Bodybuilding

Gynecomastia and Bodybuilding

Published

12 years ago

October 11, 2012

F Kyle

It is true that an excessive intake of steroids may cause many side effects on our body. Among most important of them are considered a possible impotence and gynecomastia. In this article, we will stop our attention on the second one side effect, since the problem of impotence caused by steroids use is more far-fetched, and is used as a scarecrow for diminishing the steroids use. The same thing can not be said about the second side effect of steroids use- gynecomastia. It is a real danger, and have to be treated consequently.

Gynecomastia is called a benign increase of male breast glands. It is called benign because breast enlargement malignant nature is nothing more than breast cancer. However, breast cancer among men is quite rare, while gynecomastia is more common. According to the World Health Organization report in varying degrees, this disease affects 30 to 50 percent of absolutely healthy men.

Have to be said that gynecomastia is a problem that has existed at all times, not just in the period of fascination with androgens and anabolic steroids. This disease can be identified quite simple, just with the naked eye, or by palpation of breast enlargement.

The size of this increase can be from 1 to 10 cm (average - about 4 cm). Externally, male breast enlargement looks like female small breasts. In most cases, the gynecomastia starts with itchy nipples, familiar to most of the male during the period of sexual maturation.

But it is not an absolute rule since there are many people who didn’t observe such exchange in their body. The moment when you detected the formation of seals though small sizes, even the size of a pea is the reason to get alarmed.

Gynecomastia Has Three Stages

Gynecomastia Has Three Stages:

a) Developing gynecomastia. This is the initial stage, and it lasts about 4 months. Interestingly, at this stage the process is reversible, that is, with adequate treatment, breast enlargement can return to its previous size.

b) Intermediate. This stage can last from four months to one year, in this period is the maturation of breast tissue. At this stage, it is also possible to reverse the development process, but it happens very rarely.

c) Fibrous. This stage is characterized by the appearance of the breast mature connective tissue as well as the deposition of fatty tissue around the glandular tissue. Regression of breast enlargement at this stage is not possible ever.

Must Read Our Article: What Can Be Done About Prolactin-Induced Gynecomastia During A Steroid Cycle

There are three main types of gynecomastia. Also, the second type is also divided into two types. The first type - only iron, this is a true gynecomastia. The entire volume of space in retro areolar to pectoral fascia presented glandular tissue with minimal presence of fat and connective tissue. Most often true gynecomastia is combined with hormonal and hereditary diseases.

The second type - iron and oil - mixed with a predominance of gynecomastia glandular component. In some cases, elements of the glandular tissue found near the pectoral muscle fascia. Always combined with the presence of fibrous process.

This type is the most interesting for us because very often it is caused by medication, including androgens and anabolic steroids. Another important thing is the fact that in case of this type of gynecomastia is possible the secretion of the breast through pressing on it.

As we said the second type of gynecomastia is divided into another two types. Since about first one we talked above, further, we will see the specifics of the second one. Fat and iron is a mixed type of gynecomastia with a predominance of the fat component. Usually, elements of glandular tissue are found, only retro areolar.

There is always a pronounced fibrotic process. The most common form of this is noted in cases when in adolescence had noted breast enlargement, but it was left later untreated. In many cases, this kind of gynecomastia is associated with ptosis of the nipple. Also, have to be noted that the secretion of the breast through pressure is not released.

The third type represents only fat, also called false gynecomastia. Such condition is caused by excessive accumulation of only fat in the breast and ptosis, the nipple-areola complex. False gynecomastia can almost always be seen in case of obese people.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

As we mentioned above not only anabolic steroids are the cause of gynecomastia occurrence. use. So, it is absolutely normal to want to know about all factors that may trigger gynecomastia. Contrary to what we used to think one of the causes of gynecomastia may be just the low level of testosterone in the blood plasma.

Reduced levels of testosterone, or to be more precise - a change of attitude testosterone/estradiol in the blood plasma in favor of the last one is the cause of the so-called age of gynecomastia. That’s why those 30 -50 percent of healthy men affected by gynecomastia, as a rule, are older than 50 years.

In addition to this, transient gynecomastia occurs in infants and boys during puberty age 13-14 years.

