Coming off a cycle.

*Very important*

When a person uses steroids for a long period of time, there are many things they should monitor when they are on their off cycle. Testosterone levels are very important for someone who uses roids, this determines how much test. is flowing through the veins. If your test. levels fall under 200 after your cycle you need to take measures to raise it immediately, you want to be between 200-800 at all times when not "on" anything. If your body remains with a low test. level, you might be required to take a test. for the rest of your life. This is crucial because many body builders complain from deep depression, and fatigue in their later years due to low test. levels.

There are many ways to maintain a regular test. level after a cycle,

1. Growth(HgH) supplementation (2 months)
2. Pregnyl(HcG) supplementation (no more than a month)
3. Steroidal creams(they are a very low dose)
4. Anti-Estrogens (give test. a better chance of increasing)

Power Lifters vs. Body Builders

Power Lifting:

is a strength sport, consisting of three events: the squat, the bench press, and the deadlift. Power lifting resembles the sport of Weightlifting as both disciplines involve lifting heavy weights in three attempts.

In general power lifters are usually big and not extremely muscular, some even have beer bellys, but hey, they sure are strong.

The power lifting world is very demanding, it requires a lot of work and dedication, not everyone is cut out to be one of these characters.

If you are one of those people who wants to persue a career in this field, you must be aware of what type of training you will endure and also what type of diet you will be putting in your system, you might even get hurt a couple of times before you actually make it big.

Many Power Lifters weigh quite a bit, so if you are not a good eater or have trouble gaining weight, this might not be your best option, you might want to consider body building instead.

Body Builders:

is the process of maximizing muscle hypertrophy. Someone who engages in this activity is referred to as a bodybuilder. In competitive bodybuilding, bodybuilders display their physiques to a panel of judges, who assign points based on their aesthetic appearance. The muscles are revealed through a combination of fat loss, oils, and tanning (or tanning lotions) which combined with lighting make the definition of the muscle group more distinct.

Body Building requires a lot of patience and understanding of the body, also you will need to know what works for optimized growth. There are many factors in the body building world that determine a win or loss, some of these factors are: dieting, diuretics, steroids, lighting, tanning oils, training and supplements.


Question......

Which of the two is better overall?

My Answer....

The Hybrid of both, Mr. Strong Man, Mariusz Pudzianowski

The Rules....

1.Do not join a gym unless you can bench 135 lbs.
2.Do not wear under armor if you cant fill it out.
3.Do not wear under armor if your stomach doesnt fit inside the shirt.
4.Do not wear hair gel while working out.
5.If you do not know how to bench have a spotter!!
6.Dont look at girls while squatting, wait till finished.
7.Do not take off your shirt while running on the tread mill, or you will bust your ass!
8.Dont stare at people who are bigger than you, they might think your gay.
9.Dont talk big, when your not.
10.When filling up water bottle, move aside for those who are just drinking. Especially if you have a gallon bottle.
11.Dont go to the gym if you are sick, others wont appreciate this!
12.No sandals please.
13.Dont workout with a girl, unless you are one too.
14.Stop talking, if your workout buddies talk too much, change them.
15.Dont smoke outside or before going to the gym, its just too stupid.
16.DO NOT WEAR SHORT SHORTS!!!! (if you are a man)
17.Dont take pics of girls when they workout(unless they dont notice you)
18.Dont tell another man that you admire him, keep that to yourself.
19.Dont play 5 games of basketball and think you are going to workout the same day.
20.Dont wear neon clothing.
21.Dont workout next to a girl that is clearly stronger or close to your own strength.
22.Do not sing the songs playing in the gym.
23.Go hard or go home.
24.Dont do 15,000 sets on one machine, its irritating especially if you have no idea what you are doing.
25.Dont think your Arnold, you are not.
26.Dont cry.
27.Dont throw-up, but if you do, do it on someone you dont like.
28.Dont pass out, could be dangerous.
29.Dont overload on nitric oxide before working out.
30.Dont die.
31.No need to be nice to everyone
32.Dont make noises while exercising, especially if you are weak.
33.Dont be loud and obnoxious
34.Dont stare at someone who is lifting heavy weights
35.Dont pick your nose
36.If you cant bench 300 lbs, try 315 lbs.
37.Say hi to all gorgeous girls.
38.Dont lie about how much you can lift or push.
39.If you do roids, dont brag about it.
40.Dont do roids at the gym
41.Dont sell roids
42.Dont buy roids.
43.Never say how much weight you can actually do. -20lbs is good.
44.Dont drink a full bottle of Redline, ( it says so on the bottle )
45.Dont chew gum, unless you are used to it.
46.Dont turn up the music so high up on your headphones so that you cant hear the 500lbs that are about to come down crashing on you.
47.Dont write down everything you do, that my friend is for losers.
48.Shut up and train
49.If you feel like you are too strong, its time to go to a real gym.
50.Make sure you have clips at the end of your bar
51.Dont run around like an idiot.
52.If you use chalk, dont touch your face.
53.Dont have sex before the gym
54.If you dont touch your chest while benching, you are a loser.
55.If you dont break 90 degrees while squatting, you are a loser.
56.Wash your clothes
57.If you think you are big and you are just plain ol' fat, you should stay home.
58.If you are fat and pay a gym membership,and dont go, then you are just paying fat tax.
59.If you can walk properly after a leg day, you need to go back in.
60.Use a spotter.
61.If you havent become stronger after a couple months of "hard training" you need to review your workouts.
62.Dont train in a gym where girls look stronger than the men.
63.Dont forget to pay your membership.
64.Give advice to all the girls!!!
65.Dont eat too much before going to the gym.
66.Dont use the bathroom at the gym, unless you absolutely have to.
67.Show off
68.Dont rest too much between sets
69.Find time to do calves almost every single time you are at the gym.
70.Dont put your cell phone in your pocket while using dumbells.
...

Bench Press

Ohh yes the Bench Press, its definitely a legend, you either fear it or love it, no in betweens for a person who lifts weight. If sometimes you don't feel like going to the gym to bench or even have enough time, here is your solution! Have this great machine at home, so you can hone your skills.

* Rule number 1: Do not join a gym if you cannot bench at least 135 lbs, it might be a embarrassing thing, so practice at home.


Click to purchase

Chin & Dip Station

A good add to have, this machine is great to have at home or in the office, and also quite cheap. Get in a extra set of pull up or dips during the day.


Click to purchase

Power Rack

This machine is the best thing to ever exist!! There is nothing better (except maybe for the bench press). If you are looking to develop great leg size or even develop amazing shoulders this is the machine for you, you should even put it dead smack in your living room, so you can stare at it all day long!


Click to purchase

Weight Training Belts

A good belt for regular workouts like dead lifts, squats, bench press, etc.
*Not recommended for Power Lifters, what is a power lifter: if you are able to lift more than 400 lbs on any free weight machine.

Click to purchase

Wrist Roller (forearms)

Amazing little old school invention, very effective for forearm workouts, they work both "upper" and "lower" forearms.

Click to purchase

Leather Dip Belt

Great for Dips and pull ups, obviously for the more experienced weight lifter, this belt will increase your strength greatly. It helps you break through some plateaus you might have.




Click to purchase

E-Z curl Bar

Great for bicep curls, they lessen the stress on the forearms, creating a fluid motion. Also great for skull crushers, for the exact same reason.

Click to purchase

500 Lb. Olympic Weight Set

A good set to have, most people won't be able to surpass a total of 500 lbs on their bench in a lifetime, just say thank GOD we don't think that way. And just in case their is somebody out there who thinks they will never pass 500 lbs, you should get the 1000 lbs set!!! (It makes sense to me)


Click to purchase

Bench Barbells

The amazing Olympic Power Bar,

Its a zinc bar that is made especially for power lifters, this bar is not for regular use! This bar has a capability of holding 1500lbs without any problem what so ever. So if your game is too see how far you can go, then feel free to purchase this item.

Click to purchase

Training Chalk

Gymnastic Chalk,

An extremely important part for heavy lifting events like the bench press, dead lifts and anything you could possibly need a good grip on! Its not gonna make you stronger but it will keep you from losing sight of your goals.



Click on the image if you would like to buy some....

Myostatin

A growth factor that regulates the size of muscles beginning in early embryonic development and continuing throughout life. Myostatin acts by inhibiting the growth of muscles, It prevents them from growing too large. Myostatin is also known as growth and differentiation factor 8 (GDF-8). It is a protein made up of two identical subunits. Each subunit contains 110 amino acids. The gene encoding myostatin is termed MSTN (or GDF8) and is on chromosome 2 in band 2q32.1.

Myostatin is a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) family. All of the members of this gene family regulate growth and differentiation from early embryogenesis to mature cell types and tissues.

Myostatin was first found to regulate muscle mass in mice from which the gene encoding myostatin had been knocked out (deleted). In these "mighty mice," there is muscle overgrowth due to an increase both in the number of myocytes (muscle cells) and the size (hypertrophy) of the myofibers (muscle fibers). Breeds of cattle with exceptional muscle development -- referred to as "double-muscled" cattle -- have a mutation in the bovine MSTN gene encoding myostatin.

