There is a great deal of hearsay in the bodybuilding world surrounding topics such as mass gain potential, mainly because it is a market saturated with people trying to sell the latest quick-fix products to those desperate to pack on the muscle. The truth is that muscle gain is often a slow and hard process that involves a lot of dedication. You may see noticeable results in the first month of training, but for substantial results, prepare for the long haul.
Newbie Gains
If you are just starting out in bodybuilding you will find that you will make substantial gains in the first couple of months of training. Comparatively, these gains will slow as your body adjusts to the new lifestyle. As Bodybuilding.com notes, it is possible for a beginner to pack on as much as 1 lb. a week of solid muscle to start with, or 4 lbs. a month.
Experienced Lifters
For a seasoned lifter or athlete, a muscle gain expectation of 1/2 lb. per week, or 2 lbs. per month would be more realistic, says Bodybuilding.com. For these gains, immense dedication is needed in both the gym and the kitchen. You will find that you need to keep switching up your workout routines, incorporating different exercises or sets and reps to constantly shock the body into growth.
Genetics
Genetics inevitably play a role in the rate at which you gain muscle and the amount that you will ultimately gain, says personal trainer Christian Finn of The Facts About Fitness website. The mesomorph body type is more akin to bulking up quicker and more easily than the ectomorph body type, which is much skinnier naturally and is more suited to endurance sports.
Fat Gains
If you are gaining weight at a faster pace than 4 lbs. a month, it is probably through water retention or fat gains. Many people don't realize this, which causes the foundation for some of the wild claims you will hear about rapid muscle gain, says Bodybuilding.com. Some fat gain is almost inevitable as you pack on the muscle, but if it becomes excessive, take a closer look at your bulking diet.
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