and especially studying. After a few sets working out, I’d be dialed in and ready to crush PRs.

Whenever I didn’t have the motivation to study, I’d a dose of Focus XT and I’d be focused with energy to plow through some chapters. I also liked to half dose Focus XT and then 2-3 hours later take another half dose. This method has more subtle, but prolonged effects. During finals week I made liberal use of Focus XT when I needed it and it definitely aided my studying. Old concepts “clicked” better.

I thought I’d add that there was no crash associated with Focus XT. It’s a smooth ride all the way through.

Would I buy Focus XT with my own money?

Like Agmatine, yes, I definitely would. The versatility of this product is really what makes it unique. Too many preworkouts can’t double up as a study aid as they have other ergogenics that aren’t useful during studying and are a waste. While there are plenty of pill stimulant choices, the powder options are lacking and this is where Focus XT fits right in. I also like to have something to drink while studying rather than a large bolus I get from pills.

Overall, amazing taste with a pleasant, focused feel sans the crash. You can find it easily for around $19.99 and some websites are running two for $30 which is a ridiculous value.

[JJ22]

DAA

150g of Sodium DAA. 50 scoops at 3g. Daily dose used was 3g total, either in one dose or split 1.5g twice daily.

Effects: 9/10

I had experience with DAA before and I’ve always noticed a nice libido boost as well as a smooth strength gain. SNS’s DAA was no different, however, I felt as if the sodium DAA kicked in faster and within 1-1.5 I got the same effects from DAA. I set numerous PRs over the course of my lean bulk and I was very happy with my mood, especially since I came off an extended low fat cut (I can only imagine what my hormonal panel would look like).

That said, the DAA definitely kicked me back into gear. The same great motivation, muscle hardness and strength was evident. In addition, libido took off which was awesome as I wasn’t feelin’ it after my cut. DAA definitely helped me maintain a great mindset and mood throughout this log and that translated into gym performance as well as other areas in my life like school and social life. I felt confidient.

These effects topped out at around 4-5 weeks in my opinion and at this time, the effects started to level off. That said, I think it would be best used in 6 week bursts but I had enough product to extend it to around 7 weeks assuming all my doses were 3g. I did notice very slight water retention the last week but that could be chalked up to diet.

Overall, very similar to DAA though with a quicker kick in.

Would I buy DAA with my own money?

Simply yes. It would make a great addition for any natty test boosting stack. You can get it around $19.99 which isn’t much over bulk DAA prices and in some cases is at the same price point depending where you shop. With that in mind, I’d go with SNS because they use sodium DAA which is the studied ingredient and I’d trust SNS’s quality control over any bulk powder supplier. It also comes with a scooper while other bulk suppliers use ¼ tsp dosages, the latter being much harder to dose.

[JJ22]

All in all, I’d like to thank SNS for giving me the opportunity to log their products free of charge. I promised a detailed and honest review and I hope I have provided my end of the bargain for those who followed. I enjoyed each supplement and look forward to using them again in the near future.

I’d also like to finish by saying SNS is a stand up company that I don’t hesitate to recommend to others. Their formulations and raws are legit, their prices are competitive and the support from the SNS crew is awesome. I wish them continued success!

[JJ22]

Sitting at around 170.0lbs.

My pictures from April 10th I was at ~163lbs. I believe I added a few pounds of LBM over the course of this log, not too bad considering all the events that went on. I'd have to shred another 5 pounds to really make a comparison. Overall, I am very happy with the lean bulk as my strength numbers definitely went up. I feel like if I lost 7 more pounds of weight, I'd definitely be leaner than my April 10th pictures with a tad bit more mass.

Couldn't figure out the camera, so a lot of them are washed our with crappy lighting.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-b8sEEZvWcgQ/TfrVMYrQFAI/AAAAAAAAANE/b-OxNDn1nK8/s720/DSC00708.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-aa9oy0eaTm0/TfrVOAhZc6I/AAAAAAAAANI/Cf7WiAbSrls/s720/DSC00713.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-DpAPXZ4l2do/TfrVPkAPdQI/AAAAAAAAANM/A43sttzHuEU/s720/DSC00716.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hhrB_PGyArI/TfrVRsyxERI/AAAAAAAAANc/p4AK5z954ow/s720/DSC00723.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HM8TS7vShF8/TfrVTjogosI/AAAAAAAAANg/v-EqxnWpnrY/s800/DSC00730.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-N1DMTM24sCo/TfrVUikAeDI/AAAAAAAAANk/TfNSfadleyY/s720/DSC00732.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Ocj7Dh07akI/TfrVWgzpErI/AAAAAAAAANs/13EO6hju_rw/s720/DSC00741.JPG

[SNS8778]

Excellent pics and conditioning.