A scientific review on BB Competition Prep (12-Month Case Study)

[JudoJosh]

Natural Bodybuilding Competition Preparation and Recovery: A 12-Month Case Study.

Abstract

Bodybuilding is a sport in which competitors are judged on muscular appearance. This case study tracked a drug-free male (aged 26-27) bodybuilder for the six months prior to and following a competition.

PURPOSE:

The aim of this study was to provide the most comprehensive physiological profile of bodybuilding competition preparation and recovery ever compiled.

METHODS:

Cardiovascular, body composition, strength, aerobic capacity, critical power, mood state, resting energy expenditure, hormonal and other blood parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS:

Heart rate decreased from 53 to 27 bpm during preparation and increased to 46 bpm within one month following competition; brachial blood pressure dropped from 132/69 mmHg to 104/56 mmHg during preparation and returned to 116/64 mmHg at 6 months following competition; percent body fat declined from 14.8% to 4.5% during preparation and returned to 14.6% during recovery; strength decreased during preparation and did not fully recover during 6 months of recovery; testosterone declined from 9.22 ng/mL to 2.27 ng/mL during preparation and returned back to the baseline level, 9.91 ng/mL, following competition; total mood disturbance increased from 6 to 43 units during preparation and recovered to 4 six months following competition.

CONCLUSIONS:

This case study provides a thorough documentation of the physiological changes that occurred during natural bodybuilding competition and recovery.

[JudoJosh]

A great overall breakdown of the study - http://suppversity.blogspot.de/2013/...erage-six.html

[Jiigzz]

Crazy! HR at 27bpm? That can't be good..

[ITW]

^ yeahhhh. and the fact that even 6 months later his strength still suffered is interesting