The Truth about Low Dose Cycles

Many people write that 200mg of testosterone per week does nothing more than shut down a man's natural test production and bring him near "normal levels"--this is not quite correct (part of the statement is correct part of it is not). This incorrect statement has endured probably because someone wrote down thier idea/theory of what happens in the body, it sounded good, and other people repeated it. But, it is not correct. Yes, 200mg of a long lasting ester of testosterone will shut down natural test production, BUT the amount of 200mg of a long lasting ester of testosterone is more than twice the "normal levels" of test in the body of a healthy non-steroid using male. Therefore, 200mg of a long lasting ester of testosterone per week is far more than enough to grow on.

Using a long acting ester testosterone (test cyp and test enanth) does not mimic the normally functioning male body's circadian rhythm (daily rise and fall of testosterone). Testosterone, in a normally functioning body, does not explode up to high levels then gradually fall over a 1-2 week period as it does when injecting a testosterone such as CYP or ENAN. On the contrary, the body produces a small amount each day which is far below 200mg (It's around 10mg). That small amount is concentrated at the beginning of the day and then falls low by the end of the day. This process repeats itself every day and by the end of two weeks, a normally functioning body produces approximately 140mg of testosterone (appx. 70mg per week).

The use of long acting esters are in theory supposed to slowly release the testosterone over a two week period, but this is not quite what happens. To keep it simple, the delay of the esters actually allows large amounts of testosterone to build up--especially if you are taking 200mg every week as opposed to once every two weeks (biweekly) which is what the dose is supposed to be. (I'm simplifying here). Remember the "normally functioning" male produces only (appx.) 70mg per week (=140mg per two weeks). The dose doctors are recommended to perscribe is 200mg every 2 weeks (biweekly), but they tend to give 200mg every week.

So, it is fallacious reasoning to compare the TOTAL amount of testosterone produced in daily spurts in a normally functioning body over a 2 week period to the same amount of testosterone injected in one shot at the beginning of a week and reshot every week (before the previous week's dose is used up). The latter case (injections once per week) results in an overlap and build up of dose which causes the levels of testosterone to be HIGHER than normal. (Remember the shots should actually be 200mg every TWO weeks--not every week). These excess levels of testosterone are sufficient to build lean body mass faster than the "normally functioning" male.

In other words: addding up what the average male body produces per week then comparing that to the amount that is shot every week is like comparing apples to oranges. There is a whole diferent set of advantageous reactions happening in the body when it is given a full
2-week load (200mg) at the beginning of a week as opposed to getting naturally occuring, small, daily spurts of appx 10mg over the same period of time (2 weeks).

This is why a low dose cycle can yeild REASONABLE gains. Understand, I'm not talking mega-huge-fast gains. I'm talking noticably-faster-than-normal gains, which when coupled with a strict diet, sufficient rest and an excellent bodybuilding work ethic, can yeild large, solid gains (especially early in a person's cycle experience).

Effects of Winstrol

The effects of Winstrol are more than welcomed by most performance enhancing athletes. From gains in strength to enhanced and superb conditioning the effects of Winstrol have something for just about everyone. A solid DHT derived anabolic steroid, Winstrol is one of the few anabolic steroids that can be used by both men and women, making it one of the most popular anabolic steroids of all time. Of course, this steroid is not without downsides, for if you put something in your body, no matter what it is there's always a potential risk for adverse side-effects. Available in an oral tablet as well as an injectable solution, in either case the hormone is the same, and with responsible use can benefit almost any athlete tremendously.

The Positive Effects of Winstrol

Stanozolol is a powerful Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) derived anabolic steroid most commonly known by the name given to it by its developer Sterling-Winthrop Laboratories as Winstrol. By its nature, Winny, as it is often called is mildly androgenic with a strong anabolic nature that greatly increases nitrogen retention and protein synthesis. While these are two welcomed traits, it is the hormones ability to lower SHBG that makes it special. When SHBG decreases we now have more free testosterone to pull from, and what's more is this hormone has this effect to a higher degree than just about any anabolic steroid.

What does this all mean? Stanozolol is one of the easier anabolic steroids to understand, but how do the positive effects of Winstrol translate to the athlete? Often, when many people think of Stanozolol they think of the 1988 Summer Olympics, when Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson destroyed the competition. Johnson, who won handedly over the favored Carl Lewis tested positive for Stanozolol, and was stripped of his medals, but it was through the use of this hormone by Johnson that we really saw it shine. Put simply, the effects of Winstrol largely surround enhanced strength and performance, and this can be translated into both direct physical strength and speed.

Strength and speed are not the only positive effects of Winstrol, as conditioning is paramount. The vast majority of those who supplement with anabolic steroids do so for visual effects. We're not only referring to physique athletes, but the everyday gym rat, as they make up the majority of performance enhancing athletes. The effects of Winstrol can lend to a harder and more defined physique, as well as one that is more vascular in appearance. By its nature, Stanozolol can greatly preserve lean tissue when calories are restricted, preserve strength that is often lost when dieting, and simply lead to a more pleasing physique looking back from the other side of the mirror.

