Steroids
5 Fitness Tips While Gyms Are Closed
Fitness Tips
COVID-19 still hasn't gone away, and unfortunately, it will stay with us for a while, at least until scientists come up with an effective vaccine. While all areas of life are affected, gyms are one of those places that are hit hard. Because a lot of people exercise in a constricted space, touch the equipment on the same spots, and spend time indoors, in a (poorly) artificially ventilated space. In many countries, gyms are still closed, as they are a perfect place to spread the virus. Sure, maybe they are still open in your country, but going there isn't that smart. Fitness Tips are one of he best things you can know in nowadays.
Plus, you will need to wear a mask and protective gloves, and watch out for other gym goers that come near. Making sure you are keeping a proper distance. All of that is anything but comfortable, which is why people ask how to stay fit while gyms are closed. At least until this COVID-19 nightmare passes.
This article will tell you all about that, giving you 5 Fitness Tips on how to stay fit during the pandemic. Tips are quite simple, and it won't require too much effort or preparation to follow them, only some dedication, so start by reading the article to the end.
First Things First - What Will You Miss The Most
This article is intended for people who don't have a full home gym set up in their garage. If you do - good for you! If you have all the equipment at home, you won't miss anything but hotties exercising around you, and bros to talk about your PRs. But, for the rest of us, things will be much different. Most people go to the gym because of the equipment there. Tones and tones of weights (literally), machines, cardio equipment, all ready to use immediately.
If your #1 goal is to get bigger and stronger, the thing you will miss the most when not working out at the gym will be the weights. Without appropriate free-weight equipment, you will not build strength and size the way you were used to, and you will have to adjust.
Related Article:: 5 Home Gym Essentials To Build A Great Body
Lack Of Adequate Weight Issues
And if you don't have a barbell with the needed weight, your strength lifts will suffer the most. If you don't do squats, deadlifts, and presses, your numbers will drop, and there's no way to avoid that.
However, the good news is that muscle memory exists, and you will be back to where you were as soon as you get back to the gym. Also, if you continue to exercise with what you have, you will prevent muscle decay. Which will also contribute to getting your numbers back to where they used to be.
As for the size, there are more options to keep it (which we will discuss later), but again, without a good old barbell. You can't expect the same amount of gains you had when visiting the gym regularly.
What To Focus On of this Fitness Tips?
Your focus when not visiting the gym should be a bit different - staying fit. While being strong and big is also a part of fitness, now that you don't have access to gym equipment is an excellent time to work on other fitness areas you were lacking.
While strength and size do get the hype, there are other things you can focus on to get fitter - getting leaner, increasing endurance, power, mobility, flexibility, improving nutrition. In the sections below, we will talk about all of them. Giving you ideas that will help you create interesting routines that will keep you busy and make you healthier.
1 Clean Up Your Nutrition - one of the best Fitness Tips
When your main goal is to get as big as possible, and to lift as much as possible, having clean nutrition is not exactly the priority. As a meathead, you are probably looking to get as much fuel as possible. As long as it has protein and calories in it, it's good. The only exception would be the cutting season, where you do watch out what you eat. But, let's face it, you are mostly compensating for poor nutrition by lifting super hard.
However, now that the gym is unavailable, continuing to eat the same way will result in you getting fat. To prevent that from happening, it is a good idea to clean up your eating habits.
Now that you are spending more time home, try to prepare most of your meals yourself. In other words, stay away from junk food. If you are working from home, there is absolutely no reason why you should eat on the street or order delivery from fast-food restaurants. Also, try to ditch soda and sweets too. Opt for cleaner, home-cooked food, at least for the majority of what you eat.
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Also, make sure you keep the relative protein intake high. Switching to clean eating will probably result in eating fewer calories, which is likely to put you in a caloric deficit. To ensure you are preserving muscle mass, eat enough protein, around 1 gram per pound of body weight per day. Meat, eggs, cheese, peanuts but also protein powders are all viable sources to get quality protein. Of course, to preserve muscle mass you need to exercise too; only eating protein alone is not enough.
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2 Get Some Essential Equipment
Bodyweight exercises are an excellent way to keep your muscles engaged when you are not able to visit the gym. That makes them a perfect option for home quarantine workouts, but also for traveling. And if you are creative, you can train any muscle group without any equipment. You can use chairs to perform dips, tables to do rows, or door for pull-ups. But, that will only get you so far, and it will be a much better decision to get some >> GYM Essential fitness equipment for home gyms.
