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Yangsu Ren Crushes IPF World Record With 370kg Deadlift In Training
Yangsu Ren completes massive deadlift in training.
Yangsu Ren has earned the nickname the “Deadlift Panda” and certainly lived up to it recently. On Monday, Ren shared yet another massive deadlift and this one would have been good enough for a world record.
Ren took to Instagram to show off his recent lift. He completed a 370kg (815.7lb) deadlift using just a lifting belt and deadlift slippers. This raw lift is 7.5kg more than the current IPF raw deadlift world record of 362.5kg (799.1lb).
“Smooth 370kg/816lb deadlift today to test out the @notorious_lift sumo sole gen 2.5 deadlift slippers ? Overall they’re great deadlift shoes that fit all my preferences; minimal flat sole with lateral support. Aside from what I mentioned on Wednesday about them for conventional, my only strike against the new model is the narrower feeling toebox with the redesigned top and sidewall, making my toes feel more cramped compared to the previous gen 2’s. This complaint will probably go away as these break in more and loosen up, but out of the box my favorite is currently still the Gen 2’s. Will provide more feedback as they break in after more sessions ?”
John Haak currently holds the raw deadlift world record in the 83kg division. This was accomplished during the 2019 USPA The Tribute. While Ren’s deadlift is far beyond that of Haak’s world record, it cannot be recognized because it was not completed in a sanctioned event. This means that Ren could have some plans to set a new mark next time he competes.
This is not the first time that Yangsu Ren has tested the waters in this territory. In 2019, Ren completed a 338kg (745lb) and 369.7kg (815lb) lifts just one month apart. He was forced to take some time off that same year to recover from lumbar-induced sciatica. He returned to competition in 2020 and completed 379kg (835lb) deadlift.
Yangsu Ren last competed in 2018 at the USAPL Raw Nationals. He took home a seventh-place finish during this event. He did not compete in 2019 to recover from injury and it looks like he has made significant progress. This is what makes some believe that Ren could put up his biggest numbers once he returns to competition.
It is unknown when that time will be. Yangsu Ren has been sharing his lifts on social media and they are continuing to get bigger and bigger. When he takes on a competition next, it will be a must-watch event.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The Best Ways To Reduce Hunger For Better Weight Loss
Kick those cravings and shed fat.
Picture this. You’re sitting at your desk, typing away or potentially chatting with a co-worker. But that rumble in your stomach is to much to bear. You get up and seek out a snack. But what’s in the drawer? Most likely not the food you need to see and continue to see those gains you want most. Cravings are unfortunate but finding the right ways to reduce hunger can only assist with all your desired goals especially when it comes to weight loss.
So, how do we go about this? Well, it takes a well-thought out routine and the proper approach to training and your diet. Typically those cravings come on because you didn’t eat enough, or maybe you didn’t eat the right food to keep you full. Empty calories and those foods we love to eat are sometimes not the best option when it comes to staying full and seeing all of those gains we love most. While we may enjoy them, they aren’t great at reducing hunger, in fact, they may actually just spur this on.
Let’s take a look at the best ways to reduce hunger so you can efficiently burn fat and not worry about unwanted cravings sneaking in. The right approach to training and nutrition can be an easy and effective way to see those results you want most without dealing with the low confidence of a body you don’t want.
Best Ways To Reduce Hunger
Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to reduce hunger to kill any of those unwanted and undesired cravings.
Protein & Fiber
Foods high in protein and fiber are bound to keep you full, while also giving your digestive system some assistance. The right foods working to keep us full are exactly what we need most to see real gains and those whole foods high in protein and fiber will taste great while offering the best nutritional benefits to reduce hunger (1,2).
Proper Hydration & Water Intake
Making sure you are hydrated and drinking enough water is exactly what you need to succeed and will aid in not only your health, but also keep you full. Drinking water throughout the day, but also before meals is an easy way to feel full so you don’t overeat at said meal and take in unwanted calories (3).
Smaller Portions
Eating those massive portions only a couple times in the day can lead to consuming to many calories. Of course, weight loss happens when more calories are burned than taken in so looking to eat smaller meals throughout the day will keep you eating, but in a healthy way, and reducing your desire to snack. Plus, this will keep your metabolism moving efficiently and constantly burning for fuel.
Try To Lower Stress
Stress can kickstart those cravings and we may start to “stress eat”. Maybe you’ve heard of this, but when your body feels stress or anxious, we start to eat to find that comfort. We have busy lives and schedules and working towards ways to be mindful, maybe through yoga, a relaxing stretching routine, or meditating, can help alleviate stress and ultimately lead to less snacking (4).
Work To Burn Fat
Working to burn fat may take time, but that’s okay. Following a diet and working in a great training routine won’t be the cure all solution to losing weight in an instant, but working with this overtime will prove to yield great results. Sleep and optimizing your health are great ways to recharge so you can better tackle those grueling workouts to burn fat and keep you more alert and willing to follow a good diet.
For training, high-intensity interval training and resistance training are great ways to burn fat and change fat to muscle (5). Not only will get you fit and aid in your bodybuilding or sport specific movements, but it will also tone and sculpt your desired physique so you see those gains you want most. As long as you stay moving and work to continue to burn calories, the right diet and strict attention to detail will prove to be the best for all your weight loss goals.
Great Supplements For Reducing Hunger & Burning Fat
An effective way to reduce hunger and see weight loss are with the right supplements. What supplements will do are add to your dietary and nutrition routine so you never lack those vital nutrients. A protein powder is a great supplement for growth and recovery, but also keeping you full. By pumping you with necessary protein, you work to reduce cravings to keep you as full as you can be, and in a healthy way. Also, meal replacements have the ability to fill you up by providing the right balance of macronutrients, along with other nutrients, so if you can’t get a whole food meal in your day, at least you will stay full to limit snacking (6).
For those fat loss goals, two supplements to consider are fat burners and CLA. These will work to kickstart your metabolism and get your body burning calories so you can work on that shredded aesthetic. With stimulant and stimulant-free options, these supplements work into whatever diet or lifestyle you follow and can greatly assist all of your fat loss goals. Plus, these will also work to reduce hunger to limit those unwanted cravings.
Wrap Up
Reducing hunger can be hard. Many of us love to eat. We enjoy food and want to take full advantage of cooking a delicious meal. But throughout the day we may find ourselves snacking and taking in those unwanted calories that we just can’t afford to take in. With these approaches to reducing hunger, you will also capitalize on weight loss to see those goal you want become reality. With an emphasis on proper training and nutrition, you can burn fat and kill any of those unwanted cravings and binges.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Envato
References
Paddon-Jones, D.; et al. (2008). “Protein, weight management, and satiety”. (source)
Lattimer, J.; et al. (2010). “Effects of Dietary Fiber and Its Components on Metabolic Health”. (source)
Popkin, B.; et al. (2010). “Water, Hydration and Health”. (source)
Yau, Y.; et al. (2014). “Stress and Eating Behaviors”. (source)
Willis, L.; et al. (2012). “Effects of aerobic and/or resistance training on body mass and fat mass in overweight or obese adults”. (source)
Noakes, M.; et al. (2004). “Meal Replacements Are as Effective as Structured Weight-Loss Diets for Treating Obesity in Adults with Features of Metabolic Syndrome”. (source)
5 Best Steroids for Women (That Won’t Turn You Into a Man)
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
When someone mentions the word “steroids“, the average person pictures a 250lb male bodybuilder, resembling Arnold Schwarzenegger.
However, this isn’t the typical profile of a steroid user today.
In fact, increasing numbers of women are taking steroids to build muscle and burn fat.
This doesn’t just apply to female bodybuilders either, with research showing that 1.4% of girls in high school are also taking anabolic steroids (1).
Female steroid use is also rife in sports, with women looking to gain an edge over their rivals; being tempted by improved strength and endurance. Failed drugs tests have haunted female athletes in sports such as boxing, swimming, CrossFit and more.
Steroid Side Effects in Women
The best steroids for women are essentially the compounds that do not produce virilization effects.
Virilization is when masculine features start to form in a female. These typically are:
Increase in body hair
Enlargement of clitoris
Deep voice
Masculine-face
Smaller breasts
Some of these side effects may be reversed post-cycle when hormone levels regulate back to normal. However, a deepened voice may take longer to reverse (2), being several years, due to modifications of the vocal cords and larynx.
These effects are the result of unnaturally high testosterone levels, which can slowly turn a woman into a man. Many elite female bodybuilders are willing to experience such side effects in order to win a competition; however, the general female population wants to avoid these at all costs.
Common masculinization occurs in women when:
a) The wrong steroids are taken
b) High doses are utilized
c) Cycles are too long
In this article, we will discuss the best steroids for women, and ones they should avoid at all costs.
We do not endorse the use of anabolic steroids; however, we understand that many girls/women are using these substances and need correct guidance.
Note: The risk of women experiencing virilization symptoms is largely determined by an individual’s genetics. Some women can take the wrong steroids for long periods of time and be okay. Whereas other women may take small doses of mild compounds, yet still have issues.
However, if a woman stops her steroid cycle as soon as virilization symptoms occur, they will quickly diminish and be reversed. Such symptoms happen slowly over a period of time, thus it isn’t a case of waking up one morning and having grown a beard.
Best Steroids for Women
Anavar
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is nicknamed the ‘girl steroid’ for a reason. Women take it and are often very happy with the results.
Anavar’s popularity is the result of its mild properties, making it tolerable among men and women.
Females often take Anavar and experience no virilization effects. However, there are exceptions to every rule, as some women abuse Anavar, taking high doses for excessive periods of time; which can certainly lead to masculinization.
With moderate doses, Anavar produces significant muscle gains, whilst burning noticeable amounts of fat.
A 5 week Anavar cycle is likely to result in muscle gains of around 5kg, and fat loss also being around 5kg.
Women can successfully take 5-10mg of Anavar daily for 4-6 weeks. Anything above 10mg per day will greatly increase the risk of virilization. High doses (above 10mg) are unnecessary, as some women have even reported good results from taking tiny doses of 2.5mg per day (3).
Anavar Cycle for Women
This is a suitable cutting cycle for women who have never taken Anavar before. Future cycles may start at 10mg and extend to 6 weeks (maximum) if a woman responds well to oxandrolone.
