These last few months on AR have flown by. I hit 500 posts this morning and have left my newbie, junior, and associate statuses behind. I was just reflecting on all the things I've learned and thought I would post my top 5.
Please feel free to add to my list and/or comment on any of mine.
1. Researching your first or any steroid cycle is absolutley mandatory. There is so much mis-reported and just plain bogus info out there it was great to find guys that had already walked the path. To the Bro's that helped me - your guidance and support are most appreciated.
2. Prepare for proper PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) if you want to retain your hard earned gains from any cycle. Previous to AR I had never even heard of pct and I am grateful for this information. I will be honest, I am still a little unclear on the exact pct regimen, however I am sure about the necessity of Novla and Clomid (hgc and other compounds seem to be hotly contested so my research continues on them).
3. AR is a community. It is a great deal more than how much gear can you do or can you bench 400 pounds? It is an international gathering of people seriously interested in improving themselves through bodybuilding, nutrition, and safe (conservative) chemical enhancement. I am also happily surprised just how often I hear that members recommend against the use of gear as they are too young, not experienced enough, or just not educated enough. Both positives and negatives of drug use are clearly discussed and members make informed decisions knowing the possible risks and benefits (which is the way I think it should be).
4. I have to admit that I am addicted to AR. Many days I spend hours and hours perusing the forums. And, not just the steroid, diet, or nutritional forums either. I have become a regular in the Lounge and Political forums as well. My New Years resolutions for next year is going to be limitting myself to no more than 2 hours a day. But, for this year, what the he11, I am just going to enjoy it!
5. Participation is key! AR works best when you both ask questions about things you want to learn about (after you have done a search and have found nothing relevant) and also about giving back to others by responding to other peoples questions when you have something positive to contribute.
Sorry, I was a little long winded. But, I just wanted to say thank you to AR and its members.