Getting just a pair of heavy dumbbells and a pull-up bar will give you so many workout options, which makes these two pieces of equipment an absolute must. The good news is that you don't need to spend a fortune to get them. Also, if you are really short on funds, getting a pair of used dumbbells is going to be even cheaper. However, visiting garage sales is not exactly the brightest idea during a pandemic.
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Of course, the more money you have, the more equipment you can get. Just be careful about constricted space, as gym equipment tends to be large, exercise machines especially.
3 Focus On Other Training Modalities
Considering that exercising at home means limited weights, you will need to be creative when creating workout plans. Things are easy at the gym - you just try to lift more weight than the last time. Because you have more weights than you will ever need around, you will always have a challenging number of plates on both sides of the bar.
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At home, things are different. Even if you have a pair of quality heavy adjustable dumbbells, you will probably find the weight lacking at some point, especially on compound movements such as deadlifts, presses, and squats. Plus, you will always be able to lift more with a barbell, as it is a two-handed exercise, which is why relying on weight alone is not a valuable option if you want to continue progressing. So, what are your other options? Here are some:
- Increase volume - the most obvious thing to do when you don't have access to heavy weight is to increase the number of reps and sets you do. You will hardly beat your one-rep deadlift PR when exercising at home. Instead, increase the number of sets and reps you perform, and go closer to failure. More sets will tax your body in a different way, and your workouts will feel harder. However, increasing volume taxes your CNS less than lifting more weight, which will mean better recovery.
- Increase frequency - because lighter weights don't tax the body as much, you will be able to train more often. This will keep you busy, keep things interesting, and also burn more calories. Of course, it is still a good idea to spread out your workouts and avoid doing the same muscle groups in consecutive days. But training 5-6 times per week when weights are lower is doable if you plan it right.
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- Decrease rest time - when weights are lower, there is absolutely no reason why you should rest as much as you did at the gym. So, forget about 5-minute rest between sets. Three minutes tops is more than enough for most movements. Cutting rest times will make the workouts more challenging, giving your muscles new growth stimulus. So try out different options in the 30 seconds to three-minute range.
- Try supersets and giant sets - another great wat to decrease rest times is to perform supersets and giant sets. That way, you are still working out, but you are resting muscle groups that were active in one exercise while you perform the other. This is a great way to get conditioning as well as to build muscles, all that while saving time.
- Slow down - Another option to make workouts more challenging is to slow down on the eccentric (lowering) part of the lifts. This will hit your muscles hard and will cause a lot of soreness the next day. So make sure you use this tactic sparingly. It is effective, but if you are too sore the next day (or the day after that), you won't be able to work out at all.
- Try isometrics - performing isometric hold in the most challenging portions of exercises (such as the bottom of the squat) is extremely hard and will force your muscles to work overtime. Isometric holds kill inertia, which means no cheating. That will force your muscles to do all the work, and in the most challenging position there is, spurring new growth.
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4 Doing Some Mobility Work Won't Kill You
This article is about getting fit, and even though most guys only care about size and somewhat strength, mobility will keep you healthy in the long run. Therefore, use this opportunity, and do some mobility work to fix those imbalances years of neglect created.
Working on your mobility and flexibility will not only make you feel better as it will take care of those nagging pains and clicks you feel often, it will also keep you injury-free. So, by taking care of your body now, you will develop good habits. All of which will help you prevent injuries when you do get back to the gym. And no injuries means more time spent lifting, which will translate to more gains and new personal records. In other words, not only that a little yoga or foam rolling won't kill you. It can help you get bigger and stronger, just indirectly.
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5 Train Outside
Lastly, we have another part of fitness that meatheads avoid - cardio. Yes, running on a treadmill or cycling on a stationary bike is boring, there's no denying that. That's why you've always made excuses not to do cardio. But, things have changed, and now that you don't go to the gym it's time to work on your cardio by exercising outside.
