Alcohol in College -PLEASE respond

[kmoney]

I will be a freshman in college next year and somebody told me yesterday that drinking will totally kill your t-level. This scares me a lot. I do not drink now becasue of this but i know i will in college. Is it really that dramatic-it will completely wipe out all gains from that week? how does this work in the body?

thanks

[gr0undz3r0]

Its ok NOT to drink.
I know its contrairy to the mainstream. But the mainstream seems to suck anyways.
LOL
But it is ok no to drink really.

[kmoney]

Yeah that is true. But even if i drink like 1 or 2 times per week, how is this affecting my gains? how long does it kill the t-levels for?

[gr0undz3r0]

Define "Drink"

[kmoney]

consume alcoholic beverages, but not necessarily to excess

[XenoWang]

This depends on a number of things, including:
- How much you have to drink
- Your nutrition before and after alcohol consumption
- Your natural testosterone production
- Genetics

I know some people who can easily get away with drinking every so often (I would not suggest once a week though, not at all) and still make excellent gains. I know others who cannot. I would not be so concerned about lower T-levels as I would be with lowered performance in the weight-room as alcohol messes with a number of things other than T-levels.

[kmoney]

what else could it mess with?

[thirsty_shepard]

When I was in college, I hung with a lot of the guys that lifted. Some lifted for fun, others lifted for football. It seemed to me that the guys that got drunk and used alcohol a lot did get gains, but not as fast as the guys that drink moderately or not at all. I can't back this with anything other than seeing it first hand.

I really didn't drink in college and had a blast with all my buddies. I figured out it was a lot more fun during the party and the next day when I wasn't drinking. Plus I didn't have to deal with the hang-over or trying to remember where I parked my car that night, or who she was and why she was calling me. It usually ends this way with girls and drinking. Go to bed at 2 with a 10 and wake up at 10 with a 2.

Best of luck in your desicions brother.

[JTiger]

Take it easy. Beer will not kill you. Look at Arnold. He drank a good bit back in his bodybuilding days. Try not to make it every day. If you don't want to drink then don't volunteer to be the designated driver.

[kmoney]

Thanks for all the great advice guys, keep it coming because i'll take it all to college with me /forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif

If anybody knows how long alcohol can suppress t-levels (or any other levels in the body) for let me know. I only plan on drinking maybe once or twice per week (and only after all my studying is done /forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif). for example say I plan on drinking friday night. Should i lift firday day and not saturday or vice versa?

I appreciate it

[Gibbster]

I think the main thing that gets killed in your bodybuilding endeavours when you drink is your will.

Your will to stick to your diet for the next 2 days is gone, your will to give 100% in the gym for the next day or two is gone, and your will to make any long term goals is shot because you know next weekend will go the same way.

You make you choices and live with the consequences. You need to decide how important each is to you. Drinking with your buddies or getting into the best shape possible. Which will bring you gratification down the road? Which will further you as a person?

Food for thought.

[hercegovac]

[ QUOTE ]
Take it easy. Beer will not kill you. Look at Arnold. He drank a good bit back in his bodybuilding days. Try not to make it every day. If you don't want to drink then don't volunteer to be the designated driver.

[/ QUOTE ]

yea well arnold took in a lot more then alcohol in his day so i dont think thats a good example

[kmoney]

wow that is a wake up call. You're right. When I think about it I would rather be healthy and huge then sloppy drunk and hungover the next day.

is it really possible to have lots of fun in college without drinking? can you still go to the barrels and not be pressured into drinking?

[Gibbster]

Defintely Bro! you can have a blast without drinking.
Also try going to different places that don't necessarily involve alcohol.

Go to the movies, bowling, dances, pool hall etc. (All great date ideas btw) The point is, find different things to do so you're not always thinking about the Clubs. You'll be surprised how much fun you'll have.

[Crzyenuff]

Moderation in everything. Except pumping iron.!!!

[hercegovac]

save the drinking for real special occassions like your birthday !

[jeffrobodean]

My problem is that I have a really addictive personality. That's why I will never try roids.
I never drank in high school, but when I got to college, I drank like a fish. I smoked (various substances). That is how I got my gut. I traded in my 6 pack for a keg.
I don't know what effects the actual alcohol had on my body physiologically, but mentally, I was too lazy, bloated hungover, whatever to hit the gym. It is a motivational destroyer. It's not work to drink, but it is to hit the gym, and beer + me = lazy.
Just take it all in moderation and don't get sucked into the traps that got me. Plus, I think about all the money I spent on classes that I didn't go to and how long it took me to graduate. Having that much fun is expensive /forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif

[l0stsheep]

[ QUOTE ]

I know its contrairy to the mainstream. But the mainstream seems to suck anyways.