Women may notice a subtle decrease in natural testosterone from taking Anavar, plus some negative shifts in cholesterol; however, such effects are only likely to be subtle.
Anavar Before and After Pictures
This woman took 10mg of Anavar per day for 5 weeks. She did not notice much in regards to side effects, other than more oily skin and a delayed menstrual cycle. These results are typical of a standard Anavar cycle, resulting in a leaner midsection and more muscle tone.
Legal Anavar Alternative
Anvarol is our #1 rated legal Anavar product. It replicates the fat-burning and muscle-building effects of Anavar, but without any unwanted side effects.
It is FDA-approved and can be purchased online without a prescription.
Anvarol is best suited for women that want to reduce their body fat percentage, whilst simultaneously increasing muscle tone and building lean muscle.
Primobolan
Primobolan is the mildest steroid on this list when considering the dose used by women – mg for mg.
It is favorable among women due to its low androgenic rating (44-57), thus causing a low risk of virilization.
Primobolan comes in oral or injectable form (Primobolan depot) and significantly enhances fat loss, due to its strong binding affinity to the androgen receptors; causing increased lipolysis (fat loss).
Women will also experience noticeable lean muscle gains, due to its positive effect on nitrogen retention and protein synthesis.
In men, Primobolan is generally used as a cutting steroid; however, women can also use it as a bulking compound, due to muscle gains being more pronounced in females.
A standard dose for women is 50-75mg per day, taken for 6-8 weeks. This will produce slow and steady muscle gains, whilst simultaneously stripping away fat.
Despite Primobolan being an oral steroid, like Anavar, it does not produce considerable hepatic strain; and thus liver values (marking stress), do not typically rise significantly.
One benefit to injecting Primobolan is that it may have a less negative impact on cholesterol levels. However, blood pressure is very unlikely to skyrocket on Primobolan (although women should constantly monitor it during a cycle).
Primobolan Cycle
If Primobolan is tolerated well during the first 4 weeks, doses of 75mg per day may be utilized for the following 2 weeks. Furthermore, in future cycles, 75mg may be taken; with cycles lasting 8 weeks instead of 6.
Anadrol
Anadrol (Oxymetholone) is an oral steroid and is one of the best bulking compounds on the market. There is a general consensus that Anadrol is not suitable for women, because it produces harsh side effects in men (some of which are androgenic).
However, research and real-life evidence suggest that Anadrol does not produce the same androgenic effects in women.
In fact, it remains as one of the only steroids in studies, where women can take mega doses of it and still not experience virilization. In one study, females were given up to 150mg per day for 30 weeks and none of them demonstrated any masculinization (4).
To put this 150mg dose into perspective, it is 6x the recommended dose of 25mg per day. It is also 3x the dose of a male bodybuilder, who can experience significant results on 50mg per day.
It’s also worth noting that the only side effects reported by the women on 150mg per day, were decreased libido and increased fatigue; undoubtedly being the result of lower endogenous testosterone production.
One theory why Anadrol is so well-tolerated by women is that although it produces large increases in testosterone, it also raises estrogen levels significantly. This testosterone to estrogen balance is seemingly important in avoiding a masculine appearance.
Furthermore, SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) is a detrimental hormone to women when elevated, due to it freeing up more active testosterone. Anadrol however does not bind effectively to SHBG receptors, and thus levels do not rise significantly.
Bill Roberts (Ph.D.) also shares his experience:
“5mg of Anavar is roughly the equivalent of 25mg of Anadrol for risk of virilization”.
Bill’s expertise and experience (plus other research) suggest that Anadrol may actually be one of the best steroids for women; as 5mg of Anavar is a very small dose.
The misconception of Anadrol cycles being ‘unsuitable for women’, can be attributed to bodybuilding’s lack of practical knowledge regarding steroids’ effects in females. This is due to steroids being less commonly used among women, resulting in less retelling of personal experience in the fitness community.
Anadrol Cycle
Winstrol
Winstrol (Stanozolol) is generally not a good steroid for women. It has a high affinity to bind with SHBG, putting women at risk of virilization symptoms.
However, it is safe to use when taken in very low doses.
Winstrol is a powerful steroid for building muscle in women, thus small doses are still effective.
5mg per day is a safe dose for avoiding virilization. 10mg per day is pushing the limits and anything over 10mg per day is asking for trouble.
If women do use Winstrol, it is recommended to take 2 tablets a day, instead of 1. This will further decrease the risk of side effects, as users won’t be getting a sudden surge of exogenous testosterone in one go, with levels regularly spiking up and down.
By splitting up the doses, users will receive a steady dose that will remain constantly peaked in their bloodstream. Thus, a dose of 2 x 2.5mg per day would be a cautious, yet effective protocol.
On Winstrol, women can expect to get considerably leaner, due to its fat-burning properties; whilst increasing lean muscle mass. This won’t be huge increases in size but instead will produce a lean and strong look.
Winstrol Cycle
The above cycle has a prolonged duration of 8 weeks, which is acceptable given the low dose of Winstrol.
Legal Winstrol Alternative
Winsol is our #1 rated legal Winstrol product. It mimics the muscle-building and fat-burning effects of Winstrol, but without any unwanted side effects (such as virilization).
Like Anvarol, Winsol is FDA-approved and can be purchased online without a prescription.
Winsol is slightly stronger than Anvarol (Anavar) thus women can experience enhanced results, in terms of muscle-building and fat loss.
Сlenbuterol
Clenbuterol technically isn’t a steroid; however, it sometimes is mistakenly referred to as a cutting steroid, because of its powerful fat-burning effects.
It is actually a bronchodilator, used as a medication to treat those suffering from acute asthma, enabling improved oxygen flow throughout the body.
Clenbuterol is not exogenous testosterone and thus is unlikely to cause any significant muscle or strength gains in women. Equally, it won’t shut down women’s natural testosterone production, thus users won’t suffer decreases in libido.
However, there is evidence to suggest that clenbuterol has some anabolic properties, with its ability to increase skeletal muscle in animals (5). Some women claim that Clenbuterol does help them build muscle and increase strength, whereas others notice little (if any improvement).
Clen has a potent effect on the metabolism, due to stimulation of the central nervous system; shifting the body into a state of thermogenesis. This is when the body’s temperature rises, consequently causing the body to cool itself down via increased sweating. Just like with exercise, the heart rate speeds up significantly and a woman’s basal metabolic rate increases. This ‘heating up’ of the body has shown to be a very effective way to burn fat.
However, Clenbuterol should not be abused, with some users having been hospitalized after taking very high doses. One man’s heart rate rose to 254 beats per minute (6), after an accidental 10 fold overdose.
The average heart rate for an adult is 60-100 beats per minute (7), and thus such an elevated heart rate from high doses of Clenbuterol may lead to increased cardiac risk.
Clenbuterol can be taken in oral or syrup form. During a cycle, women will typically start taking 20-40mcg of Clenbuterol a day. Then every 3-4 days users increase their dose by 10-20mcg, for a cycle length of 4-6 weeks. This incremental increase in dosage is done until fat loss peaks, and side effects remain comfortable/tolerable.
Dosages can increase up to 120-160mcg per day; however, women should monitor how they feel and regularly check their blood pressure/heart rate to ensure it doesn’t become excessively elevated.
Clenbuterol’s stimulating effects may not be well tolerated by women sensitive to stimulants. Such people may become increasingly nervous, anxious or experience insomnia.
Clenbuterol is often stacked with cutting steroids for accelerated fat loss.
Clenbuterol Cycle
This is a typical cutting cycle utilized by female bikini models or bodybuilders wanting to burn fat.
Some women gradually lower the dose towards the end of a cycle and taper off; however, this isn’t necessary. It will be more beneficial for the heart to come off as soon as possible than taking lower doses. The only potential benefit of lowering the dose would be to avoid a crash in energy; however, this isn’t commonly reported in Clen-users.
Note: Doses should only continue rising if users are comfortable with the current dose.
Worst Steroids for Women
The worst steroids for women are actually most anabolic steroids. Women are very limited in regards to which steroids they can use (if they want to continue looking like a woman). This is because most steroids are not mild, and exhibit strong androgenic effects.
Therefore, popular compounds such as Testosterone, Dianabol, Trenbolone, etc. are all undesirable steroids for women. They might not produce long-term damaging effects to a woman health-wise, but they are likely to cause virilization, potentially affecting her long-term psychological well-being.
Legal Steroids For Women
Legal steroids are compounds designed to mimic the effects of anabolic steroids but are safe to take and FDA approved. Legal steroids, or steroid alternatives, are safe for women and pose no risk of virilization side effects.
Crazy Bulk are the leading retailer of legal steroids for women.
Here are their 3 best-selling products:
Anvarol (Anavar)
Clenbutrol (Clenbuterol)
Winsol (Winstrol)
You can also stack all three of these together for maximum fat loss and muscle gains.
Crazy Bulk offers generous deals, enabling women to save money, in comparison to buying expensive steroids like Primobolan and Anavar on the black market (which can cost hundreds of dollars per cycle).
Anvarol Before and After
Anvarol is the legal steroid alternative for Anavar.
Anvarol before and after
Do Women Need to Use a PCT?
If women experience low levels of libido or are suffering from low well-being, a PCT can be implemented.
Some believe that a PCT only applies to men because they have higher testosterone levels, however testosterone still remains a crucial hormone for women’s sexual and psychological function.
When women are cycling mild steroids such as Primobolan or Anavar, they may not experience any negative side effects. In which case they may skip running a PCT.
However, if they are taking more powerful compounds, such as Winstrol (especially in high doses), they may wish to take 25-50mg of DHEA per day, to recover their endogenous testosterone. A 4-week cycle of DHEA should be sufficient to recover testosterone levels; however, cycles can be safely extended beyond this point — with DHEA being used for several months in clinical research (8).
A PCT is not needed when taking legal steroids, or steroid alternatives, as they will not shut down women’s natural testosterone production.
Summary
Anavar and Primobolan are the most common steroids, used by women wanting to avoid virilization. They are very mild, yet still, produce significant results.
The only downside with these two steroids is that they are very expensive on the black market.
