sarms vs prohormones blog

SARMs Vs Prohormones: 2 Ways to Get Big

Everything you need to compare SARMs Vs Prohormones for bodybuilding.

Prohormones and SARMs will help you to gain a significant amount of muscle and strength and, if used with quality cycle support (High Strength 1000mg TUDCA) and proper PCT, this can be achieved with little to no side effects.

Are SARMs and prohormones the same thing? What is the difference between SARMs and prohormones? What do they do, and which should you choose to reach your physique and strength goals?

People decide to take extra supplements for a number of reasons. Perhaps they’ve hit a training plateau and haven’t made progress for 6 months or more. Maybe they want a harder, denser look to their muscles. Or maybe they just want to push past what they can achieve without supplements.

Then the question turns to what kind of supplements to take? Anabolic steroids are illegal and come with some pretty hefty side effects and health risks, many of which can never be reversed. Then there are SARMs (selective androgen receptor modulators) and prohormones. Are they the same thing? What’s the difference? Which one is more effective at helping build muscle, add mass, and gain strength?

What Are SARMs?

SARMs are Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators. They work by selectively sending messages to growth cells in the body (including muscle and bone tissue), leading to rapid growth. Plus they can also help you retain lean tissue when dieting, keeping you out of the usual catabolic state so you can lose fat without also losing muscle. They can have a similar effect to anabolic steroids but without the health risks.

It is worth noting that SARMs are banned by WADA so competitive athletes should be aware that the use of SARMs is prohibited in sport.

Benefits Of SARMs

Different SARMs can have different results but the key benefits of using SARMs include:

  • Muscle gain
  • Reducing body fat (without losing muscle)
  • Increased strength
  • Faster recovery times
  • Can boost natural metabolic rate
  • Increased mood (for training focus and motivation)
  • Does not aromatise to oestrogen or DHT, or suppress natural test levels

Top 5 Most Popular SARMs

Some of the most popular SARMs are:

SARMs Side Effects

SARMs vs prohormones, the main difference is liver toxicity and suppression.

SARMs are widely accepted to be safer and free from side effects when used at lower doses and within the recommended cycle length. SARMs are non-liver-toxic and don’t require liver and organ support. You should always take SARMs as instructed (this includes doses). If you stray from the professional advice about how to take SARMs, you do open yourself up to side effects – it’s just common sense.

What Are Prohormones?

Prohormones are chemical compounds that work as precursors of a particular hormone when they are consumed, converting into that hormone within the body thanks to the interaction of enzymes. By taking prohormones, you give your body with elements it needs to create the hormones faster. Bodybuilders use prohormones which convert into anabolic (growth) hormones.

Prohormones have been around for a very long time, although many have been illegalised and no longer available on the market today. In their place, a myriad of new compounds are available and completely legal to buy.

An important note is that prohormones can show up on drug tests, suggesting anabolic steroid use so competitive athletes, government workers and military personnel would come under scrutiny from using these supplements.

Are Prohormones Safe?

The prohormones that are currently on the market are very different to the old-school compounds that are no longer available, which were much stronger and carried a lot more health risks.

The prohormones that you find on the market today can be considered quite safe, as long as you ensure to follow guidelines and use your common sense:

  • Research and understand the compounds you are planning to use
  • Use quality cycle support for liver and organ support
  • Essential: TUDCA (Liver Support) throughout your cycle
  • Essential: Pro PCT for 4 weeks after your cycle
  • Understand how to run proper PCT after your cycle
  • Don’t exceed the recommended cycle length
  • Stay within the recommended dosages
  • Do not consume any alcohol on cycle

Benefits Of Prohormones

Prohormones are highly effective and are somewhat mild compared to steroids such as Winstrol. They will guarantee quick progress. A typical cycle will usually get you at least 5-10lbs of lean muscle mass in a short space of time (3-4 weeks).

  • Highly potent muscle mass gain
  • Rapid reduction of body fat
  • Powerful increase in strength
  • Faster recovery
  • Improved nutrient partitioning
  • Muscle gain with less fat gain on a bulk
  • Increased motivation and aggression in the gym

Top 3 Most Popular Prohormones

Three of the most popular prohormones are

  • Methystenbolone – 2,17a-dimethyl-5a-androsta-1-en-17b-ol-3-one
  • Epistane – 2a, 3a epithio-17a-methyl-5a-androstan-17b-ol
  • Superdrol – 2a,17a-dimethyl-4-androstadiene-3-one,17b

Side Effects Of Prohormones

SARMs vs prohormones, the main difference is the suppression of your natural testosterone levels and liver toxicity. Prohormone use requires liver support as they are liver toxic. They should also be followed by PCT because they are suppressive. Stacking prohormones can leave you prone to more extreme side effects, including

Prohormones will help you to gain a significant amount of muscle and strength and, if used with quality cycle support (High Strength 1000mg TUDCA) and proper PCT, this can be achieved with little to no side effects such as:

  • Headaches, dizziness
  • High blood pressure
  • Hair loss
  • Acne and other skin issues
  • Water retention
  • Lowering of libido
  • Mood swings, low mood
  • Risk of gynecomastia

SARMs Vs Prohormones

SARMs Vs Prohormones are often compared when guys are looking at ways to maximise muscle gain and get more progress. So should you choose SARMs or Prohormones? Here’s the bottom line.

  • Prohormones are liver toxic, SARMs are non-liver-toxic
  • Many of the original prohormones are no longer available due to side effects
  • Prohormones carry a higher risk of side-effects
  • Prohormones are much stronger and more effective than SARMs
  • Prohormones are highly suppressive and require proper PCT
  • SARMs do not always need a PCT, depending on type, dosage and cycle length
  • There are barely any side effects with SARMs unless you run high doses
  • Neither SARMs nor prohormones are allowed in drug tested sport (regulated by WADA or any organisation that complies to the WADA banned list)
  • SARMs can be stacked with any other supplements, prohormones are limited

Check out our wide range of quality SARMs from trusted manufacturers here.

Best SARMs Stack for Cutting

Best SARMs Stack for Cutting (Updated 2023)

SARMs are getting increasingly more popular amongst bodybuilders, competitors and athletes, so one of the most common questions we get is to recommend the best SARMs stack for cutting. It’s not surprising when you consider that these compounds can help build muscle, give a denser, harder look to muscle and help burn body fat beyond our natural potential.

That’s the holy grail – adding mass and not losing it again when you diet! Not to mention, to speed up the process of losing body fat and revealing those chiselled abs!

Which are the best SARMs for fat loss? Here’s our take on it…

What Are SARMs & How Do They Work For Dieting?

SARMs are “selective androgen receptor modulators”, compounds which selectively bind to androgen receptors in the body’s tissues to help manipulate our natural hormone levels. Androgens are hormones which signal the body to make changes – like the way testosterone signals the body to grow.

By binding to some of the receptors which receive these hormonal messages, SARMs can specifically boost some of those signals. The key here is in the “selective” part of the name. SARMs don’t bind to every receptor (unlike anabolic hormones, which do). They only bind to receptors in bone tissue and muscle tissue. This selective nature means you get more specific in what you want the SARM to do, and you can avoid a lot of the side effects associated with steroids.

Most SARMs were initially developed as a possible way to create certain medical conditions, specifically those related to loss of bone density, muscle mass, and strength. They caught the eye of researchers because they were able to bind only to the affected tissues, and not to anything else like internal organs.

SARMs can be taken as orals which makes them easier and more user-friendly than anabolics.

But what about using SARMs for fat loss? In this article, we will look at how to use SARMs for cutting (fat loss dieting) whether you want to do that for your health, your appearance, or as a bodybuilder.

The Best SARMs for Cutting

In order to put together the best SARMs stack for cutting, we’ll take a look at the different SARMs that are best for fat loss, and the reason why they make a good choice for your dieting phase.

Each of the different compounds below has superb fat-shedding qualities and these are often interchanged depending on the preferences of the individual user. In short, the best SARMs stack for cutting is the one that works for you! See which compounds fit your preferences and do your research – that is always the best way.

