Steroids

Fast And Slow Acting Steroids: What’s The Difference?

Published

12 years ago

April 23, 2013

F Kyle

Many bodybuilders wonder about the steroid's half-life and how this is related to the time one or another steroid gets into the system. To clarify this question for everybody who is a novice in steroids usage or has some experience but missed this answer till now, I write down everything you need to know about fast and slow steroids.

Steps to Understand Fast And Slow-Acting Steroids

First of all, the categorization of fast/slow steroids comes from the half-lives of each anabolic. This is a term commonly used among steroid users, but not all of them know the right meaning of it. The half-life of each steroid means the time needed for a drug to be reduced to half of its dosage.

This process continues until the steroid is out of the system. Depending on the amount of time a steroid needs to reach half-life is called fast or slow.

Thus, those faster-absorbed steroids are named fast steroids, while those requiring more time for this are known as slow-acting steroids.

How Are Steroids Used?

Anabolic steroids are mainly used in two forms, injected or orals. Each bodybuilder prefers one of these ways for various reasons. People who fear needles find oral steroids the most appropriate for them. Namely, these people can praise with noticeable results in muscle growth and strength even within a few days.

The idea is that orals steroids are fast-acting anabolics that work much more rapidly and make the muscle grow several days after ingesting them. The downside is that a big part of these gains is lost after coming off steroids.

Contrary to this, injectable steroids stay longer in our system and help you preserve most of the gains made over cycling. Thereby, if usually after the steroid cycle is considered normal to lose 5%-10% of weight gained during the cycle, then the losses would be quite high in the case of an oral-based steroid cycle.

Why You Should Mix Slow-Acting and Fast-Acting Steroids

Mixing fast and slow-acting steroids is what every steroid user should do. In all steroid cycles recommended on the internet for bulking or cutting, taking injectable steroids is accompanied by one oral steroid.

This is required because oral gives a kick start while injectable continues the growth and makes the gains able to be conserved. For example, if you take testosterone-only steroids, you must wait at least ten days to begin seeing the results.

Adding to this cycle, an oral steroid like Dianabol for the first 4-6 weeks will offer a good start for the body, and when you cease it, muscles continue to grow with testosterone. The advantage is that testosterone helps you keep Dianabol's muscle gains, having a great synergetic effect.

In the case of esterified compounds like testosterone cypionate, the half-life of a drug depends on the active life of attached esters. So, test propionate is a short-life/fast-acting steroid and must be injected daily. Test cypionate needs much more time to break down by the system.

How Often To Administer Fast Steroids

In general, fast steroids have to be administered more frequently, on a daily or each other day basis. They are pretty fast assimilated, and the body needs another dose to continue building muscle. Also, fast steroids are mostly used for cutting, but this is not a rule.

All orals are considered good for a kickstart steroid cycle; the top is Dbol, Anadrol, testosterone propionate, and testosterone suspension. These are the most recommended orals to include in your cycle for bulking, cutting, or increasing strength. Among injectable steroids with fast-acting activity are test propionate, equipoise, nandrolone phenylpropionate, and others.

If you are about choosing the best of them, then it is testosterone suspension. With no esters attached and administered through injections, this steroid makes your muscle grow even in a few hours.

Although it sounds unbelievable, the truth is that this is a very potent anabolic, providing amazing strength gains. Powerlifters especially love it for this effect. It has to be injected daily before the meal.

Injections or Orals?

The downside is that injections are painful, suspended in a water vehicle, and not oil, as in other cases. Adding to this, you have to inject them daily, and even better would be to split the dose throughout the day to keep the blood hormone level stable. It becomes quite unattractive.

Also, test suspension does not fit persons looking to increase muscle mass, as it elevates strength and body characteristics. The half-lives of steroids also determine when they are detected in the blood. Fast-acting AAS can be detectable within a few days to several weeks. Long-acting steroids can remain in the body for up to one year.

This aspect is important for bodybuilders or other athletes who compete and do not want to be caught on steroids on drug tests. Those who are out of any competition look for steroids that provide gains that can be kept after ending cycling.

Exemptions to Steroid Side Effects

A steroid rule is not active in the body only when some obvious side effects occur. Even in case of no side effects, if you use long-acting steroids, it continues to be in your body for a long time ahead. Remember this every time you are about to run a new steroid cycle to avoid unwanted side effects.

The difference between fast and slow-acting steroids is the amount of time they require to break down by the system. Fast steroids give results a few days from administration, while long-acting requires much more time.

