If you engage in too much cardio, it may hurt your ability to gain muscle. Strength training exercises are the best way to increase muscle mass. Carbohydrates are key for muscle building. You need carbohydrates to give your body the energy required for working out. Make sure that you understand that you should be consuming around two or three grams of carbohydrates for just about every pound of your body weight. Building muscle does not always have to mean having a hard six pack or huge biceps. Every routine for muscle building is different with varying goals and intended results. Take the time to think carefully about what you really want to accomplish before you begin. If you want to have very large muscles, then you will probably need to add some type of supplement to your workout. Staying hydrated is important to proper muscle development. When you are poorly hydrated, you increase your chances of getting injured. Hydration is not only important for building muscle mass, but maintaining it as well, so don't neglect this important aspect of bodybuilding. Try to build a routine that avoids muscle injury and keeps you motivated.