Andarine S4

Andarine, or S4, is a strong and potent SARM which is thought to increase fat oxidation and reduce lipoprotein lipase which is linked to fat accumulation in the body. Initially developed to combat conditions such as osteoporosis and muscle wastage, S-4 is one of the most researched SARMs which is always a positive aspect.

Andarine also helps increase muscle mass and strength. Even low doses of Andarine can help you maintain all your gains when you go into a calorie deficit to get lean. All in all, a good choice for cutting or body recomposition.

Best dose: start at 25mg/day split into 2-3 doses (4-6 hours apart), never go higher than 50mg/day and keep cycles to an 8-12 week maximum.

Ostarine

Ostarine MK 2866 really helps boost muscle gain because it increases the body’s levels of nitrogen and protein. This makes it a good choice for protecting muscle mass when you diet, avoiding that stringy, over-dieted look.

LGD-3303 (Not LGD-4033!)

A quick update here: LGD-3303 has now been patented by pharmaceutical company Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated and is no longer available on the market.

LGD-3303 is a potent and highly selective androgen receptor full agonist in skeletal muscle, a classic target tissue for androgen action. By comparison, in the prostate and sebaceous glands, the compound is a weak partial agonist. The sparing of these non-target tissues by effective, pharmacologic doses of LGD-3303 provides a novel and potentially safer treatment for osteoporosis.

Source: Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

Here’s where our recommendation on the best SARMs stack for cutting is different from any other you may have seen online. Most will recommend Ligandrol but we beg to differ. LGD-3303 is the leaner, dryer, fuller and more vascular successor of Ligandrol (LGD 4033). For that reason, it undoubtedly takes the throne.

Cardarine

Cardarine GW 501516 isn’t actually a SARM but a PPAR gamma receptor agonist that binds to PPARδ receptors instead of androgen receptors like a SARM normally would.

Cardarine supports healthy cholesterol levels and increases your basal metabolic rate, which helps your body to burn more energy (aka fat) even when at rest. You might also feel an energy boost, which definitely helps when you are dieting in a calorie deficit! Cardarine is a compound we stack with pretty much anything; this one’s a winner all-round… even when bulking to mitigate fat gain.

Stenabolic

Stenabolic SR 9009 is another on this list which isn’t actually a SARM (it’s a REV-ERB agonist) but it deserves a place on this list. As a REV-ERBα agonist, it can help manipulate certain functions relating to the metabolism, so you feel more energised, burn more stored fat, and get a boost to your metabolic rate even at rest. Stenabolic is also a compound we love to stack with pretty much anything.

MK-677

MK-677 is a growth hormone secretagogue and stacks well with virtually anything. It is a very versatile compound that can be used for both bulking or cutting, depending on the accompanying diet and training plan (increased calories will support bulking and reduced calorie intake supports fat loss).

Glucose Disposal Agents

Although Glucose Disposal Agents aren’t SARMs, they deserve a mention. Nutrient partitioning often gets forgotten about but is so effective when it comes to body composition. A glucose disposal agent decreases the amount of insulin secreted by the body when eating a high-carbohydrate meal and shuttles glucose into muscle cells instead of storing them in fat cells. This results in reduced fat gain and a potential increase in lean muscle gain.

The Best SARMs Stack for Cutting

As we’ve already pointed out, you can stack different SARMs to assist you during a cut and there are different ways to mix and match the compounds that work best for the individual.

One of the best SARMs stack for cutting we’ve researched is for the more advanced and experienced:

  • Andarine S-4 – 50mg per day, 25mg in the a.m. and 25mg 4-6 hours later
  • Ostarine MK-2866 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
  • GW/SR (SR-9009/Cardarine Blend) – 1 capsule in the a.m, 1 capsule in the p.m.
  • MK-677 – 20mg per day, dosed once per day (can be reduced to 10mg if appetite increase is unmanageable).

5 Keys To Getting Shredded

Remember that there are several aspects to getting that lean, shredded look. Sure, you need to reduce your body fat. But you also want to increase muscle mass, and – crucially – retain as much muscle as possible even as you diet to lose fat. It’s a difficult task, but SARMs can make it much easier.

1 A calorie deficit

You need to be in a calorie deficit to lose body fat, it doesn’t matter what kind of diet you follow – a calorie deficit is crucial. This means making sure your total “calories out” are higher than your “calories in”

2 Sufficient protein intake

Eating enough protein will help you build muscle, maintain muscle, and it will help keep you feeling fuller (protein has the highest Thermic Effect Of Food of any macronutrient) which will help diet compliance

3 Training frequency

We now know that training frequency is the most important factor in muscle gain and muscle retention, ideally train each major muscle group every 72 hours

4 Load and volume

Within that training, you need to put enough load (weight) and volume (weight x sets x reps) through the muscles

5 Appetite and energy management

Get control of your appetite, eating habits, and your energy output to increase your success with getting super-lean and shredded!

What’s the Best PCT for SARMs?

Although PCT is a very subjective matter, it’s often recommended to run a PCT such as Pro PCT (6-OXO).

Pumping Iron Pro PCT (6-OXO)
Pumping Iron Pro PCT (6-OXO)

 

Pumping Iron Pro PCT (6-OXO) is an innovative, advanced solution for male athletes who use SARMs and prohormones. Formulated with a potent aromatase inhibitor – 6-OXO – this supplement can be used as both preventative care against estrogen related side effects while cycling or during post cycle therapy to aid in recovery. It should only be taken by experienced users of choose hormones and supplements due its powerful formulation; women are not advised to take it at all.

  • Strongest aromatase inhibitor on the market
  • Increases lean muscle mass
  • Reduces conversion of testosterone to estradiol
  • Supports muscle retention
  • Increases testosterone:estrogen ratio
  • Suitable for vegans (HMPC Veg Cap)

 

What is RAD-150 (TLB-150 Benzoate)?

What is RAD-150 (TLB-150 Benzoate)?

If you’ve researched the SARM RAD-140, then you may be wondering: what is RAD-150 (TLB-150 Benzoate)? 

RAD-150 is the latest compound gaining all the attention when it comes to research chemicals and the bodybuilding industry. With its predecessor RAD-140 taking the top spot when it comes to best-selling SARMs, everyone is wondering how RAD-150 compares and why its rapidly gaining the same level of popularity.

What is RAD-150 (TLB-150 Benzoate)?

Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are tissue-selective research drugs similar to steroids. But unlike steroids, SARMs don’t cause systematic effects. That means they only bind to muscle tissue androgen receptors and leave the rest of your body alone.

The latest SARM to hit shelves in the UK is RAD-150, also known as TLB-150 Benzoate. This research chemical is an anabolic ester. That means it better mimics the role of natural testosterone in the body as compared to non-esterized SARMs.

If you’re curious about RAD-150’s potential benefits and what sets it apart from other SARMs, keep reading for everything you need to know.

What Are Research Chemicals?

You may know that SARMs such as RAD-150 are research chemicals. What you may not know is what that actually means.

Research chemicals are compounds scientists use in pre-clinical or clinical research. For example, scientists first discovered SARMs when they were researching chemicals for prostate cancer treatment.

The thing about research chemicals is that they were originally intended for laboratory settings and not for human consumption. When you purchase SARMs from Pumping Iron, you’re consenting to the legal use of these products.

How Does RAD-150 Work?

Like all SARMs, RAD-150 binds to androgen receptors in skeletal muscle tissue. When these receptors get activated, they cause a host of downstream effects. These effects boost muscle hypertrophy, which is the same process that occurs during weight lifting.

Is RAD-150 Safe?

A 2020 study of SARM research chemicals found that many products on the market aren’t what they say they are. The researchers found that some products studied:

  • Claimed to contain active ingredients but these ingredients weren’t present in the supplements
  • Included prohibited analytes that weren’t listed on the label
  • Lacked information about the product’s safety and toxicity

This is why you should always buy research chemicals from a reputable brand. To ensure your safety, only choose SARMs from brands you can trust, like Pumping Iron.

