Tag: steroids

Closest Thing to Steroids? Top 3 Alternatives

Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.

Anabolic steroids are becoming increasingly popular today; however, they remain taboo in sports and society due to their harsh side effects.
Thus, many gym-goers are looking for something that can mimic the anabolic effects of steroids, but with less harsh effects.
Scientists are also looking for this ‘perfect’ compound, as they attempt to treat cachexia (muscle-wasting) with less toxicity for patients.
Chemically, the potent anabolic (muscle building) and lipolytic (fat burning) effects of anabolic steroids are due to them essentially being exogenous forms of testosterone.
Thus, in theory, if a supplement could significantly increase testosterone levels to the same degree as steroids—it would also mimic their results. However, doing so would also yield a similar amount of side effects.
Thus, in order to experience the results of steroids, people will often have to brace themselves for the dreaded side effects.
“What goes up must come down”.
However, if someone is willing to experience less gains, but with more tolerable side effects; there are certain supplements (or compounds) that can help.
In this article we will not focus on very mild supplements that produce minimal results, but more powerful compounds that will actually have an effect.

SARMs
SARMs (selective androgen receptor modulators) are medicine’s attempt to create a superior anabolic compound to steroids.
SARMs work by binding to the androgen receptor and thus increasing testosterone levels, but with unique tissue selectivity.
Thus, in theory, they SARMs would replicate the anabolic effects of steroids, but without the adverse effects; such as hypertrophy to the prostate, hypertension or liver damage.
Unfortunately, in practice, SARMs can produce harsh side effects that not only may equal anabolic steroids; but may also surpass their level of toxicity.
Dr. Thomas O’Connor, a member of our medical team, has hypothesized SARMs to be more dangerous than anabolic steroids. His verdict is based on 10 years’ of anecdotal evidence and the analysis of 2,000 patients’ labs.
In medical research, two men experienced SARM-induced hepatocellular–cholestatic injuries (1). This was the consequence of taking LGD-4033 for 9 weeks and RAD-140 for just 4 weeks.
Dr. O’Connor has also observed SARMs to have deleterious effects on HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, whilst also causing moderate damage to the HPTA (hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis); resulting in temporary testosterone suppression.
Furthermore, the positive effects of SARMs may only be mild, with merely small increases in muscle hypertrophy being experienced in clinical research (2). In one study, SARMs-users gained 1-1.5kg of lean mass in a 4-6-week period.
In contrast, users taking Testosterone Enanthate gained 5-7kg. Thus, SARMs may produce only 20% of the muscle gains of anabolic steroids (but with potentially harsher side effects).
SARMs’ mild positive effects on body composition, also correlate with real-life, anecdotal observations of SARMs users’ before and after transformations.

Bodybuilders will typically purchase SARMs online or from people they know. The legal status of SARMs is somewhat of a grey area, with them being legal for chemical research, i.e. giving them to mice and monitoring the results. However, they are illegal for humans to utilize for bodybuilding purposes. 
Pros

Mild increases in muscle mass and fat loss

Cons

Illegal to purchase (for non-research purposes)
Harsh side effects
Many SARMs products have been found to be tainted
Not as potent as anabolic steroids

HGH (Human Growth Hormone)
HGH is not an anabolic steroid, although it mimics several of steroids’ properties; such as fat loss, muscle hypertrophy/strength and endurance.
HGH is a peptide hormone, often taken by bodybuilders wanting to take their physique to the next level. The proportion of muscle-building and fat loss is dissimilar to steroids, with HGH having more lipolytic (fat burning) effects than anabolic.
Thus, HGH may be more effective than anabolic steroids for reductions in fat mass, but less effective for muscle hypertrophy.
Typical HGH transfmation
Furthermore, HGH does not cause a ‘crash’ post-cycle, thus a PCT (post-cycle therapy) is unnecessary. Although exogenous HGH causes temporary declines in endogenous (natural) HGH levels; these typically recover in a matter of days post-cycle.
In contrast, damage to the HPTA post steroid cycle and can cause low endogenous testosterone levels for several weeks or months following.
Like anabolic steroids, HGH poses various risks to users, including heart disease (left ventricular hypertrophy) and an increased chance of type II diabetes.
HGH may also be carcinogenic, with Dr. O’Connor observing the following cancers transpire in patients that had regularly cycled growth hormone:

