Tag: news

Resources

Top 5 Creatine Myths – Debunked!

Top 5 Creatine Myths – Debunked!

Creatine is one of the most researched and widely used supplements in the fitness world, yet it’s often misunderstood. Despite its proven benefits, a lot of misinformation surrounds creatine, causing people to shy away from it or misuse it. Let’s set the record straight by debunking the top five myths about creatine!


Myth #1: Creatine Causes Water Retention Only 💧

The Truth: It’s easy to see why this myth is so common. Yes, creatine draws water into your muscles, but that’s actually one of its key benefits! The water retention occurs within your muscles, not under the skin, so it doesn’t cause bloating or puffiness like some people believe. Instead, this process increases muscle hydration, which supports improved muscle function, strength, and endurance. This hydration also helps speed up muscle recovery, making you feel less sore and ready to take on your next workout.

💡 Takeaway: Creatine’s water retention supports muscle growth and recovery—not just bloating!


Myth #2: Creatine is Only for Bodybuilders 💪

The Truth: Creatine has gained a reputation as a “bodybuilder’s supplement,” but it’s far from limited to those who want to bulk up. Creatine benefits anyone looking to improve their athletic performance, energy levels, and endurance, regardless of their fitness goals. Whether you’re a runner, swimmer, CrossFit enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys regular workouts, creatine can help you train harder, recover faster, and increase your strength.

💡 Takeaway: Creatine isn’t just for bodybuilders—anyone looking to enhance performance can benefit!


Myth #3: Creatine is Dangerous for Your Kidneys 🚨

The Truth: One of the most persistent myths about creatine is that it can damage your kidneys. However, numerous studies have debunked this concern, showing that creatine is safe for healthy individuals when taken at recommended dosages. Research has demonstrated that long-term creatine use has no harmful effects on kidney function in those with normal kidney health. As with any supplement, it’s important to stay within the recommended guidelines and consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

💡 Takeaway: Creatine is safe for your kidneys when used properly in healthy individuals.


Myth #4: Creatine Leads to Weight Gain 📈

The Truth: Yes, creatine can cause some weight gain, but this is lean muscle mass—not fat! As creatine helps draw water into your muscles, it also increases your muscles’ ability to work harder and longer, leading to greater muscle growth over time. If the scale goes up a little, it’s because you’re gaining functional muscle tissue, which is exactly what you want if you’re looking to increase strength and power.

💡 Takeaway: Creatine helps you gain lean muscle mass, not unwanted fat!


Myth #5: You Have to “Cycle” Creatine 🔄

The Truth: Unlike some other supplements, creatine doesn’t require cycling on and off. Once your body’s creatine stores are saturated (which usually takes 5-7 days with a loading phase), you can maintain those levels by continuing with a daily maintenance dose. Research has shown that regular, ongoing use of creatine is safe and effective without the need to take breaks or “cycle” on and off.

💡 Takeaway: There’s no need to cycle creatine—consistent use is safe and effective!


So, What’s the Bottom Line?

Creatine is one of the most effective and well-researched supplements available today, and it offers incredible benefits for anyone looking to improve strength, endurance, and recovery—not just bodybuilders! By understanding the truth behind these common myths, you can feel confident incorporating creatine into your supplement routine.

💥 Ready to unleash your full potential? Try our premium creatine today and take your training to the Next Level! 💪

Resources

The Power of Clean Protein: Fueling Gains with Pure Ingredients

The Power of Clean Protein: Fueling Gains with Pure Ingredients

In the fitness world, results matter—but so do the ingredients that fuel your progress. When it comes to building lean muscle, improving recovery, and enhancing performance, you need more than just any protein source. Clean gains require clean ingredients, and that’s where our Certified Grass-Fed Protein steps in.

If you’re serious about your health and fitness goals, choosing the right protein supplement is essential. But what sets clean protein apart from the rest? Let’s break down why clean ingredients matter, and how our Certified Grass-Fed Protein gives you the edge in both nutrition and performance.