A child born with very large muscles was discovered to have mutation of the MSTN gene encoding myostatin, providing very strong evidence that myostatin is a lead actor in regulating muscle mass in humans. Aside from the increase in the size of his muscles, the child appeared normal at age 4. The child has a loss-of-function mutation in the MSTN gene that inactivates myostatin It may be possible to increase muscle mass and strength by inactivating myostatin in people with muscle wasting due to disease

Lou Ferrigno

As a teenager, Ferrigno trained in his home basement in Brooklyn, New York. Ear infections as a youngster caused Ferrigno to suffer permanent hearing loss, but he continued to hear the call of iron and entered his first contest, the 1970 Mr. New Jersey Open Hercules, which was staged in Trenton. Twenty-one men placed ahead of him, but last place would not last long on Ferrigno’s agenda.

After several more minor contests, Ferrigno switched to the IFBB in 1973, winning the Mr. America and the tall class of the Mr. Universe in Geneva. The next year, he won the Mr. Universe in Verona, Italy. Then, in the 1975 Mr. Olympia in South Africa, Ferrigno faced Arnold, whose physique he had tried to emulate. Ferrigno came in third, and he was done with physique competitions for 17 years, until 1992, when he appeared in Helsinki, finishing 12th in the Olympia.

In 1993, a final try for the Olympia yielded 10th place, so he switched to the Masters Olympia in 1994, but was edged out by Robby Robinson for that inaugural crown. It would be Ferrigno’s last contest. Ferrigno played the Incredible Hulk on television from 1978-1982, where fits of rage would hurl him from quiet to chaotic when his 6’5” body would explode with green-tinted muscularity. Other acting appearances have been TV’s Trauma Center in 1983 and several movies including Hercules, Sinbad and Cage. Currently, he occasionally appears on the TV show The King of Queens, and he has a role in the upcoming movie release The Hulk. Ferrigno married Carla Green on May 30, 1980. They have three childrens: Shanna, Lou Jr. and Brent



About LOU

Born: November 9, 1951

Birhtplace: New York, USA

Height: 6' 5"

Weight: 275 lbs

Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger

Is an Austrian-American bodybuilder, actor, businessman, and politician, currently serving as the 38th Governor of the state of California.

Schwarzenegger gained worldwide fame as a Hollywood action film icon. He was nicknamed "The Austrian Oak" and "The Styrian Oak" in his bodybuilding days, "Arnold Strong" and "Arnie" during his acting career, and more recently "The Governator" (a portmanteau of Governor and The Terminator, one of his film roles).

Schwarzenegger was born in Thal, Austria, a small village bordering the Styrian capital Graz, and was christened Arnold Alois Schwarzenegger. His parents were the local police chief Gustav Schwarzenegger (1907 – 1972), and his wife, Aurelia Jadrny (1922 – 1998). They were married on October 20, 1945 – Gustav was 38, and Aurelia was a 23-year-old widow with a son named Meinhard. According to Schwarzenegger, both of his parents were very strict: "Back then in Austria it was a very different world, if we did something bad or we disobeyed our parents, the rod was not spared." He grew up in a Roman Catholic family who attended church service every Sunday.

Gustav had a preference for Meinhard, the elder of the two sons. His favoritism was "strong and blatant," which stemmed from unfounded suspicion "that Arnold wasn’t his child." Schwarzenegger has said his father had "no patience for listening or understanding your problems… there was a wall; a real wall." Schwarzenegger had a good relationship with his mother, and kept in touch with her until her death. In later life, Schwarzenegger commissioned the Simon Wiesenthal Centre to research his father's wartime record, which came up with no evidence of atrocities. At school, Schwarzenegger was apparently in the middle, but stood out for his "cheerful, good-humored and exuberant" character. Money was a problem in the household; Schwarzenegger has recalled that one of the highlights of his youth was when the family bought a refrigerator.

As a boy, Schwarzenegger played many sports—heavily influenced by his father. He picked up his first barbell in 1960, when his football coach took his team to a local gym. At the age of 14, Schwarzenegger chose bodybuilding over football (soccer) as a career. Schwarzenegger has responded to a question asking if he was age 13 when he started weightlifting: "I actually started weight training when I was fifteen, but I'd been participating in sports, like soccer, for years, so I felt that although I was slim, I was well-developed, at least enough so that I could start going to the gym and start Olympic lifting." However, his official website biography claims: "At 14, he started an intensive training program with Kurt Marnul, studied psychology at 15 (to learn more about the power of mind over body) and at 17, officially started his competitive career." During a speech in 2001, he said, "My own plan formed when I was 14 years old. My father had wanted me to be a police officer like he was. My mother wanted me to go to trade school." Schwarzenegger took to visiting a gym in Graz, where he also frequented the local movie theaters to see bodybuilding idols such as Reg Park, Steve Reeves, and Johnny Weissmuller on the big screen. "I was inspired by individuals like Reg Park and Steve Reeves." When Reeves passed away in 2000, Schwarzenegger fondly remembered him: "As a teenager, I grew up with Steve Reeves. His remarkable accomplishments allowed me a sense of what was possible, when others around me didn't always understand my dreams ... Steve Reeves has been part of everything I've ever been fortunate enough to achieve." In 1961, Schwarzenegger met former Mr. Austria Kurt Marnul, who invited him to train at the gym in Graz. He was so dedicated as a youngster that he was known to break into the local gym on weekends, when it was usually closed, so that he could train. "It would make me sick to miss a workout … I knew I couldn't look at myself in the mirror the next morning if I didn't do it." When Schwarzenegger was asked about his first movie experience as a boy, he replied, "I was very young, but I remember my father taking me to the Austrian theaters and seeing some newsreels. The first real movie I saw, that I distinctly remember, was a John Wayne movie."

In 1971, his brother Meinhard died in a car accident. Meinhard had been drinking and was killed instantly, and Schwarzenegger did not attend his funeral. Meinhard was due to marry Erika Knapp, and the couple shared a three-year-old son Patrick. Schwarzenegger would pay for Patrick's education and a life in the United States. Gustav died the following year from a stroke. In Pumping Iron, Schwarzenegger claimed that he did not attend his father's funeral because he was training for a bodybuilding contest. Later, he and the film's producer both stated that this story was taken from another bodybuilder for the purpose of showing the extremes that some would go to for their sport, and to make Schwarzenegger's image more cold and machine-like to fan controversy for the film. Barbara Baker, his first serious girlfriend, has said he informed her of his father's death without emotion and that he never spoke of his brother. Over time, he has given at least three versions of why he did not attend his father's funeral.

In an interview with Fortune magazine in 2004, Schwarzenegger told how he suffered what "would now be called child abuse" at the hands of his father. "My hair was pulled. I was hit with belts. So was the kid next door. It was just the way it was. Many of the children I've seen were broken by their parents, which was the German-Austrian mentality. They didn't want to create an individual. It was all about conforming. I was one who did not conform, and whose will could not be broken. Therefore, I became a rebel. Every time I got hit, and every time someone said, 'you can't do this,' I said, 'this is not going to be for much longer, because I'm going to move out of here. I want to be rich. I want to be somebody.' "

Strongman

In 1967, Schwarzenegger competed in and won the Munich stone-lifting contest, in which a stone weighing 508 German pounds (254 kg/560 lbs.) is lifted between the legs while standing on two foot rests. Schwarzenegger has said the following on his size: "During the peak of my career, my calves were 20 inches, thighs 28.5 inches, waist 34 inches, chest 57 inches, and 22-inch arms."

In a full squat (buttocks close to ground) Schwarzenegger had a personal record of 181 kg/400lbs, for twelve repetitions.

Steroid use

Schwarzenegger has admitted to using performance-enhancing anabolic steroids while they were legal, writing in 1967 that "steroids were helpful to me in maintaining muscle size while on a strict diet in preparation for a contest. I did not use them for muscle growth, but rather for muscle maintenance when cutting up." He has called the drugs "tissue building."

In 1999, Schwarzenegger sued Dr. Willi Heepe, a German doctor who publicly predicted an early death for the bodybuilder, based on a link between steroid use and later heart problems. Because the doctor had never examined him personally, Schwarzenegger collected a DM20,000 ($12,000 USD) libel judgment against him in a German court. In 1999, Schwarzenegger also sued and settled with The Globe, a U.S. tabloid which had made similar predictions about the bodybuilder's future health. As late as 1996, a year before open heart surgery to replace an aortic valve with a human homograft valve, Schwarzenegger publicly defended his use of anabolic steroids during his bodybuilding career.

Schwarzenegger was born with a bicuspid aortic valve, an aortic valve with only two leaflets (a normal aortic valve has three leaflets). Both his father and his brother had the same condition.

Titles

1980 Mr. Olympia - 1st
1975 Mr. Olympia - 1st
1974 Mr. Olympia - 1st
1973 Mr. Olympia - 1st
1972 Mr. Olympia - 1st
1971 Mr. Olympia - 1st
1970 Mr. Olympia - 1st
1970 AAU Mr. World Professional - 1st
1970 NABBA Mr. Universe Pro - 1st
1969 Mr. Europe Professional - 1st
1969 NABBA Mr. Universe Pro - 1st
1969 Mr. Olympia - 2nd
1969 IFBB Mr. Universe Pro - 1st
1968 IFBB Mr. International - 1st
1968 IFBB Mr. Universe tall - 1st
1968 IFBB Mr. Universe - 2nd Overall
1968 NABBA Mr. Universe Pro - 1st
1967 NABBA Mr. Universe Amateur - 1st
1966 Mr. Universe Amateur Tall - 2nd
1966 Best Built Man of Europe - 1st
1966 Mr. Europe Amateur - 1st
1965 Jr. Mr. Europe - 1st
1965 Mr. Styria - 1st
1964 Mr. Austria - 3rd
1964 Jr. Mr. Austria - 1st

How to inject?