Walking, jogging, or cycling outside is much more fun than doing the same activities indoors. You get to enjoy nature, spend time on the fresh air, in a corona-safe environment. Of course, all that while burning fat and working on your conditioning. Furthermore, you can stop at a local park and do a few sets on a pull-up bar or dip station. Also, it will help you build muscle mass, making outside exercise a win-win situation. So don't avoid it anymore, lace your shoes, and hit the track today!
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Conclusion
As you can see, there are many ways to stay fit (or get fit) even without gyms. What's more important, you will still continue to exercise regularly, and you won't lose that valuable habit. And as soon as the gyms open, you will get back where you belong. Getting your gains and PRs back where they belong too. And who knows, you might keep some of the habits build during the quarantine too, even after you get back to the gym.
So stay persistent, and make sure you exercise regularly, no matter which type of activity you choose. Let us know in the comments below how you are getting buy during the pandemic? How you are managing to stay fit when gyms are not available.
Bodybuilding
How Effective is Bone Broth for Recovery?
Bone broth has gained popularity in the fitness community, including among bodybuilders, due to its potential benefits for recovery. It is a nutrient-dense liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues for an extended period. This process extracts a variety of beneficial compounds and nutrients. Here's how it is effective for post-workout recovery:
1. Bone Broth is Rich in Collagen and Gelatin:
Bone broth is high in collagen, a protein that supports joint, tendon, and ligament health. Gelatin, derived from collagen, may help reduce joint pain and inflammation, which is beneficial after intense workouts.
2. Amino Acid Profile:
Bone broth contains important amino acids like glycine, proline, and glutamine. These amino acids support muscle repair and growth, immune function, and gut health—all crucial for recovery.
3. Electrolytes and Hydration:
It provides electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which help with hydration and muscle function. Proper hydration is key to recovery and preventing cramps or muscle fatigue.
4. Mineral Content:
Bone broth is rich in essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These minerals contribute to bone health and muscle contraction, supporting recovery.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
The nutrients in the broth may help reduce inflammation, speeding up recovery and reducing soreness after workouts.
6. Supports Gut Health:
Bone broth can help heal and maintain the gut lining, which is important for nutrient absorption and overall recovery.
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How to Prepare Bone Broth at Home
Preparing bone broth at home is straightforward and can be customized to fit your dietary needs for muscle recovery. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- Bones: Use a mix of beef, chicken, pork, or fish bones. Marrow bones, knuckles, and joints are especially rich in collagen.
- Vegetables (optional): Carrots, celery, onions, and garlic add flavor and nutrients.
- Vinegar: 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar help draw out minerals from the bones.
- Herbs and Spices (optional): Bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and peppercorns for added flavor.
- Water: Enough to cover the bones and vegetables.
Instructions to Prepare Bone Broth
- Prepare the Bones:
- Roasting (optional but recommended): Roast the bones in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes. This enhances the flavor of the broth.
- Place Bones in a Pot:
- Transfer the bones to a large stockpot, slow cooker, or pressure cooker.
- Add Vegetables and Vinegar:
- Add your chosen vegetables and the apple cider vinegar to the pot. Vinegar is crucial as it helps extract the minerals from the bones.
- Cover with Water:
- Add enough water to cover the bones by about 2 inches. Avoid adding too much water, as it can dilute the broth.
- Cooking Time:
- Stovetop: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 12-24 hours. The longer you simmer, the more nutrients you extract.
- Slow Cooker: Set on low and cook for 12-24 hours.
- Pressure Cooker: Cook on high pressure for 3-4 hours.
- Skim the Foam:
- During the first hour of cooking, you might notice some foam rising to the top. Skim it off with a spoon to keep the broth clear.
- Add Herbs and Spices (optional):
- In the last hour of cooking, add any herbs or spices for flavor.
- Strain the Broth:
- Once the broth is done, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot or large container to remove the bones and vegetables.
- Cool and Store:
- Let the broth cool. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it in portions for longer storage.
- Use the Broth:
- You can drink the broth as-is, use it as a base for soups or stews, or incorporate it into your post-workout meals.
Tips for Muscle Recovery:
Consume Post-Workout: Drink a cup of warm bone broth after workouts to replenish lost electrolytes and support muscle repair.
Mix with Protein: Combine bone broth with a protein-rich meal or snack for optimal recovery.
Regular Consumption: Incorporate the broth into your daily diet to consistently benefit from its nutrients.