Why Clean Protein Matters

Not all proteins are created equal. Many protein powders on the market are loaded with fillers, artificial ingredients, and unnecessary sugars that can hinder your progress. When you’re focused on gaining muscle and staying lean, you want protein that is as close to its natural state as possible—without any additives that slow you down.

Clean protein ensures you’re getting high-quality nutrition that’s easy for your body to absorb and utilize. Here’s why that matters:

  • Better Muscle Growth: Clean protein is more bioavailable, meaning your body can break it down and use it more efficiently. This results in better muscle recovery and growth after your workouts.
  • Fewer Fillers: Unlike many protein powders that bulk up with artificial fillers, clean protein contains pure ingredients that give you exactly what you need—nothing more, nothing less.
  • No Upset Stomach: Clean ingredients are easier on the digestive system, reducing bloating and discomfort often caused by low-quality protein blends.
  • Sustainable Sourcing: Clean protein often comes from ethical and sustainable sources, like our Certified Grass-Fed Protein, which supports the health of the animals and the environment.

The Advantages of Our Grass-Fed Protein

At I Am Next Level, we’re committed to providing you with the cleanest, highest-quality protein possible. Our Certified Grass-Fed Protein is sourced from cows that graze freely, ensuring they produce nutrient-rich, high-quality milk for the protein concentrate.

Here are the key benefits of choosing our Grass-Fed Protein:

1. High-Quality Nutrition for Muscle Growth

Our Grass-Fed Protein delivers the ideal balance of amino acids to help your muscles recover and grow. The high concentration of protein in each serving ensures you’re getting the nutrients needed to support lean muscle development without the extra calories or unwanted fillers.

2. Naturally Clean Ingredients

We use only the best ingredients in our protein formula. You won’t find any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives here—just pure protein, naturally sweetened with Stevia and flavored with rich cocoa powder. Clean, simple, and effective.

3. Easily Digestible

Many protein powders on the market can cause bloating, gas, or discomfort due to their low-quality ingredients and added fillers. With our grass-fed protein, you’re getting a clean, easily digestible protein source that your body can absorb efficiently, allowing you to perform and recover at your best.

4. Sustainably Sourced

Our grass-fed protein is produced using sustainable farming practices. Grass-fed cows not only produce higher-quality milk but also have a lower environmental impact. By choosing grass-fed, you’re supporting a healthier environment and more humane farming practices.

5. Great Taste, No Compromise

We understand that you want your protein to taste good—without sacrificing your health goals. That’s why our Extreme Chocolate flavor combines the best of both worlds. You get a rich, decadent chocolate taste, naturally sweetened, so you can enjoy your protein shake without any guilt.


Clean Gains, Clean Ingredients

Choosing the right protein is critical for anyone serious about fitness. By opting for Certified Grass-Fed Protein, you’re ensuring that your body gets the clean fuel it needs to build muscle, recover faster, and stay lean.

Our Extreme Chocolate protein combines everything you need for your fitness goals:

  • Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate: Rich in essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
  • Whey Protein Isolate: Ultra-pure and fast-absorbing, perfect for post-workout recovery.
  • Natural Sweeteners: Flavored with cocoa and Stevia, giving you a delicious taste without artificial sweeteners or sugars.

Why Choose Our Grass-Fed Protein?

Clean gains start with clean ingredients. If you’re looking for a protein powder that prioritizes your health, fitness goals, and the environment, look no further. Our Certified Grass-Fed Protein ensures you’re getting high-quality nutrition that helps you maximize your workouts and supports sustainable practices.

Unleash Your Inner Beast

Fuel your body with the protein it deserves. Try our Extreme Chocolate flavor for the best combination of taste and results. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your fitness to the next level, our grass-fed protein provides the clean nutrition you need to dominate every workout.


Ready to make the switch to clean protein? Give your body the best with our Certified Grass-Fed Protein and start seeing results that come from clean, powerful nutrition.

Resources

Unleash Your Inner Beast and Dominate Every Workout

Unleash Your Inner Beast and Dominate Every Workout

When it comes to achieving peak performance in the gym, your body needs more than just motivation. To truly “unleash your inner beast” and dominate your workouts, you need the right fuel to power through every rep, set, and mile. That’s where pre-workout supplements come in.