All oil based and water based anabolic steroids should be taken intramuscularly. This means the shot must penetrate the skin and subcutaneous tissue to enter the muscle itself. Intramuscular injections are used when prompt absorption is desired, when larger doses are needed than can be given cutaneously or when a drug is too irritating to be given subcutaneously. The common sites for in tramuscular injectons include the buttock, lateral side of the thigh, and the deltoid region of the arm. Muscles in these areas, especially the gluteal muscles in the buttock, are fairly thick. Because of the large number of muscle fibers and extensive fascia, (fascia is a type of connective tissue that surrounds and separates muscles) the drug has a large surface area for absorption. Absorption is further promoted by the extensive blood supply to muscles. Ideally, intramuscular injections should be given deep within the muscle and away from major nerves and blood vessels. The best site for steroid injections is in the gluteus medius muscle which is located in the upper outer quadrant of the buttock. The iliac crest serves as a landmark for this quadrant. The spot for an injection in an adult is usually to 7 1/2 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) below the iliac crest. The iliac crest is the top of the pelvic girdle on the posterior (back) side. You can find the iliac crest by feeling the uppermost bony area above each gluteal muscle. The upper outer quadrant is chosen because the muscle in this area is quite thick and has few nerves. The probability of injecting the drug into a blood vessel is remote in this area. Injecting here reduces the chance of injury to the sciatic nerve which runs through the lower and middle area of the buttock. It controls the posterior of each thigh and the entire leg from the knee down.

If an injection is too close to this nerve or actually hits it, extreme pain and temporary paralysis can be felt in these areas.

This is especially undesirable and warrants staying as far away from this area as possible.

FOR INTRAMUSCULAR INJECTIONS:

If the gluteal region cannot be injected for some reason, the second choice would be the lateral portion of the thigh. Usually, intramuscular injections in the thigh are only indicated for infants and children. The vastus lateralis muscle is the only area of the thigh that should be injected intramuscularly. This site is determined by using the knee and the greater trochanter of the femur as landmarks. The greater trochanter is the bony area that you can feel where the femur joins the pelvic girdle. The mid portion of the muscle is located by measuring the handbreadth above the knee and the handbreadth below the greater trochanter. Injecting into the front of the thigh or inside of the thigh is extremely unwise. These areas contain nerves as well as a number of blood vessels.WHAT TO USE FOR INJECTIONSIt is important to choose the proper syringe for the administration of injectable anabolic steroids. The principle components of a syringe include a cylindrical barrel to one end of which a hollow needle is attached, and a close fitting plunger. The most acceptable syringe for injecting anabolic steroids is a 22 gauge 1 1/2" or 23 gauge 1" apparatus with a 3 cc case. This length allows for penetration to reach deep inside the muscle tissue. Shorter needles, 5/8" or 1/2" are usually not sufficient for intramuscular injections and occasionally leave a portion of the Injection in a subcutaneous area which will cause a swell between the skin and muscle as well as impaired absorption. The gauge size of a syringe represents the needle\rquote s diameter. The lower the gauge number, the wider it is. A 27 gauge needle is very thin. An 18 gauge is quite wide; it is often referred to as a cannon. The 22 and 23 gauge needles are not so large that they are difficult to insert, yet are large enough for solutions to easily be propelled through them. The use of insulin needles is not acceptable; they are simply too small. Usually, insulin pins are 25 to 27 gauge and only a 1/2" long with a 1 cc case.INJECTION PROCEDURESThere are a number of steps that should be understood in order to complete a safe and proper intramuscular injection. First off, before handling any needles or vials, the user should take a thorough shower. Next, an alcohol swab should be used to clean the injection site and another alcohol swab should be used to clean the rubber stopper on top of the vial which will be drawn from. Then, take a brand new syringe out of its wrapper, remove its plastic top, draw about 2 ccs of air into it and insert it into the vial. Inject this air into the vial; this creates pressure within the vial and makes it easier to draw out oil based preparations. Then, turn the vial upside-down and slowly draw out the oil until you\rquote ve overdrawn at least 1/4 cc. For example, if someone was going to take a shot of 1 cc, they should pull out approximately 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 ccs of liquid, then tap the side of the case to help get the air bubbles that were drawn into the syringe to come to the top. At that point, the excess 1/4 to 1/2 cc could be injected back into the vial and the needle removed. Then, hold the syringe needle-side-up and continue to tap it to encourage all the air bubbles to come to the top of the syringe. Now, take another clean syringe, remove it from its sterile package and unscrew the needle from the syringe. Exchange the brand new needle for the one that has just been injected into the stopper. By using two needles for every injection, you can take advantage of using the full sharpness of the pin. The needle does suffer some dulling when it is pushed through the firm rubber stopper on a vial. It is important not to touch this needle before the injection. It should not come into contact with a counter top, your fingers, nor should it be cleaned with alcohol. This needle is sterile and should not be touched. At this point, once again swab the injection site with alcohol, then press the stopper of the syringe holding it needle-side-up, until the slight air bubbles that are at the top are pressed out. Once a bead of oil has appeared at the top of the needle, allow it run down the surface of the needle which provides lubrication. At this time, take the syringe and hold it like a dart. Use the other hand to stretch the skin at the injection site and simply push the sharp clean needle in. After inserting it deep into the muscle, pull back on the stopper for a few seconds to make sure it does not fill up with blood which would indicate that the needle had been injected into a blood vessel. Providing there is no blood present in the syringe, slowly press the stopper down until all the oil is injected. Then, quickly pull the needle out and take another alcohol swab and press firmly on the injection site. This will minimize bleeding, if there is any, and by firmly pressing on the injection site and slightly massaging it, some of the soreness may be eliminated. It is important that the liquid is not injected too quickly as this causes more pain at the site during the injection and in the proceeding days. After this procedure has been completed, return the plastic caps to shield the needles and make sure they are discarded properly. To avoid discomfort and excessive scar tissue at the injection site, it is not wise to inject more than 2 ccs of solution per shot. It is also not prudent to use the same injection site more than twice a week (once a week is preferred) .

Common Mistakes

If you ask ten athletes how steroids are best used you will get ten different answers. If you ask for a reason such as why or how come you will get replies such as the following: "The other guys in the gym do it just the same way;" "I have heard that a certain pro is taking the same compound;" "I read in the book that with this one can obtain fantastic results;" and many more can be heard. These statements only reflect what unfortunately is not reality: hardly a athlete knows how steroids should best be used. What shall be taken in what dosage for how long? Is it better when I try this combination or should I rather try another? If I could only know whether my preparations are really originals? Despite the fact that steroids have been used to improve sports performances for more than thirty years most athletes are still uncertain. Thus they can be easily manipulated and influenced. The so-urgently needed information is missing since there are no useful published scientific exams, helpful physicians who are familiar with this subject are few, special magazines conceal the problem, and top athletes deny that they ever used steroids. Consequently, many mistakes are made which, if at all, result in unsatisfying results and the often unnecessary side effects. Although the range of mistakes made is very far-reaching, some stand out since athletes keep repeating them. Everyone taking steroids or considering taking them should read this carefully in order to be sure that he will not be one of the several thousand athletes who keeps making just these mistakes.

1. The use of excessive dosages: Bodybuilders like extremes more than any other athlete. One acts according to the classic incorrect assumption that "more is better." If five tablets work well, then ten must double the effect. With such an attitude the door is open to potential side effects, and it is not even justified by a clearly improved effect. The effectiveness of almost all steroids is dosage dependent up to a certain degree and is achieved when the bonding potential of steroid molecules and steroid receptors is exhausted. When the receptors of the muscle cell are saturated the remaining steroid molecules begin looking for another target. Liver dysfunctions, kidney dysfunctions, hair loss, acne, high estrogen levels, reduced production of the body's own hormones, and aggressiveness often have their origin in dosages which are too high. So called mega doses do not result in a distinctly higher strength and mass gain. Those who believe that 50 Dianabol and 1000 mg testosterone per day is the only way to an "ideal body" have, to put it mildly, the wrong information.

2. Duration of intake is too long: The non-stop use of steroids is not recommended for most athletes for two reasons. First, when high dosages are taken over a long time, the risk of potential side effects increases considerable. The chances of organ damage are especially high when oral 17-alpha alkylated steroids are continuously taken. Second, such a behavior is very dubious since the effect of the administered steroids weakens after a certain time which, with a higher dosage or a different preparation, can only be stopped briefly. Everyone should know that the stronger the steroid the faster its effect decreases so that the use over a long period of time is even more foolish. Will Anadrol the gain increase usually is reduced after only 3-4 weeks while with Deca Durabolin, for example, often continuous progress can be obtained over 10-12 weeks.

3. The use of the wrong steroid preparations: not all steroids are the same. One must make a clear distinction between highly androgenic, potentially-toxic steroids such as Anadrol, Methyltestosterone, Dianabol, Halotestin, etc. and the weaker androgenic, predominantly anabolic and less toxic preparations, such as, B. Primobolan, Deca Durabolin, Oxandrolone, Andriol, and Winstrol, Since, above all. the First mentioned drugs are the ones which cause the several side effects it makes sense to reduce their intake to a maximum of 6-8 weeks. Especially women, young adults, and older athletes should be very cautious when selecting steroid preparations. It would also be desirable that the general public and the media consider this distinction in their future negative general opinions and articles.