The Benefits of RAD-150

RAD-150 provides many of the same benefits as other SARMs. For example, this research chemical can encourage lean muscle growth and reduce body fat. RAD-150 may also speed up muscle regeneration after a workout.

That’s not all, though. Some users also report increased libido and improved sexual performance after using RAD-150.

RAD-150 Side Effects

So far, the most touted side effect of RAD-150 is insomnia. This makes sense considering this research chemical has a longer half-life. Skipping days between doses or taking smaller doses may help reduce or eliminate this side effect.

The Difference Between RAD-150 and RAD-140

If you’re familiar with SARMs, you may be wondering: isn’t there a RAD-140 research chemical on the market already? RAD-140 or testolone first emerged as a safer form of Testosterone replacement therapy. It’s also a potential breast cancer tumour suppressor.

RAD-140 is the predecessor to RAD-150. They’re highly similar chemicals that look almost identical, giving them many benefits in common. For example, RAD-140 and RAD-150:

  • Enhance muscle gains
  • Boost fat loss
  • Improve strength

So, what’s the difference? As we’ve mentioned, RAD-150 is an anabolic ester. RAD-150’s structure includes an additional benzoate ester group, which offers even more benefits like the ones we’re telling you about next.

Esterized vs Non-Esterized SARMs

Esterification is the process of adding an ester group to a compound. Researchers produce esters through a chemical reaction, usually of an acid (e.g., carboxylic acid) and an alcohol. This produces a more alkaline product.

In RAD-150, the increased alkalinity makes for a more stable compound. It also makes RAD-150 more similar to natural testosterone. That means it can bind better to androgen receptors.

Because RAD-150 is an anabolic ester, it tends to act faster and last longer than other SARMs. Anabolic compounds have increased bioavailability, meaning your body absorbs them quicker. They also have a longer half-life, which allows your body to eliminate them slower.

This is why you can expect RAD-150 research chemicals to take effect rapidly and last for 48 hours or longer. Overall, RAD-150 offers way more bang for your buck than non-esterized RAD-140.

Stacking RAD-140 and RAD-150

Stacking SARMs together or alongside similar products produce synergies. Synergy refers to the fact that two chemicals together can sometimes produce more robust effects or added benefits than if those chemicals are used alone.

For example, stacking may:

  • Speed up recovery times
  • Boost fat loss
  • Enhance bulking cycles

RAD-140 and RAD-150 are ideal for stacking. Stack these SARMs with growth hormones or other bodybuilding supplements to harness these synergies and more.

Where to Buy RAD-150 (TLB0150 Benzoate)

Selective androgen receptor modulators can help you build strength and lean muscle while reducing fat content.

RAD-150 (TLB-150 Benzoate) is the latest SARM on the market. It promises even more impressive benefits. This includes a quicker onset and longer-lasting effects than any other SARM on the market.

Are SARMs Legal?

Are SARMs Legal? (5 Olympic Athletes Banned)

Are SARMs Legal? Confused about Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators and wondering are SARMs legal in your country? We’ve got all the answers.

Are SARMs banned where I live? Can I use SARMs and compete in sport? These are some of the questions you might have if you are considering using SARMs to build muscle, lose fat, or boost your training performance.

SARMs are a relatively new type of compound, so it’s not surprising people have a lot of questions. We’ve gathered the answers together here in one essential article, so you have all the information in one place.

SARMs As Supplements

In general, SARMs are not considered illegal substances. In most countries are classed as “investigatory chemicals”. This might sound as if SARMs are therefore legal to use as sports supplements but this is where you need to be careful.

Firstly, you need to be certain of your own country’s regulations around SARMs (we will look at these in a moment). Second, you need to understand the difference between a compound being legal as an “investigatory chemical” (or research chemical) and as a food supplement or medicine.

To understand more about this distinction (and to get the current status of SARMs where you live), keep reading.

SARMs Banned In Sport

SARMs – selective androgen receptor modulators – are often used as performance-enhancing drugs by bodybuilders and other athletes. The list of effects includes strength gains, muscle mass, fat loss, endurance, and recovery.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was founded by the International Olympic Committee to bring consistency to anti-doping rules, regulations and policies worldwide. What does WADA say about SARMs? You’ll need to know this information if you intend to compete in any drug-tested sport (including drug-tested bodybuilding federations or powerlifting competitions).

SARMS are currently prohibited by WADA, who placed them on their “prohibited at all times” list in 2008.

But what does this mean for those of you who want to use SARMs for your own training, and do not intend to compete in drug-tested sport?

Are SARMs Legal In Your Country?

Let’s look at the legal and regulatory status of SARMs (at the time of writing) in your country.

Are SARMs Legal in the UK?

The United Kingdom has no current legislation restricting SARM. It is legal to buy and sell SARMs in the UK but selling them as a food supplement or as medicine is illegal.

Are SARMs Legal in the USA?

The United States has no current legislation restricting SARMs, but this might change under the Controlled Substances Act if S. 2742 (115th): SARMs Control Act of 2018 (a bill to amend the Controlled Substances Act to more effectively regulate selective androgen receptor modulators).

Norway, Denmark, Sweden

SARMs may be seized if found by customs

Ireland

There is no current legislation to control SARMs use, but SARMs may be controlled on import.

Australia?

SARMs will likely be seized on import.

Canada

There is no current legislation to control SARMs use, but SARMs may be controlled on import.

France, Germany, Italy

There is generally no issues with import of SARMs.

Why Were SARMs Originally Developed?

SARMs were developed as medical drugs to treat various conditions, including those where muscle wasting and loss of bone density becomes a problem. The first SARMs were developed in the 1940s when researchers worked out how to modify the structure of testosterone molecules.

These early SARMs were used to treat conditions that weakened the body (by loss of muscle mass), caused a loss of strength and even organ failure. But they were considered steroidal drugs because they were derived from testosterone. Even back then, these SARM drugs had the ability to help patients rebuild muscle mass, regain strength and retain mass when they would usually have lost tissue.

In the 1990s, the current breed of SARMs began to be developed. These drugs were non-steroidal, safer than the earlier SARMs and largely without side-effects. Since then, a lot of work has been done to make SARMs more bioavailable, less toxic and generally safer.

A number of SARMs are in the clinical trial stage, but none have yet got to late-stage clinical trials (phase IV) on humans – this would give us the assessing the use of SARMs in the general public and looking at long-term effects. A lot of the big pharma and life science companies are invested in researching and developing SARMs though, so it might not be long until we see SARMs in human clinical trials.

The SARMs you can get today bind to certain receptors in certain cells, so they only impact specific areas of the body. This selective characteristic makes them powerful for muscle gain, strength gain, and retention of lean muscle tissue.

Athletes Banned For SARMs Use

Some of you competitive athletes may be wondering, are SARMs legal in sports? SARMs are banned by WADA and many sports and sporting organisations adhere to the WADA list. This includes all of the sports NGBs who make up the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations, the Commonwealth Games Federation, the IFBB for bodybuilding, and the IPF for powerlifting. You can see all the current signatories to the WADA list here.

Thomas Goller, German hurdler, was banned for 2 years in 2010 for use of Boldenone and SARMs.

Also in 2010, Bobby-Gaye Wilkins, the Jamaican sprinter, was banned from competitive athletics for 2 years after testing positive for the SARM Andarine.

Russian long jump athlete Svetlana Biryukova received a 2-year doping ban in 2014 for SARMs use.

In the same year, two-time Olympian Martin Maric (discus throw athlete for Croatia) was suspended from track and field for 2 years after testing positive for the SARM Ostarine.

Also in 2014, the race walker Irina Yumanova (Russia) was banned for 2 years for SARM use. Her coach – Viktor Chegin – was banned for life from all sport-related activities in 2016 after a number of his athletes were disqualified for doping-related offences over a period of 10 years.

Why Are SARMs Banned By WADA?

Getting back to the “prohibited at all times” status on the WADA list, why does the World Anti-Doping Agency ban SARMs for use in drug-tested sport, when they are no illegal for general use?

