How to Build Muscle Mass Using HCG

Stepping into the weight room can be an intimidating situation when you have a bird chest or spaghetti arms. If you want to increase muscle mass, HCG may be a solution. HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone produced during pregnancy and is mainly used to treat infertility, according to MayoClinic.com, but its use has become a trend in bodybuilding. HCG is believed to enhance testosterone levels, which aids in muscle gains. The HCG program consists of injections or oral droplets of the hormone partnered with a calorie-restricted diet, which is believed to promote weight loss. Combining HCG with an intense strength training program can help you see sizeable gains in muscle mass.

A muscular man is doing pulldowns. (Image: bondarchik/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Consult your physician before starting the HCG program. Ask your doctor about any possible complications or side effects associated with HCG, especially if you have health conditions.

Step 2

Visit your doctor for a prescription for HCG injections or oral drops. Take the HCG hormone according to your doctor's recommendations. Don't increase your dosage in an attempt to improve your results.

Step 3

Follow a calorie-restricted diet to work with the HCG hormone, suggests Body Building HCG. Consume two meals per day consisting of a protein and complex carbohydrate, adding up to 250 calories each. Have a 3.5 oz. serving of grilled tilapia and 3.5 oz. of green beans.

Step 4

Lift weights three to four days per week. Use dumbbells, body weight or exercise bands for resistance. Include compound or multi-joint exercises that work multiple muscles at one time to quickly increase lean muscle mass, according to Bodybuilding.com. Perform exercises like lunges, push-ups, chest press, tricep dips, squats and military press. Do four sets of 12 repetitions for each exercise. Lift heavy to challenge your muscles and encourage growth. Completing a set of 12 repetitions should be difficult.

Step 5

Check in with your doctor frequently to track your progress on the HCG program.

Warning

500 calories per day as required by the HCG program is well below the 2,000-calorie-per-day minimum recommended for healthy adults by the USDA. Consult your physician before starting the HCG program.