4. The selection of an unfavorable intake schedule: The effectiveness of every steroid program can be considerably increased by a clever combination of steroids since they have a synergetic effect. This means that with a low total dosage one can obtain better results. Since various receptors are attacked it is possible to delay the receptor saturation so that the steroid combination will remain effective over al longer period of time. At the same time potential side effects can be minimized. Instead of, for example, taking 50 mg Dianabol per day, the athlete should take 20 mg Dianabol/day and 200 mg Deca Durabolin/week. Generally one can say that best results can be obtained by combining an oral with an injectable steroid. The combination of two oral preparations such as Dianabol with Anadrol or Oxandrolone with Methyltestosterone makes less sense. Since the protein-building and nitrogen-retaining effect of most steroids decreases after a few weeks one should begin with a low dosage which is increased slowly and evenly during the intake interval. Athletes whose steroid cycle is longer than 6-8 weeks should usually switch to a completely different combination. Another frequently-made mistake is the sudden interruption of the steroid regime. Many side effects, a possible rebound effect, and strength and weight loss can be minimized if the dosages are decreased slowly and evenly. This also includes that at the end of the intake interval not the highly effective steroids such as Anadrol and testosterone are taken but that the athlete switches to milder preparations and includes these during discontinuance.

5. The use of fakes: To correct this problem is very difficult for most athletes since the black market with its overwhelming preponderance of faked steroids represents the only source of supply. Unsatisfying results, often no positive results at all, and an unusual number of side effects are unfortunately common and caused by the use of fakes. Many faked steroids are impure, do not contain the alleged substances, are often considerably under dosed or contain something completely different as specified on the label.

6. Disinterest in periodical exams by a physician: Every athlete who takes steroids should have a physician periodically check his blood, urine, ph value, liver values, and the blood pressure. As important as the preliminary implementation of these tests is the right timing. It is important that the First exam is carried out before the regime. Thus it can be determined whether the athlete has the physical condition to use steroids or, based on certain factors should avoid certain preparations. This also helps obtain reference and comparison data so that in a later exam possible changes in results can be easily determined. The second exam is recommended 5-6 weeks after the steroid intake. Further administration of steroids should depend on the result of the exams. If the results are acceptable, four weeks after termination of the steroid program another test should be made to check whether or not possible smaller deviations were normalized. Have your physician give you a written copy of your blood results and check the Various values together with your physician.

7. Negligence of external factors: The use of steroids alone does not guarantee impressive results. Their effect strongly depends on four individual factors which together have a synergetic effect and are therefore called the magic rectangle: Training, nutrition, rest, and attitude. Especially when steroids are taken many athletes have a tendency to neglect these important requirements.

Halotestin® (fluxymesterone)

Halotestin® is the Upjohn brand name for the steroid fluoxymesterone. Structurally fluoxymesterone is a derivative of testosterone, differing from our base androgen by three structural alterations (specifically l7alpha-methyl, 11 beta-hydroxy and 9-fluoro group additions). The result is a potent oral steroid that exhibits extremely strong androgenic properties. This has a lot to due with the fact that it is derived from testosterone, and as such shares important similarities to this hormone. Most importantly, like testosterone Halotestin® appears to be a good substrate for the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. This is evidenced by the fact that a large number of its metabolites are found to be 5-alpha reduced androgens'8, which coupled with its outward androgenic nature, suggests it is converting to a much more active steroid in androgen responsive target tissues such as the skin, scalp and prostate.

The 11 beta-hydroxyl group also inhibits aromatization, making estrogen production impossible with this steroid. Estrogenic side effects such as water retention, fat fain and gynecomastia are similarly not a concern when taking this substance. Strong androgenic side effects are to be expected though, and in many cases are unavoidable. Oily skin and acne a very common for instance, at times requiring sensitive individuals to seek some form of topical or even prescription drug treatment to keep it under control. Hair loss is an additional worry, making Halotestin® a poor choice for those with an existing condition. Aggression may also become very pronounced with this drug. This effect is often desired by users looking to "harness" this in order to increase the intensity of workouts or a competition. Clearly Halotestin® is a strong androgen, and definitely one female athletes should stay away from. Masculinizing side effects can be intense, and may occur very rapidly with this substance. Even women daring enough to take Dianabol should think twice about this compound, as virilization symptoms are most often permanent.

Although Halotestin® appears to be more androgenic than testosterone, the anabolic effect of it is not very strong. This makes it a great strength drug, but not the best for gaining serious muscle mass. The predominant effect seen when taking Halotestin® is a harder, more dense look to the muscles without a notable size increase. It is therefore very useful for athletes in weight-restricted sports like wrestling, powerlifting and boxing. The strength gained from each cycle will not be accompanied by a great weight increase, allowing most competitors to stay within a specified weight range. Halotestin® also makes an excellent drug for bodybuilding contest preparation. When the competitor has an acceptably low body fat percentage, the strong androgen level (in absence of excess estrogen) can elicit an extremely hard and defined ("ripped") look to the muscles. The shift in androgen/estrogen ratio additionally seems to bring about a state in which the body may be more inclined to burn off excess fat and prevent new fat storage. The "hardening" effect of Halotestin® would therefore be somewhat similar to that seen with trenbolone, although it will be without the same level of mass gain. Clearly non-aromatizing androgens such as Halotestin® and trenbolone can play an important role during contest preparations.

The main concern with this steroid is that it can be a very toxic drug. This is due to the fact that fluoxymesterone is a 17 alpha alkylated compound, its structure altered to survive oral administration. As we discuss throughout this book, l7alpha alkylation can be very harsh to the liver. The possibility of damage is therefore a legitimate concern with Halotestin®, especially when used at higher doses or for prolonged periods of time. The total daily dosage is likewise best kept in the range of 20-40mg, used for no longer than 8 weeks. After which an equally long break (at a minimum) should be taken from all c17-AA orals. One should also resist the temptation to stack this drug with other alkylated orals if possible, and instead opt for orals without this alteration or esterified injectable compounds (which will not add to the strain on the liver).

In cutting phases a mild anabolic such as Deca-Durabolin® or Equipoise® might be a good addition, as both provide good anabolic effect without excessive estrogen buildup. Here Halotestin® will provide a well needed androgenic component, helping to promote a more solid and defined gain in muscle mass than obtained with an anabolic alone. Perhaps Primobolan® Depot would even be a better choice, as with such a combination there is no buildup of estrogen (and likewise even less worry of water and fat retention). For mass we could alternately use an injectable testosterone. A mix of 400-800mg Testosterone enanthate and 20-30mg Halotestin® for example, should prove to be an exceptional stack for strength and muscle gain. This however would be accompanied by a more significant level of side effects, both compounds exhibiting strong androgenic activity in the body.

Fluoxymesterone also seem to depress endogenous testosterone levels rather quickly with use, despite its complete lack of estrogen conversion. One therefore should consider ancillary drug use at the conclusion of each cycle in order to help restore the normal release of androgens in the body. Using a combination of HCG and Clomid®/Nolvadex® is of course the best option, the two drugs working well together to restore normal hormonal functioning. Although estrogen is not a problem with Halotestin®, the use of an antiestrogen such as Nolvadex® or Clomid® is still indicated when discontinuing a cycle. Since HCG stimulates aromatase activity in the Leydig's cells, here Nolvadex®/Clomid® help by blocking the activity of any excess estrogen that may be produced. Afterward they will also block the inhibitory effect of endogenous estrogens on the hypothalamus, stimulating the enhanced release of gonadotropins and supporting the normal biosynthesis of testosterone.

Since Halotestin® is only used for a few specific purposes, it is not in high demand among athletes. Likewise it is not a very popular item on the black market. Investing in the manufacture of a counterfeit version would probably not pay off well, no doubt the reason we haven't seen any yet. All of the various forms of Halotestin® could therefore be assumed legitimate when found in circulation. Currently the most popular item found on the black market is the Stenox brand from Mexico, sold in boxes of 20 tablets. Although the dosage of these tablets is only 2.5mg, the low price usually asked for this preparation more than compensates. Overall, Halotestin® is an effective steroid for a narrow range of uses, and is probably not the most ideal product for the recreational user.

Nolvadex® (tamoxifen citrate)

Nolvadex®, a trade name for the drug tamoxifen citrate, is a non-steroidal agent that demonstrates potent antiestrogenic properties. The drug is technically an estrogen agonist/antagonist, which competitively binds to estrogen receptors in various target tissues. With the tamoxifen molecule bound to this receptor, estrogen is blocked from exerting any action, and an antiestrogenic effect is achieved. Since many forms of breast cancer are responsive to estrogen, the ability of tamoxifen citrate to block its action in such cells has proven to be a very effective treatment. It is also utilized successfully as a preventative measure, taken by people with an extremely high familial tendency for breast cancer. While Nolvadex® is effective against estrogen, it is not our strongest available remedy. We now have the drug Arimidex® (see: Arimidex®) available to us, which notably prevents estrogen from being manufactured in the first place. Altering the effect of estrogen in the female body can cause a level of discomfort, so antiestrogens are most bearable when used after the point of menopause. Since Nolvadex® is milder in comparison, it is more widely applicable and usually the first treatment option.

