My VENDETTA... (Sponsored by Illadelphia)

[Illadelphia]

NIce on the shoulder/traps day..

On your next one, try and hold that shrug for 2-3 sec..

You'll feel that **** in the morning!!!

Vend will keep you strong even when you start to feel weak..

I know Conor had said a few of his days, he had no sleep, a headache, and empty stomach(his whole log was fasted), and he still was putting up great numbers...

In for back day!!!

About to head there myself in 15-20mins..

Last day of IntrAbolic

DO WORK SON!!!!!!

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by Illadelphia

On your next one, try and hold that shrug for 2-3 sec..

You'll feel that **** in the morning!!!

I'm all over those 2-3 second contractions... That's the one body part I want fully developed (don't ask me why). So, anything I can do to spark growth, I'll do.

I'm pleasantly surprised that I gain energy from a product that contains no caffeine... My history, up to this point, has proved otherwise... I am responding well to it, though. That's a fact!

Gonna have to check on your numbers in your IA log... Haven't lurked over there in a while.

[_Smitty_]

I'm off today, lads... Might just head to the gym to help get the new bars/dumbbells out while the fitness director's on vacation.

Can't wait to play with the brand spankin' new trapbar.

Anyhow, the E-Bol's beginning to show its effects. I didn't sleep too well last night, but my periods of sleep were very deep and restful. I may consider raising the doses to 9 caps/day beginning next week.

As for Vendetta... I feel good today; no soreness in the shoulders, but my triceps are a bit tender... but, after 2 consecutive days of pushing, I can understand why.

To quote Rick Ducommun in the 'burbs, sing along if you know it:
"Vendetta is good; Vendetta is our friend; I want to kill... Everyone."

[digitalgoodtime]

i had my off day from lifting yesterday, i hate off days :-/

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by digitalgoodtime

i had my off day from lifting yesterday, i hate off days :-/

Right?! If I could train 7 days/week, I would...

Don't have enough gym shorts, though.

In any event, my training partner and I aren't invested in this new routine 100%, so we may decide to go back to the 5-day split we were doing before...

That should solve this 'off day' issue.

[Illadelphia]

Originally Posted by Smitty77

Right?! If I could train 7 days/week, I would...

Don't have enough gym shorts, though.

In any event, my training partner and I aren't invested in this new routine 100%, so we may decide to go back to the 5-day split we were doing before...

That should solve this 'off day' issue.

I hate off dayz

I feel like i have done nothing productive..

I may start making all off-days calves and forearms days

[11B]

Originally Posted by Illadelphia

I hate off dayz

I feel like i have done nothing productive..

I may start making all off-days calves and forearms days

I was thinking the EXACT same thing haha

[_Smitty_]

It wasn't too, too bad... Got to unpack all the new gear for the gym! Brand new bars, new 60s, new collars!

Can't wait to use the trapbar on Friday!!!

At least Wednesday's in the bag... Back/tris tomorrow!

[Mixelflick]

Go Smitty! In for this log..

I've been using a similar stack for awhile... waxymaize/BCAA peri-workout and a quality ecdy product. Carbs/BCAA's peri workout have probably done more to improve recovery than any other product. You add ecdy to the mix and it's a struggle to construct a workout that delivers DOMS.

One note on the E-bol (and this is completely anecdotal on my part): Try incorporating one stretch position movement for each conventional movement. I.E. heavy, deep dumbell pullovers after bench press.

I can't explain it other than to say I consistently get better results while using ecdy + the stretch position movements. Given the current thinking re: it's mechanism of action (PI3k-AKT pathway), the loaded stretches may be amplifying ecdy's PI3K-AKT message. The recent ecdy study cited in this month Muscular Development jostled my memory enough to check past ecdy based training logs. Then there is this. See here:

http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/j...TRY=1&SRETRY=0

[rubberchicken73]

Been lurking for a while now but am always keen to see how others like this product because I love the stuff. Such a simple ( relatively ) formula and yet so effective. Tastes good too!

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by Mixelflick

Go Smitty! In for this log..

I've been using a similar stack for awhile... waxymaize/BCAA peri-workout and a quality ecdy product. Carbs/BCAA's peri workout have probably done more to improve recovery than any other product. You add ecdy to the mix and it's a struggle to construct a workout that delivers DOMS.

