I don't use creatine nor do I use Protein in any excess amount. Protein is not just for bodybuilders and if used correctly can and will increase strength and muscle endurance. Also, I will obviously not be using protein suppliments during selection. Of course, results will not be the same for everyone. As for myself, I know my body well enough and can testify that protein has helped. You are correct in the fact that consumption of mass amounts of water is recommended. All I ever really drink is water. On heavy workout days I will consume anywhere from 2-3 gallons of water.
4x per week: +40g of Protein added to normal diet
Off Days: +18g of Protein added to normal diet
Bodybuilders consume anywhere from 60-80g of Protein if not more. I am in no way buff in those respects.
APFT before Protein, Multi-Vitamin Suppliment, Diet: 260's (Steadily increased from 230 at approximitly 5-8 point increase per month of steady workout program.)
APFT after Protein, Multi-Vitamin SUppliment, Diet: 320 (Increase from 260's at approximitly 9-12 point increase per month of the same steady workout program.)
My disclaimer is this; this is based off my body and my body limitations. Results will not be the same for all, but I wanted to share my experiences here incase others could benefit. Adding 90 points to your APFT is not easy and takes dedication. Protein and Suppliments alone will not help. They are not cure-alls. You have to use them correctly and the way that best fits to your physical needs. It should be said noted that while I am in the 320's, I have not increased significantly in the past 2-months (Maybe 2-5 points). Levels of physical fitness are met by tiers of difficulty. With my current work-out, I doubt I will break 330 unless I step it up. It is twice as hard to stay in shape, as it is to get in shape.
Hope this explains my previous post better.
-Chaotic the "Body" Virtuoso