[/ QUOTE ]

YESSS...so good.

[10forty2]

I guess I'm too old to get into this conversation without sounding like my parents, but here goes....

Unless you live somewhere outside of the US, then the legal drinking age is 21. Unless you're a graduate student or just simply got into college late, then you're too young to legally drink. So with that logic, it's a no-brainer....

DON'T DRINK!

Other than that.... What Gibster said is true! The main thing alcohol will do is kill your desire to be hardcore in the gym. You just keep telling yourself that its fun to party so you do it. Then when it's time to go to the gym, you tell yourself, missing one workout won't kill me. I'll just stay here and have another drink. It goes downhill from there.

[gr0undz3r0]

I said it before and ill say it again.
Its OK not to drink.
Look at your rationalazation.
"Can you still have fun without drinking"
How did we get here as a culture.
GRRRRRRRR -
Im straitedge sorry...
/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif
Love you all!

[TheShanMan]

^ Agreed. If you're not drinking now, why start when you are at college? I didn't drink when I was in college (in fact I've never even been drunk) and I certainly don't look back and say to myself "if only I had chosen to drink..."

And if you have to rely on drinking to have fun, what does that say about you?

[kmoney]

wow...you guys are ALL right. now that i think about it - why should i need to drink to have fun. I can still go to parties and not drink!!

thank you all so much...you may have saved me from destroying all my hard work in the gym. you're all great people.

[Gibbster]

[ QUOTE ]

thank you all so much...you may have saved me from destroying all my hard work in the gym. you're all great people.

[/ QUOTE ]

Tis the brotherhood of Iron my friend /forum/images/graemlins/cool.gif

We look forward to your alcohol free results for a good long while.

[JTiger]

[ QUOTE ]
^ Agreed. If you're not drinking now, why start when you are at college? I didn't drink when I was in college (in fact I've never even been drunk) and I certainly don't look back and say to myself "if only I had chosen to drink..."

And if you have to rely on drinking to have fun, what does that say about you?

[/ QUOTE ]

Sometimes you do it for the story. I know tons of people that played by the rules and wished they had cut loose in college. Just don't let it affect your studies or you'll be a drop out talking about your wild college days. A little won't kill you but don't end up like the movie "Animal House"

[Axilleus]

I read an article on here a few days ago that was talking about shock sets i believe (dont quote me on that though) lol anyways Arnols (cant spell his last name) so ill call him the governor. anyways the governor said he used to do like 2 hours of squats in the forest then get drunk on beer and wine, now I dont know about suppressed t levels but I do know the governor did pretty good on his gains. My personal thought, you will do alot better without overindulging in anything espically alcohol. get your carbs eleswhere is my advise /forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif BUT THEN AGAIN IM NOT THE GOVERNOR

[pcalvert]

Well Heres my 2 cents

I go to Penn State a pretty respected college academically and socially as well. It is huge with parties everywhere everynight and frats everywhere. Im also a brother at a respected social frat here.

Im a sophmore now and i started off my freshman year drinking thurs friday and saturday hard not paying attention to nutrition at all and hitting the gym 4 times a week. Let me tell you i made no gains and either did most of the other kids in the gym who were just like me. At the end of the year i started to become depressed got mono and lost 20 pounds. I started going to parties sober because i couldnt drink and to clubs and i was having a fun time not as much fun when i was drinking but still a fun time. I would wake up the next morning at 10 and remember everything i did the night before and would be able to get all my work done before my roomies even woke up.
Now i drink once or twice a week but only a few beers like 3 or 4 which isnt much for someone weighing 180. The main reason i do that is we have sorotity girls over and they want to play beer pong and stuff so if u want to get to know them you sort of have to deal with drinking a few.
Also when everyone else is drunk it can sometimes be hard to communicate with them unless you are on their level somewhat. ANd when you meet girls and if you hookup with them you dont feel like your taking advantage of them since they were drinking and you were sober.
Now that ive said all that this year i have made some of the most incredible gains. Goin from 130 7% bf to 180 11% bf in less than 9 months. Keep your nutrition in order, drink tons of water after you drink even if it means staying up a little longer and never drink while you cut. Also dont drink to excess and never drive. At college you will realize partying starts to run peoples lives and they start revolving around alcohol. I feel so good right now that i excercise, dont drink and get my work done. I feel productive. Hope this helps man.