Melanomas
Esophageal cancers
Brain cancers
Heart tumor (single case)
Gastrointestinal tract cancer

It would make sense that HGH could increase a person’s risk of cancer, as it raises IGF-1 levels (a surrogate marker for cancer).
Also, HGH can cause a protruding effect to the abdomen, also known as ‘HGH gut’, which is due to an increase in visceral fat — causing a bloated look to the midsection. Anabolic steroids can also cause this same appearance in the abdomen; however, it is less pronounced than HGH. This difference can be attributed to HGH causing greater fluctuations in insulin and blood sugar levels.
HGH is not currently approved for cosmetic use, and thus bodybuilders often purchase it via the black market; as prescriptions are only possible if a person has clinically low endogenous levels. 
Pros

Significant results (particularly for fat loss)
Anti-aging

Cons

HGH gut
Illegal (unless medically prescribed)
Several adverse side effects

Testosterone Boosters
If a bodybuilder wanted to stay 100% natural and operate within the confines of the law, testosterone boosters can be used — such as d-aspartic acid, tribulus terrestris, ZMA and others.
There is ample research to suggest such herbs and amino acids have a positive effect on testosterone levels; however, they are unlikely to cause exceptional elevations in serum testosterone.
There may be a rare few hyper-responders to certain testosterone boosters, causing them to gain 10lbs of lean mass from approximately 4-6 weeks of supplementation. However, this is not typical and for most users, a fraction of this is likely to be the outcome.
Other natural supplements, such as protein powders, creatine and BCAAs are unlikely to yield anything close to steroid-like results. 
Pros:

Very safe (no side effects)
100% natural

Cons:

Minimal muscle gains

As testosterone boosters contain natural, FDA-approved ingredients and are 100% legal; they can be easily purchased online/over the counter. 
Takeaway
Truthfully, the positive effects of anabolic steroids are largely unrivalled. Other articles online on this topic will mention natural supplements such as creatine, protein and amino acids; but their results are incomparable.
SARMs and HGH are arguably the closest thing to steroids; mimicking the muscle-building and fat burning properties—albeit at a cost.
Anabolic steroids should be discouraged, due to their potentially dangerous side effects. However, if steroids are to be taken, mild ones may be safer than some of the ‘alternative’ compounds mentioned in this article.
Some examples of relatively mild anabolic steroids (that are also FDA-approved in medicine) include Anavar, Deca Durabolin and Testosterone.

Why Are Anabolic Steroids Illegal?

Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.

The legality of anabolic steroids is seemingly constantly changing, being deemed acceptable for one generation, with the masses using them for cosmetic purposes — yet unacceptable in the next.
Today, anabolic steroids are illegal in many countries and thus cannot be directly purchased from legitimate pharmacies to aid bodybuilding endeavours.
However, some exceptions to this rule exist, such as Mexico and Thailand, where the general population are legally permitted to use anabolic steroids.
Anabolic steroids however were once 100% legal to obtain, even in countries where they are now outlawed and banned by the FDA.
Arnold Schwarzenegger once revealed that he acquired his steroid stack from his doctor, who would nonchalantly and regularly prescribe him Dianabol or Deca Durabolin to aid his bodybuilding efforts.
However, several years later and after numerous clinical trials, anabolic steroids’ side effects are now better established.
Consequently, this has led to an FDA ban of many anabolic-androgenic steroids, with them being classed as schedule III controlled substances.
Thus, any person caught in possession or selling anabolic steroids can be issued with a hefty fine or/and  prison time (determined by the local laws).
Ironically, in America and other countries (where anabolic steroids are now illegal), doctors continue to prescribe certain anabolic steroids for various conditions; including cachexia, osteoporosis and hypogonadism.
Anavar (Oxandrolone), Deca Durabolin (Nandrolone) and Testosterone are just a few examples of anabolic steroids that remain FDA-approved in medicine and are deemed safe for patients to take; should they have a medical need for such drugs.
Thus, a judgement has been made that if a person has a medical need for an anabolic steroid, the benefits of that drug outweigh the risks (when under medical supervision). But the general public are forbidden from taking the same substances.