As we said gynecomastia can be caused by the use of a large list of drugs. The most common and interesting in this list are:

Must Read: Anadrol (Oxymetholone) For Muscle Growth

amphetamines, diazepam, methyldopa, reserpine, tricyclic antidepressants; ketoconazole, metronidazole (included in anti-dandruff shampoos, but the danger is only when administered); marijuana; Spironolactone (Aldactone) - a diuretic; Theophylline - bronchodilators; and, of course, androgens and anabolic steroids.

So, when it comes to androgenic steroids occur the question if all steroids cause gynecomastia?

The answer is absolutely not. But let’s talk first about why ASS cause this condition. As you know some AAS tend to flavor when they get transformed into one of the female sex hormones called estradiol. Not all anabolic steroids are prone to aromatization.

Moreover, those ones who do not aromatize form the majority. That’s why it is easier to list firstly those ones that are flavored. Here they are:

Testosterone
Methyltestosterone
Methandrostenolone
Chorionic gonadotropin

Further are listed safe of AAS, that are not responsible for gynecomastia occurrence:

-Boldenone
-Drostanolone has anti-estrogenic activity.
-Methenolone
-Oxandrolone
-Oralturinabol
-Stanozolol
-Fluoxymesterone
-Furazabol
-Ethylestrenol

As you see Oxymetholone and Trenbolone are not listed in none of these lists. Indeed, these drugs are not converted to estradiol. Instead, they have progestogenic activity, that is, mimic the action of the body of another female hormone called progesterone. Progesterone also contributes to plasma levels of another hormone which name is prolactin, and its raised level may contribute to the development of gynecomastia.

However, in case of Trenbolone progestogenic activity is not so significant, and in case of Oxymetholone, its sharply occurs if it is taken in very high doses, namely more than 300 mg per day. That’s why these two types of steroids-Trenbolone and Oxymetholone- can be easily classified as a conditionally safe type of AAS.

Nandrolone and Norethandrolone are other types of steroids that are hard to put into a category, and have to talk separately. Since the Nandrolone is more popular among people looking to get massive muscle mass, we will talk namely about it.

Nandrolone do not aromatizes in the classic pattern - it turns into estradiol without the aromatase enzyme. You have to know that in human body almost all chemical processes take place with the direct participation of enzymes.

Must Read: Nandrolone Kills Blood Vessels Eleven Times Faster Than Testosterone

While the rating of aromatization of Nandrolone is very low, the progestogenic activity of this drug can not be qualified as being low as well. Moreover, it is high enough, that the risk of gynecomastia occurrence in case of Nandrolone use is not lower than in the case of drugs listed in “blacklist” .

Along with this have to be mentioned one very important advice. If you have chosen an AAS that may cause gynecomastia, try do not use along with it another one that have a side effect the occurrence of this condition too. Try do not combine drugs from the dangerous list. More wisely would be to combine a dangerous and a safely AAS.

Like in case of many diseases, there have to be some ways to struggle with them. You can get rid of gynecomastia, but the way you can do it hardly depends on the stage of development. The regression of gynecomastia is possible in the first stage of development, and much less on the second one.

However, the first stage lasts around four months, and you have enough time to notice that something go wrong with your body. You notice the slow change of your breast status, then do the right conclusions and fight against gynecomastia.

Secondly, you must understand the causes of occurrence of gynecomastia. If you take anabolic steroids, then everything is more or less clear. But there are cases when you cease steroid cycle for a while already, and you begin to notice a sudden increase of your breast. In this case, you have to pay attention to what medications you are taking at the moment, and whether they can cause gynecomastia.

If it is proved that the medications are not the cause of this condition, then it’s time to do some verifications. First, check the level of endogenous testosterone and estradiol in the blood plasma, and the condition of the liver, kidney, and thyroid. Once you understand what are the causes, try to remove them.

In many cases, gynecomastia occurs as a result of anabolic steroids use, but its removal may not be possible because you want to move further towards bulking. In this case, try to replace drugs that have a high risk of gynecomastia with safe ones. If you have not avilable such drugs, try to add to your diet antiestrogens preparates.

Usually, are used for such drugs as Clomid or Tamoxifen. In this case, there are many chances that muscle mass will not grow as quickly as before, but you have to do this sacrifice if want to avoid the unaesthetic look of your breasts.

If gynecomastia is caused by the sharp increase of estradiol level in the blood plasma, it have to be lowered. For this purpose are indicated aromatase blockers such as Anastrozole, Letrozole, Exemestane. Ultimately, when no other method works, gynecomastia can be removed surgically.

