SPN

As far as supplements go I have a few questions. First off I was wondering about fat burners. I hear Lipo 6 is good and Hydroxycut hardcore is supposed to work wonders. I have also heard these are complete gimmicks. I was wondering since I have my top 2-4 abs showing if this would actually put me over the edge if I used it for about a month or whatever. I was trying to find some conclusive opinions if they really do burn fat. Also I was wondering if you would recommend creatine. I was going to do the CE2 NO2 stack, not sure if you're familiar with it. Additionally I'm only 17 so I was wondering if this would pose any health issues or would I be fine.

I would say that if you are relying on an over the counter fat burner to make a difference, you'll probably be disappointed. There are some products out there that are reported in the fitness and bodybuilding arena to have helped out, such as Lipo 6, LS7, Ripped-Fuel, and Hydroxycut, being among the favorites. But, some of that is due to the boost that comes with taking products like this for a productive workout. Also, the thermogenic effect of supposedly your body's ability to burn or metabolize at a higher rate. There are arguments either way, as you mentioned. It somehow always comes back to proper training and dieting in general to get results that you are looking for. Sometimes, its simply a matter of getting to know your body better, by trail and error with things such as calories, protein/fat/carb balance, and proper training including cardio. The supplements just help out with the process, but won't alone make a big difference. It won't hurt you at all taking any of the thermogenic or fat burner products, just as long as you don't abuse them, or have a pre-existing heart condition of some kind. Otherwise, they're safe enough.

You can also cycle on the creatine....last spring I was taking the BSN stack...Cellmass, NO-Xplode, and NOX2...(aka, the creatine and NO stack) I really liked the effect that it had...really energized workouts, kept me vascular and muscles full looking with the creatine. Creatine is basically an aide to help your muscles hold more necessary protein to not only recover quicker, but to allow the muscles to take in more amino acids, etc...to work more productively. I think at your age now the creatine is safe, just don't go overboard with it, much like any other supplements, except protein....you can never get enough of that.

Hope that helped...good luck with your training and really start keeping track of what you are eating....keep the 5-6 meals/snacks per day going, and lots of water. Try and stick to complex carbs mostly, and keep up the cardio...at least 3x per week to get rid of that remaining weight around your lower abs. Also, keep your protein high, should be at least one gram of protein per lb of bodyweight to promote lean mass.

Vince