Making the broth at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavor, ensuring a nutrient-rich recovery drink tailored to your needs.
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Incorporating Bone Broth In Your Diet
Incorporating bone broth into your bodybuilding diet can be both delicious and beneficial. Here are some creative ways to include it:
- Post-Workout Drink: Simply heat up a cup of bone broth and drink it after your workout. It’s a great way to replenish electrolytes and protein.
- Smoothies: Add a scoop of bone broth protein powder to your post-workout smoothie. It blends well with fruits and other ingredients.
- Soups and Stews: Use bone broth as a base for soups and stews. It’s an excellent way to add flavor and nutrients to your meals.
- Cooking Grains: Cook your rice, quinoa, or other grains in the broth instead of water. This enhances the flavor and nutritional content.
- Sauces and Gravies: Incorporate bone broth into sauces and gravies for added depth of flavor and health benefits.
- Marinades: Use bone broth as a base for marinades for meats and vegetables. It adds a rich flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
- Bone Broth Ice Cubes: Freeze bone broth in ice cube trays and add the cubes to your dishes as needed. This is a convenient way to add a nutritional boost to any meal.
- Bone Broth Tea: Mix bone broth with herbs and spices to create a savory tea. This can be a soothing and nutritious drink.
These methods can help you enjoy the benefits of bone broth while keeping your diet varied and interesting. Have you tried any of these methods before?
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Which Animal's Bones Give the Best Broth?
Different animal bones can be used to make broth, each offering unique benefits for bodybuilding recovery. Here are some of the best options:
Beef Bones: Beef bones, especially marrow bones, knuckles, and joints, are rich in collagen and gelatin, which support joint health and muscle recovery. They also provide a deep, rich flavor and are packed with minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Chicken Bones: Chicken bones, particularly those from the feet and wings, are high in collagen and gelatin. Chicken broth is lighter in flavor but still rich in nutrients that aid in muscle repair and joint health.
Fish Bones: Fish bones, especially from oily fish like salmon, are excellent for a lighter broth that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and promote recovery.
Pork Bones: Pork bones, including the feet and hocks, are also good sources of collagen and gelatin. They produce a flavorful broth that can support joint and muscle health.
Lamb Bones: Lamb bones are another great option, providing a rich, flavorful broth that is high in collagen and minerals.
Each type of bone broth has its own unique flavor and nutritional profile, so you might want to try different ones to see which you prefer and which best supports your recovery needs.
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Overall
Can I use bone broth while on steroids? Yes, bone broth can be beneficial for bodybuilders who are using steroids or other supplements, as it provides essential nutrients that support overall health and recovery. Steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs often place additional stress on the body, particularly on the liver, kidneys, joints, and connective tissues. As mentioned, bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, amino acids like glycine and proline, and minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which help support joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote gut health. These benefits are especially important for bodybuilders using steroids, as these drugs can sometimes exacerbate joint pain, weaken connective tissues, or cause digestive issues.
Additionally, bone broth can help with hydration and provide electrolytes, supporting muscle function and recovery. While it shouldn't replace other key nutrients and should be used alongside a well-rounded diet and supplement regimen, bone broth can serve as a natural, nutrient-dense addition that helps mitigate some of the side effects of steroid use and enhances overall recovery and performance.
Steroids
Sleeping Positions for Effective Muscle Recovery
Sleeping positions can significantly impact muscle recovery for bodybuilders. Here's how:
1. Blood Flow and Circulation
- Optimal Position: Sleeping on your back with a pillow to support the natural curve of your spine.
- Benefit: This position helps maintain proper alignment, ensuring unobstructed blood flow, which is essential for delivering nutrients and oxygen to muscles, facilitating recovery and growth.
2. Spinal Alignment
- Optimal Position: Sleeping on your back or side with proper pillow support.
- Benefit: Proper spinal alignment reduces strain on muscles and ligaments, preventing aches and promoting overall muscle recovery.
3. Muscle Relaxation
- Optimal Position: Sleeping on your back with arms at your sides or on your stomach with a pillow under your hips.
- Benefit: These positions help muscles relax and reduce tension, which is crucial after intense workouts.
4. Reduction of Inflammation
- Optimal Position: Elevating legs slightly while sleeping on your back.