SARMs work! SARMs can be very effective as performance enhancers, so it stands to reason that WADA – which aims to stamp out any “unfair play” – would ban SARMs for giving an unfair advantage.

Even if you don’t need to heed WADA’s legislation, you should take a second to think about their decision over SARMs. The very fact that SARMs are banned by WADA tells us that these compounds have a definite impact on athletic performance and on other factors like muscle mass, strength, power and endurance.

SARMs should not be taken lightly. If you choose to use SARMs, always get them from a trusted, professional source, and always take them as recommended. In almost all cases, SARMs deliver amazing results even at small doses. There is no need to stray above and beyond the recommended dosage or frequency.

Best Testolone RAD-140 Dosage

RAD-140 Dosage and Complete Cycle Guide for Maximum Gains

Arguably one of the most talked-about compounds on the bodybuilding scene today, we’re going to look at the optimum RAD-140 dosage and cycle protocol that will give you the gains that you’re looking for.

RAD 140 – also known as Testolone – is a popular SARM with benefits including muscle gain and fat loss. But, as with any compound, it’s important that anyone considering to research Testolone knows the best RAD-140 dosage and cycle protocols to take. So here is everything we currently know about what dose to use, cycle length and stacking methods for best results.

What is RAD-140?

Testolone was developed as an investigational drug which might be able to treat muscle wasting diseases and help patients build muscle. It is a SARM (selective androgen receptor modulator), which works by selectively binding to some androgen receptors in the body – specifically those in muscle tissue and bone tissue. These receptors “talk to” the steroid hormones called androgens, including testosterone.

RAD 140 is thought to help increase muscle mass, boost fat burning and fat loss, and may even have neuroprotective benefits. It is also popular with men who are experiencing low testosterone levels and want to boost their physical performance and physique alongside getting their test levels up.

However, there have been no human studies on RAD 140 so far, and the long term risks and benefits are unknown. As with any SARM, do your research.

Like all SARMs, RAD 140 is on the WADA banned list so you should not use it if you are going to compete in tested events or take part in professional sports.

5 Benefits of Testolone

SARMs are popular with bodybuilders and people wanting to get bigger, stronger, and leaner. RAD 140 is no different in that respect. Here are the top benefits of Testolone for people who train in the gym.

1 Muscle growth

RAD 140 boosts the body’s development of proteins and muscle cells and can help stimulate muscle growth. Because SARMs are selective in the receptors they bind to, RAD 140 shouldn’t give unwanted side effects.

2 Repair and recovery

RAD 140 has been found to trigger the MAPK pathway which plays a part in protecting and repairing cells, and some users report better sleep. In one study scientists were able to use RAD-140 to activates receptors in damaged sections of the brain. The resulting reaction was a signal known as the MAPK pathway which is known to protect brain cells.

3 Bulking

Some SARMs are stronger and better for muscle gain, others are good for cutting. RAD 140 seems to be a better choice for a bulk.

4 Brain health

RAD 140 interacts with androgen receptors, and androgens are important for protecting brain health. RAD 140 may be able to help improve memory and cognitive health.

5 Fat loss

RAD 140 has been shown to improve cholesterol levels and boost muscle mass which can also help you burn fat and get leaner for better body composition.

With all these potential benefits, it’s no surprise bodybuilders are attracted to Testolone for training, fat loss, muscle gain, and recovery.

Best RAD-140 Dosage and Cycles

The lack of human studies means it’s difficult to give specific advice on how to dose RAD 140, but we can tell you what other people do. Anecdotal evidence is currently the best source of information regarding the research of SARMs. Below are some examples of popular RAD-140 dosage and cycle research methods.

Male esearchers begin at a dose of 10mg/day and increase to no more than 30mg/day.

Although RAD-140 is not recommended for women, those who do decide to research this drug will start with 5mg/day and increase to no more than 10mg/day.

A cycle length will generally last between 8-12 weeks following by a 4-week PCT and “off-cycle” break period.

RAD-140 is suppressive. It is critical that you are familiar and prepared with your PCT protocol before you start your cycle to avoid unwanted side-effects.

Some people stack Testolone with other SARMs, popular choices seem to be Ligandrol (for bulking), Ibutamoren, Ostarine, or Cardarine (for cutting).

Best RAD-140 Dosage for Bulking

The best RAD-140 dosage for gaining mass is 20mg-30mg/day for 12 weeks, with an off-cycle of 12 weeks. This lengthen cycle means you get maximum benefits of the strength gains, so you can train harder and lift more for the duration of a successful bulk. You’ll avoid most of the training fatigue typically experienced during a serious training block, and consequently, you’ll be able to keep training harder and increase your lifts throughout your bulking cycle.

RAD-140 Bulking Cycle

Testolone RAD-140 – 10mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Ligandrol LGD-4033 – 10mg per day dosed once a day in the a.m.
Ostarine MK-2866 – 25mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.

Best RAD-140 Dosage for Cutting

Testolone can also be used on a cut. Remember, it was originally developed to help prevent muscle wastage – and this is exactly what you want to do when you are in an extended calorie deficit. If you can hang on to more muscle when you are dieting, not only will you look better but your metabolic rate will stay higher.

The best RAD-140 dosage for cutting is slightly lower than that of a bulking phase if you are in a caloric deficit and primarily aiming for its anti-catabolic properties.

RAD-140 Cycle for Cutting

Testolone RAD-140 – 10mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Cardarine GW-501516 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Stenabolic SR-9009 – 30mg per day, 5mg split doses 2-3 hours apart

Best RAD-140 Dosage for Recomposition

Body-recomposition allows a person to build lean muscle mass whilst dropping body fat simultaneously. We said it here, yes it’s possible to lose body fat and gain muscle at the same time. With that in mind, the RAD-140 dosage is higher than on a ‘cut’ and adding Andarine into the mix to maximise lean gains.

RAD-140 Cycle for Body-Recomposition

Testolone RAD-140 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Cardarine GW-501516 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Stenabolic SR-9009 – 30mg per day, 5mg split doses 2-3 hours apart
Andarine S-4 – 50mg per day, 25mg in the a.m. and 25mg 4-6 hours later

Best RAD-140 Dosage for Strength

This stack makes use of the powerful synergistic effects of RAD-140 and S-4 when stacked together. Throwing Cardarine into the mix further maximises performance, which ultimately carries over to strength gains.

RAD-140 Cycle for Strength & Power

Testolone RAD-140 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Cardarine GW-501516 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Andarine S-4 – 50mg per day, 25mg in the a.m. and 25mg 4-6 hours later

Best RAD-140 Dosage for Lean Gains

This stack is the same as the re-composition stack but your own diet manipulation is what comes into play. Increasing your calorie and/or protein intake will optimise results for lean mass gains, increasing muscle protein synthesis whilst mitigating fat gain.

RAD-140 Cycle for Maximum Lean Mass Gains

Testolone RAD-140 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Cardarine GW-501516 – 20mg per day, dosed once a day in the a.m.
Stenabolic SR-9009 – 30mg per day, 5mg split doses 2-3 hours apart
Andarine S-4 – 50mg per day, 25mg in the a.m. and 25mg 4-6 hours later

Does Testolone Need A PCT?

All SARMs have the potential to suppress the body’s natural hormone levels and impact testosterone production, to varying degrees.

RAD-140 is one of the more potent SARMs and it is suppressive. It is critical that you are familiar and prepared with your PCT protocol before you start your cycle to avoid unwanted side-effects.

cardarine review photos blog

Cardarine Review: Your Guide To GW-501516

Read our Cardarine review to understand what it is and why it seems to be shaking things up in the bodybuilding industry! What exactly is Cardarine and what are the benefits for muscle gain and fat loss?

Cardarine (also known as GW 501516) is a very interesting compound that you might have seen cropping up more and more in the bodybuilding and fitness community recently. It is often referred to as a SARM, mainly because it’s often found in the same category as other SARMs and often stacked alongside them. GW actually a PPAR-delta activator. In this article, we discuss what this means, how GW501516 works and why many bodybuilders are turning to Cardarine to help them gain muscle, lose fat, improve their physique and train harder in the gym.