Why Are Anabolic Steroids Illegal?
Ultimately, anabolic steroids are illegal because their side effects are deemed to be excessively harsh; and thus are considered unnecessary for the public to use.
What is inconsistent with medicine and the law is that, certain steroids are FDA-approved in medicine (and other steroids are not). As one can imagine, the milder compounds with less side effects are FDA approved and prescribed — whereas the more toxic steroids are not.
However, with regard to the law, all anabolic steroids are treated the same, despite them having varying levels of toxicity.
What are the Side Effects Associated With Steroids?
Anabolic steroids can cause mild and harsh side effects. Some mild reactions include — hair loss, gynecomastia and acne vulgaris.
However, anabolic steroids are almost certainly prohibited due to high levels of cardiotoxicity and hepatotoxicity; in conjunction with damage to the HPTA (hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis).
Heart Disease
An increased risk of myocardial infarction is a reality when taking any anabolic steroid, with higher testosterone levels causing negative fluctuations in cholesterol; specifically being LDL (low-density lipoprotein) increasing and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) decreasing.
Some could argue that certain measures can combat excessive rises in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, such as supplementing with fish oil, performing regular cardiovascular exercise and avoiding excessively cardiotoxic steroids.
Liver Failure
ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) enzymes will rise when taking anabolic steroids; particularly when taking c-17 alpha alkylated compounds, better known as oral steroids.
This is because oral steroids pass through the liver upon entry and exit, whereas injectable steroids only stress the liver upon the latter.
Some could argue that the liver is a resilient organ, effective supplementation can lower AST/ALT enzymes and overly hepatotoxic steroids can be avoided.
TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a supplement with potent liver rejuvenating properties, according to various clinical trials (1, 2),. Consequently, many bodybuilders take TUDCA to reduce their of developing risk peliosis hepatis.
Although the liver is typically a resilient organ and certain supplementation can help, abusing oral steroids is likely to cause deterioration of this organ long term. 
Virilization
One of the most unpleasant side effects of anabolic steroids among women is virilization, or masculinization.  
Although this is not inherently dangerous, it can have a profound negative effect on a woman’s mental wellbeing; with decreased confidence and self-esteem.
Some virilization side effects also may persist long-term (3), including modifications to the larynx, causing a deepened voice or clitoromegaly (clitoral enlargement).
Some may argue that certain anabolic steroids such as Anavar (Oxandrolone) and Anadrol (Oxymetholone) have a low incidence of virilization in clinical research; and when cautious dosages are utilized, they often produce minimal side effects.
Should Steroids Be Illegal?
There are several pros and cons to anabolic steroids being illegal.
Firstly, banning anabolic steroids makes them less readily available to purchase, which naturally will decrease the amount of steroid-induced casualties.
However, making steroids illegal also encourages underground lab ‘cooking’, which presents new dangers in terms of hygiene and contamination. Also, there is a lack of regulation, in comparison to a licensed pharmaceutical lab used to formulate the compounds.
Consequently, the products can be tainted, potentially being dangerous to the public. This wouldn’t be the case if steroids were legal, as they’d be more widely manufactured by scientists in certified medical facilities. And such companies would be liable if any product were to be tainted.
It is reasonable to assume that if certain mild anabolic steroids were legal, and people took them responsibly (following the appropriate dosing protocols) under a doctor’s supervision, it could be less dangerous than masses of steroid-users taking them from underground labs.
However, if the general population was given the green light to pick up anabolic steroids from their doctor for cosmetic use, there would be more cases of steroid abuse. This is already an issue in American society, with 375,000 young men and 175,000 young women in high school thought to be abusing steroids (4). In such cases, individuals can take as much as 10-100x the recommended therapeutic dosage.
Conclusion
Those who take anabolic steroids may downplay the dangers, due to bias.
And those who don’t take steroids may exaggerate the dangers, due to ignorance.
Regardless of whether steroids should be legal or not worldwide, they do have troublesome side effects and are addictive. Both of which were not fully understood when they were previously legal.
Anabolic steroids have also shown to reduce a person’s lifespan when taken long term (5) and thus should be avoided unless there is a medical need for their use.

Why Are Anabolic Steroids Illegal?

Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.