Anadrol, according to research, is seemingly very safe for women to take (even in higher doses) and considerably cheaper than Primobolan and Anavar.
Clenbuterol is possibly the best drug for women, who are more concerned with burning fat, than building muscle.
Note: Even when taking mild steroids, masculine side effects are possible in sensitive women; thus we recommend women try legal steroid alternatives first, which are safer compounds.
Top 5 Anadrol Cycles for Huge Gains
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
Anadrol (oxymetholone) is a bulking steroid, taken by weight lifters wanting to build large amounts of muscle size (hypertrophy) and strength.
Anadrol’s anabolic power is unrivaled, with it even having the ability to add exceptional size to ectomorphs or ‘hard gainers.
The only steroid that can stand toe to toe with anadrol, in terms of weight gain, is DIANABOL.
As Anadrol is best utilized in the off-season, the following cycles in this article are tailored for bulking. Anadrol can also be used for cutting; however, because of potential water retention and bloat — it is a less common protocol.
Anadrol is a very harsh steroid, thus it should only be cycled by experienced steroid-users (unless beginners take small doses). Beginners preferably should opt for lighter compounds, such as testosterone during their first few cycles.
Top 5 Anadrol Cycles
These cycles will be in the order of weakest to strongest. Thus, as the list goes down, the side effects will become harsher. The very bottom cycles are only for seasoned steroid-users, who have already taken powerful cycles before.
1. Anadrol-Only Cycle
This is a mildly-dosed cycle, tailored for beginners.
If a users’ side effects are quite significant on 50mg per day, refrain from increasing the dose to 75mg on week 4 (continuing with 50mg/day).
100mg doses should be strictly avoided during a first Anadrol cycle.
Despite a lower dose being administered during this cycle, massive increases in size and strength will be experienced, due to the body not having used this compound before.
A beginner taking this cycle is likely to gain 30lbs.
Anadrol-Only Cycle (Advanced)
This Anadrol cycle is for experienced users only.
If someone has previously used Anadrol and their body’s adapted to this compound, they may want to cycle it again, but at a higher dose and a longer period of time (for increased gains).
This cycle is only for those who are in good health and have regular checkups with their doctor, prior to taking this cycle.
If someone currently has bad health and then takes this cycle, it will deteriorate further.
Legal Steroid Alternatives That Work
“There is evidence, if you could use these (steroid alternatives) they would be much better than using anabolic steroids”.
Several of the herbs and amino acids, mentioned by Dr. Thomas O’Connor, are present in Crazy Bulk’s legal steroid alternatives.
CB’s products are backed with clinical research and are safe for men and women to use. You can view their product range (and receive 20% off) by clicking the link below.
2. Anadrol and Deca Durabolin Cycle
Deca Durabolin is an effective injectable steroid that users can stack with Anadrol, increasing muscle hypertrophy and strength.
Deca Durabolin is not a toxic steroid like Anadrol, thus side effects won’t be a lot more severe than running Anadrol by itself. However, testosterone will be more suppressed post-cycle, thus a powerful PCT should be used.
These are fairly modest doses, therefore this cycle may be utilized after cycling Anadrol a couple of times by itself.
The main side effect to prepare for on Deca Durabolin is very low libido and erectile dysfunction, notoriously known as ‘Deca dick’. Deca can cause this effect due to its stimulating effect on prolactin levels.
To combat this and maintain optimal sexual function, men can take Dostinex, otherwise known as Caberglobine. This is a drug that doctors use to effectively treat hyperprolactinemia, a condition where the body produces too much prolactin. Dostinex increases sexual libido and erection quality relatively quickly (1).
Anadrol and Deca Cycle (Advanced)
With this Deca and Anadrol cycle, the user is utilizing higher doses. Thus, results will be increased and so will the severity of side effects.
3. Anadrol and Testosterone Cycle
Testosterone is another powerful bulking steroid that will significantly enhance muscle and strength gains when stacked with Anadrol. This duo is one of the best combinations for mass.
Testosterone is an injectable steroid and thus there won’t be any (significant) additional liver strain with the inclusion of Testosterone.
However, natural testosterone levels will become more suppressed post-cycle, in contrast to taking Anadrol alone. Furthermore, the risk for gynecomastia (gyno), high blood pressure, acne and hair loss will increase.
To combat the onset of gyno during a cycle, a SERM may be taken (such as Nolvadex), to reduce heightened estrogen levels in the breast tissue.
anti-aromatase drugs will not be effective in combating high estrogen levels during this cycle, because Anadrol (unlike Testosterone) does not aromatize. Instead, Anadrol targets the estrogen receptors directly.
4. Anadrol and Winstrol Cycle
This stack could be used as a bulking or cutting cycle.
Winstrol will increase lean muscle gains, whilst drying users out and enhancing fat burning.
This initially seems like a strange stack, because:
Winstrol is a cutting steroid
Winstrol dries the body out, whereas Anadrol often causes significant amounts of water retention
However, when Anadrol isn’t used in conjunction with a high-calorie diet (with lots of sodium), water retention is minimal. If calories and sodium are low, users often report no additional water retention at all; hence why various men’s physique competitors cycle Anadrol before a show, making their muscles appear as full as possible.
Therefore, if your diet accommodates Anadrol in a way that doesn’t cause any fluid retention (low calories/low sodium), the body can remain to look relatively dry; whilst packing on large amounts of muscle.
The only problem with this cycle is that it will be very harsh on the body.
Winstrol and Anadrol are oral steroids, with both of them being hepatotoxic. These are also very suppressive compounds in regards to testosterone, and will have a deleterious effect on the heart; with elevated LDL and reduced HDL cholesterol scores.
This is possibly one of the worst cycles for a bodybuilder when weighing up the pros vs cons. This is because Winstrol won’t make a tremendous difference; yet will exacerbate the side effects of Anadrol significantly.
However, it remains a common cycle among bodybuilders who favour orals vs injectables.
5. Anadrol and Dianabol Cycle
Two of the best bulking steroids on the planet combined in one single cycle.
This cycle will produce the most weight gain and size of any two steroids. This stack will blow users’ muscles up to the point, where they will probably be afraid to perform supersets during their workouts.
It is likely users will lose a noticeable amount of size post-cycle; however, most of this will be water weight, gained from these two wet steroids.
This is one of the worst cycles for your liver, with both of these steroids being orals (and thus c 17 alkylated compounds). Therefore if your liver is not in great condition, do not perform this cycle.
However, there is research to suggest that Anadrol’s effects on the liver are not as bad as the bodybuilding community suggests. Furthermore, the liver can take a battering and still recover easily, compared to other organs. The key with steroids and the liver is to not take lengthy cycles, giving enough rest for it to regenerate post-cycle.
For those interested in this cycle, they should supplement with TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid), with doses of 500mg per day, for up to 3 months, being very effective for inhibiting liver damage (2).
TUDCA should be taken during and after cycles to offer as much protection to the liver as possible. Also, alcohol should be strictly avoided.
Conservative dosages have been used in this sample cycle, with the risk of liver strain (and other side effects) in mind.
Regular cardio is highly recommended to minimize large increases in blood pressure. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly throughout this cycle, as large amounts of water retention and cholesterol shifts are inevitable.
6. Anadrol, Trenbolone and Testosterone Cycle
This trio of steroids stacked together will surely give users the best gains of their life; however, it will also produce very harsh side effects and thus should be used very sparingly (if at all).
Rich Piana stated this was the best cycle he had ever taken.
The main problems with this cycle are extreme testosterone suppression, very high elevations in blood pressure, the risk of gynecomastia and considerable hair thinning/loss on the scalp. There will also be some liver toxicity; however, with the presence of two injectable steroids (test and tren), it will be less hepatotoxic than the Dianabol/Anadrol cycle.
Anadrol and Trenbolone is another common and powerful steroid cycle, which can be taken together like Anadrol and test.
Female Anadrol Cycles
There is ample research to suggest that Anadrol is actually one of the best steroids for women — in regards to those who want to avoid virilization. However, many people believe the opposite to be true and that women should stay away from Anadrol.
In clinical research, when women take mega doses of Anadrol for extremely long periods of time, masculinization does not occur. In a study, doses of 100-150mg were taken for 30 weeks and no virilization effects were seen in any of the female subjects (3).
It is commonly believed that because Anadrol produces harsh side effects in men (some being androgenic), that it will also cause the same masculine effects in women. However, in practical settings, it does not.
The reason for this may be due to Anadrol simultaneously increasing estrogen levels, whilst failing to bind strongly to SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin). High SHBG levels in women are notorious for causing masculine side effects.
Women may cycle Anadrol alone, or in conjunction with Anavar, for further muscle gains (and fat loss).
Anavar is another female-friendly steroid, that is safe for minimizing the risk of virilization when taken in short cycles.
Anadrol-Only Cycle (Women)
This cycle contains cautious doses of Anadrol, despite research indicating higher doses could possibly be taken without any further risk of virilization.
However, these doses are sufficient for significant muscle and strength gains. This is also a very short cycle, in comparison to those conducted in studies.
Anavar & Anadrol Cycle (Women)
If women have taken Anavar or Anadrol alone in cycles before and would like to build even more muscle; they can stack both compounds together.
Conservative doses are used for each of these steroids, in a 6-week cycle. Anavar doesn’t want to be run for too long, as masculinization has been seen in women running long cycles.
How to Take Anadrol
Anadrol typically comes in 50mg pills. To keep optimal levels of oxymetholone in your bloodstream, it is advised to take 2 doses throughout the day (instead of one).
Therefore, if you are taking 100mg per day you can simply take 2 pills.
For a total dose of 50mg per day, you can use a pill cutter to split the pills in half.
For a total dose of 75mg per day, the best practice would be to take 3 x 25mg pills.
Important: Anadrol pills should be taken on an empty stomach. This is because the tablets are fat-soluble (like other anabolic steroids). Thus taking it with foods, containing dietary fat, will reduce Anadrol’s bio-availability.
There is evidence to suggest the opposite is true when taking Anadrol with grapefruit juice, which potentially may increase its bio-availability, due to the fruit inhibiting CYP3A4, an enzyme in the liver which significantly reduces the absorption of many drugs (including anabolic steroids).
