For a foundation of my attempt to retard my regression of muscle loss and strength loss: I am a cynic when it comes to confidence any supplement actually works. That said, I will try most anything, and am currently taking a multitude of supplements just to help keep my muscle tissue. Some supplements have had an obvious positive impact, but most were pharmaceuticals. An exception was creatine and additional protein. I am currently taking a multitude of supplements that I won’t list here, but will answer if asked. The only pharmaceutical I am taking is 100mg of testosterone injection every 5 days.
Since I became 60 years old I have noticed a steady decrease of strength, regardless of my workout strategy or supplement adjustment. On the last week of October this year I received an email from T-Nation about Micro-PA. I read the ad. It mentioned Micro-PA would boost my mTOR. I had read a few articles in T-Nation about exercise strategy to boost mTOR. I tried all of those with no noticeable effect. But the cynic in me took it as no surprise.
But my philosophy is why not. Give it a try. I have always attacked bodybuilding from the shot gun affect. Try everything. Something might work. I didn’t expect any benefit. But on Monday, November 2nd my two bottles of Micro-PA was sitting on my front porch when I returned from the gym. I started Tuesday before my workout. I started keeping some data on reps for a seated dip machine. One day I do up to 20 reps with the same weight. The other day I do up to 8 reps with 3 progressive weights. (I won’t get into the data yet, but will address the difference in words, for now.)
Last week, which was the first week, I didn’t notice anything until Friday, when my leg routine seemed slightly easier. I took it as one of those “good workout” days. and thought nothing more of it.
This Monday my leg press routine was noticeably better. I did 25 reps as easily as I usually do 20 reps. Maybe something is going on here!!??
Tuesday was the 20 rep seated dip day. I increased reps on the second and third set. That’s great. Finally a workout where I actually got stronger.
Thursday was the up to 8 rep day on progressive seated dips and I increased those reps on the second and third set. When I went to curl grip pulldowns the weight felt much lighter. WOW! I was actually fun working out.
Disclaimer: I am fully aware of the placebo effect. I typically don’t get that, because I am such a cynic. Deep within me I don’t believe what I am trying will make any difference.
My initial thoughts. My guess is that as we age our bodies don’t manufacture mTOR efficiently, or at least, in significant quantities for muscle growth. Micro-PA gave me the mTOR I needed. This whole experience might be all placebo, but that will be made more clear in the coming weeks, one way or the other. I will keep you posted with my progress, or lack of it.