Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Your Questions Answered by Stone Mountain's Sports Nutrition Experts

At Max Muscle Sports Nutrition – Stone Mountain, we believe in empowering you with knowledge. Whether you're exploring supplements for the first time, considering an InBody scan, or looking for personalized coaching, this FAQ page provides expert answers to help you make informed decisions.

Coached by Mike Pringle — CFL Hall of Fame athlete, ISSA - certified trainer, and nutrition expert with over 15 years of experience — you can trust the guidance you receive at our Stone Mountain location.

Serving Stone Mountain, Tucker, Lilburn, Snellville, Clarkston, Decatur, Norcross, Brookhaven, Grayson, Loganville, and Metro Atlanta.

General Supplement Questions

What are supplements?

Supplements are products designed to complement your diet by providing additional nutrients or substances that may be lacking. They can support overall health, immune function, athletic performance, recovery, and weight management.

How do I know which supplements to take?

The best supplements for you depend on your individual goals, diet, lifestyle, and health status. At Max Muscle Stone Mountain, Mike Pringle (ISSA) provides personalized supplement recommendations based on:

Your InBody body composition scan results
Your fitness or health goals (muscle gain, fat loss, performance, recovery)
Any dietary restrictions or allergies
Your sport or activity level (especially for tested athletes who need NSF Certified for Sport® products)

Schedule a free consultation at our Stone Mountain location to get personalized guidance.

What are the benefits of taking supplements?

Benefits vary by supplement type:

Protein powders: Support muscle recovery and growth
Creatine: Improves strength, power, and performance
Omega-3s & Vitamin D: Support overall health, immune function, and reduce inflammation
Pre-workouts: Enhance energy, focus, and endurance
Electrolytes: Improve hydration and reduce cramping

Aren't supplements just for guys who want to build muscle?

No! Supplements benefit everyone—men, women, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and health-conscious individuals. Women can use supplements to support fat loss, energy, bone health, recovery, and performance. At Max Muscle Stone Mountain, we tailor supplement recommendations to YOUR goals, regardless of gender.

Are supplements safe?

Most supplements are safe when taken in appropriate doses and purchased from reputable manufacturers. At Max Muscle Stone Mountain, we only carry high-quality supplements from trusted brands that follow good manufacturing practices. For tested athletes (NCAA, USADA, WADA, military), we offer NSF Certified for Sport® products that are third-party tested for banned substances.

Can supplements replace a healthy diet?

No. Supplements are designed to complement a healthy diet, not replace it. Mike Pringle emphasizes whole foods first—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats—and uses supplements to fill gaps or enhance performance.

Can supplements interact with medications?

Yes, some supplements can interact with prescription medications. Always inform your healthcare provider of any supplements you're taking. Mike Pringle requires a detailed intake form for all coaching clients and will never recommend supplements that conflict with your medications or health conditions.

How long do I need to take supplements before I see results?

Results vary by supplement and individual:

Creatine: 2-4 weeks for strength and performance gains
Protein powder: Immediate support for recovery; muscle growth over 8-12 weeks
Vitamin D: 4-8 weeks for improved energy and immune function
Pre-workout: Immediate energy and focus boost

Consistency is key. Mike Pringle tracks progress with bi-weekly InBody scans to measure real results.

Can I take multiple supplements at once?

Yes, but it's important to ensure they're safe to take together and don't exceed recommended daily intakes. Mike Pringle designs personalized supplement "stacks" that work synergistically for your goals without causing interactions or overdosing.

How can I ensure the supplements I'm taking are high quality?

Purchase from reputable retailers like Max Muscle Stone Mountain. Look for:

Third-party testing (NSF Certified for Sport®, Informed-Choice)
Transparent ingredient labels (no "proprietary blends")
GMP-certified manufacturing facilities
Brands with a proven track record

Mike Pringle only recommends supplements he trusts and has personally vetted.

Are supplements regulated by the FDA?

Dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA, but differently than drugs. Supplements do not require FDA approval before being sold. However, the FDA can take action against manufacturers who make false claims or violate good manufacturing practices. This is why third-party testing (like NSF Certified for Sport®) is so important.

InBody Body Composition Scan Questions

What is an InBody scan?

An InBody scan is a non-invasive, medical-grade body composition analysis that measures:

Body fat mass and body fat percentage
Skeletal muscle mass
Visceral fat level (hidden fat around organs)
Total body water and hydration status
Basal metabolic rate (BMR)

The scan takes 60 seconds and provides precise data to guide your training and nutrition.

How much does an InBody scan cost in Stone Mountain?

Single scan: $50 (includes expert review with Mike Pringle)
Included FREE with the 8-Week Accelerator Program and 6-Week MaxFormation Challenge

How accurate is the InBody scan?

InBody scans are accurate to within ±1-2% body fat, comparable to DEXA scans and far more accurate than calipers or home scales.

How often should I get an InBody scan?