What is Cardarine GW 501516?

Although some people call Cardarine a SARM, it is not actually a selective androgen receptor modulator. Cardarine is actually a PPAR-delta activator but it works in similar ways to a SARM and that’s why bodybuilders and gym trainees are attracted to it for muscle gain, strength gain and fat loss.

Cardarine was originally developed as a potential medical asset for prevention of tumours but it soon showed other benefits: it could help reduce body fat, control body weight, raise the metabolic rate, increase rates of muscle growth, and boost endurance. No wonder bodybuilders are keen to take a closer look!

Like all drugs of its type, Cardarine is banned by WADA and can not be used in professional sport or in any tested competitions – that includes drug tested bodybuilding contests.

Cardarine Review Alongside Trenbolone

Cardarine pairs well with Trenbolone because it can counteract a lot of the negative side effects such as night sweats, reduced endurance, loss of libido, shortness of breath, increased blood pressure and a poor balance between cholesterol levels (high LDL and low HDL).

Tren severely reduces your cardiovascular potential so using Cardarine alongside a Tren cycle makes a very noticeable improvement. Cardarine improves endurance levels and helps athletes to push further, recover faster and greatly improves their cardiovascular health.

Studies have shown that GW-501516 has a positive impact on the balance between HDL and LDL cholesterol which can offset the negative side effects of Trenbolone.

In one study, Cardarine increased HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides, insulin, and LDL cholesterol, which may altogether decrease the risk of heart disease.

A number of studies have also shown that Cardarine helps to lower high blood pressure.

Cardarine Review – Before & After Photos

Cardarine is one of the best compounds when it comes to boosting fat loss and increasing your endurance, energy and stamina. This PPAR modulator has been proven through valid research to have many health benefits but its performance benefits are its top advantages.

When it comes to fat loss, you’ll notice a major difference as well as an increase in vascularity as Cardarine promotes the burning of fat as a source of fuel. You’ll also see dramatically reduced recovery times after working out, and even a boost in your mood.

cardarine before and after
Cardarine 12-week cycle before and after photos
  • Incredible endurance enhancement
  • Dramatically reduced recovery time
  • Works from the first dose
  • Improves your mood
  • Enhances fat loss
  • Ideal for interval/cardio training
  • Stackable with other SARMs
  • Is NOT a stimulant and doesn’t increase heart-rate
  • Can be stacked with any other fat burners for maximum fat-burning potential

Read our blog to see more SARMs Before and After Photos.

How Does Cardarine Work?

Cardarine GW 501516 binds to the PPAR-delta nuclear receptors which are mostly in your muscles and stimulates some of the genes which govern how your body uses energy. By doing these two things, Cardarine can:

  • Help you burn more body fat – by preventing fatty acid chains from being formed, and therefore stopping your body from storing fat, so your system has to use stood fat for energy
  • Preserve existing muscle mass – when you are in an energy deficit and your body is forced to use fat for fuel, Cardarine can also protect muscle mass from catabolism
  • Faster recovery – Cardarine may increase the amount of oxygen which gets to your muscles, helping you recover from training sessions

Cardarine Review for Bodybuilding

1 Fat burning

Cardarine can help you burn more body fat by encouraging your body to use stored fat for fuel, by stimulating glucose, and by activating some of the genes involves in fat burning.

2 Bulking and cutting

Cardarine can be stacked with other SARMs to encourage fat loss, boost training performance, and help you maintain muscle mass when dieting – ideal for cutting and bulking cycles.

3 Brain health

Cardarine can improve blood flow to the brain, protecting brain vessels, boosting the growth of nerve cells, and reducing problematic inflammation.

4 Training endurance

Cardarine stimulates your body’s use of glucose for fuel, which means you can probably train longer and harder. More training = more muscle gain!

5 Muscle growth

Cardarine activates the PPAR-delta which boosts muscle fibres, gives you increased energy and means you can train for longer too.

6 Heart health

Cardarine may have a protective benefit for your blood vessels, reducing oxidative damage and plaque build-up, and increasing your levels of nitric oxide.

How To Dose Cardarine

Cardarine is kind of an all-rounder, you can use it for cutting or bulking cycles. It has a half life of 16 hours, so you will need to split your daily total dose into two doses. Start with 10mg/day (5mg twice per day), ideally with one dose 2-3 hours before you train. Run Cardarine for a maximum of 12 weeks, followed by a 6 week off-cycle break.

Can You Stack Cardarine?

A Cardarine Review wouldn’t be complete without some stack suggestions, so here they are! GW can be stacked with most other compounds. It mitigates fat-gain during bulking cycles, increases fat-loss during cutting cycles, and enhances endurance and performance all-round. Here are the most popular SARMs stacks:

Body-Recomposition Stack

  • Cardarine GW-501516
  • Ligandrol LGD-4033
  • Andarine S-4

Cutting Stack

  • Testolone RAD-140
  • Cardarine GW-501516
  • Stenabolic SR-9009
  • Andarine S-4

Strength Stack

  • Testolone RAD-140
  • Cardarine GW-501516
  • Andarine S-4

Bridging Stack

  • Andarine S-4
  • Ostarine MK-2866
  • Cardarine GW-501516
  • Stenabolic SR-9009

Endurance Stack

  • Cardarine GW-501516
  • Stenabolic SR-9009

Bulking Stack (with minimum fat-gain)

  • Cardarine GW-501516
  • Ostarine MK-2866
  • Ligandrol LGD-4033
  • Testolone RAD-140

Does Cardarine Have Any Side-Effects?

Like any compound, you should be sensible about using Cardarine. This includes looking out for side effects. Cardarine won’t suppress your natural hormone levels. It is always recommended to start off with lower doses and assess response and adaptation. If there is anything we haven’t covered in this Cardarine Review, see our Guide to Cardarine for more information.

andarine s4 benefits dosages blog

Andarine S4: Benefits, Dosages (Complete Guide)

Andarine (also known as S4) is a powerful selective androgen receptor modulator which can support muscle growth, mass, and density. This article will tell you everything you need to know about this increasingly favourable compound.

What Is Andarine S4?

Andarine S4 is a SARM (a selective androgen receptor modulator) sometimes also known as SARM S4. Like many SARMs, it has positive benefits on muscle mass, muscle gain and anabolism (helping you build muscle tissue and minimise muscle loss). But Andarine is stronger and more potent than many other SARMs.

Different SARMs have different levels of potency and this shows up in the results you can expect (and in what timeframe). What you need to know about Andarine is that it is pretty strong as SARMs go – so you can expect measurable results in a short time frame.

But there are some side effects to watch out for and we’ll detail those further in this article. However, Andarine is selective in which receptors it binds too, so side effects should be minimal if you are healthy and stick to recommended dosages.

Andarine works by binding to androgen receptors (in muscle tissue and bone tissue) which encourages your body to grow muscle. As a by-product of this, you’ll get stronger in the gym, you’ll be able to lift more and recover faster which will lead to yet more muscle gain.

Andarine S4 has been through human trials but no studies were published. There is some limited information which suggests that S-4 was described as the ideal SARM due to its single-day dosing, complete oral bioavailability and significant anabolic effects.

Understand The Benefits Of Andarine S4

Andarine can be used for bulking, cutting, body recomposition, strength gains, or competition prep but please remember you can not use Andarine – or any SARM – if you compete in drug-tested sport, including tested bodybuilding competitions because SARMs are banned by WADA.

  1. Dense muscle tissue – Andarine is renowned for giving that hard, dry look to muscles (which is why bodybuilder like it). Ideal if you want a full, pumped look
  2. Fat loss – Andarine seems to help with fat loss, possibly because it increases the metabolism of body fat and suppresses HSL (hormone-sensitive lipase)
  3. Strength gains – Andarine helps you build strength, and you may notice significant strength gains within a few weeks
  4. Dry gains – you shouldn’t experience water retention with SARM S4, meaning your muscle gains will look dry, not watery
  5. High bioavailability – meaning Andarine is absorbed into your system quickly, so it gets to work rapidly, even at low doses

You can see why S-4 is popular with bodybuilders, powerlifters, and other strength and power athletes. Just be careful with tested competition – like we’ve said, Andarine is banned (as are all SARMs) by WADA.