The legality of anabolic steroids is seemingly constantly changing, being deemed acceptable for one generation, with the masses using them for cosmetic purposes — yet unacceptable in the next.
Today, anabolic steroids are illegal in many countries and thus cannot be directly purchased from legitimate pharmacies to aid bodybuilding endeavours.
However, some exceptions to this rule exist, such as Mexico and Thailand, where the general population are legally permitted to use anabolic steroids.
Anabolic steroids however were once 100% legal to obtain, even in countries where they are now outlawed and banned by the FDA.
Arnold Schwarzenegger once revealed that he acquired his steroid stack from his doctor, who would nonchalantly and regularly prescribe him Dianabol or Deca Durabolin to aid his bodybuilding efforts.
However, several years later and after numerous clinical trials, anabolic steroids’ side effects are now better established.
Consequently, this has led to an FDA ban of many anabolic-androgenic steroids, with them being classed as schedule III controlled substances.
Thus, any person caught in possession or selling anabolic steroids can be issued with a hefty fine or/and  prison time (determined by the local laws).
Ironically, in America and other countries (where anabolic steroids are now illegal), doctors continue to prescribe certain anabolic steroids for various conditions; including cachexia, osteoporosis and hypogonadism.
Anavar (Oxandrolone), Deca Durabolin (Nandrolone) and Testosterone are just a few examples of anabolic steroids that remain FDA-approved in medicine and are deemed safe for patients to take; should they have a medical need for such drugs.
Thus, a judgement has been made that if a person has a medical need for an anabolic steroid, the benefits of that drug outweigh the risks (when under medical supervision). But the general public are forbidden from taking the same substances.

Why Are Anabolic Steroids Illegal?
Ultimately, anabolic steroids are illegal because their side effects are deemed to be excessively harsh; and thus are considered unnecessary for the public to use.
What is inconsistent with medicine and the law is that, certain steroids are FDA-approved in medicine (and other steroids are not). As one can imagine, the milder compounds with less side effects are FDA approved and prescribed — whereas the more toxic steroids are not.
However, with regard to the law, all anabolic steroids are treated the same, despite them having varying levels of toxicity.
What are the Side Effects Associated With Steroids?
Anabolic steroids can cause mild and harsh side effects. Some mild reactions include — hair loss, gynecomastia and acne vulgaris.
However, anabolic steroids are almost certainly prohibited due to high levels of cardiotoxicity and hepatotoxicity; in conjunction with damage to the HPTA (hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis).
Heart Disease
An increased risk of myocardial infarction is a reality when taking any anabolic steroid, with higher testosterone levels causing negative fluctuations in cholesterol; specifically being LDL (low-density lipoprotein) increasing and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) decreasing.
Some could argue that certain measures can combat excessive rises in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, such as supplementing with fish oil, performing regular cardiovascular exercise and avoiding excessively cardiotoxic steroids.
Liver Failure
ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) enzymes will rise when taking anabolic steroids; particularly when taking c-17 alpha alkylated compounds, better known as oral steroids.
This is because oral steroids pass through the liver upon entry and exit, whereas injectable steroids only stress the liver upon the latter.
Some could argue that the liver is a resilient organ, effective supplementation can lower AST/ALT enzymes and overly hepatotoxic steroids can be avoided.
TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a supplement with potent liver rejuvenating properties, according to various clinical trials (1, 2),. Consequently, many bodybuilders take TUDCA to reduce their of developing risk peliosis hepatis.
Although the liver is typically a resilient organ and certain supplementation can help, abusing oral steroids is likely to cause deterioration of this organ long term. 
Virilization
One of the most unpleasant side effects of anabolic steroids among women is virilization, or masculinization.  
Although this is not inherently dangerous, it can have a profound negative effect on a woman’s mental wellbeing; with decreased confidence and self-esteem.
Some virilization side effects also may persist long-term (3), including modifications to the larynx, causing a deepened voice or clitoromegaly (clitoral enlargement).
Some may argue that certain anabolic steroids such as Anavar (Oxandrolone) and Anadrol (Oxymetholone) have a low incidence of virilization in clinical research; and when cautious dosages are utilized, they often produce minimal side effects.
Should Steroids Be Illegal?
There are several pros and cons to anabolic steroids being illegal.
Firstly, banning anabolic steroids makes them less readily available to purchase, which naturally will decrease the amount of steroid-induced casualties.
However, making steroids illegal also encourages underground lab ‘cooking’, which presents new dangers in terms of hygiene and contamination. Also, there is a lack of regulation, in comparison to a licensed pharmaceutical lab used to formulate the compounds.
Consequently, the products can be tainted, potentially being dangerous to the public. This wouldn’t be the case if steroids were legal, as they’d be more widely manufactured by scientists in certified medical facilities. And such companies would be liable if any product were to be tainted.
It is reasonable to assume that if certain mild anabolic steroids were legal, and people took them responsibly (following the appropriate dosing protocols) under a doctor’s supervision, it could be less dangerous than masses of steroid-users taking them from underground labs.
However, if the general population was given the green light to pick up anabolic steroids from their doctor for cosmetic use, there would be more cases of steroid abuse. This is already an issue in American society, with 375,000 young men and 175,000 young women in high school thought to be abusing steroids (4). In such cases, individuals can take as much as 10-100x the recommended therapeutic dosage.
Conclusion
Those who take anabolic steroids may downplay the dangers, due to bias.
And those who don’t take steroids may exaggerate the dangers, due to ignorance.
Regardless of whether steroids should be legal or not worldwide, they do have troublesome side effects and are addictive. Both of which were not fully understood when they were previously legal.
Anabolic steroids have also shown to reduce a person’s lifespan when taken long term (5) and thus should be avoided unless there is a medical need for their use.