As discussed earlier in this book, an enzyme in the male body (aromatase) is capable of altering testosterone to form estradiol. The structure of estrogen is actually quite similar to testosterone, so its presence in the male body is not all that remarkable. Since this same enzyme can also aromatize many anabolic/androgenic steroids, the buildup of estrogens can be an important concern during intake. High levels can cause a number of unwanted side effects, a primary worry being gynecomastia or the development of female breast tissue in men. This can be first noticed by the appearance of swelling or a small lump under the nipple. If left to progress it can turn into a very unsightly development of tissue, often an irreversible occurrence without surgery. Estrogen can also lead to an increase in the level of water retained in the body. The result here can be a notable loss of definition, the muscles beginning to look smooth and bloated due to the retention of subcutaneous fluid. Fat storage may also be increased as estrogen levels rise. This hormone is in fact the primary reason women have a higher body fat percentage, and different fat distribution (hips/thighs) than men. Individuals sensitive to the effects of estrogen will usually be sure to have an antiestrogen on hand when taking problematic steroids, so as to minimize the impact of related side effects. It is also of note that when estrogen and body fat levels are normal, administering Nolvadex® (both Men and Women) can increase the look of hardness and definition the muscles.

This drug also shows the ability to increase production of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) in the male body. This is accomplished by blocking negative feedback inhibition caused by estrogen at the hypothalamus and pituitary, which fosters the release of the mentioned pituitary hormones. This of course is also the function of Clomid® and cyclofenil. Since a higher release of LH can stimulate the Leydig's cells in the testes to produce more testosterone, Nolvadex® can have a positive impact on one's serum testosterone level. This "testosterone stimulating" effect is an added benefit when preparing to conclude a steroid cycle. Since most anabolic/androgenic steroids will suppress endogenous testosterone production, Nolvadex® can help restore a balance in hormone levels. Nolvadex® should be preferred over Clomid for this purpose in fact, as side by side it is clearly the stronger agent. It has also been shown to increase LH responsiveness to Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone after time, while Clomid® slightly lowers this sensitivity as the drug is used for several weeks85.

In some instances the use of only an estrogen antagonists such as Nolvadex® or Clomid® may be sufficient for testosterone stimulating purposes, particularly when halting the use of a milder or shorter steroid program (which should have a less pronounced impact on the hormonal system). With stronger cycles most option to enhance the stimulating effect of these drugs with HCG, a hormone that mimics the action of LH. HCG use provides an excessive level of stimulation to the testes, which in essence may shock them out of a prolonged state of inactivity. In such a condition the Leydig's cells may not be producing a normal amount of testosterone, even though the normal release of gonadotropins has been achieved. Nolvadex® can be tricky at this point. Remember it only blocks the effect of estrogen that is present in the body. If it is removed at a time when estrogen levels are still unusually high, related side effects can quickly become a pronounced problem. Since HCG not only increases the production of testosterone but also enhances the rate of aromatization in the testes, anti-estrogens should not be discontinued until at least a couple of weeks after HCG is discontinued. The result otherwise of course could be many unwanted side effects that were previously under control. When using Nolvadex® to ward off the effects of estrogen during the cycle, it should similarly not be removed until the user is confident that hormone levels are well under control. With a drug such as Sustanon, this may mean continuing it for several weeks after the last shot.

A typical daily dosage for men is in the range of 10 to 30mg, the chosen amount obviously dependent on the level of effect desired. It is advisable to begin with a low dosage and work up, so as to avoid taking an unnecessary amount. The time in which Nolvadex® is started also relies on individual needs of the user. If an athlete with a known sensitivity to estrogen is starting a strong steroid cycle, Nolvadex® should probably be added soon after the cycle had been initiated. If estrogen is probably not going to be a major problem during the cycle (but will likely be after), Nolvadex® is administered around the time exogenous steroid levels will drop. It will be continued for some weeks after, until the point when natural testosterone is thought to be at an acceptable level. As mentioned HCG is often used at this point as well (see related profile for more detail). Women have also utilized Nolvadex® in an effort to reduce the effect of their own endogenous estrogens. This can lower body fat concentrations, especially in stubborn areas like the hips and thighs. This is of course risky, as manipulating the effect of estrogen can become uncomfortable in women. Side effects like hot flashes, menstrual irregularities and a variety of complications with the reproductive system are all possible.

When looking for a stronger antiestrogenic effect, Proviron® can make a good adjunct to Nolvadex®. Although this compound is technically an androgen, it may have a pronounced effect on the production of estrogen in the body. Its mode of action is therefore very different than that of Nolvadex®. While Nolvadex® only blocks the binding ability of free-floating estrogen, Proviron® can minimize the creation of it. With each drug attacking estrogen via a different mechanism, we have a very synergistic combination. A daily intake of 20-30mg Nolvadex® and 25-50mg Proviron® can be extremely effective when dealing with a strong estrogenic cycle. Women often avoid adding Proviron® to Nolvadex® treatment (thought often it is still used to enhance fat loss), for fear of developing virilization symptoms (Proviron® is an oral DHT). Virilizing effects can occur very quickly once there has been a dramatic rise in the activity of androgens (intensified by a decrease in estrogen activity), so at a minimum women should be careful with such a combination.

Of great interest also is that Nolvadex is an estrogen agonist in the liver, capable of activating the estrogen receptor and mimicking the actions of this sex hormone in this region of the body. As such it can have a markedly positive impact on HDL (good) cholesterol valuesas, as does estrogen. Many similarly use this drug to counter some of the negative consequences of steroid use in regards to cholesterol values and cardiac risk, as steroids often suppress HDL and raise LDL levels considerably. in some instances I have heard an athlete being able to maintain a very favorable HDULDL cholesterol ratio, to spite the use of a moderate dosage (400mg weekly) of an injectable like testosterone or nandrolone. It would probably be foolish to think however that Nolvadex® would be a sufficient remedy with the heavy use of c-l7alpha alkylated orals or extremely high dosed cycles in general.

It has been reported by many however that Nolvadex® seems to slightly reduce to gains made during a steroid cycle. It appears that many androgenic/anabolic steroids will exhibit their most powerful anabolic effect when accompanied by a sufficient level of estrogen (See: Estrogen Aromatization). This may be one reason why gains made with a strong androgen like testosterone are usually much more pronounced than when using an anabolic that aromatizes to a lower degree. It therefore seems like good advice to be aware of how much Nolvadex® is actually needed before committing to it during a cycle. Many people in fact find it unnecessary, even when utilizing problematic compounds such as testosterone or Dianabol. Others however find they are troubled by water retention and gynecomastia, even with milder anabolics like Deca-Durabolin® and Equipoise. The estrogenic response to steroid use is very individual, and may be influenced by factors such as age and body fat percentage (adipose tissue is a primary site of aromatization).

Nolvadex® is certainly the most popular antiestrogen used by athletes today, no doubt because it is simply an effective product. It is also widely manufactured, and easy to obtain on the black market. Since there never seems to be a lack of supply, there is little incentive to manufacture a counterfeit product. All of the various generics forms of this drug located are no doubt trustworthy. Nolvadex® tablets generally sell for approximately $1-2 each, depending on the dosage and source of the drug. Women should remember to be very cautious when considering the use of Nolvadex®, as they are usually very sensitive to changes in the activity of estrogen. Men looking for a stronger antiestrogenic effect may consider using Arimidex® (introduced earlier), a powerful new antiaromatase compound. It is much more effective for estrogen control, although it is also more costly than our other ancillary drugs. A single tablet of Arimidex® will generally cost close to $10, obviously some expense as the days drag on.

Testosterone Suspension

Testosterone suspension is an injectable preparation containing testosterone (no ester) in a water base. Since testosterone is not highly water soluble, the steroid will noticeably separate from the solution when the vial is left to sit. A quick shake will temporarily place the drug back into suspension, so that the withdrawn dosage should always be consistent. Many reference materials have not given this steroid the proper credit, stating it to be a very crude and ineffective product. Although it may contain testosterone without the benefit of an ester, the microcrystal design of this injectable will in fact sustain an elevated testosterone release for 2-3 days. The suspension we see today is clearly not the basic water plus testosterone design used in the 1940's. And since the drug will not leave circulation in a matter of hours, it is obviously useful. This is not news to the many Americans bodybuilders who have had a chance to experiment with this item, and regard it very highly.

Among bodybuilders, "suspension" is known to be an extremely potent mass agent. Most often it is ranked as the most powerful injectable steroid available, producing an incredibly rapid gain of muscle mass and strength. This is largely due to the very fast action of this drug, as the water-based steroid will begin to enter the blood stream almost immediately after an injection is given. When using a slow acting oil based steroid like Sustanon, it can take weeks before a peak testosterone level is reached. With suspension it is just a matter of days. This will usually result in the athlete noticing a size and strength gain by the end of the first week. By the time the athlete is 30 days into a cycle of suspension, the length it will usually take for a Sustanon cycle to really begin to work consistently, the mass gains are already (generally) very extreme. Clearly the anabolic effect of this testosterone will be realized much more quickly than we would expect with an oil based (esterified) preparation.