[psaturn]

Kmoney,

Yes you can have a blast at college and never get DRUNK..

I went to Elmhurst College and UC Berkeley and I never ever got DRUNK. And I enjoyed it immensely. Berkely was a fun place ! Especially watching the Berkeley nuts that still think it is in the 1960's, get startled as the naked guy walks past by you (he was eventually forced to either wear clothes or get kicked out of the school because a woman student complained of visual harrassment).

If you are with a group of friends and they insist on getting drunk, tell them you volunteered to be THE designated driver...I think they will appreciate you!

And besides, when you get drunk, you won't remember what you did...and so what was the point ? Going thru college adds to memories of great experiences and getting drunk is NOT ONE OF THEM...

[XenoWang]

My advice is to basically not drink during most of the year. Perhaps save it for a couple of special occasions but even then, keep it under moderation.

I go to parties and events all the time without drinking any alcohol and usually have a good time. It's all about your mindset. I've had great times and had crappy times at parties and it was all about my mindset. If you go in with a carefree attitude, just wanting to go in and have fun (which alcohol may artificially do for you), then you'll have fun- especially if you have good friends with you.

[RawIron]

Im on a cut.. so at parties, which i go to very often, I will walk around all night with the same beer in my hand. Its a good trick haha. You won't look like a wuss and still be able to chill.

Last semester I got wasted every night and we did a lot of case races. 2 on 2, who can drink the whole case the fastest... Thats the only thing I cant take part in now. haha.. I was recovering from torn cartilage in my shoulder so I couldnt workout or do cardio.. so i figured why not. I dont know where im going with this... but i recommend NOT doing that! haha

[kmoney]

WOW so much great insight. So I will keep my mind set good and hard on good nutrition and getting great gains. I'm sure I will drink maybe once a week atleast but not to excess. I only weigh about 130 so 3 beers gets me a great buzz-the kind where you're a lot more social but not sloppy drunk and looking like an idiot. I know now that I can go out and have a great time without getting drunk - someone (i forget who at this moment) who posted above made me realize that, if I rely on alcohol to have fun, what kind of person am I? Right now my biggest passion is weight training-my whole life revolves around it, and I know this will never ever change. Plus in college I will have plenty more time to do exercise and practice great nutrition (versus highschool where I'm stuck in school for 8 hrs and good nutrition is hard).

Thank you guys again so much. The brotherhood of iron is definitely the best you can find

[younglifter]

kmoney - In every decision that you make at college remember why you went there in the first place. You went to develop as a person: learn to communicate with peers and superiors alike, form lasting friendships with stimulating people who encourage you to grow; have fun; become independent; and gain a bit of book knowledge along the way.
I don't care to get into a philosophical debate about the legal drinking age, but realize that it's really not 21 in college. We had no problem gettin booze in my freshman year.
On your road to independence, you'll make many decisions. Deciding whether or not to drink in college will be the first one free from the influence of your parents.
I'll speak from personal experience. I'm a senior in college. Because of booze and various late night eating adventures, I gained around 40lbs. over the 3 plus years.
Maybe, I didn't get the best grades I could (but I'm carrying a 3.33 at a nationally ranked college). BUT, I don't regret my decisions at all. Life, and college, is about sacrifice. You'll need to weigh your options and make the right decision for you. Drinking and partying was right for me. Going to bed with a 10 and waking up with a 2 sounds silly but it's fun and part of college. Gettin wasted with your buddies and singing country songs is a blast and memories I'll always have.
There were friends of mine who didn't drink. Some even until this year. They have all been drunk. You'll notice that a lot of kids will go nuts senior year after they've spent 3 years not doing much in the way of partying. Personally, I don't think it's right for people to assume things about drinking and being drunk and have never been drunk. I also think that college is kind of a blank slate for four years to do and experience everything as long as you get that diploma in the end. Enjoy your four years in whatever decisions you make. Be it to booze or not just make sure you have fun. And I agree wholeheartedly with whoever posted don't be mainstream to be mainstream. You'll find that it really does suck. Don't drink and drive! (In an interesting side note: my buddy and I split a bottle of 100 proof vodka the other night and made it to the bar. I had a really good time.)