Trenbolone Results (With Before and After Pictures)

Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.

Trenbolone is an injectable anabolic steroid, commonly nicknamed the ‘monster steroid‘ in bodybuilding circles. This is in reference to its incredibly powerful nature, producing exceptional results (and equally as harsh side effects).
Tren can be used as a potent bulking or cutting steroid, due to its lipolytic (fat burning) and anabolic (muscle-building) properties.
Because of its versatility, Trenbolone is in a league of its own when it comes to simultaneous muscle gain and fat loss. Other anabolic steroids may be able to match Trenbolone’s anabolic nature or fat-burning attributes alone; but not simultaneously.
Thus, Trenbolone is considered the best steroid for transforming a user’s physique as quickly as possible.
However, because of Trenbolone’s high toxicity, beginners seldom cycle this steroid; with it instead being utilized by intermediate and experienced steroid users.
Thus, overly dramatic Trenbolone before and after pictures are uncommon, as most of a steroid user’s results occur in the first few cycles (typically on Testosterone, or milder compounds such as Anavar).
Therefore, by the time a user’s body is primed for taking Trenbolone there is little potential for huge gains in muscle hypertrophy or/and strength. Despite this, Trenbolone certainly will take a first-time user’s physique to the next level; with greater muscle mass and reduced subcutaneous body fat.

Trenbolone Before and After Pictures
Disclaimer: There is no proof that the above bodybuilder has used Trenbolone. However, the changes in body composition are typical of Trenbolone-use.
The above transformation is the level of change users can expect after taking Trenbolone for the first time. They will experience: enhanced fat loss, increased muscle mass, more prominent vascularity and greater muscle definition.
Also notice how the deltoids and trapezius muscles ‘pop’ more in the after picture, which is typical due to Trenbolone’s high androgenicity. These two muscle groups have a high number of androgen receptors, thus making them more susceptible to growth.
Trenbolone also creates a dry look to the muscles, due a lack of aromatization; producing a diuretic effect. This causes a photoshopped-like appearance to the body, due to minimal amounts of extracellular fluid surrounding the muscles — increasing the likelihood of prominent vacularity and muscle striations.
Experienced steroid-users who have taken several cycles before and then choose to use Trenbolone, can expect to gain a further 10-15lbs of muscle. Users can also typically lose 5-7lbs of fat on Trenbolone (almost irrespective of calorie intake).
How to Maximize Results on Trenbolone
A person’s results on Trenbolone will be determined by their genetics, diet, lifestyle, workouts and cycle protocol.
Thus, if someone is a hyper-responder to Trenbolone, they naturally may gain more muscle and burn more fat than someone that is a hypo-responder.
Equally, a person’s diet can maximize results from a cycle. For example, if someone is taking Trenbolone to bulk up and combines such ‘supplementation’ with a calorie surplus diet — they will gain more muscle than someone else eating maintenance calories (with all other factors being equal).
Furthermore, a small calorie deficit will maximize fat burning when cutting on Trenbolone.
Getting enough sleep, minimizing stress and generally living a healthy lifestyle will also aid your results on Trenbolone.
A user’s dosage and the duration of cycle will also determine the results. Users should understand though that there is a cut-off point and dosage, thus if you go beyond this point it is futile (yielding diminishing returns).
Therefore, a higher dosage doesn’t necessarily produce better results on Trenbolone; and thus a moderate dose is optimal — especially for controlling side effects and making long-term gains.
Trenbolone Cycles for Maximum Results