One note on the E-bol (and this is completely anecdotal on my part): Try incorporating one stretch position movement for each conventional movement. I.E. heavy, deep dumbell pullovers after bench press.

I can't explain it other than to say I consistently get better results while using ecdy + the stretch position movements. Given the current thinking re: it's mechanism of action (PI3k-AKT pathway), the loaded stretches may be amplifying ecdy's PI3K-AKT message. The recent ecdy study cited in this month Muscular Development jostled my memory enough to check past ecdy based training logs. Then there is this. See here:

http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/j...TRY=1&SRETRY=0

Mixel is here! Thanks for popping in!!!

Funny you mention the stretch positions as I've just finished reading this little write-up in the recent Ironman citing its effectiveness (included in the Holman/Lawson 'X-Rep' article).

In any event, I'll take a look at the current routine, slot in some of these movements, and begin again next week.

Also, the link isn't working for me... If you have the title of the study, I can look it up at work later today.

Glad you're here, man!

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by rubberchicken73

Been lurking for a while now but am always keen to see how others like this product because I love the stuff. Such a simple ( relatively ) formula and yet so effective. Tastes good too!

Thanks for not lurking... .

I agree that it's such a simple, effective formula and I'm even more surprised/pleased that I've responded so well to it. As I've mentioned, I'm usually a stimulant junkie when it comes to pre-workout supps., so this is a huge change for me...

But I'm diggin' it!

[jdang416]

Smitty - if you vouch for something, I'm buying. Sub

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by jdang416

Smitty - if you vouch for something, I'm buying. Sub

James!!! Welcome, buddy!

Oh, I'm vouching! With Vendetta, I have no complaints thus far. I think it's perfect for a stim-sensitive person in the market for a pre-workout supplement.

Once the E-Bol gets goin', I'll be one happy clam.

[11B]

I can't wait to see how the E-bol will work out for you. The write up was very impressive! It has me intrigued...

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by 11B

I can't wait to see how the E-bol will work out for you. The write up was very impressive! It has me intrigued...

I can't lie, based on the reviews, I have high expectations...

I've responded so well to Animal M-Stak in the past that I wanted to experiment with more potent ecdy products, sooo...

I'll be increasing the dosage to 9 caps/day beginning on Sunday, so we'll see what type of effect that has.

Speaking of which... time to take my afternoon dose.

Iron in 75 mins.!!! I'm anxious to get in there today!!!

[_Smitty_]

Back

Seated rows: 1x20
290 lbs.

Lat pulldowns: 2x10
175 lbs., 200 lbs.

One-arm cable rows: 2x10
120 lbs., 140 lbs.

Chins: 3x6
BW, BW, BW

Seated rows: 1x20
290 lbs.

Triceps

Skullcrushers: 3x10,6,6
75 lbs., 105 lbs., 95 lbs.

Dips: 2x10
BW, BW

Pushdowns: 1x20
175 lbs.

The Verdict

Vendetta:
Incredible workout today!!! I could not be more pleased with the effort put in!

Mixed the V with 12 ounces today and chugged it about 15 mins. before heading over. I've really noticed the Luden's cough drops flavor comparison today... Still doesn't change the fact that it's a frosty, refreshing beverage.

I'm still in awe of the sustained energy from this product! I put just as much into my last set as I did my first.

E-Bol:
I believe that the E-Bol is starting to show its effects; though I'm still increasing my dosage next week. My water intake (which is normally within the 1 - 1.5 gallon range) has increased somewhat, and my sleep is deep and restful (now that I'm getting over this middle ear infection that's kept me up for periods).

I'm still keeping my protein intake between 340 and 370 grams/day, which is very difficult to do.

Anyhow... legs tomorrow! Bringin' the deadlift back into the routine!!! It's been about, hmmm, 3 months since I've done one...

[digitalgoodtime]

Originally Posted by Smitty77

Vendetta:
Incredible workout today!!! I could not be more pleased with the effort put in!

Mixed the V with 12 ounces today and chugged it about 15 mins. before heading over. I've really noticed the Luden's cough drops flavor comparison today... Still doesn't change the fact that it's a frosty, refreshing beverage.