If you’ve ever found yourself feeling sluggish or lacking the energy to crush your fitness goals, a good pre-workout can be a game-changer. In this blog, we’ll dive into the benefits of pre-workout supplements and explain how they can help you push your limits, maintain focus, and sustain energy to get the most out of every session.


What Is a Pre-Workout Supplement?

Pre-workout supplements are specially formulated to give your body an extra boost of energy, focus, and endurance before you begin exercising. Typically taken 20-30 minutes before a workout, these supplements contain a combination of ingredients designed to enhance your performance, improve strength, and increase stamina.

While ingredients can vary, most pre-workout formulas include stimulants like caffeine, nitric oxide boosters, amino acids, and other compounds that help support muscle function, blood flow, and mental clarity during exercise.


The Top Benefits of Pre-Workout Supplements

1. Explosive Energy

The most immediate and noticeable benefit of pre-workout supplements is the surge of energy they provide. Packed with ingredients like caffeine and taurine, pre-workouts stimulate your central nervous system, giving you the energy you need to power through even the toughest workouts.

If you often find yourself dragging during a workout or lacking the motivation to hit the gym, a well-formulated pre-workout can give you that much-needed energy boost to get started and stay in the zone.

2. Enhanced Focus and Mental Clarity

Physical performance isn’t the only thing that matters during a workout—mental focus plays a huge role too. Pre-workout supplements contain nootropic ingredients like L-theanine, tyrosine, and caffeine, which work together to sharpen your focus and keep you mentally locked in.

When your mind is clear and laser-focused, you’re more likely to maintain proper form, hit your target rep range, and push through that extra set. With improved concentration, distractions fall away, and you can focus entirely on crushing your workout.

3. Increased Endurance

Ever hit a wall halfway through your workout? That feeling of fatigue that makes it difficult to push forward can be a major barrier to reaching your fitness goals. Pre-workout supplements help combat this by enhancing endurance.

Ingredients like beta-alanine and citrulline malate are commonly included in pre-workout formulas to reduce fatigue and delay the onset of muscle soreness. This allows you to train harder for longer periods, maximizing the intensity and duration of your sessions.


Pump Pre-Workout: Fueling Your Performance

Unleash your inner beast with the energy boost you need to dominate every workout! Our Pump Pre-Workout is specifically designed to elevate your performance, giving you the focus, stamina, and power to crush your fitness goals.

Here’s how the key ingredients in Pump Pre-Workout work to take your workouts to the next level:

Caffeine:

The cornerstone of many pre-workouts, caffeine stimulates your nervous system, increases alertness, and reduces perceived effort during exercise. This means you’ll feel more energized and less tired, allowing you to train harder without feeling worn out.

Beta-Alanine:

Known for the “tingling” sensation it causes, beta-alanine helps buffer the buildup of lactic acid in your muscles. This delays muscle fatigue, allowing you to perform high-intensity exercises for longer durations.

Citrulline Malate:

An amino acid that increases nitric oxide levels in the blood, citrulline malate improves blood flow to working muscles, resulting in better pumps, increased nutrient delivery, and enhanced endurance.

Creatine:

Many pre-workouts, including Pump Pre-Workout, contain creatine to enhance strength and power output. This combination allows you to lift heavier weights and push through plateaus, helping you make continuous progress.

Tyrosine:

This amino acid helps boost mental performance under stressful conditions. Whether you’re pushing your limits during a workout or need to stay focused, tyrosine keeps your mind sharp and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.


Why Pre-Workout Is Essential for Maximizing Gains

Beyond the immediate energy boost, taking a pre-workout consistently helps your body adapt to tougher workouts, enabling better muscle growth and overall performance. Here’s how it directly benefits your fitness:

1. Better Performance, Bigger Gains

When you can push yourself harder and longer during each workout, your muscles receive a stronger stimulus to grow. The increase in energy and endurance helps you break through plateaus, lift heavier weights, and achieve more reps, all of which contribute to increased muscle growth over time.