Are There Any Side Effects Of Andarine S4?

You should stay open to the possibility of side effects with any compound or medicine. Andarine is no different. Remember, SARMs were originally developed as potential medical solutions to physical issues, and most drugs have some potential side effects.

So what are the side effects of Andarine, and how can you minimise the chance of them happening? There are two key side effects to be aware of:

  • Night vision disturbance – some people report a kind of yellow tinge to their vision at night (probably because SARM S4 binds to receptors in the eyes). This shouldn’t be a problem – unless you work shifts, or need to drive or operate any kind of machinery at night. Most of these reports come from people taking high doses of Andarine.
  • Testosterone suppression – S4 does impact your natural test levels, and you will need to do a PCT (post cycle therapy) after using Andarine. Another way to keep this risk to a minimum is to run short cycles of 8 weeks maximum.

How To Use Andarine, Best Dosages

The best way to minimise the risks of any side effects is to get informed about how to use Andarine. This includes how much (dosages), how often (should you split the dose), and for how long (cycle length).

Andarine is a strong SARM, which means you can see good results even at low doses, so there is no need to take high doses – in fact, this just opens you up to more risk of side effects, for no need.

  • Start with 20mg-25mg Andarine a day.
  • Split your dose (whatever dose you take) into 2-3 doses per day. Take a dose in the morning, and one with your pre-training meal. If you are taking 1/3 dose, do this 4 hours after your previous dose.
  • After 2 weeks, assess your progress and results
  • If your progress has slowed down or stopped, increase the dose by 5mg per week for the rest of your cycle.
  • Do not keep increasing the dose all the while you are getting results – only increase it if your results stop.
  • Never go higher than 50mg/day (in fact, 35mg/day is a high dose).
  • Never take Andarine S4 for longer than 8 weeks (6-8 weeks is the least risky).

Andarine vs Other Popular SARMs

S4 is sometimes stacked with Ostarine (for cutting). Ostarine can be beneficial for building muscle mass and body recomposition. Andarine can also be stacked with Cardarine (for strength training), or with Ligandrol (for bulking). Remember, Andarine is already a strong SARM so there is no real need to stack.

Andarine S4 is a powerful SARM which is a kind of all-rounder, helping build muscle mass, burn body fat, and boost strength. But remember it is banned by WADA and can not be used for any tested sport or competition.

are sarms safe an unbiased view blog

Are SARMs Safe? An Unbiased View (Updated 2023)

Are SARMs Safe? Why are so many people putting their trust in SARMs and leaving AAS behind? Here is our unbiased view…

For decades, AAS (anabolic-androgenic steroids, or just anabolic steroids) were the most common kind of drug associated with bodybuilding. Always under the radar, of course, because they are illegal and known to carry a number of hefty health risks and side effects.

But then along came a new breed of compounds. These supplements showed real promise for treating muscle wasting diseases and other catabolic health issues, and they had very few side effects – and even those only seemed to occur at super-high doses or silly cycle lengths. Used properly, it seemed like this new set of compounds could deliver the benefits of anabolics, without all the bad associations.

What were these new compounds? SARMs – or selective androgen receptor modulators.

SARMs are now so popular that everyone wants to know how to use them, which one to use, how to stack them and of course.

But are SARMs safe? How come they are banned by WADA? Why aren’t they sold over-the-counter?

Let’s answer all your questions about SARMs and safety.

What are SARMs?

SARMs are synthetic drugs developed by pharma companies for their potential impact on muscle wasting diseases and other issues (including loss of bone density, catabolism, and tissue loss). SARMs work by only binding to specific cellular androgen receptors (this selective quality means they have little to no impact on organs and hormones).

Selective androgen receptor modulators have gained notoriety in the bodybuilding community for their muscle-building and fat-burning properties.

However, there are concerns about the safety of these compounds, especially when used for extended periods of time. Here are the top 6 questions asked about SARMs safety:

Are SARMs Legal?

SARMs are legal but in most countries classed as “investigatory chemicals”. In short, this means that they cannot be sold as supplements; but rather ‘for research purposes’.

Confusing? Not really. Some SARMs are in clinical trials with the hope that they could be used in future to treat human health conditions. But for now, SARMs are not approved by the FDA. This means they can be sold as research chemicals but not as food supplements.

SARMs are all banned by WADA (the World Anti Doping Agency) under the S1 Anabolic Agent category of the Prohibited list, which means you shouldn’t use them if you compete in any drug tested sport. This includes drug tested bodybuilding, powerlifting and strongman. The reason for this is because they really do have the potential to greatly enhance performance, giving the user a very unfair advantage over other athletes. Ultimately, SARMs work. And very effectively.

If you’re wondering about the SARMs legislations in your country, read our blog post here for more information.

Can SARMs Cause Liver Damage?

Clinical studies indicate that, while rare, a high dose or extended use of certain SARMs could put the liver at risk. The organ is responsible for metabolising drugs and toxins from our bodies – when it becomes taxed with too much strain due to excess consumption of these compounds, damage can occur.

Therefore, before utilising any type of SARM regimen one should first consult with their doctor in order to identify potential risks as well as methods for minimising harm through regular monitoring during usage.

Do SARMs Affect Testosterone Levels?

SARMs have the potential to cause changes in your body’s hormone levels. These compounds work by binding on androgen receptors found in muscle and bone tissue, leading to increased muscular strength and density – but other tissues may be affected as well.

Some SARMs can suppress testosterone production which could lead to a decrease of libido or mood fluctuations; more so, they might convert into estrogen causing breast development for men. Though these effects vary across individuals and are very much dose-dependent.

If you keep to the recommended doses of SARMs and keep your cycle duration sensible, you shouldn’t expect any side effects. It is sensible to follow up a SARMs cycle with PCT in any case.

Are SARMs Safe for the Heart?

Though still in early stages, research into SARMs has raised valid suspicions about their potential to cause cardiovascular complications. Animal studies have indicated that these compounds can elevate blood pressure and foster atherosclerosis – hardening of the arteries – whereas some also appear to reduce HDL cholesterol levels, which typically play a part in guarding against heart disease. More research is needed on this topic before firm conclusions may be drawn.

Are SARMs Safe for Drug Tests?

While the use of SARMs is not yet widely monitored in most drug testing programs, some athletic organisations and regulatory agencies have started to include SARMs in their testing protocols. SARMs can be detected in urine or blood samples using specialised testing methods that can differentiate between SARMs and other performance-enhancing drugs.

It is important to note that some SARMs may have a longer detection window than others, and the detection time may also depend on factors such as the dose and duration of use. It is also possible for some SARMs to be detected as false positives for other compounds, so it is important to disclose any supplement use to avoid potential issues with drug testing.

Why Do Bodybuilders Use SARMs?

SARMs all work by increasing lean mass and healthy tissue in the body – including muscle mass and connective tissue. They can also help you burn more body fat and – crucially – retain muscle mass whilst you lose fat. On a diet, you would normally expect to lose some muscle as you cut calories to lose fat. SARMs help prevent this, so you end up leaner but also with bigger, harder, denser muscles and more strength.

Many bodybuilders are switching from steroids to SARMs, so if we’re asking “are SARMs safe?”, we should also take into consideration just how much safer they are than AAS.

SARMs vs Steroids

Steroids are known for some pretty scary side effects, including gynecomastia, acne, mood swings and aggression and irreversible effects on sexual organs. Women users can expect changes to face shape, facial hair growth, and serious lowering of the voice.

SARMs don’t have these effects. They can come with side effects but this has mostly been reported when users have way overdone it with dosages or length of the cycle. If you stick to the recommended dose and cycle duration, you can expect all the benefits with none of the risks. This is all because of their selective nature – they don’t work on a scattergun approach in your body like AAS do. They get to work on selected receptors and leave everything else alone!