[kmoney]

I think you're absolutely right! what exactly do you guys mean by mainstream though?

[younglifter]

haha...I hope this can be taken in jest. But this is my mainstream.

http://www.youtube.com/p.swf?video_id=fL...e-Guys%2522-PSA (http://www.youtube.com/p.swf?video_id=fL-NoQirEb0&l=67&eurl=&t=Don%2527t-Sleep-With-%2522Those-Guys%2522-PSA)

[rickck48]

My only 2 cents worht is,,,it a Bigger Man to Say NO than it does to say yes!,,cliche' I know but it is so true! Good luck with great gains! /forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[LongHorn215]

Like everyone is saying you can defiently have fun at a party without getting wasted. And like rawiron said if your really getting pressured to drink, then you can always grab a beer and just carry it around the whole night slowly pouring some out or filling it up with water. I did this countless times at parties and nobody ever caught on (probably b/c most of them were wasted).

[kmoney]

hahahaha

[kmoney]

Yeah it will be weird because I've never been to a college party. Highschool parties are sooooo lame....they're segregated-all the differnt cliques of kids all stand alone and nobody intermingles. I hope college parties are different! is this true? what are most college parties like?


**** it's gonna be exciting!

[younglifter]

i think cliques are going to form no matter where you are. college is a step up from high school, but still somewhat immature. Although, that could be just my school.

[kmoney]

yeah that sounds right....you'll form a group of friends and kinda keep to them mostly. But is it true that different cliques actually do intermingle and associate w/ one another, or are they *******s and don't let anyone else in? thats my problem: highschool is so cliquey and i never had a clique, i'm just scared that'll happen again incollege (but i doubt it will since i've matured and all)

[younglifter]

you'll find a group of friends, to be sure. Everyone going to college is in your position -- looking to meet new friends. Just choose wisely and make sure you're new friends want you to be you and not to be something that makes you uncomfortable.

[kmoney]

thanks, man that makes me feel better. Yeah i guess that is true...everone is starting with a clean slate....noone knows anyone and we're all tryin to help eachother out. I know the important thing is to be myself and i just need to make sure i stick to that!!

[thewarrior]

[ QUOTE ]
is it really possible to have lots of fun in college without drinking? can you still go to the barrels and not be pressured into drinking?

[/ QUOTE ]

I too am going off to college next year, and I am thus faced with this same question. I think I have found a solution: while at a party, have a cup of beer. Have not drink. It is unfortunate that one needs to put on such an appearance, but it is a sure way to both not drink and stick out like a sour thumb that you are abstaining. By the way, where are you hoping to attend?

[kmoney]

yeah that is a good idea. I'll be attending Winona State University in MN, how about you?

[TheMac]

I remember filling up a case of beer with whey once because i was going to a party and didn't feel confident enough to just stick out. It worked well until someone took one and caught on /forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Now if i happen to go to a party with friends i can bring anything i want and not drink at all, it's all about having friends that support what you do. A good quote i read about this went something like:

"Your results and expectations are directly related to those people with whom you spend your time. Bottom line: If you're trying to get strong, then get around strong people! Get around those people who see you as you'll be, not as you are."

I don't bother anyone about drinking and they don't mind one bit, they actaully tend to admire the dedication it takes to live the way bodybuilders do and often ask for advice (well the ones without their ego holding them back).

[huskerwr38]

It will effect your gains, because it is just empty calories and it will dehydrate you. A few won't hurt you. Also, if you choose other alcoholic drinks such as wine coolers, they are sugary. Bottom line, whats the point of drinking if you are only going to have a few. Just don't have any.

[RawIron]

Longhorn.. the pouring water in your can thing.. i did that tonight actually. Haha, it's fun to challenge people to see who can chug their last beer the fastest when you know yours is just water.

[kmoney]

haha yeah that would be funny!
So just to make sure....freshman year even if i get involved in lots of clubs and stuff(not sports tho) i will have enough time to lift and all?

also is it easy to get to sleep in the dorms or are they ALWAYS loud?

thanks again people /forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[CrazyScott]

Drinking is more calories too! That's why drinking always made me bloated. And yes, then the next few days I was in NO mood to hit the gym. That led to bad habits.

My advice, avoid it. It's really not worth the aggravation. All it does is cause bloat, leads to depression, eating things you normally wouldn't, and you develop those bad habits I mentioned.