2. Amplified Pumps

Ingredients like citrulline malate and nitric oxide boosters improve blood flow to your muscles during exercise, leading to more pronounced muscle “pumps.” This not only makes your muscles feel fuller but also enhances nutrient delivery and recovery, allowing you to bounce back faster after your workout.

3. Faster Recovery

Reducing muscle fatigue during a workout means your body has less damage to repair afterward. By delaying the buildup of lactic acid and reducing muscle soreness, pre-workout supplements help you recover faster between sessions, making it easier to stay consistent with your training schedule.

4. Increased Motivation and Consistency

Let’s face it—some days, getting to the gym feels like a chore. Pre-workout supplements can be the extra push you need to stay consistent and motivated, especially on days when your energy levels are low. That consistent energy and focus can help you maintain momentum in your fitness journey and reach your goals faster.


Who Should Take Pre-Workout?

Pre-workout supplements are suitable for anyone looking to improve their workout performance, from beginners to seasoned athletes. If you’re aiming to increase strength, endurance, and energy, pre-workout can provide the support you need.

They are especially beneficial if you:

  • Struggle with energy levels before a workout
  • Want to improve your focus and motivation during exercise
  • Aim to enhance endurance and delay fatigue
  • Have intense training goals that require maximum effort

How to Take Pre-Workout for Best Results

Pre-workout supplements are most effective when taken 20–30 minutes before your workout. This gives your body enough time to absorb the ingredients and deliver the energy boost you need. Simply mix one serving with water or your favorite beverage, and you’ll be ready to dominate your session.

To maximize results, use your pre-workout consistently. While occasional use can provide an energy boost, incorporating it into your regular routine ensures you’re always at your best when it’s time to train.


Take Your Training to the Next Level

If you’re ready to unleash your inner beast and take your workouts to new heights, pre-workout supplements are your secret weapon. Our Pump Pre-Workout is designed to give you the energy, focus, and endurance you need to crush every fitness goal—no matter how ambitious.

From explosive energy to increased stamina and faster recovery, pre-workout delivers the performance edge you’ve been looking for. Add Pump Pre-Workout to your routine today and experience the power of a truly optimized workout.

Dominate every rep, every set, every day.

Protein Recipes

Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats recipe

Start your day the right way with this delicious Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats recipe!
💪 Packed with our Extreme Chocolate Whey Protein, it’s the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition to fuel your morning. Easy to prepare, satisfying, and loaded with protein—what more could you want? 😋
Ingredients:
-1 scoop of Extreme Chocolate Whey Protein
-Rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, almond milk, and more!
Instructions:
-Mix everything together.
-Let it chill overnight.
-Top with your favorite fruits and enjoy!
Protein Recipes

Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie

🍫 Craving something delicious and nutritious?
Try this easy Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie featuring our I Am Next Level Whey Protein – Chocolate Extreme!
Packed with protein, healthy fats, and all the energy you need to fuel your day, this smoothie is perfect for a post-workout boost or as a quick breakfast on the go. 💪
Recipe:
1️⃣ 1 scoop I Am Next Level Whey Protein – Chocolate Extreme
2️⃣ 1 ripe banana
3️⃣ 1 tbsp peanut butter
4️⃣ 1/2 cup almond milk
5️⃣ Ice cubes
6️⃣ Optional: 1 tsp chia seeds for extra fiber
💥 Directions: Blend until smooth, pour, and enjoy!
Resources

Benefits of Creatine

Benefits of Creatine

1. Increased Strength and Power

One of the primary reasons athletes and fitness enthusiasts take creatine is for the boost in strength and power. By increasing your phosphocreatine stores, creatine allows you to train harder and longer. This means heavier lifts, more reps, and improved overall performance in the gym.

Studies have shown that supplementing with creatine can increase strength gains by as much as 5–10% in some individuals, making it a go-to for those looking to break through plateaus.

