Questions about one of our core products at CrossFit St. Louis

Many have asked, "What is HMB and is it safe?" What about HMB+Creatine, is that a hormone?

Here are a few answers from Blonyx:


"HMB (or β-Hydroxy β-methylbutyrate) is needed by the body to protect and repair muscle tissue. We can make a small amount of HMB from the amino acid Leucine found in the protein we eat, but it needs to be topped up by eating HMB rich foods such as grapefruit, alfalfa and catfish.

In athletes where muscle tissue is damaged (causing soreness), repaired and built more frequently it stands to reason that we need more HMB. Lots of research has now shown that supplementing the diet with HMB improves exercise performance by supporting muscle cell repair and adaptation.

HMB is one of the most researched supplement ingredients proven to improve athletic performance right behind Creatine Monohydrate. We believe that athletes should only take supplements with significant human research studies, which is why we only sell products with these two well respected ingredients. 

Both HMB and Creatine Monohydrate have been assessed by the International Society of Sports Nutrition who issued position statements on their effectiveness. They are two of a handful of supplements that have warranted a position statement to date simply because adequate human based research on other supplement ingredients is still lacking."

As for the creatine version, no, creatine is not a hormone. "Our bodies require Creatine to store energy in the muscles for high power explosive movements like sprinting or heavy weight lifting. We normally get Creatine from eating meat." Studies have linked creatine to enhanced muscular development and strength development.

If you have questions about Blonyx, Progenex, or any other products we carry, feel free to ask a coach between classes. They will be able to answer your questions or point you to resources that will provide you with the information you need to determine if the products are right for your needs.