- Benefit: Elevation can reduce swelling and inflammation in the legs, which is beneficial for muscle recovery.
5. Prevention of Pressure Points
- Optimal Position: Sleeping on your back or switching sides periodically.
- Benefit: Avoiding prolonged pressure on one area prevents discomfort and muscle stiffness after trt bodybuilding.
6. Quality of Sleep
- Optimal Position: A position that ensures you sleep deeply and without interruptions.
- Benefit: Deep, uninterrupted sleep is crucial for the release of growth hormone, which aids in muscle repair and growth.
Best Sleeping Positions for Muscle Recovery
Here are some effective positions for muscle recovery:
- Child’s Pose: Kneel down, sit back on your heels, and stretch your arms forward.
- Downward Dog: Form an inverted V shape with your body, stretching your hamstrings and calves.
- Cobra Stretch: Lie face down, lift your upper body, and arch your back.
- Pigeon Pose: Stretch your hip flexors and glutes by crossing one leg over the other.
- Seated Forward Fold: Sit with legs extended, reach for your toes, and stretch your hamstrings.
- Cat-Cow Stretch: Alternate between arching and rounding your spine on all fours.
- Standing Quadriceps Stretch: Grab your ankle behind you and gently pull to stretch your quads.
- Hamstring Stretch: Sit with one leg extended, bend the other knee, and reach for your toes.
- Butterfly Stretch: Sit with soles of your feet together and gently press your knees toward the floor.
- Hip Flexor Stretch: Lunge forward, keeping your back leg straight, and feel the stretch in your hip flexors.
- Triceps Stretch: Reach one arm overhead and bend at the elbow, gently pulling your elbow with the other hand.
- Standing Calf Stretch: Step one foot back, press your heel into the ground, and lean forward.
- Lying Quad Stretch: Lie on your side, bend your top knee, and grab your ankle to stretch your quads.
- Side Lunge Stretch: Take a wide step to the side, bend one knee, and shift your weight.
- Standing Forward Fold: Bend at the waist, reaching for your toes to stretch your hamstrings and lower back.
- Wall Chest Stretch: Place your forearm against a wall and gently turn your body away after trt bodybuilding.
- Seated Spinal Twist: Sit cross-legged, twist your torso, and hold opposite knees.
- Lizard Pose: Lunge forward and place your hands inside your front foot, stretching your hip flexors.
- Supine Twist: Lie on your back, bend your knees, and drop them to one side while keeping your shoulders on the ground.
- Standing Glute Stretch: Cross one ankle over the opposite knee and gently sit back into a squat.
Tips for Improving Sleep for Muscle Recovery
Here are some tips to improve your sleep position for muscle recovery after trt bodybuilding:
- Back Sleeping: Sleeping on your back is generally recommended. It helps maintain a neutral spine alignment and reduces pressure on joints and muscles.
- Pillow Support: Use a supportive pillow that keeps your head and neck aligned with your spine. This prevents strain on neck muscles.
- Mattress Quality: Invest in a good-quality mattress that provides adequate support. A medium-firm mattress is often ideal for most people.
- Avoid Stomach Sleeping: Sleeping on your stomach can strain your neck and lower back. It also restricts deep breathing.
- Leg Elevation: Elevate your legs slightly by placing a pillow under your knees. This can reduce pressure on the lower back and improve circulation.
- Side Sleeping: If you prefer side sleeping, place a pillow between your knees to align your hips and reduce strain on the lower back.
- Avoid Twisting: Avoid twisting your body while sleeping. Maintain a straight alignment from head to toe.
- Temperature Control: Keep your bedroom cool and comfortable. The right temperature promotes better sleep quality after trt bodybuilding.
- Dark Environment: Use blackout curtains or an eye mask to create a dark sleeping environment. Melatonin production is enhanced in darkness.
- Limit Screen Time: Avoid screens (phones, tablets, TVs) before bedtime. Blue light disrupts your sleep cycle.
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Possible Medications to Improve Quality of Sleep for Muscle Recovery
Several medications can improve the quality of sleep, especially for those who have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep. Here are some commonly used medications:
Prescription Medications
- Benzodiazepines
- Examples: Temazepam (Restoril), Diazepam (Valium)
- Use: Short-term treatment of insomnia and anxiety.