Therefore, if you do take Anadrol with grapefruit juice, be wary of overdosing, as a result of increased absorption.
Post Cycle Therapy
A powerful PCT is required when taking Anadrol to help restore endogenous testosterone production as quickly as possible.
Well-being, sexual health and results tend to suffer post-cycle; however, a PCT will help to reverse these adverse effects.
There are three recommended medications to take for a PCT, these are:
Clomid
Nolvadex
hCG
All of these drugs will increase natural testosterone levels significantly.
If a user is shut down severely, it is recommended to take all three of these medications simultaneously. If someone has just taken Anadrol in moderate doses, they may only take one or two of these drugs.
Here is the most effective PCT protocol:
hCG every second day (for 20 days), taking 2000 IU
Nolvadex every day (for 45 days), taking 2 x 20mg doses
Clomid every day (for 30 days), taking 2 x 50mg doses
Anadrol Before and After
This transformation was from a bodybuilder who was previously natural (left) and then took Anadrol (right). He stacked Anadrol with Deca Durabolin and after several cycles, gained a significant amount of size and mass.
Such a combination has the ability to add up to 40lbs to the scales. This number is likely to increase further with the addition of other steroids.
Anadrol is not the best steroid for maintaining a tight and tiny waist, especially when bulking on higher calories; however if the goal is to pack on as much mass as possible – it can work wonders.
If you are at a high body fat percentage, it might be worth cutting first or taking other steroids over Anadrol; due to the excessive bulking and puffiness that Anadrol can cause.
The heart will also be more protected when a lean person takes Anadrol, compared to someone overweight.
Summary
Any of these Anadrol cycles will produce massive gains in muscular strength and size. Anadrol is one of the most powerful and toxic steroids you can take, why is why users need to be cautious whilst cycling it.
Beginners ideally should stay away from it, until they have first used testosterone.
Intermediates can take it in moderate doses, and experienced users may stack it with other powerful compounds (with caution).
5 powerful Anadrol stacks are:
Anadrol/Testosterone
Anadrol/Trenbolone
Anadrol/Winstrol
Anadrol/Deca Durabolin
Anadrol/Dianabol
However, any steroid stacked with Anadrol is going to produce better results, than taking it alone.
The stacks seen on this page are not the only compounds you can cycle with Oxymetholone. There are other effective compounds, such as Anavar, a commonly used cutting steroid, which can be combined with Anadrol. However, with it being an oral and having mild effects, it is less commonly used.
Post-cycle therapy should always be incorporated for mental and physical recovery.
Always consult a doctor before taking any steroids or medicines discussed in this article, and be sure to get regular health checkups.
Powerlifter Amanda Kohatsu Wins Women’s Physique And Open Figure In Bodybuilding Debut
Amanda Kohatsu won two gold during her first bodybuilding show.
Amanda Kohatsu recently made the transition from powerlifting to bodybuilding and it as a rousing success. During the NPC Iron Games on Nov. 13, Kohatsu made her bodybuilding debut. Anaheim was the site where Kohatsu was able to win both Women’s Physique and Open Figure.
Kohatsu took to Instagram to celebrate her achievement. In her caption, she thanked her team and said that prep for the next competition will begin this week.
“Update: WE DID THE THING! ??,” Amanda Kohatsu wrote.“Yesterday I competed in my very first bodybuilding show @musclecontest Iron Games! I ended up taking overall in Women’s Physique and Open Figure! ???✨?I’ll have more to say when I come up from my food coma ? but Monday we are back on prep for the next show ?. ?HUGE THANK YOU to my coach/husband/business partner/bestie @teepopoola and my posing coach extraordinaire @kennywallach for believing in me!!Thank you SO MUCH to my crew and family for coming out! As someone who always tries to be there for everyone, it felt so amazing to walk offStage to a huge group of loved ones cheering for me! ??Like I said before, having my dad be at the show was the biggest prize…and I’m happy to report, I got that! ????”
Amanda Kohatsu began competing in powerlifting back in 2016. She has competed in six sanctioned events between the 67.5kg and 75kg weight classes. In six events, Kohatsu has finished on the podium six times and has three victories.
Amanda Kohatsu’s first win came during the 2017 USPA California State Powerlifting Championships. This came after finishing as the runner-up in her debut at the 2016 USPA Southern California Open. Kohatsu added two more victories in 2019 during the Southern Powerlifting Federation Super Training Classic and USPA Lock It Out Barbell Desert Wars. Her most recent competition is where she was able to log her best scores.
During the 2019 Lock It Out Barbell Desert Wars, Kohatsu began with a 192.5kg (424.4lb) squat. She then logged a 107.5kg (237lb) bench press and 222.5kg (490.5lb) deadlift. This landed her a total of 522.5kg (1,151.9lb).
This transition is one that Kohatsu had been planning for a long time now. She was interested in competing back in 2020 but COVID halted that plan. Now, she has made the necessary adjustments to succeed on the bodybuilding stage.
Amanda Kohatsu will be back on stage soon and it will be interesting to see how she follows up her debut. Training has already begun so it is clear that Kohatsu is passionate about the sport and she has shown that she can compete.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
How CT Fletcher Works Out To Get Jacked & Return To Former Glory
The workout that CT Fletcher uses to get jacked as he journeys back from surgery to find his old greatness.
CT Fletcher is a former bodybuilder who is now a fitness icon and successful entrepreneur. Holding many titles and a massive platform online, he seeks to inspire and help others achieve their fitness goals.
When it comes to working hard, looking to the pros and those who have gone before us is a great way to boost all our gains. They’ve done it before and are living proof of what can happen when you grind in the gym and really buckle down with a solid workout routine. So many websites and influencers claim to know exactly how to get a massive and shredded physique but at the end of the day, looking to those athletes we admire most may just unlock all those gains we wish to see.
CT Fletcher is a fitness icon and knows exactly what it takes to see growth and to optimize your training and nutrition so you only see huge gains.
Full Name: CT Fletcher
Weight
Height
Date Of Birth
220-225 lbs.
5’11’’
06/08/1959
Profession
Era
Nationality
Bodybuilder, Personal Trainer, Powerlifter, Entrepreneur
1980, 1990, 2000, 2010
American
CT Fletcher’s approach to training is unique and has served him well throughout his career. For those of us looking for similar gains, no one does it better than CT Fletcher.
About CT Fletcher
CT Fletcher is also well known as the Iron Addicts entrepreneur and a worldwide powerlifting icon. Born in 1959 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, CT Fletcher moved around quite a bit during his life. He lived in Watts Township, Arkansas then later moved to the city of Compton in California.
During his bodybuilding days he displayed a great physique. He first entered the weight room in the early 1980’s and made bodybuilding and weightlifting his life. He later placed top 3 in many bodybuilding shows. He then transitioned to Powerlifting increasing his strength monthly. He began participating in many powerlifting events and became one of the most successful powerlifters of our generation. At an early age, he realized the incredible amount of strength he had in comparison to his peers.
He was ultimately a three-time winner of both World Bench Press Championship and World Strict Curl Championship. He was nicknamed as the “Superman of Compton” as seen in ‘CT Fletcher My Magnificent Obsession’ and nearly lost his life due to heart complications. His popular phrases such as “I command you to grow” and “Its still Yo Mutha Fu*** Set” became synonymous with his Iron Addicts brand and have been incorporated into his training workouts by fans across the world. Fletcher also faced many obstacles in his life. He grew up with an abusive father and he almost died due to heart failure. His unhealthy eating habits caused CT Fletcher to experience many heart complications and had to undergo heart surgery. CT Fletcher flatlined during the procedure and nearly lost his life. CT later adopted a clean diet and healthy lifestyle, even integrating a vegan diet.
Today, he is known as the successful entrepreneur, father, and a worldwide recognized fitness icon who founded Iron Addicts.
CT Fletcher Training Routine
CT Fletcher focuses a lot on Train to Fail and constantly changing workout routines. Exercises to build your body and strength entail workout routines that focus on chest and arm exercises.
The CT Fletcher workout routine includes excessive amounts of protein and carbohydrates. Also, fats are kept at only 10 percent of the entire daily intake. This is meant to keep your body energetic enough to perform as many reps as possible. A key to Fletcher’s transformation is doing both physical and mental training routines. CT relies on his repetitions, instincts, and his ability to change his daily routine.
His goal is to apply a one-movement workout (OMW) method, which involves high-volume, high-repetition interval training.
Arms
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Standing Biceps Cable Curl
4
8-10
Preacher Curl
4
8-10
Seated Triceps Press
4
8-10
Incline Hammer Bench Biceps Curl
4
8-10
Concentration Curls
4
8-10
W Bar Triceps Extensions
4
8-10
Straight Bar Triceps Extension
4
8-10
Chest
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Barbell Straight Bench Press
4
8-10
Incline Barbell Press
3
8-10
Wide Grip Chin Ups
4
10-12
Incline Bench Cable Fly
5
12
Smith Bench
4
8-10
Back
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Hammer Strength Lat Pulldown
3
8-10
T Bar Bent Over Row
3
8-10
Lying Machine Rows
3
10-12
Close-Grip Seated Cable Row
3
8-10
Straight Arm Pushdown
3
10-12
Shoulders
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Standing Barbell Lateral Raise
4
12-15
Barbell Press
4
10-12
Seated Single-Arm Dumbbell Overhead Press
4
8-10
Bent-Over Dumbbell Lateral Raise
4
12-15
Legs
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Hack Squat
4
8-10
Leg Press
4
8-10
Seated Machine Leg Curl
3-4
10-12
Barbell Squat
3
10-12
CT Fletcher Nutrition
Today, CT Fletcher follows a very clean and basic diet plan that provides him with all the essential macronutrients and helps him stay in top shape inside and outside of the gym. Since Fletcher often eats all the protein and clean foods he can get, his vegan diet has also contributed to long term results and heart health.