Oral steroids, in proportions of 99%, are fast-acting and used as Kickstarter in a steroid cycle. They are followed by long-acting steroids, which help to preserve the gains made over the cycle.

Overall

Strength indicators can be used to test suspension for a tremendous increase in the body. The main disadvantage is painful injections each day. Other fast-acting steroids are Dbol, testosterone propionate, and Anadrol.

Click on the Banner Below to get Best Steroids Legally:-

Up Next

The Law About Anabolic Steroids

Don't Miss

What Is Steroid Aromatization

F Kyle

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

Comments

Steroids

Glutathione – The Most Underrated Antioxidant

Published

2 weeks ago

December 10, 2024

Sane

Glutathione, often referred to as the "Master Antioxidant," plays a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals and maintaining cellular health, making it an excellent supplement for bodybuilders across all age groups. Its ability to support liver detoxification, reduce inflammation, and enhance immune function is particularly beneficial for those undergoing intense training or using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Must Read: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Hormone

As mentioned, it is a potent antioxidant that the body produces naturally. It plays a key role in detoxification, immune function, and maintaining cellular health.

How Can It Help You?

Glutathione neutralizes harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and shielding cells from damage. This is especially critical for individuals using anabolic steroids or other PEDs, as these substances can increase oxidative stress, burden the liver, and hinder recovery.

Key Benefits of Glutathione Include

Liver Detoxification: Aids the liver in processing toxins, particularly those introduced by PED use.
Reduced Inflammation: Helps mitigate systemic inflammation, enhancing recovery and lowering injury risk.
Enhanced Immunity: Bolsters the immune system, keeping you healthier during intense training cycles.

Additionally, it supports skin health, reduces signs of fatigue, and promotes a general sense of well-being, making it invaluable for athletes focused on both performance and longevity.

How Is It Used?

Glutathione can be taken orally (in liposomal or reduced forms) or via injections for better bioavailability. A typical dose is 500–1000 mg daily if taken orally, or the same amount once a week if injected.

Are There Side Effects?

The hormone is usually well-tolerated. Rare side effects may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort or skin rashes, but these are uncommon. Injected glutathione is considered safe when properly administered.

Alternatives to Glutathione

There are several alternatives to glutathione that can help support your body's antioxidant defenses and overall health:

Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps neutralize free radicals and can also help regenerate glutathione in the body.

Vitamin E: Another potent antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC): A precursor to glutathione, NAC can help boost the levels in the body.

Selenium: This trace mineral works synergistically with glutathione to enhance its antioxidant effects.

Milk Thistle: Known for its liver-protective properties, milk thistle can help support glutathione production.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA): This antioxidant helps regenerate other antioxidants, including glutathione, and can improve overall antioxidant capacity.

Curcumin: Found in turmeric, curcumin has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Green Tea Extract: Rich in catechins, green tea extract provides powerful antioxidant benefits.

These alternatives can help maintain your body's antioxidant defenses and support overall health.

Legality of Glutathione Across Different Countries and Territories

The legality of glutathione supplements varies across different countries and territories. Here's a general overview:

United States

Glutathione supplements are widely available and legal in the U.S. They are regulated by the FDA under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 19942. The FDA requires that supplements be labeled accurately and that they are safe for consumption.

Canada

In Canada, glutathione supplements are also legal and regulated by Health Canada. They must meet the Natural Health Products Regulations, ensuring safety, efficacy, and quality.

European Union

Glutathione supplements are legal in the EU and are regulated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). They must comply with the EU's Novel Food Regulation if they are marketed as a new food product.

Australia

In Australia, glutathione supplements are legal and regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). They must be listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) to be legally sold.

Japan

Its supplements are legal in Japan and are regulated by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW). They must be approved as dietary supplements.

India

In India, glutathione supplements are legal and regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). They must comply with the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.

Other Countries

The legality of glutathione supplements can vary in other countries, and it's essential to check local regulations before purchasing or using them. Some countries may have stricter regulations or require specific approvals for dietary supplements.

Don't Miss: How to Manage Joint Stiffness While on AAS

It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or regulatory authority in your specific country to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations on the use of Glutathione.

Overall

By mitigating oxidative stress, glutathione helps in faster recovery, reducing injury risks, and promoting overall well-being. Additionally, its role in boosting skin health and combating fatigue adds to its appeal, contributing to both performance and longevity. However, it is essential for users to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen to ensure safety and efficacy, as individual needs and responses can vary. Glutathione's multifaceted benefits make it a valuable tool in the arsenal of bodybuilders aiming to optimize their health and performance.

