I recently started taking creatine about three weeks ago when I began my bulking cycle. I have since noticed a significant strength increase and have been able to pack on the weight in my lifts like never before.

However, I didn't do all of the research that I probably should have before beginning creatine, and I seemed to have missed the information about a "loading phase". I began by taking 5 grams a day, about an hour before my workouts, and have stayed with that amount for the past three weeks.

My question is, would there be any benefit to me doing a "loading phase" at this point? Or should I stick with the amount I'm currently taking?

IMO, if you are happy with the results, stick with what you are doing.

The "loading phase" is hotly debated.

I have used creatine several times over the past 18+ months since starting my weight loss program. At the advice of a trusted friend, I skipped the loading phase.

A person weighing 150-lbs. has about 120-grams of creatine naturally occurring in the body. Of that, only about 2~4 grams per day are turned over in the body; if you're an extreme athlete, higher doses may do well however most of us simply put in one good 45-minute resistance workout per day, which the body can easily absorb on its own, without creatine supplementation. Therefore, in my opinion, supplementing with 5-grams post-workout with some sort of sugar to cause the nutrient-delivering insulin spike is more than enough to supplement the natural creatine production of the human body. Why take in 15~20 grams per day when the body will only utilize around 5-grams in the course of a day? That's why I believe supplementing with a maintenance dose of creatine (5-gms, abs. 10-gms max) is really the only thing necessary. The body only wastes that which is not utilized. Just my opinion... I could be wrong.

-R

Bied - Is that a link to your band??

Excellent information as always, gentleman. Thanks so much.

Bied - Is that a link to your band??

Pretty much. I'm a solo artist, so I'm a one man "band". LOL.

Hope the link doesn't violate any forum rules. If so, I'll take it down.

I'm a solo artist, so I'm a one man "band". LOL..
I thought so. I am really liking Chaos Before the Storm. Great song.