- Caution: Risk of dependence and side effects like drowsiness and memory issues.
- Non-Benzodiazepine Hypnotics (Z-Drugs)
- Examples: Zolpidem (Ambien), Eszopiclone (Lunesta), Zaleplon (Sonata)
- Use: Short-term treatment of insomnia.
- Caution: May cause next-day drowsiness, dizziness, and unusual sleep behaviors.
- Melatonin Receptor Agonists
- Examples: Ramelteon (Rozerem)
- Use: Helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
- Caution: Generally well-tolerated with few side effects.
- Orexin Receptor Antagonists
- Examples: Suvorexant (Belsomra)
- Use: Treats insomnia by blocking the activity of orexin, a neurotransmitter involved in wakefulness.
- Caution: Can cause next-day drowsiness.
- Antidepressants
- Examples: Trazodone, Doxepin (Silenor)
- Use: Low doses can be prescribed for insomnia, especially in people with depression.
- Caution: Side effects can include daytime drowsiness and dizziness.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
- Antihistamines
- Examples: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Doxylamine (Unisom)
- Use: Commonly used as sleep aids.
- Caution: Can cause next-day drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation; not recommended for long-term use.
- Melatonin Supplements
- Use: Helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, especially useful for jet lag or shift work.
- Caution: Generally well-tolerated, but can cause dizziness, headaches, or nausea in some people.
- Herbal Supplements
- Examples: Valerian root, Chamomile, Lavender
- Use: Natural sleep aids that promote relaxation and sleep.
- Caution: Efficacy varies, and some may interact with other medications.
Note:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific situation and to avoid potential interactions with other medications or underlying conditions in trt bodybuilding.
- Short-term Use: Many sleep medications are intended for short-term use to avoid dependence and tolerance.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Medications should be complemented with good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding caffeine or electronic screens before bedtime.
Take Away
Anabolic Steroids
Joint Stiffness: How to Manage It While on AAS
Joint stiffness is a common issue in steroids bodybuilding and the use of androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS). Here's how it happens and what it involves:
AAS Mechanism of Action
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) work by enhancing muscle growth and strength. They enlarge muscle cells through hypertrophy, leading to increased muscle mass.
Activation of Androgen Receptors (AR)
-
- AAS, including those produced naturally (such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone), bind to and activate the androgen receptor (AR).
- The AR is present in various tissues throughout the body.
Androgenic and Anabolic Effects
AAS effects can be categorized into:
Androgenic: These relate to the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics.
Anabolic: These involve increasing bone density, muscle mass, and strength.
Impairment of Testosterone Biosynthesis
-
- In supraphysiological doses, AAS can impair testosterone biosynthesis in tissues.
- This disruption occurs due to their interaction with AR signaling.
How AAS Contribute to Joint Stiffness
Water Retention and Electrolyte Imbalance
-
- AAS can cause water retention, leading to increased fluid in the joint spaces. While this might initially seem beneficial, it can lead to stiffness if the excess fluid disrupts normal joint function.
- Electrolyte imbalances caused by AAS can affect muscle and joint function, contributing to stiffness.
Changes in Collagen Synthesis
-
- AAS can affect the synthesis and degradation of collagen, a primary component of connective tissue. This can lead to a decrease in the elasticity and resilience of tendons and ligaments, making joints feel stiffer.
Increased Muscle Mass
-
- Rapid gains in muscle mass can place additional stress on joints, which may not have time to adapt, resulting in stiffness and discomfort.
Altered Pain Perception
-
- Some AAS can alter pain perception and inflammatory responses, potentially masking injuries or causing changes in how the body responds to minor joint stresses, leading to stiffness.
Which Specific AAS Mainly Cause Joint Stiffness?
While not all anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) exhibit these adverse effects, certain ones are more prone to causing them. These include:
- Winstrol
- Masteron
- Proviron
- Halotestin
- Trenbolone
Additionally, high doses of testosterone, Dianabol, and Trestolone may also carry similar risks.
Dealing With Joint Stiffness Caused By AAS
Most AAS are dry compounds known for causing joint dryness. Some are usually wet compounds, which can lead to joint problems when taken in high doses without an aromatase inhibitor (AI), resulting in excess water retention that affects the joints.
