Don't try this at home, kids.

I recently started working with a trainer. I’ve always had trouble putting on muscle mass (called “scrawny” in high school).  My trainer told me that doctors sometimes prescribe testosterone for people with HIV. Do you think this is something I should consider? Would it help me put size on faster? —Rob, Pasadena, Calif.

Most people know that testosterone (like growth hormone) is an androgen that your body produces, so you need to see a doctor to determine if your natural levels are in keeping with a “normal” medical reference range.  This is really the first question you should be answering, i.e., “are my natural levels of testosterone too low?”

It may also be worth kicking around some questions developed by St. Louis University to screen for androgen hormone deficiency. You can answer the questionnaire here

If your natural levels fall below the normal reference range, you should weigh your options. There are many new delivery methods available—from patches, gels and creams to injections—so be sure to have a robust discussion with your provider.

Incidentally, there are other many hormones which can be screened by your doctor, including thyroid hormone, growth hormone, and free/total testosterone. These levels could also be checked and taken into account before making a decision.

I’d do everything you can to enhance your natural levels of testosterone. Make sure that you are eating a balanced diet, taking a multivitamin, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excessive caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. While it’s true that supraphysiological levels of testosterone and growth hormone will increase lean body mass, reduce fat, and improve well being—the long-term effects are largely unknown.

Also, ask your trainer to customize your workout. For instance, there’s some evidence that “multiple joint” exercises, (such as the bench press and squat) may play a role in higher levels of post-workout testosterone in the people who do them.

NOW LISTEN UP, RECRUIT. If you want a leaner, harder body in time for summer, you must take action right now.  Here are a few basic building blocks to cleaning up your diet and shedding that fat. (I’ll add to this list often, so check it for updates).

Eat often, and listen to your body (eat when hungry) but get into the habit of eating 6 small meals a day and NOT 3 squares. A “meal” is considered 1 serving of carbs and 1 serving of lean protein. If you don’t eat both, it’s not a meal.  A “serving” is about the size of the palm of your hand.

Eat breakfast. Don’t ever skip it. It truly is the most important meal of the day.

Practice Zen Cheating™ (a Sam Page Fitness original). If you absolutely must cheat, I want you to get a chair, and sit in front of a mirror. Then, watch yourself while you eat or drink whatever it is you must have.  Become fully conscious and fully aware of each bite, and watch your Adam’s apple as you swallow.  This is a remarkably effective way to curb addiction.  You can cheat as often as you like, but you must practice Zen Cheating.™

Consume a meal-replacement drink containing high quality protein within ONE HOUR of weight training.

Food is fuel. Before you eat, ask yourself: “Self, what am I going to be doing for the next 2 hours?”  If you’re going to be sitting around in the house, don’t eat so much. If you’re going to be going to the gym, eat accordingly. You should think in terms of fueling your body for what you’re doing next, not eating for what you’ve already done. (more…)

OK, they’re French and adorable. But Bronson’s interview (and exclusive photo) of the Daft Punk hotties who made the wildly popular YouTube video only increased my admiration of their artistry.

Great interview, Bronson!

Daft Punk wishes they’d thought of this.

Tip: Skip ahead to :30 to skip the ads/lead-in.

I mean we love guys who do chores.

The Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice Parole Board approved MARK DALTON, (a.k.a. Jeremy Sons) today, for parole on February 16, 2009. Dalton has been incarcerated for 18 ½ months due to a parole violation. The last several months he was housed at the Mineral Wells facility, east of Ft. Worth. He will parole to his hometown of Denton, TX.

Dalton’s last adult film appearance was in the highly successful, “Mark Meets Zeb: The Texas Two-Step.” And, prior to that, he starred in Falcon’s blockbuster, “Super Soaked.”

There are no plans, yet, for any adult film projects or live appearances. PLL has been trying to secure an interview with Dalton since last year.