Steroids

How Much of Weight You Lose After Ending a Steroid Cycle

Published

12 years ago

April 5, 2013

F Kyle

Losing weight after steroid cycle is the most of bodybuilder fears of. To get the most from steroids use, you will have to know not only how to properly plan your steroid cycle, but also how to getting off steroids to keep gains achieved over the cycling.

Many bodybuilders get through dramatic gains lose after ending a steroid cycle and tend to believe that this is the way anabolics work and there is nothing to do. As a result appeared a common stereotype that gains given by steroids go down once you cease their use.

The truth is that if abuse steroids and do not follow a post cycle therapy then you have big chances to lose almost everything you have achieved during several weeks of the cycle. Contrary, those who are on their first or second cycle and have a competent post cycle therapy will experience few, or almost no-lose after coming off.

It all depends on your approach to post cycle therapy. Knowing how steroids work, will help you to understand how much gains do you lose after a cycle? What you need to take during PCT for preserving muscle gains.

When you load up big amounts of synthetic testosterone, your body naturally tries to reach a balance. In result, it increases the estrogen level. When the testosterone use drops down, and your body doesn’t produce natural testosterone yet, the high level of estrogen in your system may cause unwanted side effects like gynecomastia.

To struggle with this, you have to take estrogens. It may sound strange but our body works in a very specific way. As big doses of testosterone increase estrogen level, the same way adding estrogen will boost your testosterone. You will have to take them within a few weeks during the steroid cycle, and continue with it two, up to four weeks after the steroids cease.

During one month the body is able to restore the own testosterone production. The smoothly is the transaction to own natural testosterone, the more benefits of steroid cycle are stored. Also, side effects are kept far away from you. For this purpose are largely used Clomid or Tamoxifen, which greatly push testicles to create own testosterone.

Must Read: HCG Dosing For Stimulation Of Testosterone Production

Another effect that occurs after taking anabolic steroids is the catabolic one. If during anabolic process muscle mass grows, then during catabolic phase muscle cells are depleted. Our body tends to keep a balance between these two stages. That’s why it releases some special receptors in muscles that take in cortisol, the chemical that triggers the catabolic process.

Steroids block these receptors, keeping the body in a continue anabolic process. Meanwhile, the body tries to defend against it and creates more and more receptors. And when the steroid cycle is finished, these receptors which are in an immense number start a strong catabolic process that may “eat” almost all your gains.

In order to minimize the catabolic effect after a steroid cycle should be included in post cycle therapy cortisol suppressors. You can choose from a wide range of products, the most common choices being B-Androstenetriol or 7-Hydroxy-DHEA.

The way you manage to keep under control estrogen and cortisol levels after coming off steroids directly depend on how much pounds you lose. The better you do it, the more muscle mass will be preserved. Steroids are not given results alone. They accelerate muscle growth, but you have to train for this. The harder you work out, the bigger would be gained.

When you go off steroids, a lot of muscle stays. You should not expect to keep the same gains as in the peak of the cycle since it will not be this way. Following an intense training program after finishing the steroid cycle will help you to keep most of the muscle you build up.

Also, there is a big difference in muscle savings between those being on their first or second cycle, and the others who cycle for years already. The more steroids you have been taking during the years, the less testosterone your body produces. This means that after going off steroids, the body needs more time to get testosterone level back up and during which it loses strength and muscles.

If you will do a search on forums regarding loses after getting off a steroid cycle, you will see that most of the bodybuilders who used chemical enhancers advice you do not waste your first chance with steroids. People agree that the most amazing results can be achieved during the first cycle.

That’s why is very important to choose the right steroid which will provide you with lean muscle mass and less water retention. You are recommended, to begin with, test-based injectable mixed with Dianabol. A 6-8 weeks cycle followed by a post cycle therapy is enough to pack on impressive muscle gains. And what is more important, since your body's own testosterone production will recover pretty fast, the losing weight on test cycle will be almost unseizable. But they will be.

After all of this being said, it becomes clear that losing weight on test cycle and strength after steroid cycle is normal and it happens with all bodybuilders. But to what extent depends on how you manage post cycle therapy, your experience with taking steroids and your future training.

Using a steroid that causes more water retention than others anabolic, would means more loss when getting off steroids. Also, individual genetics future may influence the way you stock on muscle mass.

It is not true that all gains are lost once the steroid cycle is finished. You will have more pounds than the moment you have started to take steroids, but as much as at the peak moment of cycling. There is always some losses, and you have to be aware of this.