It is also important to remember that 100mg of a testosterone ester is not equivalent to 100mg testosterone of pure testosterone (as in suspension). When an ester is present, its weight is obviously included in the preparation's milligram total. Looking at Testosterone enanthate, 100mg of this compound equates to only 72mg of raw testosterone. So the bodybuilder who uses 400mg of enanthate weekly is really getting about 288mg of testosterone into his body each week. This is clearly a great increase over the endogenous testosterone level of the average male, which is in the range of 2.5 to 11 mg per day. But the general point is that during a cycle of Testosterone suspension we will often see a much more dramatic intake of testosterone on average than is typically utilized with oils. Following common advice, the athlete will commonly inject a full 100mg of testosterone daily, a total of 700 milligrams per week. This is up to 40 times the amount produced by a normal male. Those who have attempted such a cycle are rarely disappointed with the results, as such heavy doses of this hormone will produce nothing less than a dramatic weight gain.

The most popular practice with Testosterone suspension is to inject the drug at least every two or three days. The dosage will vary greatly depending on the needs of the individual, but is most often in the range of 50mg to 300mg per shot. Athletes looking to achieve an extremely rapid bulk gain will inject the already mentioned dose of 100mg daily. In most cases this cycle can be amazing, the user seeming to just "inflate" with bloated muscle mass in a short period of time. The U.S. 30m1 vials (100mg/ml) are of course the most sought after for this procedure, as each will run the cycle for about a month. Although this drug does require a frequent injection schedule, it will pass through a needle as fine as 27 gauge (insulin). This allows the user more available injection sites, hitting the smaller muscle groups such as the deltoid, triceps and calves. Although some users do complain about discomfort when injecting water-based steroids, it has been my experience that suspension is generally well tolerated. In fact Anabolics 20U many bodybuilders find the speed of drawing and administering a water based solution to be quite a welcome change from oils, which as you know can be a lengthy procedure.

As would be expected with a strong androgen, suspension can produce a number of unwelcome side effects. For starters, with a testosterone product we will expect to see a high rate of estrogen conversion. Estrogen levels in fact build very quickly with Testosterone suspension, which is actually reputed to be the worst testosterone to use when wishing to avoid water bloat. Gynecomastia can also develop very rapidly during a cycle, and in many cases this drug will be intolerable without additionally taking an antiestrogen. A combination of Nolvadex® and ProvironO is an effective way to avoid experiencing such side effects, and is often taken from the onset of a cycle in order to prevent such occurrences before they become a problem. Sensitive individuals may find an investment in the antiaromatase Arimidex® to be wiser. While this drug is very costly, it is also much more effective at controlling estrogen than the other agents which are currently being used by athletes. If there were ever a time to justify this expense, it would certainly be with a drug like suspension. It is also important that the athlete monitor blood pressure and kidney functions closely during a heavy cycle, a trouble area as water retention becomes more pronounced. Although testosterone puts very little strain on the liver, this drug can be harsh to the kidneys as the dosage increases. Of course if the athlete is encountering noticeably high blood pressure or trouble urinating (pain or darkening of the urine), the cycle should probably be discontinued and the doctor paid a visit. Conversion to DHT (dihydrotestosterone) will of course potentate the action of testosterone in certain tissues. One can therefore expect to endure oily skin, acne, increased aggression and body/facial hair growth during a typical cycle. Propecia®/Proscar® may be a requirement for those with a familial predisposition for male pattern hair loss, as suspension is known to aggravate this condition quite easily. Men with an existing hair loss problem may actually prefer stay far away from this steroid altogether, finding it to be just to strong an item to take risks with. The slower acting oil based injectables like Propionate and Sustanon would be a much better place to start experimenting if the individual still desires the power of an injectable testosterone.

Also, endogenous testosterone production will be quickly and efficiently reduced when using suspension. This can often reach the point of severe testicular shrinkage (atrophy). Some athletes will periodically take testosterone stimulating drugs like Clomid®, Nolvadex®, cyclofenil or HCG while on a cycle, in order to keep this effect to a minimum. Even if no such drug is used during, a combination of HCG and Clornid®/Nolvadex® should always be used as the cycle is discontinued. When used correctly, this procedure should be very effective at stimulating natural production, hopefully allowing the athlete to avoid a post-cycle crash. It is important to mention that in addition to stimulating the release of testosterone, HCG also acts to enhance the rate of aromatization in the testes. The risk for enhanced estrogen buildup makes concurrent anti-estrogen use very important, especially when the athlete had been taking large doses of testosterone. So as to keep potential health risks to a minimum (heavy water retention can take its toll), cautious athletes will also limit a cycle of this compound to no longer than eight weeks.

Overall, suspension is an extremely powerful drug, but also one that is prone to causing many uncomfortable side effects. Those looking for only a potent mass agent need not look for a better substitute; this product will certainly do the trick. But those athletes who want not just quantity but quality are likely to be disappointed with suspension, as the muscle mass gain is not going to be a hard, dense one. In fact the user must constantly fight fat and water bloat when building his new physique, and will often seek the benefit of cutting agents soon afterwards. The only exception to this would be cases where the drug is used for very short periods of time (pre-contest), to rapidly raise the androgen level and harden up the body. W hen estrogen is not given time to wreak its havoc on the physique, the rapid androgen increase can certainly be beneficial. Of course it will only take a few days for the androgen/estrogen ratio to shift back in an unfavorable direction.

Testosterone suspension is not abundant on the black market at this time. American products have been gone for years, leaving only a couple of available versions of this steroid left to purchase. Testosus was the most popular, which is a veterinary suspension from Australia (although it was exported to Mexico on a seemingly very regular basis). Recently Testosus was replaced on the Mexican market by Anabolic-TS however, which is the same steroid but now sold under the label Grupo Comercial Tarasco (a Mexican distributor for Jurox). Hopefully they have made some improvements in the switch to Anabolic-TS, as Testosus was not the most favored product. This stems from it being quite different from the refined suspensions that used to be available in the U.S., in that it is much more difficult to inject. While the old Steris suspension used to clear a 27 gauge needle without much difficulty, the particle size in Testosus is so large that it is difficult to pass sometimes even through a 22 gauge needle. In anything smaller it will likely jam completely. But to those who don't mind the hassle, or even using a 21 gauge, this item was usually very highly regarded. I should point out that the manufacture of original Testosus has not been discontinued, as is still produced and sold domestically on the Australian market. It is doubtful it will be reaching the states in much volume at this time however. Univet Uni-test suspension from Canada is also found on the black market at times, and is reportedly even worse in terms of particle size. Unfortunately those who seek out this steroid have no alternative at this time but to deal with these thick solutions.

HGH (Human Growth Hormone)

In the human body growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland. It exists at especially high levels during adolescence when it promotes the growth of tissues, protein deposition and the breakdown of subcutaneous fat stores. Upon maturation endogenous levels of GH decrease, but remain present in the body at a substantially lower level. In the body the actual structure of growth hormone is a sequence of 191 amino acids. Once scientists isolated this hormone, many became convinced it would exhibit exceptional therapeutic properties. It would be especially effective in cases of pituitary deficient dwarfism, the drug perhaps restoring much linear growth if administered during adolescence.

he 1980's brought about the first prepared drugs containing Human Growth Hormone. The content was taken from a biological origin, the hormone being extracted from the pituitary glands of human corpses then prepared as a medical injection. This production method was short lived however, since it was linked to the spread of a rare and fatal brain disease. Today virtually all forms of HGH are synthetically manufactured. The recombinant DNA process is very intricate; using transformed e-coli bacterial or mouse cell lines to genetically produce the hormone structure. It is highly unlikely you will ever cross the old biologically active item on the black market (such as Grorm), as all such products should now be discontinued. Here in the United States two distinctly structured compounds are being manufactured for the pharmaceutical market. The item Humatrope by Eli Lilly Labs has the correct 191 amino acid sequence while Genentech's Protropin has 192. This extra amino acid slightly increases the chance for developing an antibody reaction to the growth hormone. The 191 amino acid configuration is therefore considered more reliable, although the difference is not great. Protropin is still Anabolics 2002 considered an effective product and is prescribed regularly. Outside of the U.S., the vast majority of HGH in circulation will be the correct 191 amino acid sequence so this distinction is not a great a concern.

The use of growth hormone has been increasing in popularity among athletes, due of course to the numerous benefits associated with use. To begin with, GH stimulates growth in most body tissues, primarily due to increases in cell number rather than size. This includes skeletal muscle tissue, and with the exception of eyes and brain all other body organs. The transport of amino acids is also increased, as is the rate of protein synthesis. All of these effect are actually mediated by IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor), a highly anabolic hormone produced in the liver and other tissues in response to growth hormone (peak levels of IGF-1 are noted approximately 20 hours after HGH administration). Growth hormone itself also stimulated triglyceride hydrolysis in adipose tissue, usually producing notable fat loss during treatment. GH also increases glucose output in the liver, and induces insulin resistance by blocking the activity of this hormone in target cells. A shift is seen where fats become a more primary source of fuel, further enhancing body fat loss.

Its growth promoting effect also seems to strengthen connective tissues, cartilage and tendons. This effect should reduce the susceptibility to injury (due to heavy weight training), and increase lifting ability (strength). HGH is also a safe drug for the "piss-test". Although its use is banned by athletic committees, there is no reliable detection method. This makes clear its attraction to (among others) professional bodybuilders, strength athletes and Olympic competitors, who are able to use this drug straight through a competition. There is talk however that a reliable test for the exogenous administration of growth hormone has been developed, and is close to being implemented. Until this happens, growth hormone will remain a highly sought after drug for the tested athlete.

