bodybuilding is completely different then just trying to get mass. The concepts used in bodybuilding work for only one type of people bodybuilders.
There are a lot of things to look at, and I mean a lot. A simple solution would be to get rid of myostatin gene, (haha I crack myself up. this gene when research was conducted caused intesne muscle growth, also known as the might moue syndrome) This is for a sure a way that will work. If you attempt to do this place let me know as I would be willing to document every stage that you go through.
For those of you who are familiar with meat, or cattle. Belgian Blue bull, are usually subjected to the mutation of this gene, picture a regular cattle for an minute ready, okay now we are going to examine what happens when the myostatin is subjected to mutation
Alright this is what you need to do. If your currently having problems and have gone through all the possible solution afforded to you. Or you can try to rid your body of Atrogin, which is linked tot he degeneration of protein.
But really I agree with the majority of people here. Diet is important but so are genes. If your really serious about this and can't find any solution go get a muscle biopsy and figure out if you have the muscle type to get big. Not everyone posses those traits. You can only get as big as your body will allow.
Also do not take supplements as they are not regulated studies show that a big percentage of OTC supplements have none of the supplements they claim to have. Which is shitty for the people who go out and buy.
Think about what your taking, why your taking it, and if you can get this from natural courses; food. If you can then do that cheaper and safer.
As far as exercises are concerned I think people are referencing negatives to eccentric contractions which are where muscle fibers are damaged. This is the biggest aspect of both muscle hytrophy and plasic (increase in muscle fiber size and replication of muscle cells.) After workout satellite cells home into the damage that is done by the eccentric contractions and repair the damage making it stronger and thicker. Also the waste products of this reaction will cause soreness which is not the soreness you feel while working out.
I hope I helped shed some light on this aspect, if not let me know and I'd be willing to explain more in depth or another way. Good luck with your progression.