This is quite a common plastic surgery, which may well hold in the plastic surgery clinic. It’s true that it is not a cheap one, but you have the chance to get rid of this disease. There are few chances that of gynecomastia recurrence, but it may happen.

Must Read: Trenbolone and Suppressed Estradiol Production

As you see, there are many ways to avoid gynecomastia and increase your muscle mass. For this use avoid dangerous steroids, and use the safest one. Al least try to combine them, and never use two steroids that have as a side effects gynecomastia. We have listed above steroids from both categories, so keep them in mind.

Also, it’s very important to start to fight against gynecomastia during the first stage, since there is no chance of the win if you get more advanced stages of gynecomastia development. Yes, adding antiestrogen drug to your diet can help you to maintain you muckle growth in slow temps, but with no chances to develop breast enlargement.

Share on Social Media

Up Next

How to Train Neck Muscles?

Don't Miss

Muscle Catabolism and How to Avoid It

F Kyle

The "GYMRAT" of this blog, Pro-blogger and Fitness Instructor since 2008

Comments

Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

3 weeks ago

March 1, 2025

Sane

Bodybuilding is more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle that requires dedication, discipline, and a thorough understanding of fitness principles. As the world of fitness continues to evolve, bodybuilders must stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and scientific advancements to achieve their goals. In 2025, several innovative approaches are redefining bodybuilding. Here are essential fitness tips for bodybuilders to excel this year.

Embrace Technology-Driven Workouts

In 2025, technology plays a significant role in bodybuilding. Wearable devices, fitness apps, and virtual reality (VR) training are now integral components of an effective workout regimen.

Wearable Devices

Modern wearables track everything from heart rate and sleep patterns to muscle activation and caloric expenditure. Utilize these devices to monitor your progress and make data-driven adjustments to your training and nutrition plans.

Fitness Apps

Leverage fitness apps for customized workout plans, progress tracking, and virtual coaching. Many apps now incorporate artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback and recommendations.

Virtual Reality Training

VR technology offers immersive workout experiences, allowing bodybuilders to simulate different training environments and scenarios. This can enhance motivation and add variety to your routine.

Focus on Functional Strength

While hypertrophy (muscle growth) remains a primary goal, functional strength is gaining importance. Functional strength training improves overall performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances daily activities.

Check Out Our1 4 Weeks Quality Strength & Lean Muscles

Compound Movements

Incorporate compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These movements engage multiple muscle groups and joints, promoting balanced strength development.

Core Stability

Prioritize exercises that strengthen the core, such as planks, Russian twists, and leg raises. A strong core supports better lifting mechanics and reduces the risk of lower back injuries.

Optimize Nutrition for Muscle Growth and Recovery

Nutrition is the cornerstone of successful bodybuilding. In 2025, the focus is on personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual needs and goals.

Protein Intake

Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle repair and growth. Aim for 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, depending on your training intensity and goals.

Click Here to Buy SynthaTrope By SynthaPharma

Nutrient Timing

Pay attention to nutrient timing to maximize muscle recovery and growth. Consume protein and carbohydrates within 30 minutes post-workout to replenish glycogen stores and kickstart muscle repair.

Supplements

Utilize supplements wisely. Creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and omega-3 fatty acids are popular choices for enhancing performance and recovery.

Prioritize Mental Health and Mindfulness

Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall fitness. Incorporating mindfulness practices can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance performance.

Meditation

Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Mindfulness meditation can enhance your mind-muscle connection during workouts.

Visualization

Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse your workouts. Visualizing successful lifts and achieving your goals can boost confidence and motivation.

Rest and Recovery

Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent burnout and overtraining. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night and incorporate rest days into your training schedule.

Leverage Advanced Training Techniques

Advanced training techniques can help break through plateaus and stimulate muscle growth. In 2025, several methods are gaining popularity among bodybuilders.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training: BFR involves restricting blood flow to the muscles during low-intensity exercises. This technique can enhance muscle growth and strength without the need for heavy weights.

Eccentric Training: Focus on the eccentric (lowering) phase of exercises. Eccentric training can stimulate greater muscle damage and growth compared to traditional concentric movements.

Periodization: Implement periodization into your training plan. Varying the intensity, volume, and type of exercises can prevent plateaus and ensure continuous progress.