I totally had to quit to get serious about my body. I'm not saying I will never drink again but when I do it's only on special occasions, not every weekend or even once a month. You must change your lifestyle period. If you cannot because you are around people who bring you down or tempt you to drink then you need to establish new buddies who fit your lifestyle. I know that's hard but in the end you will be much healthier and happier.

Good Luck!

[kmoney]

Yeah that is my one real worry - being able to find other friends who share the same lifestyle as me. I know i will find them, maybe if i go to the weightroom at the same time everyday i will make friends w/ the other people in there?

[Gibbster]

That's the great thing about college and university.....
There are so many different types of people there, you're sure to find others who share your values and ideals.

You can do it bro!

[swaptrex]

do it in MODERATION

[TheShanMan]

[ QUOTE ]
I don't bother anyone about drinking and they don't mind one bit, they actaully tend to admire the dedication it takes to live the way bodybuilders do and often ask for advice (well the ones without their ego holding them back).

[/ QUOTE ]
That was my experience too (though I wasn't into bodybuilding at the time). I had no interest in tricking people into thinking I was drinking (I was and am proud of the fact that I've never been drunk). When I went to parties I didn't go around criticizing people for drinking or looking down on them, nor did they criticize me for NOT drinking. On the contrary, it wasn't uncommon for guys to express respect for my choice. Probably boils down to the perception of self confidence.

[name2]

Here's the deal, if you enjoy drinking and want to get drunk at parties, do it. Don't drink just because you think you have to to fit in, if it's not your thing then don't do it no one will bother you. There are kids that drink 4 nights a week and do other stuff and still make good gains. The point is, don't miss out on fun in college because you are afraid drinking will hurt your development. Do what makes you happy.

[kmoney]

Again, this is all advice i will never forget, and will keep w/ me for the rest of my life. You guys are awesome.

[thewarrior]

I applied early decision to Princeton but was deferred due to their wanting to see my first semester grades, so I still have hope. If not, I applied to 13 other schools (yes, between the gym and that, my social life took a hit, hahaha).

[CrazyScott]

[ QUOTE ]
Here's the deal, if you enjoy drinking and want to get drunk at parties, do it. Don't drink just because you think you have to to fit in, if it's not your thing then don't do it no one will bother you. There are kids that drink 4 nights a week and do other stuff and still make good gains. The point is, don't miss out on fun in college because you are afraid drinking will hurt your development. Do what makes you happy.

[/ QUOTE ]

Is this really the best advice to give to someone? Listen, "fun in college" does not have to revolve around alcohol or being around people who drink it. Maybe a better time in college would be to avoid alcohol, hang around people who share similar interests and actually remember the experience! Too many young people today think a good time can only be achieved through numbing the brain with substances. I seriously doubt anyone who drinks four nights a week will achieve better gains than someone who doesn't.

Drinking is a choice. Do it and face the consequenses or avoid it and not worry about it. Why put your mind and body under the stress of alcohol if you can live without it? I am not saying never drink. All I am saying is you don't need to make it part of your life. Drinking in moderation is more enjoyable when you don't think about it and do it once in a great while.

I use to drink so I know what it can do. Now that I don't I actually enjoy going to family functions and other events and not drinking! It's true! After all, the next day I can get up early and hit the gym while everyone else has a headache and a bloated gut. LOL You call a few hours on brain numbing the night before worth all that?

Avoid things that will cause you to stumble, no matter how minor you think they may be. One small stumble could lead to larger falls. /forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif

[kmoney]

this was probably one of the best pieces of advice out of all of 'em. thanks, man

[Smoney]

I think this is kind of rediculas. I am 19 freshman in college. I am not trying to boast or anything right now but i drink and smoke on average 4 times a week. I'm 180 pounds 9% BF. A bunch of my friends do the same and one of them is even lower in BF. I do watch what i eat pretty closely. I take training seriously, and i take vitamins and protein supplements as recommended on this site. You can drink and make geins. Since i have been in school my BF has actually lowered slightly and i've gained some muscle. I am at the point right now where i just cannot find the money to eat enough to make anymore gains in weight. I think its kind of ignorant to say you cannot make gains while drinking. Maybe it slows them down, but its definantly possible to make very good gains still.

