Cycle Length: Prohormones vs SARMs
Prohormones and SARMs are two popular choices for people who want to build muscle and get stronger. Both of these help people get bigger muscles, but it is very important to use them safely. One of the most important things to understand is how long you should use them, also called the pro hormones.
If you do not use the right cycle length, you can get side effects like liver damage or hormone problems. This article will explain what prohormones and SARMs are, how they work, and how to use them safely.
Key Takeaways
- Prohormones should be used for shorter times (about 4-6 weeks) because they can be tough on your liver.
- SARMs can be used for a little longer (8-12 weeks) because they are less harmful to your body.
- After using either prohormones or SARMs, you need to help your body recover using something called Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).
- Knowing the right cycle length helps you get the best results without getting hurt.
What Are Prohormones?
Definition of Prohormones
Prohormones are substances that turn into anabolic hormones like testosterone when they are in the body. These hormones help make muscles bigger and stronger. Prohormones work a lot like steroids but are a little different because they need to be converted inside your body.
How Prohormones Work in the Body
- Conversion in the Liver: Prohormones are converted into anabolic hormones in your liver. This process makes them active and helps you build muscle.
- Effect on Hormones: Prohormones change the balance of hormones in your body, which can sometimes cause problems like too much estrogen.
Types of Prohormones
| Prohormone Type | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Androstenedione | Turns into both testosterone and estrogen, which can lead to unwanted effects. | Used for gaining muscle and strength. |
| 1-DHEA | Turns into testosterone with fewer side effects. | Used to get lean muscle. |
Benefits of Using Prohormones
- Build Muscle: Prohormones help make your muscles grow faster.
- Get Stronger: You can lift more weight after using them.
- Recover Faster: They help muscles heal faster, so you can work out harder.
Potential Drawbacks of Prohormones
- Hormonal Issues: They can increase estrogen, causing problems like gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue in males).
- Liver Toxicity: Because prohormones need to be converted in the liver, they can put stress on it.
- Other Side Effects: Prohormones may also cause acne, high blood pressure, and mood swings.
What Are SARMs?
Definition of SARMs
SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are compounds that help build muscles by attaching to specific receptors in your muscles and bones. They work in a more targeted way compared to prohormones, which makes them a bit safer. If you want to know more, here is a comparison of the key differences between prohormones and SARMs.
How SARMs Work in the Body
- Selective Action: SARMs attach to receptors mainly in muscle and bone, which helps build muscle without affecting other parts of your body like the liver.
Types of SARMs
| SARM Type | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Ostarine (MK-2866) | Helps keep muscles during dieting. | Often used for cutting. |
| Ligandrol (LGD-4033) | Helps build muscle quickly. | Used for bulking. |
| RAD-140 (Testolone) | Helps build muscle without damaging the liver. | Suitable for gaining lots of muscle. |
Benefits of SARMs Compared to Prohormones
- Lower Side Effects: SARMs are less likely to harm your liver compared to prohormones.
- Targeted Muscle Growth: SARMs specifically help muscle growth without causing too many side effects.
- Muscle Protection: SARMs are good for keeping muscle while losing weight.
Potential Drawbacks of SARMs
- Hormone Suppression: If you use SARMs for a long time, they can stop your body from making natural testosterone. Learn more about testosterone suppression caused by prohormones and SARMs.
- Unknown Long-Term Effects: SARMs have not been studied as much, so the long-term risks are not completely known.
Comparing Prohormones and SARMs
Differences in How They Work
- Prohormones are converted in the liver, and then they act like anabolic steroids.
- SARMs directly attach to specific receptors in your body to grow muscles.
Effectiveness in Building Muscle
- Bulking: SARMs are good for gaining clean muscle without a lot of water weight.
- Cutting: SARMs like Ostarine help keep your muscles when you are trying to lose weight.
Side Effect Comparison
- Liver Health: Prohormones can harm the liver because they need to be converted there. SARMs do not. For more information on liver health, visit this comparison of prohormones and SARMs on liver health.
- Hormonal Side Effects: Prohormones can lead to estrogen problems, but SARMs generally do not have this issue.
Who Should Use Them?
- Beginners: SARMs are better for beginners because they have fewer side effects.
- Experienced Lifters: Prohormones are more suited for experienced users who are comfortable managing possible side effects.
The Importance of Cycle Length
Why Is Cycle Length Important?
- Preventing Health Problems: If you use these compounds for too long, you could hurt your liver or mess up your hormones. It’s important to use the right cycle length to avoid these problems.
- Getting Good Results: Short cycles may not give enough time for muscle gains, while very long cycles increase the risk of side effects.
Recommended Cycle Length for Prohormones
Typical Cycle Duration
4-6 Weeks: Prohormones are usually used for about 4-6 weeks. This time is short enough to reduce the risk of side effects.
Why Shorter Cycles Are Better for Prohormones
- Liver Health: Prohormones can put a lot of stress on your liver, so short cycles are safer.
- Hormone Issues: Prohormones can also lower your natural testosterone, so it’s best to keep the cycle short.
