What are the Most Effective Muscle Building Supplements?

I am going to dispel one of the most misleading subjects as far as what is the best way to build muscle fast: supplements. Let me clear up all of the confusion about supplements right now by saying this: No supplement will EVER substitute hard work, proper diet, and the right attitude to gain weight and build muscle.

With the exception of the occasional meal replacement, supplements are meant to supplement, not substitute. As far as the fasted way to build muscle, supplements should be the last thing you add to your program, if you add it at all. Supplements alone are completely worthless. They can add to the value of your progress only after you FIRST apply a proper workout and diet.

Now don't get me wrong, I am not totally against supplements, but the BILLION dollar market today glorifies them to the extent that anybody looking for a quick fix can fall victim. Why are they so successful marketing these supplements even though most of them have no evidence whatsoever that they can do what they promise? Because their targets are people who want fast ways to build muscle and gain weight but don't want to work hard for it.

Don't become one of these targets. Separate yourself from the wannabe's and become what few people are willing to work for. Make a decision to yourself right now that you will not look for any easy route to get what you want. Use your common sense and you will remember that anything worthwhile requires sacrifice.

But the reward is always worth the work, ALWAYS. Supplements won't substitute any hard work for you but if you use them intelligently and know which ones really work and which ones don't, they can help your progress.

Now that you know what role supplements really play in gaining weight and building muscle, here is a list of the a few type of supplements that are worth investing any money in. Keep in mind that most big brand names are in essence pretty much the same.

1) Whey Protein Powder or Bars

2) Creatine Monohydrate Powder

3) Meal Replacement Powders or Bars

4) Multi-Vitamins

5) Post-Workout Carbohydrate Drinks

6) Extra Vitamin C

7) ZMA

You can pretty much find these at any local general nutrition store or any major website that sells bodybuilding supplements. Remember, supplements are NOT magic. They act only as an additional component to a proper workout program, but should be the last component in order of importance. A proper workout, a diet with the right food to eat to build muscles, plenty of sleep, and the right attitude is all you really need to get in shape and build muscle fast. Focus on these elements FIRST, then you may consider a few basic supplements after.