[XenoWang]

[ QUOTE ]
I think this is kind of rediculas. I am 19 freshman in college. I am not trying to boast or anything right now but i drink and smoke on average 4 times a week. I'm 180 pounds 9% BF. A bunch of my friends do the same and one of them is even lower in BF. I do watch what i eat pretty closely. I take training seriously, and i take vitamins and protein supplements as recommended on this site. You can drink and make geins. Since i have been in school my BF has actually lowered slightly and i've gained some muscle. I am at the point right now where i just cannot find the money to eat enough to make anymore gains in weight. I think its kind of ignorant to say you cannot make gains while drinking. Maybe it slows them down, but its definantly possible to make very good gains still.

[/ QUOTE ]

Nobody is saying you can't make gains while drinking. We are simply saying that it is certainly not optimal by any means and the fact that you can still make gains while drinking simply means you could be making even more progress if you reduced these counter-productive activities. Take one of my roommates for example- he drinks often and smokes pot on occasion. His nutrition is terrible, his sleep habits are completely ridiculous, and his training is not intense in any sense of the word. Yet he still maintains an excellent physique. Is he naturally gifted? You betcha. Do you think he could become absolutely monstrous if he adopted the same lifestyle that I lead? There is no question.

However, I also don't doubt that years down the road, he will not have such genetic advantage and his physique will start to decline. This isn't some kind of envious wishful thinking- it's simply educated conjecture. Now, if you are the type of guy who has been blessed with similar genetics- you need to analyze where your priorities are. As bodybuilders, we are all out to improve our physiques and better our body compositions. There are many who cannot make gains if they don't go for broke in this regard- meaning giving your all in training, nutrition, and lifestyle. I would include myself in this group. If you don't belong, then I suppose you have more leeway in that regard. But why sabotage great potential?

[kmoney]

yeah I mean i nkow that i can go and party/drink at most maybe twice per week, as long as i keep a very good eye on my supplements and nutrition. I've drank before, and woken up the next morning and lifted and did just fine. I just cannot let it go overboard liek so many college students will

but since you are a frosh like i will be next fall, how is college? is it easy to meet people who share the same values as you and make friends? how is dorm life, can you get to sleep or is it too loud?

thanks man

[XenoWang]

[ QUOTE ]
I applied early decision to Princeton but was deferred due to their wanting to see my first semester grades, so I still have hope. If not, I applied to 13 other schools (yes, between the gym and that, my social life took a hit, hahaha).

[/ QUOTE ]

A bit off topic, but...

I wish you all the best with Princeton as I myself was deferred from my early decision top choice school (UPenn, Princeton's rival, heh) but as my information clearly states, I did eventually get in in April /forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif Make sure you do everything you can to get in the door, meaning contacting your local recruiter, keeping grades up, excelling in any activities you're involved in (awards and positions are always good), and writing a letter to the admissions department reiterating your desire to attend the school.

In any case, which other schools have you applied to? Is UPenn on the list? If so, perhaps by some chance of fate you may end up here and we can lift together /forum/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

[Smoney]

lol i had no idea your name was Kmoney, weird. College is awesome, i'm the kind of person who liked highschool and still really like college more. I've joined a fraternity and what not so in that regard its really easy to meet people. Sleeping is no problem my roomates just play video games all day so they're no problem. You'll have so much fun, look forward to it.

[thewarrior]

[ QUOTE ]

A bit off topic, but...

I wish you all the best with Princeton as I myself was deferred from my early decision top choice school (UPenn, Princeton's rival, heh) but as my information clearly states, I did eventually get in in April /forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif Make sure you do everything you can to get in the door, meaning contacting your local recruiter, keeping grades up, excelling in any activities you're involved in (awards and positions are always good), and writing a letter to the admissions department reiterating your desire to attend the school.

In any case, which other schools have you applied to? Is UPenn on the list? If so, perhaps by some chance of fate you may end up here and we can lift together /forum/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

I applied to duke, yale, stanford, georgetown, dartmouth, swarthmore, amherst, pomona, clairemont mckenna, whitman, washington and lee, davidson, vanderbilt, and of course, princeton. Of course, I mean no disrespect to UPENN. The only reason I did not apply there was because I do not want an urban setting (same reason I didn't apply to Chicago). Thank you for your advice and support. Currently, I am sending an additional recomendation along with my mid-year report, but I think I will also write a letter reiterating my interest as you have suggested. Thank you again.