Bodybuilding

14 Morning Run Safety Tips for Bodybuilding and Fitness

Published

3 weeks ago

November 28, 2024

Sane

Morning Run can be a refreshing way to start the day, but it comes with its own set of challenges and safety concerns. For bodybuilders, who often have rigorous training schedules, it's crucial to take extra precautions to ensure a safe and effective workout. Here are some essential safety tips for bodybuilders who run in the wee hours of the morning:

Must Read: Here Is How to Know Your MRV

1. Plan Your Morning Run Route

Choose a well-lit, familiar route that is safe and free from heavy traffic. Avoid secluded areas and opt for routes with plenty of pedestrian traffic. If possible, run in parks or designated running trails.

2. Wear Reflective Gear

Visibility is key when running in the dark. Wear reflective clothing, shoes, and accessories to ensure that you are seen by drivers and other pedestrians. A headlamp or flashlight can also help you see the path ahead.

3. Inform Someone Before a Morning Run

Always let someone know your running route and expected return time. This way, if something goes wrong, someone will be aware and can alert authorities if necessary.

4. Carry Identification During Morning Run

Wear an ID bracelet or carry identification in your pocket. Include your name, emergency contact information, and any medical conditions or allergies. This information can be crucial in case of an emergency.

5. Stay Alert

Keep your senses sharp and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid wearing headphones or earbuds, as they can distract you from potential dangers. Instead, listen to the sounds around you and be prepared to react quickly.

6. Run Against Traffic

When running on roads, always run against the direction of traffic. This allows you to see oncoming vehicles and gives you more time to react if needed.

7. Vary Your Routine

Don't run the same route at the same time every day. Varying your route and schedule can help prevent potential attackers from predicting your movements.

8. Carry a Personal Safety Device

Consider carrying a personal safety device, such as a whistle or pepper spray. These items can help you defend yourself if you encounter a threat.

9. Stay Hydrated

Even though it's early in the morning, your body still needs hydration. Drink water before and after your run, and consider carrying a small water bottle with you.

10. Warm Up Properly for Morning Run

Before you start running, take a few minutes to warm up. Stretching and light exercises can help prevent injuries and prepare your muscles for the workout ahead.

11. Dress Appropriately

Wear moisture-wicking clothing to keep cool and dry. Layering is essential, especially in colder months, so you can adjust your clothing as you warm up.

12. Check the Weather

Before heading out, check the weather forecast. Avoid running in extreme conditions, such as heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat. If conditions are unsafe, consider an indoor workout instead.

13. Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and find a safer location. Your safety is the top priority, and it's better to be cautious than sorry.

14. Post-Run Routine

After your run, take time to cool down and stretch. This helps reduce muscle soreness and improves flexibility. Also, refuel with a healthy breakfast to replenish your energy levels.

Analysing Your Morning Run Route

Running in unsafe areas can put you at risk, especially in the early morning when visibility is low. Here are some routes to avoid:

Secluded or Remote Areas

Avoid running in places that are far from help, such as remote trails or rural roads. These areas can be dangerous if you encounter wildlife or if you get injured and no one is around to help.

Check High-Crime Areas Before Morning Run

Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid neighborhoods with high crime rates. If you're unsure about the safety of an area, it's best to find an alternative route.

Avoid Unlit Roads During Morning Run

Running on roads without streetlights can be hazardous, especially if there's no sidewalk. Cars might not see you, and it's harder to see potential hazards on the road.

Busy Highways or Interstates

Avoid running on or near highways where traffic is fast-moving and there's little room for pedestrians. The noise and exhaust can also be harmful.

Construction Zones

Be cautious around areas with ongoing construction. There might be debris, uneven surfaces, and heavy machinery that can pose risks.

Blind Curves and Hills

Routes with sharp turns or steep hills can be dangerous because you can't see oncoming traffic. It's safer to choose routes with good visibility.

Areas with Poor Drainage Aren't Safe for Morning Run

Avoid routes that are prone to flooding or have poor drainage. Wet, slippery surfaces can lead to falls and injuries.

Unfamiliar Trails

Stick to trails you know well. Unfamiliar trails can be tricky to navigate, and you might get lost or encounter unexpected obstacles.

Overall

By following our morning run safety tips, you enjoy the benefits while minimizing the risks. Remember, safety should always come first, and taking these precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable workout experience.

Related Article: How to Regulate Your Food Quantity