I'm still in awe of the sustained energy from this product! I put just as much into my last set as I did my first.

that's exactly how i felt when i logged Vendetta a few months back...sustained energy FTW! i did a huge workout yesterday for the simple fact I just don't get tired when I got the Vendetta pushin through my system

it's only gonna get better bro, to the point where you realize "wow, carbs + EAA preworkout is better than any preworkout stim when it comes to getting the most out of yourself for a sustained amount of time."

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by digitalgoodtime

it's only gonna get better bro, to the point where you realize "wow, carbs + EAA preworkout is better than any preworkout stim when it comes to getting the most out of yourself for a sustained amount of time."

I'm gettin' there... I don't even miss caffeine (well, except in the mornings).

Actually found and skimmed through your log, Schmitty... That's where I got it in my head that V tastes like cough drops...

After reading that, it's all I could taste.

[digitalgoodtime]

Originally Posted by Smitty77

I'm gettin' there... I don't even miss caffeine (well, except in the mornings).

Actually found and skimmed through your log, Schmitty... That's where I got it in my head that V tastes like cough drops...

After reading that, it's all I could taste.

that was the log where i realized XF is the only company i could ever rep for; the products are second to none in every category imo. it's personal preference, but i seriously cant live without my Relentess/Vendetta/Ultra Peptide

Luden's Cough Drop taste ftw! i love that cherry taste. since i dont like to drink a lot of liquid preworkout, ive been adding 1-1.5 scoops Vendetta to only like 6oz of water crazy strong taste but i just gulp it and head to the gym.

[rubberchicken73]

Originally Posted by digitalgoodtime

that's exactly how i felt when i logged Vendetta a few months back...sustained energy FTW! i did a huge workout yesterday for the simple fact I just don't get tired when I got the Vendetta pushin through my system

it's only gonna get better bro, to the point where you realize "wow, carbs + EAA preworkout is better than any preworkout stim when it comes to getting the most out of yourself for a sustained amount of time."

This pretty much hits the nail on the head as far as I'm concerned. You gotta have the fuel in the tank or you aren't going to power through a workout and that's exactly what Vendetta did for me as well. So much more effective than relying on stims.

[Illadelphia]

DAMN SON!!

Those are some crazy seated rows!

I can get the stack(same=290) up for a few, but i need straps...

I am glad to see that Vend is treatin you well...I just gave me 1/3 tub to another buddy at the gym who has gotten stimmed out, and wanted to try something new..

Now i have no Vendetta

I will be gettin some more next month

I had a great back day myself...

Spider-Rows are killer!


Keep up the good work

[Mixelflick]

Originally Posted by Smitty77

Mixel is here! Thanks for popping in!!!

Funny you mention the stretch positions as I've just finished reading this little write-up in the recent Ironman citing its effectiveness (included in the Holman/Lawson 'X-Rep' article).

In any event, I'll take a look at the current routine, slot in some of these movements, and begin again next week.

Also, the link isn't working for me... If you have the title of the study, I can look it up at work later today.

Glad you're here, man!

Hi Smitty.

Posting some nice numbers there. Glad Vendetta is working well for you too! Relative to E-bol and the stretch induced PI3K-AKT pathway, sorry about the link. Here's an abstract of the study I came across:

Original Article
Regulation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathways in dystrophin-deficient skeletal muscle in response to mechanical stretch
Charu Dogra 1, Harish Changotra 1, Jon E. Wergedal 1 2, Ashok Kumar 1 2 *
1Molecular Genetics Division, Musculoskeletal Disease Center, Jerry L. Pettis Memorial VA Medical Center, Loma Linda, California
2Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California

email: Ashok Kumar (ashok.kumar2@va.gov)

*Correspondence to Ashok Kumar, Molecular Genetics Division, Musculoskeletal Disease Center, Jerry L. Pettis Memorial VA Medical Center, 11201 Benton Street (151), Loma Linda, CA 92357.

