Ways to Build Muscle Are you looking to grow muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently? It doesn’t happen overnight (as any bodybuilder can tell you) but you’ll be well on your way to adding muscle mass to your frame if you follow these steps consistently. Increase your caloric intake. If you are currently consuming 2,000 calories a day, boost that to about 2,500 calories. Get enough protein to support muscle growth. Aim for at least 1 to 2 grams of protein for every pound of body weight. For example, if you weigh 180 pounds, take in at least 180 to 360 grams—or about 6 to 12 ounces—of protein every day. Eat regularly. Rather than having two or three large meals during the day—something we’ve grown up with—change your eating habits so that you are eating five or six smaller meals during the day. To...