[Stian]

I have gotten some descent gains in the past when I was drinking pretty much.. Definately could have been a lot better tho. It depend a lot on you. A lot of ppl get in sick after drinking + lazy, so they train a lot less. Your energy is also pretty messed up the next day, and you are totally dehydrated. If you eat well, and drink a lot(water) you should be able to get your energy back fast.

You could also try drinking some water in between beers so u keep a bit more water /forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Axilleus]

SPARTANS didnt drink because it made you feel good, and I dont know of any better WARRIORS in the history of man, they were the only people to ever go 300 against 250,000 and hold them off for 3 days, then again they slept on the ground, didnt wear shoes (unless in battle) and didnt listen to music because it was pleasing to the ears, in other words if its hard they liked it and if it was pleasing and against the mainstream they avoided it, the question is do you want to be the best and toughest or the opposite, ARETE FOREVER, CHOOSE THE HARD OVER THE EASY ALWAYS

[iLLa]

it depends what your goals are. you can get big and still drink. if your trying to be body builder huge then dont drink at all. working out is the most important thing. look at all these big jocks that drink. they are huge cause of their gentics. what are your goals. you dont have to drink if you dont want to. if you want to drink i say drink, you are in college right. just do it or dont do it because its what you want to do. i drink, im not trying to be a body builder. if i was, i probably wouldnt drink at all. sometimes i drink sometimes i dont. when i had my motorcycle and when i drove it, i would never drink. be responsible.

[Zee-German]

Everything in moderation. I didnt read through everyones posts, but judging by how many pages this thread is, theres people going crazy saying, "It will hurts your gains, boo hoo"...

In reality, it wont do much, just drink in moderation. When i drink, its usually in company with others like a party or something, and thats the only time i ever drink.

[Crombie]

[ QUOTE ]
Everything in moderation. I didnt read through everyones posts, but judging by how many pages this thread is, theres people going crazy saying, "It will hurts your gains, boo hoo"...

In reality, it wont do much, just drink in moderation. When i drink, its usually in company with others like a party or something, and thats the only time i ever drink.

[/ QUOTE ]
With alcohol there is no "moderation" your body has to deal with the effects no matter how little you intake. So it's not, "It will hurts your gains, boo hoo," it is simply that it WILL affect your gains no ifs ands or buts. Make your choice appropriately. Do you want to drink, and have to work harder to get what you want or do you not drink and get to your goal faster?

[Big Wave Dave]

What college do you attend that doesn't teach spelling or sentence structure?


[ QUOTE ]
I think this is kind of rediculas. I am 19 freshman in college. I am not trying to boast or anything right now but i drink and smoke on average 4 times a week. I'm 180 pounds 9% BF. A bunch of my friends do the same and one of them is even lower in BF. I do watch what i eat pretty closely. I take training seriously, and i take vitamins and protein supplements as recommended on this site. You can drink and make geins. Since i have been in school my BF has actually lowered slightly and i've gained some muscle. I am at the point right now where i just cannot find the money to eat enough to make anymore gains in weight. I think its kind of ignorant to say you cannot make gains while drinking. Maybe it slows them down, but its definantly possible to make very good gains still.

[/ QUOTE ]

...unless your post is intended to be an example of what happens when one "drinks and smokes" 4 times a week, in which case I apologize for missing the subtlity....

[dalvare1]

ok the obvious answer is that you shouldnt drink. but you are a college student (as am i) and you should be enjoying yourself and your friends. drinking now and then isnt goin to kill your gains. just dont make a habit of it. dont be the guy who gets plowed every other night. keep your priorities straight, and use common sense. I drink maybe once every couple weeks. not because i cant but because i choose not to. im usually "designated dave" lol. but im ok with that because i know that im getting all my work done, getting HUGE, and when i want to, i can party too.

[cain06]

I went to Penn State - a HUGE party school. Drinking starts Wednesday and ends Sunday.

Alcohol is a poison to the body, but you have to live your life as well.

It's unrealistic to expect you to swear off alcohol when you are in college.

I drank my fair share, but was also commited to working out hard and running a lot. I kept my six pack through college despite drinking every week.

Tips:

1. Alcohol lowers your resistance to junk food - don't fall into the "Pizza at midnight" routine. If you're going to be eating, have a protein shake or something.
2. Stay away from beer -> I never drank beer in college, I always stuck to vodka, rum, or other straight alcohols. I would mix these with diet soda. Tastes great and no sugar. (Alcohol does have calories, about 80 per shot, so count them in your totals)
3. Use some common sense - don't drink and drive (easy on campuses with good bus systems).
4. Have Fun! You will only have this time once in your life - don't be 100% strict on yourself, but at the same time, don't be a lush. Balance is key.

