First Cycle?

Hi all,

If anyone remembers I've been considering a first cycle for probably the last few years. I was gonna stay natural but after getting my last bloods panel it occurred to me that when you compete NATURALLY, your hormones really suffer. My levels weren't LOW, but they weren't exactly on the upper level where they probably should be for my age.

Total Test: 12.15 (Range 9.4-37)
SHBG: 35.2 (Range 10-55)
Free Androgen Index: 34 (Range 32.2-136.1)
Free Test: 233 (Range 180-535)
E2: 46.2 (Range 0-160)

LH & FSH were fine.

I did have higher test last year compared to now, but I was leaner this time which would explain lower test.
I think I'm gonna give competing naturally one go next year(in physique), and likely go on after that. So I'll make as much progress between now and then as possible. What would you guys recommend for a first cycle?

I've heard the usual "500mg test" as a basic first cycle but my friend got insane results from just 250mg of test with 100-200mg primo. I'm thinking of potentially 250mg test with 200mg EQ or primo, as I think I could see significant results from it being so sensitive in the androgen sensitivity department :lol: I guess it would also depend on goals, but I'm not looking to explode in my first cycle. What would be your guys' thoughts on a first cycle? I'm aiming to probably compete in classic physique.
Thanks guys, cheers

How old are you?

Rooi Bul 86 wrote: How old are you?

Hey RB, I'm 21.

Sjoeh. Young for those numbers...

Please give your other stats also like body fat % and weight.

Rooi Bul 86 wrote: Sjoeh. Young for those numbers...

Please give your other stats also like body fat % and weight.

Height: 185cm
Weight: 75kg

Bodyfat: This is subjective and most people don't predict it accurately without using a measurement tool but I'd estimate 7%.

Been weight training around 5 years, maybe more.

I can still make some ground naturally I'd say, that's why I'd like to get up to at least 80-85kg(lean) naturally before I start.

Why dont you reverse diet up to you maintenance calories hang there for a bit but try not to go above 12% Body fat and then re test. Maybe Muscle Addict will chime in he is vastly more experienced than I am. I think him or O0 Pump would advise getting Thyroid function and Vitamin D and Prolactin or Progesterone checked all of these can have and impact ons your HPTA I am concerned for you at your age. Getting recovered would be my priority not competing or doing a cycle

Rooi Bul 86 wrote: Why dont you reverse diet up to you maintenance calories hang there for a bit but try not to go above 12% Body fat and then re test. Maybe Muscle Addict will chime in he is vastly more experienced than I am. I think him or O0 Pump would advise getting Thyroid function and Vitamin D and Prolactin or Progesterone checked all of these can have and impact ons your HPTA I am concerned for you at your age. Getting recovered would be my priority not competing or doing a cycle

Thanks RB. Yeah I plan to up the calories while staying reasonably lean. Specifically fat calories as they play an important role in steroid hormone production. I did get progesterone checked and that was also fine. I really doubt Thyroid would be outside of normal as I'm definitely not overweight and as soon as I up the calories I can gain weight pretty easily. Let's give it a few months of gaining some quality size and with added fats I'm sure the hormonal profile will be better. I don't know if it's relevant or not, but in terms of "feeling" I feel 100% so it's not like I'm complaining a out low T symptoms lol.

The worst time for anyone to do a cycle, first cycle or not, is when their hormones are fucked like your is now. You will still have to sort out the underlying problem when you come off, but it could be much harder and take longer.

First sort your health out. When your total T is back over 20, then you can make plans.

Muscleaddict wrote: The worst time for anyone to do a cycle, first cycle or not, is when their hormones are fucked like your is now. You will still have to sort out the underlying problem when you come off, but it could be much harder and take longer.

First sort your health out. When your total T is back over 20, then you can make plans.

Thanks MA. As I mentioned, I'll ensure sufficient fats as well as boost calories. I essentially have just done a "prep" so natural levels are unsurprisingly lowered. How long should it take for the test to bounce back generally? I know it's individual, but a rule of thumb? Should I test again in like 4 months? Keeping in mind I hate blood tests :lol:

PumpSeeker wrote:

Muscleaddict wrote: The worst time for anyone to do a cycle, first cycle or not, is when their hormones are fucked like your is now. You will still have to sort out the underlying problem when you come off, but it could be much harder and take longer.

First sort your health out. When your total T is back over 20, then you can make plans.

How long should it take for the test to bounce back generally? I know it's individual, but a rule of thumb? Should I test again in like 4 months? Keeping in mind I hate blood tests :lol:

I'd be guessing if I gave a number since I don't know for sure what's causing it, but I would not worry if I were you. Just get your macros and micros sorted and you should be back to normal soon.