Funded by:
Muscular Dystrophy Association

Abstract
Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-B) signaling pathways play a critical role in mediating survival signals. In this study we have investigated how loss of dystrophin (the primary cause of Duchenne muscular dystrophy) modulates the activation of PI3K/Akt and NF-B signaling pathways in skeletal muscle in response to mechanical stimulation. Activation of Akt was significantly higher in diaphragm muscle from dystrophin-deficient mdx mice compared to normal mice at both prenecrotic and necrotic states. Higher activation of Akt was also observed in cultured dystrophin-deficient primary myotubes differentiated in vitro. Application of passive mechanical stretch ex vivo synergistically increased the activation of Akt in diaphragm of mdx mice. Stretch-induced activation of PDK-1 and PI3K were also higher in diaphragm of mdx mice compared to normal mice. Pretreatment of diaphragm with PI3K inhibitor LY294002 blocked the activation of Akt in normal and mdx mice. Higher activation of Akt was associated with increased phosphorylation of its downstream targets glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3), FKHR, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Treatment of diaphragm muscle with LY294002 inhibited the stretch-induced activation of IkappaB (IB) kinase (IKK) and NF-B transcription factor in normal and mdx mice. Mechanical stretch also reduced the interaction of HDAC1 with RelA subunit of NF-B in diaphragm muscle. Finally, cellular levels of Bcl-2, cIAP1, and integrin 1 and activation of integrin linked kinase were higher in diaphragm muscle of mdx mice compared to normal mice.

Taken together, our data suggest that loss of dystrophin and/or mechanical stretch results in the up-regulation of PI3K/Akt and NF-B signaling pathways in skeletal muscle. J. Cell. Physiol. 208: 575-585, 2006. ? 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Now, this is total speculation on my part. My observations are based upon me and my experiences alone. When I run Rhaponticum Carthamoides Extract plus heavy stretch position movements I seem to get amplified ecdy effects. That is to say, better re-comping, even better work capacity, better VO2 max/stamina etc.. Give it a shot and let me know if it works for you.

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by Illadelphia

Spider-Rows are killer!

Tried searching around for these because I've seen them mentioned before...

This is the one with the double-pulley; seated backwards, chest against the pad; and you're pulling in at an angle, right?

If that's the one... that's a tricky move!

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by Mixelflick

Now, this is total speculation on my part. My observations are based upon me and my experiences alone. When I run Rhaponticum Carthamoides Extract plus heavy stretch position movements I seem to get amplified ecdy effects. That is to say, better re-comping, even better work capacity, better VO2 max/stamina etc.. Give it a shot and let me know if it works for you.

Even if it's only speculation, the study/abstract seems to support your theory; and I'll be incorporating the movements, nevertheless.

So, if I understand this correctly... by utilizing the heavy-stretch movements, I'd be expanding (?) the PI3K/Akt and NF-B pathways allowing the ecdy an open passage; whereas not actualizing those pathways would result in a much slower, less effective ecdy uptake.

I'm also going to see if the M&D issue you referenced is still available.

Thanks, Mixel! You're input/advice is always welcome and very much appreciated!!!

[Mixelflick]

Hi Smitty,

I'm not certain exactly what, if anything it means. It MAY be that the PI3K-AKT pathway is further activated by the stretch reflex. May be that it amplifies ecdy's message or vice versa. Or it may be I'm completely wrong. Just an observation of mine/theory at this point.

Whatever the case, I'm a big fan of stretching the muscle under load secondary to "conventional" movements. Makes a lot of sense to me. If you look at the hyperplasia studies in animals, there are clues. Also many of the old strongman routines (20 rep breathing squats followed by breathing pullovers) take this technique into consideration.

Worth tinkering with, IMO.

[_Smitty_]

Originally Posted by Mixelflick

Worth tinkering with, IMO.

Agreed! I have no issues experimenting with this.

I'm strongly considering the DC training protocol beginning next year, in which emphasis falls on performing an "extreme" stretch of the body part immediately following the exercise (i.e. one working rest/pause set of the bench, followed immediately by a 60-90 second heavy static hold of the bottom position of the lift).

What you're proposing is not that different, really (only that I'd be performing an actual exercise as opposed to a static hold).

[_Smitty_]

Legs

Squats: 3x6
225 lbs., 245 lbs., 250 lbs.

Lying leg press: 2x10
400 lbs., 425 lbs.

Calf press: 1x20
400 lbs.

Deadlifts: 3x6
225 lbs., 275 lbs., 300 lbs.