Once I left college, my drinking subsided immensely. Also my gains improved as well.

Good luck.

[johnjohnandjamal]

I'm in my 4th year of university and I have drank quite a bit during the past few years. When I went to school I was 165 at about 14% bodyfat and now I'm 210 at 13% so it is still possible to have your fun and still make some considerable gains. To totally deny yourself of something for bodybuilding reasons is ridiculous, unless you are doing it as a profession. I know that I am not a professional bodybuilder and that I don't have to be 100% serious in all the things I do. I eat well and train hard but taking part in one of the biggest social aspects of university is just something I can't pass up.

As suggested, if you do plan to drink at school, stick with diet pop and a clear alcohol like vodka or rum to consume the lowest amount of calories. Also, try to limit yourself; pick only 1 night on the weekend to go out.

[Down 2 Die]

I drink on the regular and I just beat Vic Martinez in a pose off like 15 minutes ago.

[Zee-German]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Everything in moderation. I didnt read through everyones posts, but judging by how many pages this thread is, theres people going crazy saying, "It will hurts your gains, boo hoo"...

In reality, it wont do much, just drink in moderation. When i drink, its usually in company with others like a party or something, and thats the only time i ever drink.

[/ QUOTE ]
With alcohol there is no "moderation" your body has to deal with the effects no matter how little you intake. So it's not, "It will hurts your gains, boo hoo," it is simply that it WILL affect your gains no ifs ands or buts. Make your choice appropriately. Do you want to drink, and have to work harder to get what you want or do you not drink and get to your goal faster?

[/ QUOTE ]

Haha, ok... All perspective i guess.

[Adam Knowlden]

Can you drink and make gains? Sure. That doesn't prove that you couldn't have gained more if you didn't.You can eat candy and make gains too. The issue is optimization.

I don't really think there is much of a debate that alcohol consumption has more negatives than positives as far as bodybuiding is concerned. /forum/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

[biglifter56]

i havent drank since i downed a 5th of jim beam(bad idea) like 3 months ago.


imo, sometimes its good to just go out with your friends and have a few. i dont think theres anything wrong with that as long as you do it in moderation and it doesnt become a habbit.


although the last 2 months ive seen great gains, and i really think thats from not drinking.

[Stamina]

[ QUOTE ]
I will be a freshman in college next year and somebody told me yesterday that drinking will totally kill your t-level. This scares me a lot. I do not drink now becasue of this but i know i will in college. Is it really that dramatic-it will completely wipe out all gains from that week? how does this work in the body?

thanks

[/ QUOTE ]

Life is supposed to be fun in the long run and the way to get there is to learn how to balance things. College will be an excellent chance to experiment and learn things about yourself. Nobody can tell you how to behave in order to live a pleasant life. It's probably the most important thing you will have to discover on your own.

As for you question, this might help http://alcoholism.about.com/cs/abuse/l/blacer030117.htm

[Asher435]

Well I think the biggest thing to worry about with drinking in college is the complete lack of nutrition that comes with the hangover of the next day. Building muscle is all about giving your body what it needs to build muscle, but when you're in a super dehydrated state and too ill to consume any sort of food you loose the chance to build the muscle you otherwise would have.

As for cliques forming, it still happens. There are several distinct cliques that have formed on my floor. But there's that month or so where everything is still up in the air socially.

And it's totally fine not to drink in college. I'm currently a freshman and most people I know do drink, but some choose not to. Do we care if they don't? Nope, because someone needs to be a DD or be there in case we do something stupid. Not drinking is a choice that is respected and not ridiculed .

And as for alcohol being a major impediment to growth, I don't believe that it is that huge of a factor. I have been able to gain about 7 lbs, most of which is muscle since I first came to school back in early august, and I drink once a weekend usually to excess. Although, ~4 of those pounds were rebound from when I lost a lot of weight in the beginning of the year due to totally inadequate caloric intake. Also consider that I'm a classic hardgainer so it takes a tremendous amount of effort for me to gain ANY weight.


IN the end it's all about the choices you make. If you want to have fun, have fun. If you want to train hard, train hard. If you want to do both, realize that each subtracts from the other. Find the balance.

..Also, don't forget to do your schoolwork.