Incorporate Recovery and Mobility Work

Recovery and mobility are essential for preventing injuries and maintaining optimal performance. In 2025, bodybuilders are paying more attention to these aspects of training.

Foam Rolling and Myofascial Release: Use foam rollers and massage balls to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Regular myofascial release can reduce soreness and enhance recovery.

Stretching: Incorporate dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching after workouts. Stretching improves range of motion and prevents muscle imbalances.

Cryotherapy and Hydrotherapy: Explore recovery techniques like cryotherapy (cold therapy) and hydrotherapy (water therapy) to reduce inflammation and accelerate muscle recovery.

Engage in Continuous Learning and Community Building

The fitness industry is constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for success. Engage in continuous learning and connect with the bodybuilding community for support and motivation.

Educational Resources: Read books, watch videos, and attend seminars to stay updated on the latest research and trends in bodybuilding.

Community Engagement: Join online forums, social media groups, and local bodybuilding clubs. Sharing experiences and knowledge with fellow bodybuilders can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Professional Guidance: Consider working with a certified personal trainer or coach. Professional guidance can help you optimize your training and nutrition plans, ensuring you're on the right track.

With your FB Plus subscription or active FB Plus Pass, you now have access to 124 weeks of our most popular workout programs, which typically sell for $10-$30 each. Additionally, our popular 4-week Meal Plan is included. This is on top of the 38 Challenges and Programs that are already available to Plus members.

We've also introduced a new feature that many of you have requested. To assist you in choosing your next program, you can now preview each day of any program from its detail view. This feature lets you see all the included workout videos and content before you schedule it, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.

Conclusion

In 2025, bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights; it's a holistic approach to fitness that encompasses technology, nutrition, mental health, and advanced training techniques. By embracing these fitness tips, bodybuilders can achieve their goals, stay injury-free, and enjoy a fulfilling fitness journey. Remember, consistency and dedication are key to success in bodybuilding. Stay committed, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun on your path to becoming the best version of yourself.

Share on Social Media

Bodybuilding

2nd Edition of Natural Bodybuilding Competition Facts

Published

7 months ago

September 5, 2024

Zizou

Natural bodybuilding competitions are designed to promote and celebrate athletes who build their physiques without the use of performance-enhancing drugs. These events emphasize fair play, health, and the natural development of muscle mass and definition.

The second edition of natural bodybuilding competitions has gained momentum globally, particularly focusing on drug-free athletes. These competitions are hosted by various organizations like the INBA/PNBA (International Natural Bodybuilding Association/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association) and OCB (Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders).

In 2024, several notable events have been planned, including the INBA Natural Universe and INBA World Cup, both of which emphasize natural bodybuilding through rigorous drug testing policies. These events aim to showcase competitors who adhere to strict drug-free protocols, and winners often earn pro cards allowing them to compete in higher-level professional competitions.

These competitions focus on categories like men's bodybuilding, classic physique, and women's figure and bikini, among others. Athletes undergo polygraph and urine tests to ensure compliance with natural bodybuilding standards. The winners often receive medals, trophies, or pro status

Drug Testing

Participants undergo rigorous drug testing to ensure they are not using banned substances. This can include urine tests, polygraph tests, and other methods to maintain the integrity of the competition.

Must Read: Piracetol Review Benefits and Side Effect

Judging Criteria

Athletes are judged based on several factors, including:

Muscle Mass: The size and volume of muscles.
Symmetry: The balance and proportion of the physique.
Conditioning: The level of muscle definition and leanness.
Presentation: Posing routines and overall stage presence.

Preparation

Competitors often spend months preparing for these events, focusing on strict diet plans, intense workout regimens, and posing practice. The goal is to achieve peak physical condition on the day of the competition.

Community and Support

Natural bodybuilding competitions foster a sense of community among athletes who share a commitment to health and fitness. Many competitors form lasting friendships and support networks through these events.

Starting training for a natural bodybuilding competition is an exciting journey! Here are some key steps to help you get started:

1. Set Clear Goals

Define what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to compete in a specific category like Men’s Physique or Women’s Figure? Setting clear goals will guide your training and nutrition plans.

2. Create a Training Plan

Focus on a well-rounded training program that includes:

Compound Movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups are essential for building overall muscle mass.
Isolation Exercises: Target specific muscles to enhance definition and symmetry.
Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or reps to continuously challenge your muscles.

