Weightlifting & Exercise/Creatine for recovery?

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Expert: Karen Fili Sullivan - 2/1/2005


Question
Hi Karen.  I've just begun using creatine monohydrate to assist in building lean muscle mass.  Do you know if it is a good idea to take creatine supplements on days when you are not working out?  For recovery?  I've read mixed reviews on the internet.  Thanks in advance for your help.

Answer
Dan,  You are talking to the wrong person about creatine.  I don't believe in using it at all . . . ever.  Sorry, but in my humble opinion (and a published opinion from the AMA in 2001) it is viewed by many as a step up drug.  If someone is willing to use an "aid" to build muscle what will stop them from justifying d-bol (which can be purchased off the internet, but which has been illegal for distribution in the US for years) which is an oral steroid. . . or going to testosterone????  I feel that we don't have any information on the long term effects because it hasn't been out long enough.  If the body was supposed to have huge levels of that in your body, don't you think we would have been created with a way to make our bodies produce more naturally????  Sorry, dude.  I just don't comply.  Be Well, Karen

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Karen Fili Sullivan

Expertise

Karen has more than 20 years experience and can help with lifting technique, muscle recovery, weight loss, body building and powerlifting. She has been certified by AFPA as a Personal Trainer and four years ago acquired a certification from the same agency as a Post Rehabilitative Exercise Specialist. Any recommendations or advice rendered are based on fitness information as specified by the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Fitness Professionals and Associates. Follow her Blog on http://karenfilisullivan.com

Experience

Almost 25 years coaching and training. Wow! I feel old. Before that I was a competitive bodybuilder and powerlifter (ask my Chiropractor -- he can tell you). I have trained kids ages 12 to 89. From sports specific training to stroke rehabilitation. I love helping people move more gracefully, powerfully and safely.

Education/Credentials
English with a Journalism concentration was my college education. My training has been with my mentor, Jack Michaels, ACSM and professor at the College of William and Mary. My certifications are with the American Fitness Professionals and Associates. I hold a certification as a Personal Trainer and a Post Rehabilitation Exercise Expert (Isn't that a mouth full). My continuing education requirements have been fulfilled at a number of organizations and are monitored by AFPA. I keep my Red Cross CPR and First Aid current.

Past/Present Clients
Clients include athletes training for marathons, mountain climbing and general weight loss. In addition I have clients troubled with COPD, Fibromyalgia, and Parkinsons as well as stroke rehab. She was the Strength and Conditioning coach for Williamsburg Aquatic Club, a USA Swim Team, in Williamsburg, Virginia for 3 years.   Karen is presently working at Main Street Gym in Historic St. Charles, Missouri where she teaches Pilates and continues her work with clients. Her training reaches across the country with her long distance Body Restoration eTraining. Her dedication to fitness reaches into the nutritional supplementation with Shaklee products. She only works with clients who add nutritional supplementation to their training. Read more of her story on www.shaklee.net/BodyRestoration

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