As research chemicals, SARMs are still being studied and their full effects are still unknown. But studies give some indication to the safety of SARMs. This 2015 study is a comparative safety evaluation of SARMs and AAS, and it found that SARMs have “some advantages” over AAS, concluding that:

…based on the robust tissue selectivity of SARMs over AASs, they are worth considering as a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of various muscle-wasting diseases.

  • SARMs are less powerful than AAS, but still have notable effects which you will see and feel
  • SARMs carry far less risk, which lowers to practically nothing if you use a sensible dose and cycle length
  • SARMs won’t have a long-term impact on your hormones, organs, or Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Testes axis
  • Any mild suppression can be fixed with a PCT after SARMs use

For a more in-depth comparison between SARMs and AAS, see our SARMs Vs Steroids blog post.

Risks & Side Effects Of SARMs?

As we said, there are some side effects with SARMs (just as there is with any drug, even over the counter and herbal ones). If you keep to the recommended doses of SARMs and keep your cycle duration sensible, you shouldn’t expect any side effects. It is sensible to follow up a SARMs cycle with PCT in any case.

The main side effect to look out for is hormone suppression. YK11, RAD-140, LGD-4033, MK-2866, S-23, and ACP-105 are known to be suppressive. This can be largely managed by taking the proper dose, keeping cycles short and using PCT after the SARMs cycle.

Signs of suppression include low mood and low energy. DW-501516, SR-9099, and MK-677 are non-suppressive and don’t need any PCT.

  • MK-677 may cause some bloating (it increases appetite)
  • Ligandrol may cause testosterone suppression
  • Ostarine may cause testosterone suppression at doses above 25mg per day if used for longer than 4 weeks
  • Andarine may lead to temporary night vision disruption at higher doses – it is strongly recommended to stay within the recommended dosage range
  • Testolone is potent and suppresses natural hormone production (so use a PCT)
  • Some SARMs may cause some headaches, backache, hair loss and acne – using lower dosages and assessing your body’s response is always the best protocol

Read our SARMs Cycle Guide and Dosages blog post to learn the safest and most effective methods.

So Are SARMs Safe?

So are SARMs safe? The biggest risk of using SARMs is finding good quality products. Because SARMs have not yet been approved by the FDA, some of the so-called SARMs you find online are mixed with other ingredients (including banned substances) or are downright fake.

So your first task is finding good quality SARMs from trusted manufacturers and distributors. Always be confident in what you are buying before you take any SARM. You have to be sure that your SARM is what it says it os – your health (both now and in the long term) are paramount.

Our conclusion – are SARMs safe? Yes, when used correctly.

Are SARMs Safe for Women?

SARMs can offer a safer alternative to hardcore compounds with a much lower risk of virilisation side-effects. This is the main reason a lot of women have started using SARMs instead of compounds like Anavar. SARMs are highly effective for women and will increase muscle building and fat burning considerably and almost immediately.

Most women will find SARMs almost as effective as steroids but it’s very important to stay within recommended dosage levels which aren’t the same as for men. It’s also vital to follow sensible cycle protocols, allowing your body to recover in between. Researching the different compounds thoroughly is the first step to ensuring your progress is safe. The most popular options are Andarine (S-4) and Ostarine. Other compounds similar but not actually SARMs are Cardarine and MK-677.

Are SARMs safe for women? SARMs aren’t completely side effect free but they do have much fewer side effects when used correctly. You should always start off with the lowest possible dose and don’t go beyond the recommended dose unless you are comfortable with the potential side-effects. When women use SARMs, they can also experience increased sex drive which can be a bonus for some!

Building Muscle Safely

Whilst SARMs can have a lot of benefits for building muscle mass and strength, never forget that there is a lot more to it than the supplements you take. Are you ticking all these boxes? If not, look to these basics before you even think about using SARMs.

  • Calories: you need to be in a calorie excess to grow
  • Food quality: food quality does count, make sure your meals include micronutrients, fibre, and phytonutrients
  • Protein: muscle gain requires adequate protein intake, aim for at least 30g every 2-4 hours
  • MPS: muscle protein synthesis is key to growing muscle tissue
  • Hydration: good hydration helps with digestion, nutrient uptake, and health
  • Sleep: aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night for good recovery, mood and diet adherence
  • Stress management: keep stress to a minimum and control what you can, stress is catabolic
liquid vs capsule sarms blog

Liquid Vs Capsule SARMs: 3 Useful Benefits of Capsules

Liquid SARMs Vs Capsules: What’s More Effective?

Liquid vs capsule SARMs, which is more effective? Is it better to take SARMs in liquid or capsule form – what are the pros and cons?

SARMs – selective androgen receptor modulators – can be amazingly effective at helping you build muscle, gain more mass, build strength and even diet more effectively (developing that full, hard look every bodybuilder wants).

There are a lot of questions surrounding SARMs. Which SARM should you use? Can you stack SARMs? What do SARMs do?

But then there is another question – one which many websites don’t answer. Which is more effective, liquid SARMs or capsule/tablet SARMs?

With so many SARMs on offer, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of choosing liquid vs capsule delivery systems. Before you make a decision, read our guide to liquid SARMs and capsule SARMs.

Why Are Some SARMs Liquid & Some SARMs Capsules?

The most important thing to understand is that all SARMs start out as raw ingredients in powder form. The liquid, capsule or tablet is just the delivery system.

Putting anything in a capsule form kind of suggests it might be used for medicinal purposes or as a food supplement, and in some countries, SARMs are not FDA approved for dietary use. As a result. some companies choose a liquid delivery system to stay well away from any such associations.

Liquid SARMs show that the manufacturer is trying to keep everything totally cut-and-dried from a legal perspective, which isn’t to say that liquid SARMs are illegal or banned.

Remember, SARMs are only banned by WADA (the World Anti-Doping Agency). For use outside of drug-tested sport, you need to refer to your country’s legal view on SARMs. We wrote about the legality of SARMs here. SARMs are not currently viewed as illegal but some countries have their own regulations (like the UK, which says SARMs are legal to buy and sell but illegal to sell as a food supplement or as a medicine).

Liquid Vs Capsule SARMs: Bioavailability

Are liquid SARMs absorbed faster than capsule versions? It would make sense to think this way, but there is no evidence to suggest that liquid SARMs get into your system any quicker than capsule orals. If that was the case, wouldn’t every vitamin, supplement, and medical drug in the world be delivered in a liquid form? But they’re not – just think about all the different capsules you see for sale, or maybe even take as part of your supplement regime.

In most cases, capsules are the preferred method of taking SARMs. Capsules are easier to take, more appealing and have a kind of nicer image, plus they have a longer shelf life.

Liquid Vs Capsule SARMs: Which Should You Choose?

Some people swear that liquid SARMs work better, but there’s no evidence to back this up. Seeing as how capsules are safer to ship, keep longer, and are generally easier to transport and use, we can see why most people choose capsulated SARMs when they have the choice.

3 Benefits Of SARMs In Capsule or Pill Form

1 They protect the raw ingredients

Capsules protect the potency of the raw ingredients and ensure you get a consistent dose every time. Active ingredients can lose their strength in liquids.

2 They digest a little slower

You might think this sounds like a bad thing, but it’s best if your SARMs supplement stays in the stomach for a short while before it is absorbed into the body.

3 No extra ingredients

This about it – liquid SARMs need some added gradients as a carrier and to keep the liquid palatable. Capsules and pills don’t need any of that because you swallow the capsule without smelling or tasting the ingredients inside.

Liquid Vs Capsule SARMs: Pros & Cons

Capsules and pills have a better shelf life, easier to use and generally have more consistency of the active ingredient. Liquid allows the researcher to easily make micro incrementations of the doses.

Remember, most manufacturers would prefer to sell SARMs in capsule form (and capsules are probably easier for you to take, too). The main reason you will find SARMs as a liquid is that the manufacturer might be being ultra-careful about how their product is viewed from a legal perspective (capsules tend to suggest this is meant for human consumption as a food supplement or medicine).