A person’s physiological and psychological health is most likely going to take a downturn from cycling Trenbolone, thus a cautious dosage should be taken to begin with.
However, if a person genetically less vulnerable to this compound, or has built up a comfortable tolerance to this anabolic steroid — it can be stacked with other potent AAS for enhanced results.
Trenbolone Stacks
Trenbolone can be stacked with virtually any anabolic steroid with great success, due to its versatility in regards to bulking or cutting.
Thus, if a user was taking Trenbolone predominantly for muscle gain, it could be combined with Testosterone or Anadrol for greater muscle hypertrophy and strength.
In such a scenario, where a user wants to add mass, Testosterone would be the mild stacking option; with Anadrol having notably increased toxicity.

Testosterone complements Trenbolone well, being another injectable compound and thus not posing any additional risk to hepatic (liver) health. Furthermore, Testosterone has only subtle effects on cholesterol values, and thus it is perhaps the least dangerous anabolic steroid to combine with Trenbolone. 

Although a Trenbolone/Anadrol stack could be considered the most potent duo for promoting muscle mass, it could also be considered the most toxic — particularly to the heart and liver. Thus, such a stack would be considered unsuitable and unnecesary to health-conscious bodybuilders. 
If a person wanted to prioritise fat loss and muscle retention when cutting, Trenbolone could be combined with Anavar, Winstrol or Clenbuterol.

Anavar and Winstrol will increase anabolism, thus preserving/building additonal lean muscle tissue; whilst enhancing fat burning.
Anavar should be considered the more preferrable compound due to its more mild nature vs Winstrol — with cholesterol and liver values typically prone to less fluctuation.
However, it can be argued that Winstrol will produce slightly better results — albeit at a cost.
In contrast, Clenbuterol will solely reduce adipose tissue, due to its potent thermogenic effects on the metabolism. There is some evidence for Clenbuterol having anabolic properties in animal studies (1), however such effects are unlikely to render in humans (at least to a significant degree).
Strength Gains on Trenbolone
Trenbolone is one of the most potent steroids for strength, despite it not causing large amounts of weight gain, due to a lack of aromatization and thus water retention.
Non-drug tested powerlifters will almost certainly cycle Trenbolone prior to a competition. Intermediate steroid-users taking Trenbolone for the first time can expect approximately a 20lb increase on main compound lifts.
These are dramatic results, considering most intermediate steroid-users will most likely have used several potent bulking steroids before taking Trenbolone — such as Testosterone or Dianabol.
Summary
The results on Trenbolone are exceptional, especially considering its synergistic anabolic and lipolytic effects — making it a potent compound when bulking or cutting. Its ability to transform a user’s physique is largely unmatched by its anabolic steroid counterparts.
However, Trenbolone is not a compound suitable for beginners and its effects will surely have a negative effect on the HPTA (hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis), whilst increasing the risk of arteriolosclerosis (2).

10 Transgender Bodybuilders Who Are Killing In the Gym

Transgender people are men and women who have discovered their true identity long after birth. Being transgender and a bodybuilder at the same time is not easy. Society hasn’t embraced them, and some take a lot of time before coming out and enjoying life like everyone else. However, some exemplary individuals have overcome this obstacle and are living their best lives. In this article, we will highlight ten transgender bodybuilders who have conquered the sport to the bewilderment of everyone.
Rese Weaver