Lying leg curls: 2x10
100 lbs., 125 lbs.

Calf press: 1x20
400 lbs.

The Verdict

Vendetta:
Okay, seriously... Illa/Schmitty, I want one of you to tell me: what is it about Vendetta's formula that makes it so effective?

First time deadliftin' in 3 months and 300 was a walk in the park.

I know that my squats are weak, but they always have been... The lift I shoot for, the one I consider a true test of strength is the deadlift and I guarantee that before this log is through, that I'll be pullin' 400+ from the floor for reps!

It's inevitable.

E-Bol:
Tomorrow will be my last day dosing at 6 caps/day. I've noticed a hardness developing in my muscles, too, that wasn't present earlier this week.

My thirst is also out of control! I woke myself up twice last night for water and was quite parched this morning upon waking.

I have a feeling that the effects I've noticed this past week will be amplified once I begin increasing the dosage, and I can't wait to incorporate the stretch movements into my routine (thanks again, Mixel), which I'll work on over the weekend.

If anyone has any specific suggestions, I'd love to use 'em.

Back on the attack Monday!

[Illadelphia]

Originally Posted by Smitty77

Legs

Squats: 3x6
225 lbs., 245 lbs., 250 lbs.

Lying leg press: 2x10
400 lbs., 425 lbs.

Calf press: 1x20
400 lbs.

Deadlifts: 3x6
225 lbs., 275 lbs., 300 lbs.

Lying leg curls: 2x10
100 lbs., 125 lbs.

Calf press: 1x20
400 lbs.

The Verdict

Vendetta:
Okay, seriously... Illa/Schmitty, I want one of you to tell me: what is it about Vendetta's formula that makes it so effective?

First time deadliftin' in 3 months and 300 was a walk in the park.

I know that my squats are weak, but they always have been... The lift I shoot for, the one I consider a true test of strength is the deadlift and I guarantee that before this log is through, that I'll be pullin' 400+ from the floor for reps!

It's inevitable.

E-Bol:
Tomorrow will be my last day dosing at 6 caps/day. I've noticed a hardness developing in my muscles, too, that wasn't present earlier this week.

My thirst is also out of control! I woke myself up twice last night for water and was quite parched this morning upon waking.

I have a feeling that the effects I've noticed this past week will be amplified once I begin increasing the dosage, and I can't wait to incorporate the stretch movements into my routine (thanks again, Mixel), which I'll work on over the weekend.

If anyone has any specific suggestions, I'd love to use 'em.

Back on the attack Monday!

Dave's formulation(it's Xtreme ) of eaa's+carbs does wonders.

I said before, having lifted with Conor(cal62887), he is a beast. I witnessed him put up the same #'s and more on an empty stomach for a month. I was sold..

I ration it to the fact that XF's protein is in the Top 3 in the industry(i know where i rank it, ), so his EAA product should be too...

I used 2 scoops the other day after falling asleep about an hour after my pre-wo meal...

I was . I knew if i set up another whole meal, the process would take 2 hours(cooking+waiting fo it to digest+driver to the gym)...

i downed 2 scoops and put in a vicious chest workout...

Real life results>broscience...

Doing great so far bro, keep it up!!!

[Mixelflick]

Originally Posted by Smitty77

Agreed! I have no issues experimenting with this.

I'm strongly considering the DC training protocol beginning next year, in which emphasis falls on performing an "extreme" stretch of the body part immediately following the exercise (i.e. one working rest/pause set of the bench, followed immediately by a 60-90 second heavy static hold of the bottom position of the lift).

What you're proposing is not that different, really (only that I'd be performing an actual exercise as opposed to a static hold).

You know, I did a full blown Static Contraction training routine in 2003. I got TREMENDOUSLY strong (in the position I held the weight in only, unfortunately). The worst part was, my muscle fullness/roundness disappeared. I suspect due to lack of stretching under load/subsequent re-molding.

It's a valid application, but only a piece of the puzzle. DC looks like it delivers all 3 components, which is great.

Please keep the Vendetta/E-bol updates coming. Sounds like Vendetta is a real winner so I may take another look at it. And good signs on the E-bol. The thirst, deeper sleep and muscle hardnening are exactly the same signs I notice when running a quality Ecdy.