Meal 1
12 egg white omelet
A handful of veggies
1-2 servings of Grilled chicken or Turkey breast
Meal 2
One can serving of salad of Albacore tuna
Meal 3
Ground turkey
Meal 4
White rice
Meal 5
1- Eight-ounce chicken breast
Meal 6
Two cups of white rice
Best Supplements For Continued Growth
For those looking to maximize their gains, it is important to have a great supplementation routine ready to go. CT uses a protein powder to increase growth and recovery, a pre-workout to provide for energy and pumps, and a BCAA for that intra-workout boost to kickstart growth and burst through fatigue. Also, a multivitamin keeps him healthy by pumping him with those vital nutrients great for immunity and staying in top shape.
Wrap Up
CT Fletcher today is amongst some of the most popular and successful powerlifters in the world. Dwayne The Rock Johnson calls him his greatest influence due to his unique approach on lifting. His methods involve a great deal of work, pain, and a diversified workout routine. His past involved a great deal of poor dieting and he now recommends a healthy clean diet for bodybuilders worldwide.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of CT Fletcher Instagram
9 Best Legal Steroids in 2021 (That Actually Work)
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
In bodybuilding circles, there’s a lot of talk about legal steroids currently.
Are they safe? Do they work? How do they compare to real steroids?
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know, before you part with your hard-earned money.
What Are Legal Steroids?
Legal steroids, also known as steroid alternatives, are compounds formulated by supplement companies to mimic the positive effects of anabolic steroids, but without the harsh side effects.
There is a huge demand for anabolic steroids right now; however, not everyone wants to break the law or endure the serious health consequences that come with taking steroids.
In contrast, the ingredients in legal steroids are FDA approved and deemed safe for human consumption.
Also, legal steroids can be easily bought online, without having to get a prescription from a doctor or put your health in a criminal’s hands. This is essentially what happens when people buy steroids illegally via the black market, as you are not buying from a reputable company and thus are not guaranteed to get what is on the label.
Legal steroids are not anabolic steroids (which are illegal). Instead, they are more accurately described as steroid alternatives; which are powerful natural compounds that replicate the same muscle-building processes in the body like steroids.
Legal Steroid Alternatives That Work
“There is evidence, if you could use these (steroid alternatives) they would be much better than using anabolic steroids”.
Several of the herbs and amino acids, mentioned by Dr. Thomas O’Connor, are present in Crazy Bulk’s legal steroid alternatives (being: D-Bal, Testo-Max, Anadrole and DecaDuro).
Note: Dr. Thomas O’Connor has no affiliations with Crazy Bulk, he is simply giving his expert medical opinion, regarding certain ingredients that have anabolic effects.
You can view Crazy Bulk’s full product range (and receive 20% off) by clicking the button below.
Who Are Crazy Bulk?
Crazy Bulk is the leading retailer of legal steroids online, selling over 500,000 bottles.
Here are some reasons why Crazy Bulk are trusted by so many bodybuilders:
✔️ Positive 3rd party reviews (verified)
✔️ Positive social media reviews
✔️ Address & contact information listed
✔️ Social media presence
✔️ Sponsored athletes
✔️ Secure connection (HTTPS)
✔️ Generous coupons
Positive Reviews
Reviews can be easily faked. However, third-party websites can verify if the person leaving the review is a real customer or not, therefore these can be trusted.
We found that most legal steroids websites did not collect 3rd party reviews, unlike Crazy Bulk.
Crazy Bulk collects reviews on Feefo, having accumulated over 2,600 reviews, with an average rating of 4.4/5 stars.
Crazy Bulk has received positive reviews on other websites; however, not all sites are to be trusted as they are not from verified customers and thus can be faked (by themselves or competitors).
Positive Social Media Reviews
We stalked what people are saying about Crazy Bulk on social media. To do this we entered ‘#crazybulk’ and #dbal along with other product names into Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
We found that several people were saying positive things about Crazy Bulk, and were not directing people to the website (thus appearing to be genuine/unbiased comments).
Address & Contact Information
Crazy Bulk lists their telephone number and company address, whilst having a 24/7 live chat on their website. You can also contact them via WhatsApp, which can be found on their about page.
Other websites had either no contact information, or some of the above, but not all of them.
This is a big trust signal, as Crazy Bulk is open to being contacted by their customers and different authorities, proving they are a credible business.
Social Media Presence
Dubious companies can shy away from social media as it leaves room for negative comments that may go viral. However, the most authoritative companies build large presences on multiple social pages and interact with their customers.
Crazy Bulk is by far the largest legal steroids brand on social media with 11.9k followers on Instagram and 4.8k followers on Twitter. The only other noteworthy competitor on social media was SDI Labs with 2,994 Facebook fans and Flexx Labs with 1,671 fans.
Well-known, successful bodybuilders do not partner up with bogus supplement companies.
Doing so would jeopardize their reputation and devalue their brand, resulting in lower earnings.
Therefore, if prestigious athletes are happy to endorse a supplement company, it’s a sign that they are trustworthy. This is especially true with company’s that mention the word ‘steroids’, which is taboo in the fitness world.
Crazy Bulk is the only legal steroids company (alongside Top Legal Steroids) with well-known sponsored athletes. Two of whom are:
Ramsford Smith
Tom Coleman
Ramsford Smith is a British Mr. Universe finalist and was crowned Mr. Britain and Mr. Europe. He has over 30 years of bodybuilding experience and became the first pro bodybuilder to endorse Crazy Bulk.
Tom Coleman is a WBFF world champion, who has over 1 million fans on Instagram. He has previously recommended Crazy Bulk on his page, putting a link to their official website.
Generous Coupons
Crazy Bulk regularly offers a 20% discount code on its website. Furthermore, they also have bundle deals, such as buy 2 get 1 free on all products and stacks. This can be a huge saving when buying in bulk, as if you buy 8 bottles, you’ll receive 4 free (which is up to 4 months’ worth of free products).
If there is one thing Crazy Bulk could do to improve, it would be to lower their prices even further and increase their average review score from 4.4/5 to 5/5.
9 Best Legal Steroids on the Market
We rated Crazy Bulk as the best legal steroid retailer (considerably), receiving thousands of positive verified customer reviews (with an average rating of 4.4/5).
Thus, from this data, we can conclude that their legal steroids work — at least for a large number of people.
Below is a list of Crazy Bulk’s product range.
D-Bal (Dianabol)
D-Bal is the legal steroid, based on perhaps the most popular anabolic steroid of all time, Dianabol.
Dianabol was first created to be significantly more anabolic than testosterone, but with less androgenicity.
Dr. Ziegler, the man who synthesized Dianabol (1) was successful in achieving this outcome.
Dianabol remains one of the best steroids for building muscle and bulking up. It is also an impressive compound for enhancing strength (2).
However, Dianabol still poses many adverse effects such as:
Low endogenous testosterone
High LDL cholesterol levels
High blood pressure
Water retention
Gynecomastia
Liver toxicity
D-Bal was formulated by Crazy Bulk to replicate Dianabol’s positive effects but without the adverse effects. This enables bodybuilders to remain healthy whilst building muscle, instead of destroying their health in the short or/and long term.
D-Bal vs D-Bol
✔️ D-Bal is 100% legal
✔️ D-Bal produces no side effects
D-Bal is best used when bulking and trying to build muscle. It can be combined with DecaDuro, Anadrole, Testo-Max or/and Trenorol for further muscle gains.
Testo-Max (Sustanon 250)
Testo-Max is the legal steroid for Sustanon 250.
Sustanon 250 is an effective testosterone ester, used in bulking cycles for adding significant amounts of muscle and strength. Some believe Sustanon 250 to be the best form of testosterone, due to it containing both short and long esters. Thus, it is capable of producing exceptional results in the early and latter stages of a cycle.
Sustanon 250 however can cause any or all of the following:
Acne
Hair loss (scalp)
High blood pressure
Gynecomastia
The above side effects, plus the fact Sustanon 250 is an injectable steroid, can result in some people avoiding this anabolic steroid. Testo-Max solves all of these problems, thus it’s understandable why this legal steroid is highly coveted.
Testo-Max vs Sustanon 250
✔️ Testo-Max is in oral (tablet) form
✔️ Testo-Max produces no side effects
✔️ Testo-Max is 100% legal
Testo-Max is best used in bulking cycles, maximizing testosterone levels and mass gained. Equally, it is also an effective cutting steroid, helping to increase fat-burning (whilst sparing muscle size).
Therefore, it can be stacked with virtually any legal steroid from Crazy Bulk with good results. However, which legal steroid you choose to stack it with will depend on your goals.
Anadrole (Anadrol)
Anadrole is the legal steroid, based on the monster bulking steroid, Anadrol.
Anadrol is considered the most powerful steroid among bodybuilders for adding size and mass.
Muscle, weight and strength gains on Anadrol are often unsurpassed, with Dianabol being the only compound that comes close.
Despite Anadrol’s powerful ability to pack on muscle (3), it is also notorious for its severe side effects, which are:
Liver toxicity
High blood pressure
Gynecomastia
Water retention
Hair loss
Anadrol is possibly one of the worst anabolic steroids for the heart and liver. Therefore, it is often avoided by steroid-users, who opt to go for lighter steroids which can still yield impressive results (such as testosterone or Dianabol).
Crazy Bulk’s Anadrole formula is synthesized to mimic the anabolic effects of Anadrol, but without the harsh side effects.
Anadrole vs Anadrol
✔️ Anadrole is safe (especially for the heart and liver)
✔️ Anadrole is 100% legal
For best results, anadrole should be combined with other legal bulking steroids, such as Decaduro, Testo-max, D-bal, or/and Trenorol.
Decaduro (Deca Durabolin)
Deca Durabolin is a popular injectable bulking steroid, typically used in the off-season.
Although not the most powerful of steroids, Deca is often used by bodybuilders to enhance the gains from other bulking steroids. It increases strength, muscle mass and fullness (4).
Deca is also popular because it does not cause overly harsh adverse effects.
However, the following side effects can still occur:
Erectile dysfunction (known as ‘Deca dick’)
Low endogenous testosterone levels
Water retention
Although Deca Durabolin will not damage your liver and is not particularly damaging to the heart (in comparison to other steroids), it still will have a negative effect on your testosterone levels (5), potentially causing sexual dysfunction (at least temporarily). Also, Deca Durabolin is to be injected which some people are not comfortable with.