There is a psychological barrier every steroid user have to deal with. Keeping gaining muscle mass during weeks of cycling, and then losing up to 10 percent of it can be something hard to accept.

People refuse to see the net gains and are sorry about lost strength and muscle mass. Most of them get addicted to steroids or overuse them. So, keep the sense of reality and carefully compare before steroid cycle and after gains and do not on extremes.

In short, be ready to lose 5%-10% of gains achieved during a steroid cycle. And this with condition that you will continue to work out hard, follow a rich diet and get enough sleep.

Share on Social Media

Up Next

The Diet When Running A Steroid Cycle

Don't Miss

How To Identify If Someone Is On Steroids

F Kyle

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

Comments

Steroids

Creatine vs Myostatin: An Expert’s Analysis

Published

7 days ago

March 20, 2025

Sane

Myostatin, a protein encoded by the MSTN gene, acts as a regulator of muscle growth. High levels of myostatin limit the body's ability to build muscle, effectively putting a cap on potential hypertrophy. Inhibiting myostatin has become a focal point for bodybuilders looking to break through plateaus and achieve significant muscle gains. The question is: can creatine, a popular and widely available supplement, help in this regard?

Medical History of Myostatin and Creatine

Myostatin and creatine, while popular now in the bodybuilding world, have their roots in entirely different contexts:

Myostatin: Natural Muscle Growth Regulator

Myostatin is a protein originally identified for its role in regulating skeletal muscle mass. In nature, it serves an evolutionary purpose: by limiting muscle growth, it conserves energy, ensuring that animals (and humans) don’t expend unnecessary resources maintaining excessive muscle tissue. This was especially important in the wild, where energy efficiency could mean the difference between survival and extinction.

Check Adipotide (FTPP) 10mg by Peptide Science

In the medical field, research into myostatin has focused on its role in muscle-wasting diseases. Scientists are exploring ways to inhibit myostatin to treat conditions like muscular dystrophy, where excessive muscle loss impairs quality of life. This therapeutic potential is where the idea of myostatin inhibition first began—long before bodybuilders latched onto the concept.

Creatine: Energy and Medical Applications

Creatine was originally studied for its role in energy metabolism. It’s a naturally occurring compound stored in muscle cells and plays a critical part in replenishing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy currency during short, high-intensity activities.

Before becoming a bodybuilding staple, creatine gained recognition in medical and sports science for its ability to improve athletic performance and assist with recovery. Furthermore, in medicine, creatine was investigated for neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and muscular dystrophy, given its potential to improve muscle function and brain energy metabolism.

In the sports world, it was initially adopted by sprinters and weightlifters in the 1970s and 1980s for its energy-enhancing benefits.

Both myostatin and creatine have found new life in bodybuilding circles, demonstrating how discoveries in natural physiology and medical science can lead to transformative applications in fitness.

Benefits of Creatine as a Myostatin Inhibitor

Muscle Growth Potential: Research suggests that creatine, when paired with intense resistance training, may inhibit myostatin to a degree, fostering an environment for enhanced muscle growth.

Improved Exercise Performance: Creatine is well-known for its ability to increase ATP production, translating to better performance during high-intensity activities.

Versatility Across Fitness Levels

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete, creatine offers benefits that complement various stages of muscle-building.

Must Read: A New Caffeine? What You Need to Know about Teacrine

Affordability and Accessibility

Compared to specialized myostatin inhibitors like YK-11 and ACE-031, creatine is significantly more affordable and accessible.

Side Effects of Creatine

While generally safe for most individuals, creatine supplementation does come with some potential side effects:

Water Retention: Some users experience bloating due to increased water retention in muscle cells.

Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses may lead to stomach upset or diarrhea.

Kidney Concerns: Although rare, prolonged excessive use could strain the kidneys, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Buy Methyl-1-Test 10 -100 tabs by Dragon Pharma

Alternatives to Creatine for Myostatin Inhibition

YK-11: A synthetic myostatin inhibitor derived from SARMs, offering more potent results but accompanied by more significant risks.

ACE-031: A peptide that directly inhibits myostatin, though it remains in experimental phases and is not legally approved in many regions.

Natural Alternatives

Follistatin-rich Foods: Eggs and dairy products may have natural myostatin-inhibiting properties.

Resistance Training: Intense and consistent weightlifting alone can naturally lower myostatin levels.

Where to Buy Creatine

Creatine is readily available worldwide. It can be purchased from:

Local Pharmacies and Nutrition Stores: Ideal for trusted and immediate access.

Online Platforms: Websites like Amazon, iHerb, or bodybuilding-specific stores offer a variety of brands and formulations.