Every 4 weeks for general fitness tracking
Every 2 weeks during the MaxFormation Challenge or aggressive training phases
Before and after major nutrition or training changes

Can I get an InBody scan if I'm pregnant or have a pacemaker?

No. InBody scans use a low-level electrical current and are not safe for pregnant individuals or those with pacemakers or implanted electronic devices.

Where can I book an InBody scan in Stone Mountain?

Book online at HERE or call (678) 344-1501. We're located at 5295 Stone Mountain Hwy Suite G, Stone Mountain, GA 30087. Next to the LA Fitness Gym

Coaching & Training Program Questions

What is the 8-Week Accelerator Program?

The 8-Week Accelerator is a fully customized training and nutrition program that includes:

3 InBody scans (weeks 0, 4, 8)
Personalized training plan designed by Mike Pringle (ISSA)
Custom meal plan based on your InBody results
Supplement stack recommendations
Bi-weekly check-ins and adjustments

Cost: $300 (includes all scans and coaching)

What is the 6-Week MaxFormation Challenge?

The MaxFormation Challenge is a community-driven body transformation competition where you earn points for fat loss, muscle gain, and consistency. Includes:

4 InBody scans (weeks 0, 2, 4, 6)
Training and nutrition guidance
Weekly accountability and leaderboards
Prizes (4-day cruise for 1st place, store credit for 2nd/3rd)

Cost: $25 early-bird deposit (refunded as $20 store credit upon completion) + supplement purchase required at kickoff

Do I need to be in shape to start coaching?

No! Mike works with clients at all fitness levels—from complete beginners to competitive athletes. Your program is customized to YOUR starting point.

Can I do coaching if I'm a tested athlete (NCAA, military, etc.)?

Yes! Mike specializes in working with tested athletes and ensures all supplement recommendations are NSF Certified for Sport® and compliant with NCAA, USADA, WADA, and military testing standards.

How do I book coaching in Stone Mountain?

Visit us HERE or call (678) 344-1501 to schedule your initial InBody scan and consultation with Mike Pringle.

NSF Certified Supplements Questions

What is NSF Certified for Sport®?

NSF Certified for Sport® is a third-party testing program that verifies supplements are free from over 270 banned substances prohibited by major athletic organizations (NCAA, NFL, USADA, WADA, IOC, military).

Who needs NSF Certified supplements?

NCAA athletes (all divisions and sports)
Olympic and international competitors (WADA testing)
Military and law enforcement (random drug testing)
Drug-tested powerlifters, bodybuilders, and CrossFit athletes
Professional and semi-pro athletes

Do you carry NSF Certified supplements in Stone Mountain?

Yes! 20% of our inventory is NSF Certified for Sport®, including protein powders, creatine, pre-workouts, hydration products, and recovery supplements. Mike Pringle provides expert guidance on NSF compliance for tested athletes.

Are NSF supplements more expensive?

Yes, typically 10-20% more than non-certified products. However, the cost of a positive drug test (lost scholarship, suspension, career damage) is infinitely higher. It's worth the investment for tested athletes.

Alkaline Water Refill Station Questions

How much does alkaline water cost?

First gallon (includes jug): $5
Buy 2 gallons, get $3 off (2 for $7)
Refills (bring your Max Muscle jug back): $2
5-gallon refill (BYO container): $10

What is the pH of your alkaline water?

Our alkaline water has a pH of 9.5+, significantly more alkaline than tap water (pH ~7.0) or most bottled water (pH 6.5-7.5).

Can I bring any jug for the $2 refill?

No—the $2 refill price is only for the Max Muscle jug you purchased from us. This ensures quality, cleanliness, and proper sizing for our refill station.

Is alkaline water safe to drink every day?

Yes! Alkaline water is safe for daily consumption and may support hydration, recovery, and pH balance.

Where is your alkaline water refill station located?

5295 Stone Mountain Hwy Suite G, Stone Mountain, GA 30087
Open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Store & Location Questions

Where is Max Muscle Stone Mountain located?

5295 Stone Mountain Hwy Suite G, Stone Mountain, GA 30087. Next to the LA Fitness Gym

We serve Stone Mountain, Tucker, Lilburn, Snellville, Clarkston, Decatur, Norcross, Brookhaven, Grayson, Loganville, and Metro Atlanta.

What are your store hours?

Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Do I need an appointment to visit?

No appointment needed to shop supplements or refill alkaline water. However, InBody scans and coaching consultations require an appointment—book online or call (678) 344-1501.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes! We offer free shipping on orders over $100 for online purchases.

Can I pick up online orders in-store?

Yes! We offer free in-store pickup for online orders. Select "Pick Up In-Store" at checkout.

Still Have Questions?

Contact Max Muscle Sports Nutrition – Stone Mountain:

📞 (678) 344-1501
📧 info@sportsnutritionusa.com
📍 5295 Stone Mountain Hwy Suite G, Stone Mountain, GA 30087

Store Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Or visit us in person! Mike Pringle and the Max Muscle team are here to answer your questions, provide expert guidance, and help you achieve your health and fitness goals.