Decaduro vs Deca Durabolin
✔️ Decaduro comes in oral (pill) form
✔️ Decaduro is 100% legal
✔️ Decaduro does not cause sexual dysfunction
It is not advised to use Decaduro alone unless merely small muscle gains are desired. Instead, for bigger muscle gains, stack Decaduro with D-Bal, Anadrole, Trenorol or/and Testo-Max.
Trenorol (Trenbolone)
Trenorol is the legal steroid alternative for Trenbolone.
Trenbolone is a very powerful injectable steroid, that produces large increases in lean muscle. Due to a lack of aromatization, it does not cause any noticeable water retention, making overall weight gain less than on dianabol/anadrol.
However, in terms of pure muscle gained, Trenbolone ranks high with the best of bulking steroids.
With bodybuilders wanting to look as ripped as possible, Trenbolone is a popular choice as users will not suffer from smooth, puffy muscles or bloating.
Trenbolone is also a strong fat-burning steroid and thus is sometimes used in cutting cycles too.
Trenbolone is one of the worst steroids for side effects, unsurprisingly due to its powerful nature. Some of Tren’s most obvious side effects are:
High blood pressure
Acne
Hair loss
Significant testosterone suppression
Trenorol vs Trenbolone
✔️ Trenorol comes in oral (tablet) form
✔️ Trenorol is safe (FDA approved)
✔️ Trenorol is 100% legal
Trenorol can be stacked with any legal bulking steroids from Crazy Bulk for additional strength and muscle gains. It can also be stacked with cutting formulas, such as Anvarol, Clenbutrol and Winsol for accelerated fat loss.
Anvarol (Anavar)
Anvarol is the legal steroid for Anavar, one of the most used cutting steroids in the world.
Anavar’s popularity stems from it being suitable for beginners, as it is very well tolerated. Women use it because it rarely causes virilization side effects, and is even utilized by experienced pros; because of its muscle building and fat burning effects.
Anavar is a mild steroid, therefore the gains users’ experience will not be remarkable, and the same applies to its side effects.
However, it does have the ability to add 10lbs-15lbs of muscle, whilst significantly stripping fat (6). However, this number will be less for experienced steroid users.
The downside with Anavar is that it is very expensive, due to the difficulty in manufacturing this compound and high demand. Therefore, the price of experiencing moderate gains is very high.
However, Anvarol is much cheaper in comparison, at just $55 (which is a fraction of what pharma-grade Anavar costs – usually being several hundred dollars).
Anvarol vs Anavar
✔️ Anvarol is significantly cheaper
✔️ Anvarol is 100% legal
✔️ Anvarol does not decrease natural testosterone production
For best results stack anvarol with other legal cutting steroids, for increased fat burning and muscle definition. Recommended products are: clenbutrol, winsol or/and testo-max.
Winsol (Winstrol)
Winsol is the legal steroid designed to produce the same effects as Winstrol.
Winstrol is a dry steroid, which increases lean muscle mass, whilst decreasing a user’s body fat percentage.
It is similar to anavar, in regards to its benefits, although slightly more powerful, causing harsher side effects.
Because winstrol does not have an overly significant effect on building mass (7), it is often used in cutting cycles, to help retain muscle whilst getting leaner. Winstrol has diuretic effects too, increasing muscle striations and visibility of veins (vascularity). The only downside to its water flushing properties is glycogen levels can decrease inside the muscle cells — decreasing fullness.
Winstrol’s side effects are:
Joint pain
High blood pressure
Liver toxicity
Hair loss
Acne
Thus, winsol is a better alternative, with none of the above being a cause for concern.
Winsol vs Winstrol
✔️ Winsol is safe
✔️ Winsol is 100% legal
Clenbutrol (Clenbuterol)
Clenbuterol is not a steroid; however, it is often stacked with cutting steroids to ignite fat burning. Crazy Bulk’s Clenbutrol replicates the stimulative effects of Clen to spike a user’s metabolism.
Clenbutrol mimics Clenbuterol by causing thermogenesis in the body (increased heat production). As a result of this, the body has to constantly cool itself down to ensure the body’s temperature does not rise excessively.
This process increases calorie burn (at rest), raising the body’s metabolic rate and increasing fat loss.
Although Clenbuterol is used by many bodybuilders to great effect when trying to lean out and get ripped, it is not FDA approved (for humans).
There is evidence that Clenbuterol increases heart rate (8), due to excessive adrenaline production, placing unnecessary strain on the heart. This is the main risk when taking Clenbuterol, as it does NOT cause the typical side effects of anabolic steroids, such as: gyno, testosterone suppression, liver damage etc.
Clenbutrol vs Clenbuterol
✔️ Clenbutrol does not increase blood pressure
✔️ Clenbutrol is legal
✔️ Clenbutrol is safe
HGH-x2 (HGH)
HGH is a protein hormone that is naturally secreted by the pituitary gland. Bodybuilders often take HGH in exogenous form to increase HGH production, increasing muscle mass and fat loss.
Like anabolic steroids, exogenous HGH is illegal.
HGH is not as powerful as anabolic steroids for muscle growth, however it does have the ability to take a person’s muscle gains to the next level.
However, there can be some unsightly side effects from using HGH, including:
HGH gut
Organ enlargement
‘HGH gut’ is often observed in IFBB bodybuilders, which can be attributed to the enlargement of internal organs, such as the intestines and liver (9).
Such organ enlargement also applies to the heart, putting users more at risk of cardiac problems. Tissue enlargement is also common whilst taking HGH, with people’s noses often getting bigger in size over time.
HGH-x2 vs HGH
✔️ HGH-x2 does not cause ‘HGH gut’
✔️ HGH-x2 is legal
✔️ HGH-x2 is safe
✔️ HGH-x2 is considerably cheaper than illegal HGH
HGH can be used whilst bulking or cutting due to its versatility. For best results it should be stacked with other legal steroids, as results may be minimal with a HGH-only cycle.
Legal Steroids FAQs
Do Legal Steroids Really Work Like Steroids?
Yes, if a person responds well to legal steroids or steroid alternatives, they can experience steroid-like results.
However, not all people respond the same (just like with steroids), therefore some people can make more gains than others. A person’s training and diet are also crucial in determining results.
Do I Need to Run a PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) With Legal Steroids?
No, because legal steroids do not shut down a person’s endogenous testosterone production like anabolic steroids. Instead, legal steroids increase endogenous testosterone levels, thus a person will not be shut down after a cycle.
Thus, a person will be able to keep all of their gains from legal steroids, as opposed to those who often lose size after taking anabolic steroids (due to the body shifting into a catabolic state post-cycle).
Do I Need to Take a Liver Support Supplement With Legal Steroids?
Although legal steroids are in tablet form, they are not taxing on the liver like oral anabolic steroids.
Thus, ALT and AST liver values will not rise dramatically, ensuring that your liver will remain healthy and protected.
However, when taking any form of tablets, it is always recommended to take a break from them; thus if you take legal steroids for 8 weeks, it’s advised to take 8 weeks off after this.
Which Legal Steroids Are Suitable For Women?
Women need to be very careful in which anabolic steroids they use, as they can cause masculinization. For example, testosterone may enlarge a woman’s clitoris and decrease her breast size. Whereas Anavar in moderate doses may not.
However, legal steroids do not cause virilization effects. Therefore, all legal steroids are suitable for women. However, we recommend buying from a trustworthy brand to ensure you are getting genuine legal, steroid alternatives (instead of a spiked product).
Legal Steroids vs SARMs
Like legal steroids, SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators), were designed to replicate the effects of anabolic steroids, but without the detrimental side effects.
They currently are not FDA approved, as they are still recent drugs, with little research done on them.
However, some users are already reporting severe side effects from using SARMS, such as hepatotoxicity, decreased HDL cholesterol levels and shut down testosterone levels.
In contrast, legal steroids’ formulas are FDA approved, and haven’t received reports of users suffering from any notable adverse effects.
Therefore, more studies are needed in order to make an authoritative comparison between the two, however at this time legal steroids are deemed to be safe, whereas SARMS may not be.
Will Legal Steroids Cause Me to Fail a Drugs Test?
No, assuming you buy from a reputable brand who does not spike their products.
There are no banned substances in any of Crazy Bulk’s legal steroids, therefore users will pass any type of drugs test whilst taking them.
Can You Buy Legal Steroids Over the Counter?
No, legal steroids are currently only available to buy online.
Do Crazy Bulk Offer a Discount Code?
Crazy Bulk will usually give you a discount code on their website. Further discount codes on external websites do not work.
Summary
Legal steroids, or steroid alternatives, are FDA-approved formulas which mimic the effects of anabolic steroids.
There is evidence to suggest that Crazy Bulk’s legal steroids work, from thousands of verified customer reviews and various social media testimonials.
However, users should be careful about using other brands, as certain companies have been accused of using deceptive marketing practices, and have been on the receiving end of legal action.
3 Best Steroids for Beginners (Plus 3 to Avoid)
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
Millions of people around the world take steroids; however, only a small percentage do so in a responsible manner.
High doses, taking the wrong steroids too early and failing to implement an effective PCT are all common errors among beginners.
A lack of knowledge when using steroids significantly increases the risk of danger. A beginner is more susceptible to harsh effects, as their bodies have not had a chance to build up any tolerance to such compounds.
In this article we will reveal the safest steroids for beginners, helping to minimize the risks/side effects experienced during a first steroid cycle.
Top 3 Steroids for Beginners
Testosterone
Anavar
Dianabol
Each one of these steroids is suitable for beginners. Which one you take will depend on your personal preference of administration and what you want to achieve from your cycle.
1. Testosterone
A testosterone-only cycle is the most popular protocol for a beginner. This is because beginners want to experience big gains in muscle and strength, but want to stay away from harsh compounds.
Testosterone produces exceptional gains, without excessively harsh side effects.
The only downside for some beginners is that testosterone is predominantly an injectable steroid. Therefore, if users want to take orals during their first steroid cycle, Anavar and Dianabol would be preferred options.
