Originally Posted by
Zodiac85
I've been reading these forums like crazy the past couple weeks. I'm trying to figure out my first cycle, which I am not planning to do until later this year, maybe in the fall. I'm considering doing a test only cycle first for various reasons. There's tons of info here, but it's often in response to cycles with several different types of AAS, where mine would be simpler. I'm sure my questions are answered somewhere in these forums, but I could use some help sorting out the information in my head. Feel free to respond with links if I've missed an obvious source to read.
1) I know there are different versions of test that have different speeds that they work at and stick around, but on say a 12 or 14 week cycle does it really matter which? As long as the dosing schedule is appropriate for the type of test? Or would one be preferred over the others? Yes, there are different versions of test and the difference in between them is the ester that is attached to it. If you take test prop you will need every other day injections whereas if you take test cyp or enanthate, you only need to inject twice a week. This is because the half-life of prop is much shorter than C or E. Some feel that water retention is lower with test prop but I'm not sure how much proof there is to that.
2) It seems that there's somewhat of a standard to start with 500mg per week. Is this correct? Does this depend on which ester?500mg/wk is a good starting point. I took 250mg/week when I started my first cycle and had great gains. You can take less than 500mg/week but if you are already going to be shutting down your natural test production with 250mg, you might as well take 500mg/week and get the most out of the cycle. With that being said, you could take 1000mg/wk but if your diet is shit, you aren't going to make the gains you want.
3) I plan to get blood work done first. At this time I have no idea what my blood work will say, but what am I expecting on cycle? I understand that this varies dramatically between people, but is that a small increase over my natural test? Twice? Big increase?Should be a large increase. I don't have much experience with blood work and what the values should be while on cycle.
4) Is it recommended to use hcg on a test only cycle? This will keep my balls producing their own test, which should increase the amount in my system above not using hcg? But, more test also means more estrogen meaning greater need for an anti-estrogen? HCG on cycle will allow your testicles to keep functioning which will make it easier for you to recover when you come off and go into PCT.
5) I see people doing test and taking only Nolvadex or Arimidex, and others taking both and more during cycle. When doing test only, is one better than another? Or take both? You don't take nolvadex on cycle. You will take nolvadex and clomid for PCT. You will want to take an AI (Anti-estrogen) while on cycle to prevent elevated estrogen levels which can lead to shitty sides such as gyno.
I'm sure I've missed this info elsewhere, so I appreciate the time to point me in the right direction.
-Zodiac
If it matters or is helpful:
I'm a 35 y/o male.
5'10, 190, 14% bf.
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