The Negative Effects of Winstrol

Like all anabolic steroids, Stanozolol is not without downsides. If it's an anabolic steroid there is a potential for adverse reactions, but this does not only apply to anabolic steroids, it applies to anything we put into our body. All medications, from prescriptions to over the counter medications carry significant possible side-effects. Even the foods we eat can cause adverse reactions. Think about it, there are tons of people who cannot take Aspirin or Tylenol, and there are millions who can't drink milk or eat peanuts. Individual response is a huge factor when discussing the effects of absolutely anything.

Beyond individual response, we must also take into account responsibility, and again, we turn to Aspirin. You may indeed be one who responds in a positive fashion to Aspirin, but if you take an entire bottle should you expect to be OK? Of course not, you'll undoubtedly run into some serious problems. Further, as it pertains to negative effects, a key point often neglected is education. Knowing what the adverse effects are can be quite useful, as it allows us to not only combat them, but often to even avoid them. So what are the possible adverse effects of Winstrol, that's the obvious question and they include:

High Cholesterol. If you already suffer from high cholesterol you should avoid the Stanozolol hormone; in-fact, you should avoid most anabolic steroids. If you have a healthy cholesterol level you will want to supplement responsibly to ensure it stays this way. This means avoiding high doses and use far beyond recommended total durations. Further, following a diet that is cholesterol friendly is very important. This is something you should already be doing, but it becomes even more important when supplementing with anabolic steroids. If you're a healthy adult and you can do these things you can avoid the cholesterol related effects of Winstrol.

Liver Toxicity. Winstrol, both the oral and injectable form belong to the C17-aa class of anabolic steroids, and by this nature are toxic to the liver. This nature is necessary to the hormones survival, for without the C17-aa nature the liver would destroy the hormone before the body could use it. When we supplement with Stanozolol our liver values will increase, and they can increase quite substantially. Again, individual response and total dosing will play a large role, but our levels will go up nonetheless. To keep the liver healthy you are encouraged to avoid regular alcohol consumption and any other activity that may cause undue stress to the liver. Even avoiding over the counter medications where you can is advisable, as many over the counter medications are far more toxic to the liver than Winstrol. Further, and this is very important; if you are responsible with your doses, duration of use and live a liver healthy lifestyle, once use is discontinued your liver values will return to normal very quickly, and no permanent damage will be done.

Hair-Loss. As is common with many DHT based anabolic steroids, one of the effects of Winstrol can be hair-loss. If you are predisposed to male-pattern baldness there is a fairly good chance you may lose a little hair. It's important to keep in mind you were going to lose this hair to begin with, the use of Winstrol simply sped the process up. Conversely, if you are not predisposed to male-pattern baldness you will not lose the first hair on your head.

Acne. As is with hair-loss, acne is largely genetically driven. If you are sensitive to acne you will be the one who has the first problem. Those who are not sensitive and who are not using contaminated products should be fine. Further, if you are sensitive there are things you can do to protect yourself. Staying very clean is very important, and if this means taking an extra shower each day then so be it. Moreover, you are encouraged to change your shirt when it becomes sweaty. For example, if you work out and are not showering at the gym, even if you're going to shower as soon as you get home you're going to want to change your shirt before you go home. Staying clean and using clean products will go a long, long way.

Testosterone Suppression. When we supplement with anabolic steroids our natural testosterone production is suppressed. This applies to Winstrol just as it does any steroid. For this reason, most men will need to supplement with testosterone when they supplement with Stanozolol. The form does not matter as long as you're providing the body what it needs. As testosterone production is suppressed testicular atrophy will occur. However, once use is discontinued and all anabolic steroids have cleared your system testosterone production will begin again, and your testicles will return to their normal size.

Virilization (Females). When females supplement with anabolic steroids they run a risk of virilization. Such effects can be very damaging to a woman's femininity and include:

- Deepening of the Vocal Chords

- Body-Hair Growth

- Clitoral Enlargement

- Disrupted Menstrual Cycle

The majority of anabolic steroids will cause such problems in women, but there are a few like Winstrol that can be used without such effects. Make no mistake, Stanozolol can cause these problems, the odds of controlling them are simply low if you are responsible. If a female supplements with Stanozolol and the adverse effects of Winstrol of a virilizing nature occur she should discontinue use immediately. If you discontinue as soon as the symptoms show they will fade away and you'll be fine. If you ignore them they can set up shop permanently.

