Peak week recommendations for bodybuilders: an evidence based approach

BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation

Christopher Barakat¹  Alan A. Aragon²  Guillermo Escalante³  Brad J. Schoenfeld⁴  Scott W. Stevenson⁵ 

[1] Competitive Breed LLC, Tampa, FL, USA;Human Performance Laboratory, The University of Tampa, Tampa, FL, USA;Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, California State University- Northridge, Los Angeles, CA, USA;Department of Kinesiology, California State University- San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA, USA;Health Sciences Department, Lehman College, Bronx, NY, USA;Integrative Bodybuilding LLC, Tampa, FL, USA;

关键词: Bodybuilding;    Competition;    Contest;    Peaking;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s13102-021-00296-y

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

Bodybuilding is a competitive endeavor where a combination of muscle size, symmetry, “conditioning” (low body fat levels), and stage presentation are judged. Success in bodybuilding requires that competitors achieve their peak physique during the day of competition. To this end, competitors have been reported to employ various peaking interventions during the final days leading to competition. Commonly reported peaking strategies include altering exercise and nutritional regimens, including manipulation of macronutrient, water, and electrolyte intake, as well as consumption of various dietary supplements. The primary goals for these interventions are to maximize muscle glycogen content, minimize subcutaneous water, and reduce the risk abdominal bloating to bring about a more aesthetically pleasing physique. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of evidence to support the commonly reported practices employed by bodybuilders during peak week. Hence, the purpose of this article is to critically review the current literature as to the scientific support for pre-contest peaking protocols most commonly employed by bodybuilders and provide evidence-based recommendations as safe and effective strategies on the topic.

【 授权许可】

CC BY