Energy Supplements (and the deadlift)

I am trying out this new supplement called Rage. It's made by Universal Nutrition; you know the one with the "Animal." I love their product line and since they became a sponsor of powerliftingwatch.com, I figured I would give Rage a try. In terms of a jolt of energy, I have to say the thing does the trick. The only problem is - once in a while - I experience a little tingling in the ears. It could come for the beta alanine which has cause reaction before, so its not that big of a deal.

I only take Rage on days I train...specifically about 30 mins before. On all other days, I use Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy. I really like this product. The caffeine source comes almost entirely from green tea and green coffee. Amino Energy comes in two flavors: grape and fruit fusion. Both taste good and make a good substitute to coffee.

I feel comfortable recommending Amino Energy to anyone not sensitive to caffeine. However, I would tell all others to use Rage with a caution...only because of its intensity.

On a side note, Mark Bell told me today - or I should say reminded me - that I just simply need to back off the heavy deadlifts. I will be the first to admit that it is tough for me to stay light...especially after a good couple weeks. But eventually, your body just says uncle. I know this but sometimes, I just need to be told. The is especially true now that I am dabbling in multi-ply. Multi-ply really taxes the nervous system and squatting in the gear week after week is going to take a toll...especially for a newbie. Not a great day in deadlifts today and so for awhile, I am just going to work on getting stronger...maybe some deficit deadlifts, rack pulls, and band work. At the end of April, I will test my strength again. Maybe...hopefully...I will get closer to 700 lbs. All the Rage in the world is not going to get me there...smart training will.