This isn't a "slam noobs" thread or anything. I am just curious. The cycle I am on now is FAR from my first. It might as well be my first though because an injury put me out of training for YEARS. It sucked I was actually at risk of being permanently disabled, until an amazing surgeon gave me my life back. Now, while I'm no pro/vet, I understand basics.

However, back when I was a "green horn" I made the same mistakes I hear the knowledgeable members warning the "new guys" about. I was one of the idiots (YEARS AGO) that took the plunge LONG before I had any business doing so. I had no idea what PCT, AI's, ect was.

My question, which can be answered as easily as "me" or "not me" is - who all learned the hard way? Who all jumped in young, dumb, and before they had any idea the risks they were putting themselves in?

Please don't misunderstand. I am NOW a firm believer in "educate before you medicate" and actually REFUSE to give friends advice when they tell me they're too lazy to do their own research. I flat tell them - "you're not smart enough for gear and I won't help you hurt yourself". But I know I am not the only one who made the Nooby plunge before I should have. Whoelse?