RULE #4: POUND THE PROTEIN
Although this is rule number 4, it’s not fourth in importance. Usually, we put protein above carbs or fats on our lists, but we wanted to make sure you understood how important getting in ample carbs and healthy fat is for mass gain. For mass gaining, we ratchet up the protein intake to 2 g per pound of bodyweight on workout days and 1.5 g on rest days.
Now that we’ve made our point, taking in ample amounts of quality protein is just as critical for mass gain, if not more so. Of the three macronutrients, only protein builds muscle, plain and simple. Protein sources such as eggs, beef, chicken, fish and dairy products are your best bet, along with the addition of protein powder, when you just can’t take another bite. Get- ting protein from whey and casein shakes is a convenient way to boost your intake, and at certain times of day it’s the best source of protein for your needs (see rule 7).