Rese Weaver is a renowned activist for the LGBT community and the Black Lives Matter movement. After transitioning and taking hormone replacement therapy, Weaver embarks on a journey to change her physical appearance. He wanted to look like the ripped guys in the magazines but didn’t know where to start. Fortunately, a friend of his introduced him to a gym, and he has never looked back. Like many other trans bodybuilders, Rese has the International Association of Trans Bodybuilders (IATB) to thank for his success. The organisation has helped trans bodybuilders overcome the stigma at the gym and outside. However, Rese is unique in that he doesn’t relate bodybuilding to identity, unlike most transgender people. His diet includes lots of protein and fewer calories. Rese also prefers deadlifts, squats, cardio, and bench press twice weekly. He hopes to break as many strongman records as possible shortly.
Bucky Motter
You have probably heard of the infamous Bucky Motter through her website or another platform. Motter has since retired from active bodybuilding but runs a facility that caters for people who share her story-transgenders. The veteran bodybuilder who doubles up as a singer and guitar teacher discovered her person in the late 80s. She competed in her first powerlifting contest at the age of 19. In 2000, she took part in the gay games held in Chicago. Motter would later compete in her first international contest in 2005 at the NPC Atlanta bodybuilding contest. Motter has Coffe’s Gym to thank for her breakthrough in bodybuilding. Her coach at the facility, going by the name of John, was instrumental in helping her discover her passion.
Must Read:: Top 7 Superfoods for Building Muscle 
Alex Tilinca
Tilinca started transitioning at the age of 13. He never really accepted his body and always wanted to change it. Tilinca was one of the lucky trans people who got their top surgery at a relatively young age. He had his at 16 and the hormone-blocking therapy and testosterone after that. Talinca worked his way up the ladder to become one of the most successful transgender bodybuilders and a coach. He won a significant first major competition while in college as a freshman.
Related Article:: Bodybuilding Protein Cycling for Massive Gains
Additionally, he won his first teen classic physique title at 18. Tilinca runs an 8-week fitness course for trans men at his facility. He discovered a shortage of methods to prepare them for what lies ahead regarding transgender bodybuilding.
Janae Marie Kroc

Janae Marie Kroc was born Matthew Raymond, but she didn’t like her identity and was determined to change it. Marie was a troubled child growing up; she struggled through humiliation because of her identity. It was not until 2015 that Marie decided to transition. However, she used to compete in the men’s category before the transition and still does. Marie identifies as gender-fluid; the powerlifter uses female pronouns but competes in the men’s category. She won the Arnold Classic WPO powerlifting championship in 2006. Importantly, Marie Kroc set a world record when she did 2551 pounds of total lift, a form yet to be broken. One of her dreams was always to pursue an IFBB pro card in the men’s category.
Ajay Holbrook
Ajay Holbrook is another example of transgender bodybuilders concurring the world. It is Holbrook’s routine to start daily training with his favourite music. The music not only entertains but also gives him the motivation to achieve the day’s goals. He came out as trans at the age of 13. Before then, he didn’t like doing his hair or wearing dresses and this troubled his mother, Holly.
After transitioning, Holbrook embarked on taking testosterone to get bigger and stronger. Notably, he trained hard and reached a milestone of 145 pounds. His goal was to get to 200 pounds with the help of a high protein diet and rigorous training. He worked so hard to achieve this that he felt nobody could treat him like a girl anymore. Holbrook stood up to his father once, stuck his chest and looked him in the eye. His father, who has always viewed him differently, obliged and walked away. Ajay Holbrook has a huge Instagram following where he entertains and educates on matters touching transgender bodybuilders. You might want to follow him and learn more about his incredible journey to freedom.
Josey Lynn Davis
She is a 45-year-old transgender bodybuilder who competed as a man in 15 national competitions. She, however, took a 10-year hiatus from bodybuilding for reasons best known to her. Davis emerged as a transgender woman in 2017; she was scared of how people would view her hence the delay. Like many trans bodybuilders like her, she found refuge in the IATB. The organisation gave Davis the support needed to forge ahead and realise her dreams. She was the first transgender woman to compete and won a title under this organisation’s umbrella. She now lives and enjoys her life in Tenn near Knoxville.
Laurell Hubbard

Laurell Hubbard is a transgender bodybuilder from New Zealand with quite a reputation. First, she is the first trans bodybuilder to compete in the Olympics. Additionally, Hubbard was the heaviest woman in the Australian International and Australian Open 90kg+ category. She also won in the 123kg snatch and 145kg clean & jerk types. Hubbard transitioned to a woman in 2012 and began hormone replacement therapy afterwards. One of her latest achievements is winning the women’s +87kg gold medal at the 2020 World Cup in Rome, Italy.
Charles Bennett
Although he didn’t transition until 56, Charles Bennett’s career spans over two decades. It was not until the age of 63 that he started competing as a man. Bennett is one of the pioneers of the World Transgender Bodybuilding Competition, which began in 2014. And for the first time, Bennett was proud to compete without a top. He enjoys immense support from his wife of 31 years, Erica Grace. Since transitioning to a man, Bennett has acted more as a coach than a competitor. He helps transgender bodybuilders who are struggling to find their space.
Neo Sandja
The story of Neo Sandja as a transgender person is rather sad. He got so much stress growing up that his identity crisis drove him to attempt suicide. Sandja jumped onto the road in front of an oncoming car. As fate would have it, the car screeched to a halt, which is how he survived. The stress did not end there, he used to drink a lot, but that too could not solve the problem. He somehow found the courage and wrote a coming-out email that got mixed reactions. Sandja has since launched a blog called FTM Fit Con to help others with the same predicament as him.
Praveen Nath