Different Esters
These are the most popular forms of testosterone in bodybuilding:
Testosterone suspension
Testosterone acetate
Testosterone propionate
Testosterone enanthate
Testosterone cypionate (aka depo-testosterone)
Testosterone undecanoate
Sustanon 250
Note: There isn’t a ‘best testosterone’, all different forms of testosterone will build equal amounts of muscle and strength. However, some will kick in faster and require more regular injections. The only other difference is the shorter, faster-acting esters are a little more potent, resulting in more actual testosterone entering the bloodstream.
Test Suspension
Testosterone suspension is essentially pure testosterone in water. It is not typically recommended for beginners because it is very fast-acting, thus it has an immediate effect on the body, instead of gradually entering the bloodstream.
One benefit is that suspension is going to produce fast gains, as it is pure testosterone and thus does not need to be broken down. However, the bad news is it requires very frequent injections, as it also leaves your body fast.
Test suspension requires 2 injections a day, which is not ideal for a beginner. Furthermore, suspension is one of the worst steroids to inject, as it requires a big needle (a newbie’s worst nightmare). This is because test suspension is not micronized; thus because of its larger crystals, syringes are likely to get clogged. Unsurprisingly, suspension injections are often painful.
Most experienced steroid-users are cowards when it comes to taking test suspension, so beginners are extremely unlikely to enjoy this. In reality, they would probably never take injectables again if this was their first cycle.
Testosterone Acetate
Testosterone acetate is a fast-acting form of test, with a half-life of 2-3 days, although slower-acting than suspension.
Gains will come by fast, however frequent injections are needed (although not as frequent as test suspension).
One injection a day is required with test acetate.
A large needle is not needed and injections are not typically painful.
Testosterone Propionate
Testosterone propionate is also fast-acting, albeit slower than suspension and acetate. Injections are required every other day.
Propionate may appear to be cheap; however, because it is dosed at only 100mg/ml, whereas other forms of testosterone are commonly dosed at around 250mg/ml. Therefore it actually works out to be expensive.
Typically, test propionate has a price approximately 50% higher than other forms of testosterone.
Furthermore, propionate injections have a tendency to hurt, to the extent where people have reported limping afterward. Therefore, beginners do not usually opt for propionate.
Testosterone Cypionate & Enanthate
Bingo. These are the esters used by most beginners because they require less frequent injections (once every 4-5 days).
I have listed Cypionate and enanthate together because the body absorbs each compound at a similar rate.
Users will need to wait a little longer for them to kick in; however, this form of testosterone is often comfortable/enjoyable for beginners to take.
Testosterone Undecanoate
Injectable test undecanoate is a very slow-acting form of testosterone. A unique advantage is that it can be injected just once every two weeks.
However, because it takes a long time to peak in your bloodstream, with a half-life of 34 days (1), users will need to be very patient, as it can take a month to kick in.
Testosterone undecanoate is also available as an oral steroid, known as Andriol (or Testocaps).
In oral form, undecanoate is very fast-acting with plasma testosterone levels peaking approximately 5 hours after a dose.
Another benefit of Andriol (oral test undecanoate) is that it bypasses the liver and is absorbed via the lymphatic system. Consequently, it is not hepatotoxic and poses no threat to the liver, unlike many other oral steroids.
Tablets can be more convenient for beginners than taking injections; however, an oral undecanoate cycle is typically very expensive, with roughly 8 capsules (280mg) needed per day, to elevate testosterone levels enough for significant mass gains.
For example, the price of Andriol from a medical practitioner may cost roughly $40 (2).
With a dose of 280mg, this would last 7.5 days. Thus, a cycle lasting 6 weeks would cost $240. Therefore, injectable testosterone is a lot more cost-effective for beginners.
Note: If beginners plan on taking Andriol (oral undecanoate), they should consume a meal with every tablet, containing at least 20g of dietary fat, which has proven to greatly increase absorption. Without this, Andriol’s bio-availability will be very low.
Sustanon 250
Sustanon 250 is a blend of 4 different esters, being:
30 mg propionate
60 mg phenylpropionate
60 mg isocaproate
100 mg decanoate
Thus, by containing different esters, it is both fast-acting and slow-acting. In real-life terms, this means it will kick in fast, require frequent injections (every 2 days) and will remain in your system for a lengthy time, due to the presence of decanoate.
Sustanon 250 is not inherently the best form of testosterone, which some people claim. It will not build more muscle or strength than other esters — it is just a different blend.
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Testosterone Cycle (For Beginners)
Testosterone cypionate and enanthate are the most popular types of testosterone for beginners.
This is due to them being: cost-effective, not being painful and not requiring overly frequent injections (every 4-5 days).
This is a typical beginner steroid cycle. These are conservative doses, thus the side effects are going to be minimal. This will help to prepare the body for higher dosages in future cycles.
When using cypionate/enanthate, the bottle will typically be dosed at 200mg/ml.
To save complicated mathematics you could perform 2 injections a week, which would require 100mg per injection (0.5ml), for the first 2 weeks.
Then on weeks 3-5, this will be 2 x 150mg (0.75ml) injections per week.
And for weeks 6-7, it will be 2 x 175mg (0.875 ml) injections per week.
it is advised not to miss injections times, as delaying will cause testosterone in your blood to spike and then drop, which may cause increased side effects (and reduce gains).
Users will typically gain 20lbs from this initial cycle.
Testosterone Cycle Before/After
This transformation is from a bodybuilder on YouTube, who used Testosterone Propionate for his first cycle.
These results (above) are typical, with every muscle group blowing up noticeably.
The only difference with this transformation is, if you are eating in a calorie surplus, your body fat may increase. Whereas if you are eating maintenance calories or are in a deficit, it will decrease.
Second Testosterone Cycle
A follow-up cycle to the above test cycle would be as follows:
In this cycle, the dose increases (up to 500mg) and the cycle is extended by an extra 3 weeks. This second cycle can add another 10lbs of lean mass, on top of the initial gains experienced from the first cycle.
Testosterone Side Effects
Testosterone is a mild steroid, that is prescribed regularly by doctors for TRT (testosterone replacement therapy). Thus, the following side effects are not going to be severe, however still possible:
Decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol (3)
Increased risk of hypertension (4)
Acne/oily skin (5)
Water retention (6)
Gynecomastia (7)
Hair thinning/loss
Blood pressure is unlikely to elevate to high levels, as testosterone only has a mild effect on cholesterol values. However, beginners may want to get a check-up with their doctor before starting their first cycle, to ensure their blood pressure is not initially high.
Acne and oily skin are possible adverse effects, due to testosterone’s androgenic nature. Those who have suffered from acne in the past may be more susceptible to this, due to a genetic predisposition of increased sebum production (the oily substance) on the skin.
Some water retention is common when using testosterone; however, this won’t be as much compared to other bulking steroids, such as Dianabol or Anadrol.
Gynecomastia is possible when taking testosterone due to the steroid aromatizing (converting into estrogen). When estrogen levels skyrocket, excessive breast tissue can form in men, causing gyno or man boobs.
Taking an effective aromatase inhibitor (AI), such as Arimidex, will significantly decrease the chances of gyno happening. However, a drawback to taking AI’s is that they may exacerbate blood pressure.
Thus, a good idea would be to monitor your nipples and if they start to become excessively puffy, you could run an AI from that point onward. Arimidex works very quickly, with 1mg shown to decrease estradiol by 70% in just 24 hours.
The higher the testosterone dose, the higher the chances will be of users developing gyno.
Testosterone also has the pattern to accelerate hair thinning on the scalp, due to high DHT levels. However, this side effect usually reverses itself post-cycle. Although if steroids are cycled for extended periods of time, such thinning or recession may become permanent.
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“There is evidence, if you could use these (steroid alternatives) they would be much better than using anabolic steroids”.
Several of the herbs and amino acids, mentioned by Dr. Thomas O’Connor, are present in Crazy Bulk’s legal steroid alternatives.
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2. Anavar
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is the safest of all steroids for beginners, with it being considerably milder than testosterone.
The benefits of Anavar are:
It builds muscle
Significant increases in strength
Enhanced fat burning
No harsh side effects
It is an oral
The drawbacks of Anavar are:
You won’t build as much muscle as testosterone
It is expensive
Therefore, if a beginner wants to build a ton of muscle from their first cycle, Anavar isn’t the best choice. However, if they want to get ripped; building some muscle, whilst simultaneously burning fat – Anavar is a great choice. Especially for beginners who want to avoid needles and are anxious about the side effects of steroids.
Anavar is so well-tolerated, that it is commonly prescribed to women and children, to help them gain lean mass, which gives a clue regarding its safety profile.
Even though Anavar is an oral (like testosterone undecanoate), it is not particularly liver toxic. In Anavar’s case, this is because the kidneys help to process oxandrolone, reducing the hepatic toxicity and workload on the liver.
Anavar Cycle (For Beginners)
This cycle is suitable for beginners, using modest dosages. In follow-up cycles, users may start on week 1 using 20mg per day, with cycles lasting up to 8 weeks.
Test & Anavar Cycle
If beginners would like further muscle and fat loss gains, they can stack Anavar and Testosterone together. However, the risk of side effects increases slightly, compared to running Testosterone alone.
The main disadvantage with running this cycle is the increased endogenous testosterone suppression post-cycle; however, this can be corrected with an effective PCT.
A beginner taking this cycle will gain approximately 25lbs, whilst burning a noticeable amount of fat.
Anavar Side Effects
In these dosages, Anavar’s side effects are going to be very minimal. However, the following effects are possible:
Testosterone suppression
Increased LDL cholesterol
Hair thinning
Oily skin
However, it is common for Anavar-users to report no side effects when taking this steroid. Testosterone suppression is almost certain; however, this effect is only minimal. Some beginners will choose not to take a PCT after Anavar, as endogenous testosterone levels typically recover quickly. However, when stacking it with Testosterone, a PCT is recommended.
Some hair thinning is possible, due to Anavar being a DHT derivative, although if a person’s genetics are not predisposed for male pattern baldness – Anavar won’t suddenly cause it.
3. Dianabol
Dianabol (Methandrostenolone) is a very well-known steroid, famous for being one of the favourite steroids of the ’70s, among Arnold Schwarzenegger and classic bodybuilders. It is still widely used today with it remaining as one of the best steroids for building size and mass.
Dianabol is an oral and beginners can take it if they want big muscle gains but want to avoid needles.