2. Faster Muscle Growth

Creatine supports muscle growth in two key ways: first, by allowing you to lift heavier and for longer periods, and second, by increasing cell hydration. Creatine pulls water into your muscle cells, which not only helps with performance but also contributes to muscle fullness and size.

This increased muscle volume gives you a more defined look and helps trigger muscle growth by stimulating protein synthesis. When combined with regular resistance training, creatine can lead to greater gains in muscle mass over time.

3. Improved Recovery

While creatine is best known for boosting performance during workouts, it also plays a role in recovery. Creatine can help reduce muscle cell damage and inflammation after intense exercise, speeding up recovery times between sessions.

For those with rigorous training schedules or who engage in high-intensity workouts, creatine can be a game-changer by allowing you to train more frequently without feeling as sore or fatigued afterward.

4. Enhanced Brain Function

Creatine isn’t just beneficial for your muscles—your brain also relies on ATP for energy. Studies suggest that creatine can improve cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity, particularly during periods of mental fatigue or stress.

For athletes or individuals who need to stay sharp mentally as well as physically, this added benefit of creatine can enhance overall well-being and performance, both in and out of the gym.


Who Should Take Creatine?

The short answer: nearly everyone can benefit from creatine. Whether you’re an endurance athlete, powerlifter, or just starting to work out regularly, creatine can help maximize your results.

It’s especially beneficial for:

  • Weightlifters and bodybuilders: Looking to increase strength, muscle mass, and power.
  • Sprinters and athletes in explosive sports: Who need short bursts of high-intensity energy.
  • Anyone with high-intensity training regimens: For quicker recovery and enhanced performance.
  • Vegetarians and vegans: Since creatine is found mainly in animal products, supplementing ensures you get adequate levels for optimal performance.

How to Take Creatine

Creatine supplementation is simple and safe when done properly. The most common and researched form is creatine monohydrate. It’s recommended to start with a loading phase (around 20 grams per day for 5–7 days) to saturate your muscles, followed by a maintenance dose of 3–5 grams per day.

Creatine can be mixed with water, juice, or your favorite protein shake. It’s best taken post-workout to maximize muscle recovery and glycogen replenishment, but it can be consumed at any time during the day.


Is Creatine Safe?

Creatine is one of the most well-researched supplements on the market, and countless studies have confirmed its safety when taken at recommended doses. Minor side effects such as water retention may occur, but these are harmless and temporary. If you have kidney issues or other underlying medical conditions, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.


Take Your Performance to the Next Level

Incorporating creatine into your supplement stack is an easy and effective way to enhance your strength, increase muscle mass, and speed up recovery. Whether you’re an elite athlete or just getting started on your fitness journey, creatine can help you reach your goals faster.

If you’re ready to unlock the next level of your performance, check out our Ultimate Performance Pack—complete with creatine, pre-workout, and protein to fuel your workouts and support your recovery every step of the way.

Protein Recipes

High-protein, chocolate-packed pancakes

Start your morning strong with these high-protein, chocolate-packed pancakes.
Ingredients:
1 scoop Certified Grass Fed Protein – Extreme Chocolate
1/2 cup rolled oats (blended into oat flour)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 large egg
1/4 cup almond milk (or milk of your choice)
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coconut oil or butter for cooking
Instructions:
In a bowl, combine the oat flour, Extreme Chocolate Protein, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
Add the egg, almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Mix until smooth.
Heat a pan over medium heat and lightly grease with coconut oil or butter.
Pour small amounts of the batter into the pan to form pancakes.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Serve with fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
Perfect for a high-protein breakfast or post-workout recovery meal.
Protein Recipes

These No-bake, chocolate-packed snacks for a quick energy boost.

These No-bake, chocolate-packed snacks for a quick energy boost.

Ingredients:

1 scoop Certified Grass Fed Protein – Extreme Chocolate
1 cup rolled oats
2 tablespoons cacao powder
1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the oats, Extreme Chocolate Protein, and cacao powder.

Add almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips and chia seeds.

Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.

Place the energy bites on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Store in the fridge for up to a week for a quick, grab-and-go.