Other AAS either have a neutral impact on the joints or enhance their strength and healing by boosting collagen production, with Nandrolone being a prime example.
To prevent joint issues when using wet AAS compounds, it is essential to use the appropriate AI dose (not too high) to manage estradiol levels and prevent excessive water retention.
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For dry compounds, follow these guidelines to avoid joint issues:
Selective Testosterone Use
Ensure the use of a Testosterone and steroids bodybuilding base to achieve adequate estradiol conversion. While excess estradiol can cause water retention and joint damage, having the right amount is crucial for joint strength and lubrication.
Proper Gym Training
Exercise caution in the gym. Continuously pursuing personal records and lifting the heaviest weights can damage joints and cause injuries. Proper stretching and warming up with lighter weights are vital.
Supplements
Supplement with joint health supplements. Fish Oil at 6g daily or Krill Oil at 3g daily is essential for every AAS user. Additionally, taking MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) at 1g daily and a few tablespoons of Collagen Powder daily will significantly benefit joint health.
Managing Other Forms of Joint Stiffness
Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down
Engaging in thorough warm-up routines before workouts and adequate cool-down exercises afterward can help maintain joint flexibility.
Hydration and Nutrition
Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin can support joint health.
Supplementation
Using joint support supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) may help alleviate stiffness.
Monitoring and Adjusting Steroid Use
Careful monitoring of AAS dosages and cycles, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, can help minimize negative effects on joint health.
Rest and Recovery
Ensuring adequate rest and incorporating rest days into training routines can help prevent overuse injuries and joint stiffness.
Physical Therapy
Engaging in physical therapy or specific joint mobility exercises can improve joint function and reduce stiffness.
Long-Term Considerations
It's important to be aware that chronic use of AAS can lead to long-term joint issues. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, including monitoring of joint health, are crucial for those using AAS over extended periods. Recognizing the signs of joint problems early and taking proactive measures can help mitigate the risk of long-term damage.
Where to Buy AAS Online
Buying legitimate androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) online can be challenging and carries significant legal, health, and ethical risks. However, if someone decides to proceed, here are some general tips on where to buy and how to check the quality:
Licensed Pharmacies (Where Legal)
In some countries, AAS can be purchased legally with a prescription from licensed pharmacies. Ensure to follow local regulations and obtain a valid prescription.
Reputable Online Retailers
Look for well-known, established online retailers with positive reviews and verified customer feedback. Forums, bodybuilding communities, and social media can provide recommendations.
Research Chemical Companies
Some companies sell research chemicals, including AAS, for "research purposes." Ensure these companies have good reputations and offer transparency about their products.
How to Check Good Quality
Third-Party Lab Testing
The best way to verify the quality of AAS and steroids bodybuilding is through third-party lab testing. Reputable sellers often provide lab reports or certificates of analysis that verify the purity and potency of their products.
Reviews and Testimonials
Check reviews on bodybuilding forums, websites, and social media platforms. Look for consistent positive feedback about product effectiveness, safety, and customer service.
Batch Numbers and Serialization
Legitimate products usually have batch numbers, expiration dates, and sometimes serialization. You can often verify these details through the manufacturer's website.
Packaging and Labels
Examine the packaging and labels for professionalism and accuracy. Poorly printed labels, misspellings, and low-quality packaging are red flags.
Customer Service
Good suppliers will have responsive and knowledgeable customer service. Ask questions about their products, sourcing, and testing procedures to gauge their reliability.
Price Comparison
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Compare prices with other reputable sources to ensure you're not buying counterfeit or low-quality products.
Related Article: Varicose Veins in Bodybuilders: Risk Factors, Diagnosis and Management
Warning and Legal Considerations
- Legality: The legality of purchasing and using AAS varies by country. In many places, it is illegal to buy AAS without a prescription. Always check local laws before purchasing.
- Health Risks: Using AAS without medical supervision can lead to severe health issues. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any steroid regimen.
- Ethical Considerations: Consider the ethical implications of using AAS, especially in competitive sports where their use is often banned.
Conclusion
While there are ways to find and verify the quality of AAS online, it's essential to approach this with caution, awareness of the legal landscape, and a focus on health and safety. Overall, your joint health while on AAS should be a first priority so your training is not hindered.
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