Advice on a first cycle for an older guy who is in reasonable shape.

Hello to all, joined this community 2 weeks ago and have been reading. Now it's time to get to the gym and would really appreciate some advice.

I'm 55 years, estimated body fat, probably around 18%. Have worked out since my 20's and never used anything but common over the counter supplements. I am a hard gainer and both need and want to put on muscle. Like everyone else I suppose, I go through periods where life allows dedication to the gym and then periods where life gets in the way. I've not been in the gym for around 8 months now.

Goal 1. I must add significant muscle to my shoulders. I have a nagging shoulder injury that is definitely getting progressively worse. I've consulted everyone from my doctor, to seasoned athletes to sports therapists and all independently agree that packing on some muscle in the shoulders will help.

Goal 2. Adding muscle in general and leaning out. This can be split in a muscle gain, then fat reduction phase.

My history in the gym has taught me that I recover my cardio strength and endurance within 2 to 3 weeks. Example, the last time period where I worked out 4 to 5 days per week (8 months ago), was careful with diet and rest. I went from below average in fitness tests done on a computerized treadmill, to superior fitness grade in 3 weeks. I have a really hard time gaining muscle. I've done blood work numerous times and test levels always come back normal. I've come to the determination that NORMAL, is not enough for me. If I take natural test boosters, I begin to see muscle gain but, dreadfully slow.

As part of joining this community, I understand I receive a free bottle of "something" (how do I find out what it is?). One member responded back to me that is was a steroid alternative. I'm guessing it will be something like Test 600x. I was thinking for my first cycle, to purchase HGH and hopefully get the free bottle of Test 600x. Do those supplements for 8 week, slow down for 3 weeks, then go on to something that would substantially pack on muscle.

Would really appreciate feedback and opinions from the community and perhaps some suggestions on what that second cycle might be comprised of. Thanks to all in advance. Planning on doing this very slow, low dosage. Using the steroids as a catalyst not the primary driving force behind growth. Want to keep side effects to absolute minimum.

Free bottle of steroid alternative, not the actual steroid.
Just to give you an idea of a good 1st cycle. Which is test only cycle.

Test e or test c 500 mgs/wk (injectible) for 12 weeks
Aromasin or arimidex to control estrogen
Hcg to keep your nuts cranking, highly recommend, but its not required.
For pct (which is a must to recover) you need clomid and nolvadex.
You will need pre cycle, mid cycle, and post pct blood work.
You will have to donate blood at least once to get hemo and RBC back to normal.
As you can see you need more than just a steroid to run a cycle.

The best place to start is to read the educational section and stickies in this section. There is a ton to learn. Research is a must if you want to cycle safely and properly.

Welcome to the community. You've probably done some research, but your post indicates that you'd benefit from some more time spent reading the stickies. And don't plan your cycle around the free bottle.

And I'd concentrate on getting ur shoulder fixed up before u think of any cycle. Depending on what type of injury will decide how best to initiate repair. Visit the injury section and explain the injury. See if the guys can give I some solid advice. U do NOT want to make things worse.and u really need to be in top condition prrior to cycling. It sounds as if you've been away from the gym. At least for a while. If so. Take I easy. Do some really light shoulder strengthening exercises first n always warm up that joint n get the blood pumping in there to aid repair

As an over 50 guy myself consistency is the most important thing. Get back to the gym and train hard but smart and get your diet on track.

Also a visit to the doctor for a full blood panel including hormones test, free test, E2, FSH, LH, T3, T4, PSA. You may need some balance in that department.
Check out the LowTestosterone link on this site for more info

Thanks to all, definitely more reading is in order.

What Fit said. Start with full BW. It may just be time for TRT which, if needed can change your life! Just do it right. Visit the HRT Forum and read all the stickies there. In the Finding A Doc sticky is an example of BW that you need. Interact with the guys there as self-education is massively important in this endeavor.