Whatever you choose, remember the potency levels of the raw ingredient doesn’t change whether you take them inside of a capsule, or as a liquid.

View our range of top-quality SARMs here.

sarms vs steroids infographic preview

SARMs Vs Steroids: Ultimate Guide (Updated 2023)

SARMs Vs Steroids: in this article, we’ll compare everything you need to know; efficacy, health risks and benefits for bodybuilding and athletic performance.. Are SARMs the same as steroids? What are the similarities between steroids and SARMs, and what are the differences? Find out everything you need to know about the benefits of SARMs and the downsides of steroids so you can compare and make the right choice for you.

SARMs Vs Steroids for Bodybuilding

SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) and steroids are both compounds that can enhance muscle growth, increase strength, and improve athletic performance. However, they work in different ways and have distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Steroids have a long-standing association with bodybuilding, but they also have a lot of risks and unknown side effects. SARMs, on the other hand, are a newer form of performance enhancing drugs that can have a lot of the beneficial effects usually associated with steroids, but without the negative side effects.

Based on this information alone, we can say that SARMs are a better choice than steroids when it comes to SARMs vs Steroids for bodybuilding. But that would make for a pretty short article! So we’re going to go into a lot more detail about the impact, legality and risks with steroids and SARMs so you can make an informed decision; should you choose SARMs or steroids for bodybuilding?

SARMs Vs Steroids for Muscle building and Performance-Enhancing

Steroids are generally considered to be more potent than SARMs in terms of muscle building and performance-enhancing effects. They can increase muscle mass and strength significantly, especially when combined with resistance training.

SARMs are also effective at promoting muscle growth and strength, but to a lesser extent than steroids. They may be better suited for athletes who are looking for moderate gains without the risk of serious side effects.

What Are Anabolic Steroids?

Anabolic steroids are synthetic steroid hormones which resemble testosterone in their effects on muscle growth. They are man-made, not natural and exogenous (meaning they come from outside the body).

Anabolic steroids are illegal, even though they continue to be used in a variety of sports (most notable in bodybuilding). The reason people still choose to use them despite their legal status is that they can have some powerful effects. But alongside those potential effects, come some risks and side-effects.

Most anabolic steroids were originally developed for medical use (or at least they started out that way). But remember that medical use of these drugs is controlled, dosed, administered in a sterile environment and assessed.

Steroids: Mechanism of Action

Steroids are synthetic versions of the hormone testosterone, which binds to androgen receptors in the body, leading to an increase in protein synthesis and muscle growth. They also affect other tissues and organs, such as the liver, heart, and kidneys.

What Are SARMs?

SARMs are Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators – they are performance-enhancing compounds, rather than synthetic hormones. They have become popular with bodybuilders and other athletes who want positive benefits but without the short- and long-term risks to physical and mental health.

SARMs work by binding to androgen receptors on a cellular level which means they are very unlikely to lead to health problems (like the fertility issues, heart problems and physical changes in the list of steroid side effects).

Common SARMs include Ostarine, Andarine and RAD-140.

SARMs: Mechanism of Action

SARMs are designed to selectively target androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue, while minimising the impact on other tissues. This selectivity reduces the risk of side effects associated with steroids.

Steroid Benefits For Bodybuilding

If steroids didn’t have benefits, people wouldn’t take the risk. The truth is, these drugs can have some very impressive benefits on muscle gain, muscle retention and fat loss. We’ll look at the side-effects and health risks in a moment.

  1. Muscle gain – anabolic steroids mimic testosterone, one of the key muscle growth hormones
  2. Training duration and frequency – this in itself leads to more muscle stimulation and potential growth
  3. Muscle retention – anabolic steroids ca reduce the rate of muscle wastage during training
  4. Muscle mass – steroid users can grow more mass than all but the most genetically gifted natural athletes
  5. Psychological – using drugs can make people feel as if they should be achieving more, so they work harder and train more seriously (call it a placebo effect, but it can’t be ignored)

Health Risks & Side Effects Of Steroid Use

Anabolic steroids are illegal, unregulated and come with a lot of health risks (both in the short term as you are using them and in the long term future). Many of these effects are irreversible no matter how many years you spend off the “gear”.

  1. Gynecomastia (“gyno”) – where male steroid users develop breast tissue or lumps
  2. Shrunken junk – guys using gear often suffer from shrunken testicles
  3. Prostate problems – enlarged prostate can be a side effect of steroid use
  4. For women, changes to genitalia include an enlarged clitoris
  5. Women users can develop deeper voices (we’re talking so deep that it’s a shocking change)
  6. Women users can also develop physical changes to the shape of the jaw, plus facial hair
  7. Baldness or thinning hair and hair loss for both sexes
  8. Women should expect interrupted periods which can have serious health implications
  9. Both sexes can be affected by severe acne on the face and body
  10. Tumours and other changes (especially to the liver) are common health risks
  11. Increased LDL and decreased HDL cholesterol
  12. Hypertension (high blood pressure) and other heart and circulatory issues
  13. Increased risk of tendonitis and associated injuries (especially in conjunction with lifting heavy)
  14. Plus the risk of infections linked to the administration of injectable drugs
  15. Steroid use can also lead to a number of mental issues including aggression, rage, depression, paranoia, poor judgement and even violent outbursts

6 Benefits Of SARMs

You can expect a range of positive effects from the sensible, proper use of SARMs, including benefits to muscle mass, body fat and body composition and training performance.

  1. Can help build more lean muscle mass
  2. Can help improve strength levels (so you can lift more)
  3. Can boost the healing and recovery process
  4. May improve training endurance to boost the duration and frequency of sessions
  5. Has positive benefits for bone health and bone density
  6. Can help you lose fat without also losing muscle mass

SARMs can give you the anabolic (growth) benefits of steroids but without needing to use an illegal drug which can harm your health. Sounds like a no-brainer! Another great reason to use SARMs (rather than anabolic steroids) is that you can buy them from above-the-board, approved distributors so you know exactly what you are taking, how to dose them and how to use them.

Lower Risks With SARMs

  • SARMs are non-toxic, so won’t harm your liver
  • You can always opt for oral SARMs so no need for injections.
  • SARMs have no effects on your libido (and don’t affect the size of your genitalia!)
  • SARMs work via androgen receptors, so have a balanced impact on all muscle groups
  • Combine SARMs with a PCT (post cycle therapy) or test booster to offset any suppression. See our Guide to PCT for more information.

SARMs Side Effects

SARMs are generally considered to have fewer side effects than steroids, but they can still cause issues such as:

  • Decreased testosterone levels
  • Acne
  • Headaches
  • Hair loss (mainly potent SARMs such as RAD-140, S-23 and YK-11)

However, the risk of long-term damage to organs like the liver and kidneys is lower than if comparing SARMs vs steroids.

SARMs Vs Steroids Legal Status

Steroids are classified as Schedule III controlled substances by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning they are illegal to possess or distribute without a prescription. In many countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada, steroids are also illegal without a prescription.

SARMs are not yet approved by the FDA for human use, but they are not currently classified as controlled substances in most countries. However, some SARMs are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and other sporting organisations because of their performance-enhancing effects.

SARMs Vs Steroids: The Final Word

SARMs and steroids are both compounds that can enhance muscle growth and improve athletic performance, but they work in different ways and have different risks and benefits. SARMs are generally considered to be safer and have fewer side effects than steroids, but they may be less potent in terms of muscle building and performance-enhancing effects. It is important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully before using either of these substances.

We are always honest with you, so we need to say that SARMs have been reported to give some side-effects (like vision issues with Andarine) – but this is only ever reported when SARMs are misused. So if you take the recommended dose, follow the instructions and buy from a reputable source then you should have no problem at all. (That’s kind of common sense, right?)

SARMs Vs Steroids Infographic

sarms vs steroids infographic 2019
sarms vs steroids infographic 2019
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