Anabolic Steroid Basics for Beginners

Esters:
You must understand esters. Esters are attached to AAS compounds. The ester acts as a kind of time releasing vehicle. Esters are broken down in the blood stream and thus the AAS compound is freed. Long-acting esters slowly break down, and fast-acting esters break down more rapidly. Half-life describes this occurrence.
Common Ester names in no particular order:
 Enanthate
 Cypionate
 Decanoate
 Phenylpropionate
 Propionate
 Isocaproate
There are blends, or mixtures of tests each with their own ester. These are mutli-esterified. An example is Sustanon 250, Omnadren 250, and Aratest.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA):
Secondly you must understand the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis and the affect Anabolic Androgenic steroids has on your HPTA. The use of AAS has a negative affect on your HPTA, which I'll put in simple terms. For a detailed explanation see the following link:

The body is always looking to establish homeostasis, a balance in the body. Upon the introduction of AAS to the body, you begin to reduce your own production. Some AAS compounds are harsher to your HPTA and shut your natural production down hard. A rebound from this shutdown is taxing on the body upon discontinuing use of AAS. Other compounds must be used to help the body return to homeostasis.
The compounds that are harsh on your HPTA will also be harsh on your libido; your sexual drive, and for men can result in a limp penis.
Such compounds that are harsh on the HPTA are:
Trenbolone (fina)
Deca-Durabolin
It is therefore, advisable for at least the sakes of sex, to keep Testosterone as a base for any AAS cycle.

Testosterone as a base:
There are limits to the length of cycle use. When you being AAS use, it takes time for the body to 'swap' its natural testosterone with the synthetic compound. The times vary with the particular ester used. However a short AAS cycle will most likely only result in a shut down of HPTA and not leave the body exposed to the synthetic testosterone long enough for positive gains. Too long of a cycle, and your suppressed HPTA will have a harder time recovering.
Further, the body can develop more or less immunities to AAS on cycles ran too long and cycles ran at too high of a dose.
Secondly, the body has limits for how much it can grow. A longer, higher dosed cycle will not be more effective simply because of the body's tolerance and limited ability to grow.
My own guideline for a first and second time user is any cycle ran less than 8 weeks is too short; any cycle ran longer than 15 weeks is excessive. 10-14 weeks is a good range for a first and second time user.

Estrogen:
Estrogen levels will be elevated during the use of AAS. Remember Homeostasis. Application of either anti-estrogen or anti-aromatizer.

The body has AS receptors and estrogen receptors. Your goal in using AAS is to flood the AS receptors. Your goal is not to flood the estrogen receptors.
How an anti-estrogen works is that it attaches itself to the estrogen receptors so that estrogen will not. Therefore the estrogen remains free floating in your blood stream but unable to leech onto the receptors and take action.
How and anti-aromatizer works is that it prevents the aromatization of steroids. It prevents the compounds conversion into estrogen. This however has the ability to weaken the effect of the steroid compound.
Zero estrogen is not desirable. Some estrogen is necessary, but too much can cause complications such as gynocomastia (man boobies) and water retention to name a few.

Common side effects while on Anabolic Steroids:
Users may experience a number of side effects due to increased synthetic testosterone levels as well as due to increased estrogen levels.
 Cardiovascular complications: High blood pressure can result from use of AAS and with heart problems should seek medical consultation. Combined water/sodium retention and the fact that steroids actually can elevate the cholesterol and triglyceride levels gives explanation to this condition. It is also why some athletes experience a reduction in stamina.
 Acne may result from AAS use, but can be combated a number of ways that should be researched.
 Aggression may also increase while on AAS, however some experience this aggression during high exertion activities, and will otherwise feel somewhat lethargic. Feelings of lethargy, sleepiness throughout the day while on AAS may result. This will be largely affected by the amount of physical activity performed throughout the day.
 hair loss on the scalp can occur. This condition, as with the others, is dependent on the individual. Certain individuals predisposed to premature hair loss may be at a greater risk for this side effect.
 Hair gain, or activation of hair follicles on the body may also occur. Hair follicles on the chest, back, arms and other places may be stimulated.
 Certain steroids are I 7-alpha alky-lated and are toxic to the liver. It is important to note this and limit intake of foods and beverages that will also be strenuous on the liver.
 As previously noted, AAS use will result in a reduced testosterone production, a decreased spermatogenesis, and in some cases testicular atrophy. The degree of suppression depends on the duration of the steroid intake, the administered steroid, and the dosage of the steroid
 Most steroids cause a water and electrolyte imbalance in the body This results in an increased storage of water and sodium which further results in a swelling of tissue (edema)
 Gastrointestinal symptoms such as epigastric fullness, diarrhea, nausea or even vomiting may result and are associated solely with the use of oral, I 7-alpha alkylated steroids. The oral compounds can be administered with food to reduce these side effects.
 Feminization may result in males if estrogen levels are not kept in check. The most popular feminization side effect of estrogen is gynocomastia.
 Females may experience masculinization effects.
 Kidney complications: The kidneys are under more strain during steroid intake. They are involved in the filtration and excretion of toxic by-products. A high blood pressure as well as variations in the water and electrolyte balance of the body can lead to long-term changes in the kidney's function.
There may be more side effects not listed. All side effects should be researched and understood. There are ways to alleviate some of the symptoms. Remedies and counter-actions should be researched before use of AAS.