But the degree in which HGH actually works for an athlete has been the topic of a long running debate. Some claim it to be the holy grail of anabolics, capable of amazing things. Able to provide incredible muscle growth and unbelievable fat loss in a very short period of time. Since it is used primarily by serious competitors who can afford such an expensive drug, a great body of myth further surrounds HGH discussion (among those personally unfamiliar). Many will state with the utmost confidence that the incredible mass of the Olympian competitors each year is 100% due to the use of HGH. Others have crossed bodybuilding materials claiming it to be a complete waste of money, an ineffective anabolic and barely worthwhile for fat loss. With its high price tag, certainly an incredibly poor buy in the face of steroids. So we have a very wide variety of opinions regarding this drug, whom should we believe?

It is first important to understand why there the results obtained from this drug seem to vary so much. A logical factor in this regard would seem to be the price of this drug. Due to the elaborate manufacturing techniques used to produce it, it is extremely costly. Even a moderately dosed cycle could cost an athlete between $75-$150 per daily dosage. Most are unable or unwilling to spend so much, and instead tinker around with low dosages of the drug. Most who have used this item extensively claim it will only be effective at higher doses. Poor results would then be expected if low amounts were used, or the drug not administered daily. If you cannot commit to the full expense of an HGH cycle, you should really not be trying to use the drug.

The average male athlete will usually need a dosage in the range of 4 to 6 I.U. per day to elicit the best results. On the low end perhaps 1 to 2 I.U. can be used daily, but this is still a considerable expense. Daily dosing is important, as HGH has a very short life span in the body. Peak blood concentrations are noted quickly (2 to 6 hours) after injection, and the hormone is cleared from the body with a half-life of only 20-30 minutes. Clearly it does not stick around very long, making stable blood levels difficult to maintain. The effects of this drug are also most pronounced when it is used for longer periods of time, often many months long. Some do use it for shorter periods, but generally only when looking for fat loss. For this purpose a cycle of at least four weeks would be used. This compound can be administered in both an intramuscular and subcutaneous injection. "Sub-Q" injections are particularly noted for producing a localized loss of fat, requiring the user to change injection points regularly to even out the effect. A general loss of fat seems to be the one characteristic most people agree on. It appears that the fat burning properties of this drug are more quickly apparent, and less dependent on high doses.

Other drugs also need to be used in conjunction with HGH in order to elicit the best results. Your body seems to require an increased amount of thyroid hormones, insulin and androgens while HGH levels are elevated (HGH therapy in fact is shown to lower thyroid and insulin levels). To begin with, the addition of thyroid hormones will greatly increase the thermogenic effectiveness of a cycle. Taking either Cytomel® or Synthroid® (prescription versions of T-3 and T-4) would seem to make the most sense (the more powerful Cytomel® is usually preferred). Insulin as well is very welcome during a cycle, used most commonly in an anabolic routine as described in this book under the insulin heading. Aside from replacing lowered insulin levels, use of this hormone is important as it can increase receptor sensitivity to IGF-1, and reduce levels of IGF binding protein-1 allowing for more free circulating IGF-1s° (growth hormone itself also lowers IGF binding protein levelss'). Steroids as well prove very necessary for the full anabolic effect of GH to become evident. Particularly something with a notable androgenic component such as testosterone or trenbolone (if worried about estrogen) should be used. The added androgen is quite useful, as it promotes anabolism by enhancing muscle cell size (remember GH primarily effects cell number). Steroid use may also increase free IGF-1 via a lowering of IGF binding proteins8z. The combination of all of these (HGH, anabolics, insulin and T-3) proves to be the most synergistic combination, providing clearly amplified results. it is of course important to note that thyroid and insulin are particularly powerful drugs that involve a number of additional risks.

Release and action of GH and IGF-1: GHRH (growth hormone releasing hormone) and SST (somatostatin) are released by the hypothalamus to stimulate or inhibit the output of GH by the pituitary. GH has direct effects on many tissues, as well as indirect effects via the production of IGF-1. IGF-1 also causes negative feedback inhibition at the pituitary and hypothalamus. Heightened release of somatostatin affects not only the release of GH, but insulin and thyroid hormones as well.

HGH itself does carry with it some of its own risks. The most predominantly discussed side effect would be acromegaly, or a noticeable thickening of the bones (notably the feet, forehead, hands, jaw and elbows). The drug can also enlarge vital organs such as the heart and kidney, and has been linked to hypoglycemia and diabetes (presumably due to its ability to induce insulin resistance). Theoretically, overuse of this hormone can bring about a number of conditions, some life threatening. Such problems however are extremely rare. Among the many athletes using growth hormone, we have very few documented cases of a serious problem developing. When used periodically at a moderate dosage, the athlete should have little cause for worry. Of course if there are any noticeable changes in bone structure, skin texture or normal health and well being during use, HGH therapy should be completely halted.

In summary, the biggest mistake we can make with this drug is to get confused by the price tag. Even a relatively short cycle of this drug (and ancillaries) will cost in the thousand(s), not hundreds of dollars. We cannot jump to the conclusion that GH is therefore the most unbelievable anabolic. This hormone is simply very complex, and costly to manufacture (though it should be getting cheaper). If you were looking to achieve just a great mass gain the $1,000 would be better spent on steroids. Growth Hormone will not turn you into an overnight "freaky" monster and it is certainly not "the answer". Yes, it is a very effective performance enhancement tool. But it is more a tool for the competitive athlete looking for more than steroids alone can provide. There is little doubt that GH contributes considerably to the physiques and performance of many top bodybuilders and athletes. In this arena, the money spent on it is well justified, the drug obviously necessary. But outside of competitive sports it is usually not.

HCG (Human chorionic Gonadotropin)

Chorionic gonadotropin is a hormone found in the female body during the early months of pregnancy (it is produced in the placenta). It is in fact the pregnancy indicator looked at by the over the counter pregnancy test kits, as due to its origin it is not found in the body at any other time. Blood levels of this hormone will become noticeable as early as seven days after ovulation. The level will rise evenly, reaching a peak at approximately two to three months into gestation. After this point, the hormone level will drop gradually until the point of birth. As a prescription drug, HCG offers us some interesting benefits. In the United States, we have the two popular brands, Pregnyl, made by Organon, and Profasi, made by Serono. These are FDA approved for the treatment of undescended testicles in young boys, hypogonadism (underproduction of testosterone) and as a fertility drug used to aid in inducing ovulation in women. When prepared as a medical item, this hormone comes from a human origin. Although there is often a fear of biological origin products, there is little research to be found regarding pathogen or sterility problems with HCG. The problems seen with human origin growth hormone are certainly not to be repeated with HCG, as this compound is obtained in a much different way.

While HCG offers the female no performance enhancing ability, it does prove very useful to the male steroid user. The obvious use of course being to stimulate the production of endogenous testosterone. The activity of HCG in the male body is due to its ability to mimic LH (luteinizing hormone), a pituitary hormone that stimulates the Leydig's cells in the testes to manufacture testosterone. Restoring endogenous testosterone production is a special concern at the end of each steroid cycle, a time when a subnormal androgen level (due to steroid induced suppression) could be very costly. The main concern is the action of cortisol, which in many ways is balanced out by the effect of androgens. Cortisol sends the opposite message to the muscles than testosterone, or to breakdown protein in the cell. Left unchecked (by an extremely low testosterone level) in the body, cortisol can quickly strip much of your new muscle mass away.

The main focus with HCG is to restore the normal ability of the testes to respond to endogenous luteinizing hormone. After a long period of inactivity, this ability may have been seriously reduced. In such a state testosterone levels may not reach a normal point, even though the release of endogenous LH has been resumed. Many who have suffered severe testicular shrinkage may be able to relate, as it is often some time before normal testicle size and feelings of virility are restored if ancillary drugs had not been used. The excessive stimulation brought forth by administration of HCG can likewise cause the testicles to rapidly return to their normal size and level of activity. We are not simply looking for it to fix the problem however, as the resulting high testosterone level can itself trigger negative feedback inhibition at the hypothalamus. Estrogen production is also heightened with the use of HCG, due to its ability to increase aromatase activity in the Leydig's cells'9. This is due to the main action of HCG, namely the increase of cycIicAMP (a secondary messenger that regulates cellular activity). When stimulated by HCG, the ability of the testes to aromatize androgens could potentially be heightened several times greater than normal. This also may inhibit testosterone production, so we therefore use HCG only as a quick shock to the testes.

The usual protocol is to inject 1500-3000 I.U. every 4'" or 5t" day, for a duration usually no longer than 2 or 3 weeks. If used for too long or at too high a dose, the drug may actually function to desensitize the Leydig's cells to luteinizing hormone, further hindering a return to homeostasis. Timing the initial dose is also very crucial. If your were coming off a cycle of Sustanon for example, testosterone levels in your blood will likely stay elevated for at least 3 to 4 weeks after your last injection. Taking HCG on the day of your last shot would therefore be useless. Instead one would want to calculate the last week in which androgen levels are likely to be above normal, and begin ancillary drug therapy at this point. In this case HCG would be started around the third or fourth week. Likewise, after ending a cycle of Dianabol (an oral) your blood levels will be sub normal after the third day. Here you may want to begin HCG therapy a few days before your last intake of tablets, giving it a few days to take effect. One would also want to give some thought to the level of suppression that the cycle might have brought about. After an 8 week cycle of Equipoise® for example, 1500-2500 I.U. would likely be a sufficient initial dosage. The lower amount of hormonal suppression one associates with this drug would probably not require much more. On the other hand, 750-1000mg of Sustanon per week might incline the user to inject a much larger HCG dose, perhaps as much as 5000 I.U. for the opening application. It may thereafter also be a good idea to reduce the dosage on subsequent shots, so as to step down the intake of HCG during the two or three weeks of intake.