Factors That Affect Cycle Length
- Experience Level: Beginners should stick to shorter cycles (around 4 weeks), while advanced users may go up to 6 weeks.
- Type of Prohormone: Some prohormones are stronger and require even shorter cycles.
Recommended Cycle Length for SARMs
Typical Cycle Duration
8-12 Weeks: SARMs can be used for a longer period—usually between 8-12 weeks—because they are less toxic.
Factors That Affect SARM Cycle Length
- Type of SARM: Mild SARMs like Ostarine can be used for up to 12 weeks, while stronger SARMs like RAD-140 should be used for about 8 weeks.
- Goals:
- Bulking: For gaining a lot of muscle, 10-12 weeks works best.
- Cutting: For losing fat, 6-8 weeks is better.
Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) Considerations
What Is PCT?
Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is what you do after finishing a cycle of prohormones or SARMs to help your body recover. PCT helps your body start making its own testosterone again. You can read more about Post Cycle Therapy for prohormones vs SARMs here.
PCT for Prohormones
- Clomid or Nolvadex: These are medications that help your body start making testosterone again.
- Natural Test Boosters: Supplements like D-aspartic acid help, but they aren’t as strong as Clomid or Nolvadex.
PCT for SARMs
- Light PCT Needed: SARMs are less harmful, but PCT is still important to recover fully.
- Supplements for PCT: Supplements like aromatase inhibitors help prevent estrogen from going up too much.
Risks of Improper Cycle Length
Short-Term Side Effects
- Water Retention: This is common with prohormones, making you feel bloated.
- Skin Issues: Acne is common due to changes in hormone levels.
Long-Term Health Risks
- Hormone Problems: If you use these compounds for too long, your body might stop making its own testosterone.
- Liver Damage: Prohormones, in particular, can harm your liver if used for too long.
How to Stay Safe
- Monitor Side Effects: If you feel tired or have mood swings, consider ending your cycle early.
- Health Tests: It’s important to get blood tests during and after cycles to make sure you are healthy.
Choosing the Right Approach for Your Goals
Your Fitness Goals
- Building Muscle vs. Losing Fat: If you want more muscle with fewer side effects, SARMs may be better. For bigger gains and faster results, prohormones might work better, but they have more risks.
Beginners vs. Experienced Users
- Beginners: SARMs are easier on the body, making them a better choice for those new to these compounds.
- Experienced Users: Prohormones could be an option for those with more experience and the ability to manage side effects.
Consulting a Doctor
Always talk to a healthcare professional before starting a cycle. It’s also important to get your blood checked to make sure everything is healthy.
Tips for Safe Cycling
Start With Low Dosages
Always start with a low dose and gradually increase it to make sure your body can handle it without problems.
Listen to Your Body
- Warning Signs: If you feel tired, lose your motivation, or see changes in your skin, it could be a sign to stop your cycle.
Rest Between Cycles
Rest for the same amount of time as your cycle. For example, if your cycle was 8 weeks, take at least 8 weeks off before starting again.
Diet and Supplements
- Nutrition: Eat lots of protein to help with muscle growth.
- Liver Support: Take liver support supplements like milk thistle if you’re using prohormones. You might also consider digestive enzymes to support prohormone nutrition.
Legal and Ethical Concerns
Legal Issues
- In some places, SARMs are allowed as “research chemicals,” but prohormones are often banned because they act like steroids.
- Always buy from a trusted source, as some products can be fake and dangerous.
Ethical Concerns in Sports
- Both SARMs and prohormones are banned in most sports competitions. Using them can get athletes disqualified.
FAQ
- What are the typical side effects of extending a prohormone cycle?
Extending a prohormone cycle can cause liver problems, hormone issues like too much estrogen, and can hurt your heart. - Can SARMs be used without Post Cycle Therapy?
No, it’s best to use a light PCT after SARMs to help your body recover and start making natural testosterone again. - How do I determine which is better for me: prohormones or SARMs?
It depends on your goals and experience. SARMs are usually better for beginners due to fewer side effects, while prohormones work faster but have more risks. You may also find it useful to explore which is more effective, prohormones or SARMs. - Is it safe to run multiple cycles throughout the year?
It’s very important to rest between cycles. You need time to recover and make sure your body stays healthy. - Are there natural alternatives to SARMs and prohormones?
Yes, there are natural supplements like tribulus terrestris and ashwagandha that help boost testosterone, though they are not as strong. - What are the best SARMs for cutting?
Ostarine and Andarine are the best for cutting because they help keep muscle while losing fat. - How long should I rest between cycles?
Rest as long as the cycle lasted. For example, if you cycled for 8 weeks, rest for at least 8 weeks. - Do prohormones need liver support supplements?
Yes, it is important to use liver support supplements like NAC when using prohormones. - Can I stack SARMs and prohormones together?
No, stacking these is risky and increases the chance of side effects. Always talk to a healthcare professional before stacking anything. - What blood tests should I take during and after a cycle?
Get tests for liver health, hormone levels, and kidney function to make sure your body is recovering properly.