Dianabol is not excessively harsh when taken in modest doses during a first cycle. However, the side effects are likely to be more pronounced compared to the previous testosterone and Anavar cycles.
Dbol is also one of the best steroids for strength, commonly adding up to 70lbs on compound exercises, during a first cycle.
Dianabol Cycle (Warm-Up Cycle)
Because Dianabol is stronger than the other two steroids on this list, the above cycle can be performed as a warm-up cycle, before hitting higher doses. Beginners will gain around 15lbs with this cycle, which is a lot of muscle for how modest the doses are.
The main goal of this cycle is to prepare the body for the next cycle, which will yield bigger gains.
Dianabol Cycle (For Beginners)
With higher dosages, this cycle will add roughly another 15lbs, on top of the 15lbs previously gained from the warm-up cycle.
If beginners do not utilize a warm-up cycle and start with this, they will gain roughly 30lbs; making it more effective than taking testosterone by itself.
Dianabol Side Effects
Dianabol can cause the following:
Increased blood pressure
Gynecomastia
Liver damage
Acne
Hair loss
Dianabol will raise blood pressure more notably than testosterone or Anavar. Therefore, it is recommended not to use an AI before any signs of gyno occur. Also to decrease any such elevations in blood pressure it would be best to perform cardio 3-5 times per week.
Gynecomastia is possible with Dianabol, and thus the same protocol should be used as with testosterone; only introducing Arimidex when early signs of nipple swelling appear (if at all).
Unlike Anavar and Testosterone, Dianabol is particularly hepatotoxic; thus some liver support should be taken during your cycle. A recommended supplement is TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid), which has been shown to effectively decrease raised liver enzymes, indicating hepatic stress.
Dianabol isn’t as androgenic as testosterone, thus oily skin and acne are less likely, however possible.
Hair loss is less likely compared to testosterone, due to less androgenicity, which is why many bodybuilders from the ’70s retained their hair follicles; compared to bodybuilders today, who are practically all bald. The reason being is that IFBB pros today are taking heavy dosages of very androgenic compounds.
Legal Dianabol Alternative
D-Bal is our #1 rated legal Dianabol product. It replicates the muscle-building and strength-enhancing effects of Dianabol, but without the unwanted side effects.
It is FDA-approved and can be purchased online without a prescription.
D-Bal is best suited for men wanting to build significant amounts of muscle; without shutting down their testosterone, straining their liver or elevating blood pressure levels.
Other Steroids for Beginners
Testosterone, Anavar and Dianabol are the 3 most common steroids used by beginners and are arguably the most optimal.
However, there are other steroids that can be taken by beginners. For example, Turinabol is another compound that can be taken by beginners, although it will be harsher than Anavar, but less than Dianabol.
Deca Durabolin is certainly mild and suitable for beginners; however, it isn’t typically used by itself. Instead, it can be added to testosterone or Dianabol for increased muscle gains.
However, this would not typically be stacked as a first steroid cycle, but in a later cycle instead. This is because Dianabol and testosterone are harsh enough by themselves for a beginner cycle.
Steroids to Avoid
Anadrol
Trenbolone
Winstrol
Some bodybuilding coaches recommend their clients take the above compounds as a first cycle, which can be dangerous.
Anadrol is one of the most toxic steroids on the market, that experienced bodybuilders even struggle to tolerate. Consequently, they will purposefully avoid taking this steroid, because of how they react to it. Blood pressure can rise to very high levels on Anadrol and thus the cardiovascular strain is deemed to be excessive to beginners. There is also the risk of hepatic strain on Anadrol.
Trenbolone is another harsh compound that people often react negatively to, despite it yielding amazing results. The post-cycle crash on Trenbolone is also severe; leaving users feeling mentally low, as well as their testosterone being shut down.
Some beginners will take Winstrol as a first cycle, which will be harsh on the body. Winstrol is similar to Anavar in regards to gains, with Winstrol being slightly more effective. However, Winstrol’s side effects are a lot more severe in comparison, with testosterone getting shut down, liver damage and blood pressure rising to high levels. Winstrol is also a lot more androgenic than Anavar, thus oily skin and hair loss are more likely to become an issue. The only main advantage Winstrol has over Anavar is that it’s considerably cheaper; however, as a first cycle, beginners are recommended to put their health first (instead of their wallet).
Summary
The best steroids for beginners are any of the following:
Testosterone
Anavar
Dianabol
Deca Durabolin
The best type of testosterone for beginners is typically cypionate or enanthate. These are cost-effective injectables that do not need to be injected as regularly as other forms of testosterone; with such injections not causing any notable pain.
In regards to which steroids to use, it will depend on the person’s goals and budget.
If money was no object, and a beginner wanted to stick to orals; they could take Testosterone Undecanoate or Anavar. Or, they could take both of these compounds at the same time for further results. However, stacking these two together will cost around $500.
However, if a person was on a normal budget, they could opt for Dianabol or Testosterone Enanthate, running just one of these.
For bigger gains in size and mass – Dianabol would be the best choice, followed by Testosterone.
If the main goal is to burn fat and get ripped, Anavar would be the best choice.
The worst steroids for beginners are Anadrol, Trenbolone and Winstrol.
These are just too harsh on the body, which will inevitably cause long-term damage. Taking these during a first cycle is like jumping in the deep end when you are first learning how to swim. There are other toxic steroids that should be avoided, such as Superdrol and Halotestin (for example); however, these are not commonly known or taken by beginners.
Victor Martinez Opens Up About The Moment Diuretics Made Him Scared For His Health
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Victor Martinez talks candidly about a “miscalculation” with diuretics that made him fear for his health before a bodybuilding competition.
2021 has been a tragic year for bodybuilding with many beloved and legendary athletes passing away far too young. Most of these reported deaths are not connected nor have they revealed conclusive evidence on the cause of death in each case. However, many have started reflecting inward and posting publicly about a change to health standards in the sport. During our recent conversation with Victor Martinez, we asked him if he was ever scared for his health during his career as a bodybuilder. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Victor Martinez reveals the one time diuretics almost put his health in danger.
Victor Martinez has always been candid and honest when speaking with Generation Iron. He’s not afraid to tell it like it is – but he’s also not one to point fingers. So when we asked him if he had ever faced a bodybuilding situation where he feared for his health, he was more than happen to speak openly about it. However, he also chose not to mention names or even the specific bodybuilding event in his story. His reason? Because he doesn’t cast blame on any specific coach, promoter, or event.
In our conversation, Victor Martinez describes a moment when his use of diuretics before a show led him to fear for his health. He awoke the day of the show to shallow breathing and incredibly low energy. He felt that he didn’t have the strength to stand, let alone pose.
“I remember being in bed, man, it was this one… I’m not going to name the show because I don’t want to pinpoint the coach. I don’t want to pinpoint anybody again,” Victor Martinez states in our interview. He goes on:
“You guys have to understand this, I’m not one to throw people under the bus just because of a miscalculation. But I still remember just being in bed, Vlad, I didn’t even want to pose man. I was just there and I was just breathing. My friend came into the room and he goes… I can hear such shallow breathing.”
Victor Martinez then describes that he went back to sleep four four more hours. And at that point upon waking – he felt he could sleep even more. This was not typical for Martinez, who would often have trouble sleeping before a competition.
Victor Martinez goes on to describe actually competing. He felt that each pose was a struggle. His arms felt like they weighed a ton. He describes his legs feeling like stilts. After posing, he drank massive amounts of water. He couldn’t eat. He just kept drinking water. Eventually he started to feel recovered – luckily avoiding a trip to the hospital.
“It all had to do with diuretics man,” Victor states at the end of his story. “I knew there was a better way. A healthier way in bodybuilding terms.”
Shortly after that incident, Victor Martinez decided to train himself and make some slight changes to how he prepared for a show. He again reiterates that it was no ones fault – and that these kinds of risks are inherent in an extreme pro sport like bodybuilding. What was important is that he learned from that incident and decided to change strategies to lessen that risk in his future.
You can watch Victor Martinez’s full comments about diuretics and his health as a bodybuilder in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
White House Chef Andre Rush Joins Mike O’Hearn For Arm Day
Mike O’Hearn trained arms with Chef Andre Rush and his 24-inch arms.
Mike O’Hearn remains in tremendous shape at age 52. He is still able to push himself to the limit and perform some strenuous workouts to better his physique. Recently, O’Hearn joined White House Chef Andre Rush for arm day and the results were incredible.
Rush has been working in the White House for 21 years and has made a great career for himself. Aside from preparing meals, Rush has become known for his enormous arms that measure around 24 inches. In a bicep session, O’Hearn and Rush put together a YouTube video of the afternoon.
The two began with a bicep routine then went into conversation on what the other excels in. For Rush, the answer is clear.
“Just so you guys understand. These are 24 inch arms. These bands are not for arms. These are the leg bands, that we are using on his arms. That’s how jacked this man is. So most of you that are watching this, his arm is the size of your leg,” O’Hearn said about Rush.
This comment was brought on at the beginning of the video while Andre Rush was getting a blood Flow restrictor put on his arms. Mike O’Hearn reveals that they were using a leg band because there was not an arm one that would fit around his biceps.
The two men continued to show off their workout. It began with some dumbbell hammer curls followed by preacher curls. During the early exercises, O’Hearn kept discussing the size of Rush and his overall strength.
“I reversed it, truthfully just to open up the arm. Open up means I want the joints and the elbows to fire from all different positions. It’s great my arms are getting pumped, they’ll get pumped regardless. But I want my elbows and my wrist to rotate, I want my shoulders to open.”
O’Hearn explains that he performs preacher curls with a reverse grip to open up all parts of the arm. This is a more intense version than the traditional underneath grip.
Andre Rush is a US Army Veteran. He ensiled in 1993 where he was trained in hand-to-hand combat and food service. He began as a chef at the White House in 1997. All throughout, Rush began being known for his biceps as well as his food. To start his day, Rush says he does 2,222 pushups as part of the 22 pushup challenge. This is to raise awareness for the roughly 22 veterans who die by suicide each day.
There is no doubt that Rush can hold his own in the gym and he proved it with Mike O’Hearn. Both men put on a show that is worthy of being seen.
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