3. Follow a Structured Diet

Nutrition is crucial for muscle growth and fat loss:

Caloric Intake: Calculate your daily caloric needs based on your goals (bulking or cutting).
Macronutrients: Balance your intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Aim for high protein to support muscle repair and growth.
Micronutrients: Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

4. Incorporate Cardio

Cardio helps with fat loss and improves cardiovascular health. Include both steady-state and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions in your routine.

5. Practice Posing

Posing is a critical aspect of bodybuilding competitions. Practice regularly to perfect your form and presentation on stage.

6. Rest and Recovery

Allow your body to recover with adequate sleep and rest days. Overtraining can lead to injuries and hinder progress.

7. Stay Consistent and Patient

Building a competition-ready physique takes time and dedication. Stay consistent with your training and diet, and be patient with your progress.

8. Seek Professional Guidance

Consider working with a coach or trainer who specializes in natural bodybuilding. They can provide personalized advice and help you stay on track.

9. Join a Community

Engage with other natural bodybuilders for support and motivation. Online forums, social media groups, and local gyms can be great places to connect.

Click here to buy 1-Test Cyp/DHB 100 by Dragon Pharma

Qualifications

The qualifications for natural bodybuilding competitions vary slightly between organizations but generally follow these principles:

Drug-Free Status: Athletes must demonstrate they have been drug-free for a specific period, typically between 5 to 10 years. They are required to pass a drug test, usually through urine samples or polygraph tests, to prove they haven't used banned substances like steroids, hormones, or other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Membership Requirements: Competitors often need to be members of the organizing federation. For example, in the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF), athletes must have a valid WNBF membership to compete.

Amateur and Pro Divisions: Most competitions have both amateur and professional divisions. To qualify for a pro division, an athlete must first win an amateur event or obtain a “pro card” by performing exceptionally in a recognized event.

Age and Gender Categories: Athletes are categorized by age and gender. Categories typically include juniors (under 23), open divisions, masters (over 40), and grandmasters (over 50).

Entry and Registration: Competitors must pay an entry fee and complete registration. For certain competitions, a pre-qualification based on past performance may be required.

Distinction Between Natural and Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

The main differences between natural and steroid-based bodybuilding revolve around the methods used to build muscle and the resulting impacts on the body. Here are some key distinctions:

Natural Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Achieved through consistent weight training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. Muscle growth is gradual and sustainable.
Health: Generally safer with fewer side effects. Promotes overall health, including better cardiovascular health, improved metabolism, and increased bone density.
Appearance: Natural bodybuilders tend to have a more balanced and proportionate physique. Muscle definition is less extreme compared to steroid users.
Recovery: Recovery times are longer, requiring more rest between intense workouts.
Competitions: Natural bodybuilding competitions often have strict drug-testing policies to ensure participants are not using performance-enhancing drugs.

Related Article: T3 Application in Building Muscle Mass

Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Steroids significantly accelerate muscle growth and strength gains. Results are more dramatic and achieved in a shorter time.
Health Risks: Steroid use can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage, cardiovascular problems, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects like mood swings.
Appearance: Steroid users often have a more “enhanced” look with larger muscle mass, visible veins, and extreme muscle definition, even in the off-season.
Recovery: Faster recovery times due to the anti-inflammatory effects of steroids, allowing for more frequent and intense training sessions.
Side Effects: Visible side effects can include acne, hair loss, gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men), and changes in secondary sexual characteristics.

Choosing Between the Two

Natural Bodybuilding: Ideal for those who prioritize long-term health, sustainable muscle growth, and a balanced lifestyle.
Steroid-Based Bodybuilding: Often chosen by those seeking rapid and extreme muscle gains, but it comes with significant health risks and ethical considerations.

Take Away

The main advantage of participating in natural bodybuilding events is the emphasis on health and sustainability. Natural bodybuilding promotes muscle growth through consistent training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest, leading to gradual and sustainable results. This approach minimizes health risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs, such as liver damage and cardiovascular issues. Additionally, natural bodybuilding fosters a balanced and proportionate physique, and the strict drug-testing policies in competitions ensure a fair and level playing field for all participants. This focus on overall well-being and ethical competition makes natural bodybuilding a healthier and more sustainable choice.

Share on Social Media