Running track and Creatine.

[Chris15]

Okay, freshman track starts up here in about a week. And I just bought some creatine monohydrate. Would it be wise to take it during track season..or no? Im also kind of afraid that running track will possibly burn off some of my muscle mass. Any advice on that?

[sta63bmx]

To maintain muscle mass and strength in season, the proticol is usually more intensity, less volume, so the caloric demands don't grind you down. If you're staying hydrated and using it properly, cycling creatine during the track season shouldn't do anything but give you more energy for short-term, anaerobic work.

I'm curious to know how creatine affects aerobic energy production, if at all. You'll probably retain a little more water,but no big deal.

[CraZy-T!]

This issue of JHR (http://www.abcbodybuilding.com/jhr%201%2005.php) is for you!

What sort of running are you doing? Creatine won't have much effect of efforts of over 1 minute. Check out Joe's article for why.

Try to separate your weight workouts and track by 6-8 hours at least to avoid catabolism. Stay well hydrated, make sure you get a balanced meal of carbs and protein after your track sessions, and your muscles should be fine. See the articles on nutrient partitioning for more info on how different levels of exercise affect the body.

[**DONOTDELETE**]

[Chris15]

Okay, but if I run for a long period of time couldnt it burn off so much fat. That it turns to my muscle?

[**DONOTDELETE**]

[DB_Head]

hey fellow trackster,
lots of variables to consider dude.
what event do you run Sprints, MD, LD, Hurdles???