Bodybuilding

What Steroids Cycles Did Bodybuilders Use Back In Day To Build Muscle Mass?

Published

11 years ago

January 15, 2014

Zizou

We get used to the high amount of gears available legally or illegally and all we have to do is to get informed about their Steroids Cycles usage. But things were not so all the time. More than 30 years ago the steroid market was limited at several steroids. Bodybuilders make great efforts to have them. There was no internet, no access to stuff we can easily check and have them ordered in just a few clicks.

Things were more complicated but what surprised us all is that bodybuilders in the past look big, with no gyno face or back acne symptoms at all. How did they manage to build huge muscles while keeping a clean, classic look? Are there any secrets which applied today will bring the same results?

Arnold Schwarzenegger is the icon of bodybuilding, and even after his retirement, he continues to be the main figure in this sport. His great physique inspired many generations to work hard in the gym and put great effort toward reaching their dreams. In the late 70s and early 80s, most of the teenagers dreamed to look like him and really believed in diet and exercising.

As Arnold has revealed many years later. He was on steroids but use them only for maintaining muscle mass while cutting, and not for muscle building. True or false- is not important, what really matters is that back in day steroids were in use. Bodybuilders take them in such a way that no visual side effects had been seen on their skin.

First Explanation Why Bodybuilders of Arnold’s Time Did Look Better While Taking AAS

Testosterone was and is by far one of the most popular steroids among the wide range of body performances drugs. The main difference it's that is the past it was used more rationally with big attention to dosage. And not that old bodybuilders were wiser, they just don have at hand the resources we have now. Well, let's explain why I said it.

Must Read: What To Know About Testosterone

When taken in higher dosage, the surplus of testosterone is converted into estrogen because of aromatizations process. The enzyme responsible for this is called estradiol and it is the one which every time a big amount of test enters the body it turns into estrogen. A high level of estrogen in the body may cause gyno, water retention, acne and all users wish to avoid them.

More than thirty years ago there were no anti aromatization drugs, so bodybuilders were obliged to keep dosage low in order to not be assaulted by side effects. Nolvadex, Letrozole appeared a bit later, at the beginning of 80’ years when Arnold announced already about his retirement.

Must Read: SERMs vs Anti-Aromatase During An Anabolic Steroid Cycle

Dosages

Taking a maximum dosage of 200mg-250mg of test weekly was a norm and few were those who exceed it. Just imagine who dared to appear in public with gyno or acute acne on back or chest, without being blamed?! Taken in such dosage, estradiol was kept in normal range, hence no side effects occurred.

So, due to the lack of anti-aromatase drugs back in the day, aromatization was a sufficient reason to keep testosterone usage at a lower dosage. What happens today is a totally another picture. With the big array of anti-aromatase drugs at disposal, testosterone is used in much higher dosage, up to 1000mg per week. In result, we see many cases of severe adverse effects.

The Second Reason Is Genetics

The Second Reason is Genetics

Those times only naturally gifted persons succeed in bodybuilding with minimal usage of steroids. Good genetics cause the body to be productive at the low amount of roids which mixed with hard training and diet produce amazing results. Back in time, if you had good genetics you could go further with your training, if not it was better to stop it. Increasing the dosage of a test was not a solution, but, unfortunately, it is today.

So many individuals stubbornly continue to build muscle through high dosage of AAS which leads to serious health problems. From this perspective, Arnold had good genetics which along with steroids help him to build the best body ever. And this is available for all elite of that times.

The Third Reason Us Steroids Quality

The Third Reason is Steroids Quality

Back in the day, there were few steroids like - test, Dbol, Deca-Durabolin(nandrolone decanoate), Primobolan(methenolone). Test - and all of them was of high quality. Compare to what we have today, the difference is more than obvious. The main risk when buying steroids today is to get fake products that not only produce few or no results at all but also put at risk your health.

Back day steroids were legal so they caught be bought directly from manufacturers with no prescription or other requirements. Those times have long gone since in 1991 the Government made steroids illegal and users are at own risk every time they decide to buy these products on the black market.

Some voices said that Arnolds take steroids brought from Europe which were of high quality and so gained priority over other competitors. Is it true or false, the big idea is that European AAS manufacturers continue to have a much better reputation among consumers than Mexican roids.

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Examples of Classic Steroid Cycles Used by our Predecessors

If you are about to go with a classic steroid cycle then the test is the very basic steroid. If your goal is to build a nice looking body but not participate in the competition “old fashioned” steroid cycles will really help you a lot.

You can choose to go with just test at a dosage of 500mg-750mg weekly combined with an anti-aromatase drug like Letrozole. Nice gains can be achieved while following such a cycle with no risk to your health at all.

Steroid cycle II: Test + Masteron, Primobolan, or Trenbolone. Stack 200-250 mg/week of test with any of these steroids and gain muscle mass fast safely.
Steroid cycle III: Masteron/Primobolan + Trenbolone acetate + HCG

Test miss this cycle, but its function is replaced by HCG which stimulates the production of testosterone. This dosage looks so:

500-700 mg of Masteron or Primobolan weekly;
50-75 mg of Trenbolone acetate daily;
700-1500 IU per week.

These examples of classic bulking cycles promote great results when combined with specific workout and diet.

Must Read: 5 Best Steroid Cycles for 2018

Conclusion

So, back in day bodybuilding was about genetics and quality steroids taken in much lower dosage compare to nowadays. All these factors taken together made the real gifted individuals become the elite of bodybuilding. With no sights of adverse effects on their body. No gyno, acne, water retention was seen in the generation of Arnold’s bodybuilders. Intelligent use of steroids is the key toward staying healthy while building a nice body.

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Zizou

Building muscle mass is what I like to talk about. If your aim is to build a solid body, then my posts would be very beneficial to you. I always want to know your opinion, so don't hesitate to drop a line below or contact me.

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Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

3 days 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Bodybuilding

2nd Edition of Natural Bodybuilding Competition Facts

Published

6 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.

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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.

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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.

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