As discussed above, HCG acts only to mimic the action of LH. It is likewise not the perfect hormone to combat testosterone suppression, and for this reason it is used most often in conjunction with estrogen antagonists such as Clomid®, Nolvadex® or cyclofenil. These drugs have a different effect on the regulating system, namely inhibiting estrogen-induced suppression at the hypothalamus. This of course also helps to restore the release of testosterone, although through a much different mechanism than HCG. A combination of both drugs appears to be very synergistic, HCG providing an immediate effect on the testes (shocking them out of inactivity) while the antiestrogen helps later to block inhibition on the hypothalamus and resume the normal release of gonadotropins from the pituitary. The typical procedure involves giving the Clomid®/Nolvadex® dose from the start with HCG, but continuing it alone for a few weeks once HCG has been discontinued. This practice should effectively raise testosterone levels, which will hopefully remain stable once Clomid®/Nolvadex® have been discontinued. While unfortunately there is no way to retain all of the muscle gains produced by anabolic steroids, using ancillaries to restore a balanced hormonal state is the best way to minimize the loss felt with ending a cycle.

Dianabol 50mgs (D-bol, Anadrol 50, Danabol)

Reported Characteristics

Pharmaceutical Name:Methandrostenolone
Chemical Structure:17a-methyl-17b-hydroxy-1,4-androstadien-3-one

-Cutting/Bulking:Bulking
-Anabolic Rating:90-210
-Active-Life: 6-8 hours (24 for injectable)
-Drug Class: Anabolic/androgenic steroid
-Average Reported Dosage: Men 25-50 mg daily
-Acne: Possible
-Water Retention: Yes
-High Blood Pressure:
-Aromatization: Yes
-Liver Toxic: Yes
-DHT conversion: No
-Decreases HPTA function: Inhibitory

Dianabol is one of the most highly effective mass building steroids ever created. It was, in fact, created specifically for athletes to use to improve performance (although it was claimed to have therapeutic ability). It provides highly impressive weight and strength gains for most users. Experiencing a 2-3kg weight gain per week is not unheard of, especially in novices. It must be noted that allot if this is water weight, and that with higher dosages gynecomastia (bitch tits), high blood pressure, and acne could occur. Dianabol (Methandrostenlone) when taken orally becomes active very rapidly, but only remains active for less than half a day. Often, for this reason, dosages were spread through the day. Ciba, the original makers of Dianabol claimed that 10 mgs of the product was enough for full androgen replacement in a man, and this dose increased androgen anabolic activity roughly 5 times over normal and provided a reduction in natural cortisol activity of between 50-70%. Despite this, many athletes take 50-100mgs daily. It would appear that over 50mgs/day, there is a point of diminishing return.

Since Dianabol (often called D-bol by athletes) is a 17aa compound, side effects such as increased liver values (toxicity) are to be expected, although they generally return to normal quickly after the athlete stops taking the product. In addition, as previously noted, gyno, heavy water retention (and raised blood pressure as a result), and acne were all commonly reported side effects of D-bol use. Interestingly, some users note a sense of well being during use of this drug, which is quite pronounced. This is the exact opposite of Anadrol, which is noted for an "unwell" feeling in users.

This product is also available in an injectable form from both British Dragon (in oil) as well as under the Reforvit-B name (which has the addition of B vitamins) which is suspended in water and is quite frankly a very painful injection, and not often used for this reason.

Winstrol (Stanozolol/Strombafort) Pill form

Chemical Name:17-beta-hydroxy-17-methyl-5alpha-androstano[3,2-c]pyrazole

-Cutting/Bulking:Cutting
-Anabolic Rating:320
-Active-Life: About 8 hours
-Drug Class: Anabolic/Androgenic steroid (Oral)
-Average Reported Dosage: Males 25-50-mg daily Women 10mg daily
-Acne: Possible
-Water Retention: No
-High Blood Pressure: Rare
-Liver Toxic: High in high oral dosages
-DHT Conversion: DHT-derived
-Decreases HPTA Function: No

A lot of what holds true for the injectable version of this product (see: Winstrol Depot) also holds for the tabs. There are, however, two noticeable differences between the two forms of administration. Nitrogen Retention is greater with use of the injectable version, when equal doses are administered. Paradoxically, it would seem that on a milligram for milligram basis, users have reported that oral administration of Stanozolol was more potent than the injectable product for building muscle. This could be due to winstrol's ability to lower SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) levels and also elevate IGF (Insulin-Like Growth Factor) above those experienced with the injectable version.

Women athletes commonly reported the use of Stanozolol at a dosage of 10mg daily, and I am of the opinion that women should preferentially use the injectable version when possible.

Men have found that it works well when used in 50-100mg daily doses, and stacked very efficiently with Testosterone and Nandrolone or Trenbolone.

Clomid 50mgs

Reported Characteristics

-Active Life: about 8-12 hours
-Drug Class: Synthetic estrogen/HPTA stimulator (Oral)
-Average Reported Dosage: Men 50-100 mg daily
-Water Retention: No
-High Blood Pressure: Rare
-Aromatization: None
-Liver Toxic: Low, seldom reported.

Product Description,

Strong gonadotropin stimulator/mild anti-estrogen Clomiphene is a synthetic estrogen clinically administered to help women ovulate. Bodybuilders, (male) following AAS cycles, seeking to jump start naturaltestosterone production (or those that were simply seeking a natural testosterone spike)have used this drug with great success. Clomiphene increases activity in thehypothalamus-pituitary-gonadol axis by stimulating the release of more gondotropin fromthe pituitary gland. Therefore, a higher/faster level of LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH(follicle stimulating hormone) results. This creates a signal to the leydig cells in the testes which in turn produce more testosterone and sperm. Normally with Clomiphene this took5-15 days. Most started with 50-mg twice daily for about 5 days, then reduced intake to50 mg once a day for 5-10 more days. Due to Clomiphene providing a fast response time,I felt it was often beneficial to use a dosage of 100 mg total daily for 5 days, mid-cycleduring longer AAS protocols. This drug was seldom utilized for longer than 15 days continuously simply due to it being unnecessary. The goal was to normalize testosterone production post AAS cycle as quickly as possible so as to minimize post-cycle strength and mass loss. Not create dependency.HCG was combined with Clomiphene (Clomid) sometimes, or Clomiphene was used after HCG administration. This is because Clomiphene acts by affecting the hypothalamus and pituitary (hypophysis) and regenerating the whole regulating system,while HCG only "imitates" LH, thus stimulating the leydig cells in the testes to produce natural testosterone. (*Also see HCG)*Some may wonder about Clomiphene being a synthetic estrogen. Yes, it is, but it works as an anti-estrogen. This is due to the fact that Clomiphene has a very low estrogenic effect. This means stronger and more active estrogen, such as those formed during thearomatization of many androgenic steroids, are blocked out of the receptor-site and less estrogenic activity results; less gyno, less water retention. Clomiphene was by no means as effective as Novladex or Proviron for estrogen suppression, but post-cycle it helped greatly.

Anavar (Oxandrolone)

Reported Characteristics

Pharmaceutical Name:Oxandrolone
Chemical Name:17b-hydroxy-17a-methyl2oxa-5a-androstane-3-one

-Cutting/Bulking: Cutting
-Anabolic Rating:322-630
-Active-Life: 8-12 hours
-Drug Class: Anabolic/Androgenic Steroid (Oral)
-Average Reported Dosage: Men 20-50mg daily Women 10-15mg daily
-Acne: Only when administered in high dosages
-Water Retention: Rare
-High Blood Pressure: Rare
-Liver Toxic: Yes, c17-alfa-alkylated steroid. Due to low dosages toxicity is low-moderate
-Aromatization: None
-DHT conversion: Quite low
-Decreases HPTA function: Yes

Oxandrolone is most bodybuilders favorite cutting steroid, and would probably be more popular if it could be had more cheaply. Origially, it was marketed as Anavar, and has the profound quality of significantly stimulating synthesis of phosphocreatine in muscle cells which in turn improves ATP production and regeneration (for this reason, Creatine is often reccomended to be "stacked" with oxandrolone).Due to this ATP-enhancing quality, strength gains without weight were frequently reported as was an obvious distinct hardness in users muscles.

Oxandrolone does not aromatize to estrogen so water retention is usually not reported as quite low and gyno is never reported. It also has a reputation for being a "fat-burning" steroid, which the medical literature certainly supports.

Oxandrolone is very popular, and put into many cycles where the user can aford it, and is popular in stacks with drugs such as testosterone as well as with with high anabolic/moderate androgenic steroids such as Equipoise or Nandrolones. For the precontest bodybuilder, oxandrolone is often used in conjunction with Masteron or Trenbolone, and Testosterone Propionate as well as injectable Winstrol. Women often achieve incredible results from 5-10mgs/day of oxandrolone alone.