Quite a few suggest and take creatine before AND after lifting, I'm like Built, I mostly just take post workout, although I also take on carb-ups when I think about it.

My reason for taking post workout is because I take it with dextose. Of course, I take the dextrose with my protein because I WANT an insulin spike to force the protein into the muscle, SO the creatine will get the same "ride" into the muscle. Kills 2 birds with 1 stone

I've done it before, and I've done it after. I'm very much on the fence about which way is better - I seem to get a better workout when I take it before, but...

????

It's maddening, trying to figure out all the details...

So on non lifting days you guys don't take it? It's not something I need to take every day to keep saturated?

Some folks do, some don't. I only take it to bulk. I may get into taking it ED. You'll just have to wing it.

Well, to tell the truth, it's one of those things for me where I really don't feel any different taking, so I'm not even that sure it does me any good. Some people are creatine "non-responders", maybe I'm one. Built, do you feel a difference when you take creatine?

Stuff feels like ROCKET FUEL when I take it before I train. I may go back to that.

Makes me bloat a bit though, so it's STRICTLY for bulking for moi.

Hhmmm, about to run out, might just save my money untill I have a little extra to try one of those new-fangled creatine mixes with the fancy delivery systems that don't take carbs.

The first time I took creatine... I looked noticeably bigger after about 3 days of doing the 'load'. Now I don't really notice much difference whether or not I take it... but I still take it. Post workout, 5 grams.
Interesting note: a study (I think more than one) was done about the effects of creatine on cognition. It turns out that creatine improves memory and problem solving ability. Something to do with increased energy production in the brain. Basically the same function it has in muscles... applied to the brain.
hmmmm.... maybe that's why Arnold is governor.

Check out the article: http://www.sciencenews.org/articles/20030816/fob4.asp

I haven't tried that stuff yet. I'm not convinced...I just stick to the basic stuff when I take it. Cheaper anyway. But lemme know what you think if and when.

A friend of mine who was not responsive to creatine mono. powder has had great results with effervescent creatine.
I read somewhere that you can drop some Alka-seltzer into the mix with regular creatine for similar results.
I don't think you'd want the other drugs that Alka-seltzer has though.

Thanks for the info mps