Supplement Brands: Well-established brands such as Optimum Nutrition, MyProtein, and Cellucor often carry high-quality creatine.

Legality of Myostatin Inhibitors

Creatine: Creatine is completely legal and widely accepted as a dietary supplement.

YK-11 and ACE-031: These compounds exist in a legal gray area in many countries due to their experimental nature and potential risks. It's essential to research local laws before considering these options.

Best Stores and Suppliers

For reputable products, consider:

Transparent Labs: Known for purity and transparent labeling.

Optimum Nutrition: Offers pharmaceutical-grade creatine monohydrate.

Bulk Supplements: A great choice for bulk buyers seeking affordability and quality.

Our Advice to Bodybuilders

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are already using AAS or other advanced compounds.

Prioritize a balanced diet and consistent exercise routine. Supplements like creatine work best as part of a holistic approach to fitness.

Stay hydrated while using creatine to minimize water retention side effects and support kidney health.

Related Article: Best Syringes for Steroid Injection on Amazon

Overall

While creatine may not be as potent a myostatin inhibitor as advanced compounds like YK-11 or ACE-031, its affordability, safety, and accessibility make it a valuable addition to any bodybuilder's supplement stack. By leveraging its benefits alongside proper training and nutrition, you can maximize muscle growth and overcome plateaus, regardless of your fitness level.

Share on Social Media

Steroids

Raloxifene (Evista) 101: A Non-Surgical Solution for Gyno

Published

2 weeks ago

March 11, 2025

Sane

Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), is one of the most valuable yet less common options available today. Originally developed to prevent and treat breast cancer similar to Tamoxifen, it has gained popularity among bodybuilders seeking to prevent or eliminate gyno.

Click Here to Buy Evimed 60 by Deus Medicals

Unlike Tamoxifen, Raloxifene is potent enough to reduce long-standing gynecomastia and is frequently used to reverse pubertal gynecomastia. While it can also boost testosterone levels, it is one of the weaker SERMs in this regard.

How it Works

Raloxifene functions by blocking estrogen receptors in the breasts, which helps prevent or treat both gynecomastia and breast cancer. Additionally, it blocks estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, stimulating testosterone production.

Beyond these primary benefits, Raloxifene can enhance bone mass, combat osteoporosis, and lower cholesterol levels.

Potential Side Effects

While Raloxifene is considered a generally safe and effective medication, like all drugs, it comes with its own set of potential side effects. One of the most notable is the reduction in Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. IGF-1 plays a key role in muscle growth and repair, so decreased levels could potentially impact athletic performance or recovery.

However, compared to other medications in its class, Raloxifene has a relatively low risk of causing severe liver toxicity. Users are less likely to experience harmful effects such as blood clots, mood swings, or sexual dysfunction, making it a preferable choice for many.

While rare, some users might experience less serious side effects such as hot flashes, leg cramps, or flu-like symptoms. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to monitor any adverse reactions and ensure the medication is being used safely.

So, despite its efficacy, Raloxifene is not without side effects, but they are typically manageable and less severe compared to other SERMs.

Check Out Halotest 10 mg, Balkan Pharmaceuticals

For gyno reversal, the typical protocol involves taking 60mg daily for 1-2 weeks, followed by 30mg daily for up to 3 months or until the condition resolves.

Typical Protocol

For gynecomastia reversal, the typical protocol involves taking 60mg of Raloxifene per day for 1-2 weeks, followed by a reduced dose of 30mg per day for up to 3 months or until the gynecomastia is resolved. In post-cycle therapy (PCT), bodybuilders generally take 60mg per day for 4-6 weeks, and then lower the dose to 30mg per day during the last week. Raloxifene is highly effective for managing gynecomastia and supporting post-cycle recovery, making it a valuable addition to a well-optimized bodybuilding regimen.

Overall

Raloxifene (Evista) is a versatile SERM used to treat breast cancer and is popular among bodybuilders for managing gynecomastia (gyno). Unlike Tamoxifen, it effectively shrinks long-standing gyno and reverses pubertal gyno. It blocks estrogen receptors in the breast and hypothalamus, thus preventing gyno and promoting Testosterone secretion. Additionally, it improves bone mass, combats osteoporosis, and lowers cholesterol levels. For gyno, take 60mg/day for 1-2 weeks, then 30mg/day for up to 3 months. For post-cycle therapy (PCT), take 60mg/day for 4-6 weeks, then reduce to 30mg/day during the final week. This safe and effective medication has minimal side effects.

Share on Social Media

Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

4 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.