Last on our list is this brave trans bodybuilder from Kerala, India. He had a rough journey transitioning from a girl to a boy, but he won the battle anyway. Initially, Nath struggled to break into a major competition until his couch vouched for him. He subsequently got a spot at Kerala State Bodybuilding Association. While there, his coach, Vinu, asked him not to reveal his identity to gym-mates yet. It was not until he won the Mr Thrissur title that his identity got revealed. Nath is an LGBTQIA+ activist and advocacy coordinator in Sahayatrika. Finally, he follows a strict diet that takes a toll on his finances to maintain his newfound job.
Overall
Bodybuilding, unlike some times back, has been diversified to accommodate all groups of people. The new kids on the block are transgender bodybuilders who are not leaving anything to chance. Those we have highlighted are only a handful of many others who are pushing their limits to write their names among the greatest. Explore our blog for more informational and motivating articles.
Essential Read:: Top 10 Erection Gels & Creams for Him

Olympic Lifting : 25 Strategies That Work

Olympics is one of the most excellent sports we have today. The worldwide event originated in Greece centuries ago. It was initially a reserve for the Greeks and has since expanded, and countries hold the event on a rotational basis. Until recently, Olympics happened annually, but we now have summer and winter Olympics. You’re mistaken if you think the Olympics is all about racing. Many events take place, including fitness. The Olympics weightlifting competition is quite competitive, and only the best make it to the top. It is for this reason that we are equipping you with some of the best strategies to beat your opponents, not only in the Olympics but also in other bodybuilding contests.
Must Read:: 30 Gym Slang Terms
Explained 
Grip Matters In Olympic Lifting
The grip is everything when it comes to Olympic lifts. Make sure to hold the barbell firmly to engage your back. To achieve this, you need to rotate your shoulders as you lift the load. A firm grip not only enhances your stamina but also ensures you don’t run into unnecessary accidents. As you do the lifting, endure your shoulders at the same level as the hips and legs slightly apart.

Know Your Competitors
You don’t necessarily have to compete against someone else regarding Olympic lifts. While most professional bodybuilders compete to beat opponents, some people are there to beat their previous records. The most important thing is to know what you want and dork towards achieving your goal.
Stabilise Before Lifting
As mentioned, stability is of the essence before lowering yourself to lift that barbell. Plant your feet firmly on the floor and make your hands long. Ensure the hips, the back and shoulders are in pretension before going down. Finally, take a deep breath and grip that barbell like a pro.
Essential Read:: All Bodybuilding Categories Explained 
Clean and Press
The clean and press technique involves spreading the legs slightly beyond the hips. Assume a squatting position and use your hips, core, and legs to drive the barbell up. At the same time, you should shrug your shoulders a bit to power the lift.
Distribute Weight Evenly 
Lifters who do not achieve the required stability during Olympic lifts have not distributed their weight evenly. The position of the centre of gravity plays a vital role when lifting heavy weights. Always ensure it is as low relative to the load level to boost your stability. To achieve this, ensure your core and shoulder are pre-tension before the lifting. 
Assume the Proper Posture
Posture is crucial for every lift and repetition regarding Olympic lifting. Watch closely the positioning of your chin, back, hands, and legs before, during, and after every ride. Significantly, your toes should go underneath the bar before you lower yourself to lift it. 
The Muscle Snatch Technique
Few bodybuilders know about this incredible technique that comes in handy in Olympic lifting. It involves doing high reps with low weights and vice versa. The method shields the lifter from unnecessary strain seen with the power snatch technique.
Bar Positioning
The bar’s position is another essential factor you need to consider before going for the lift. It must always be close to the body for obvious reasons. The further away it is from you, the lesser your chances of having a firm, stable grip. Never overlook this rule whenever you’re doing Olympic lifting. Proximity to the barbell will also make you have a comfortable reception. 
Know Your Snatching Attempts 
Depending on the nature of the lifting, the number of snatch attempts should always be those you can handle. While competitive lifting requires you to have as many attempts as possible, personal beating records should not make you overstretch your limits. 
Clean High Pull
Another essential technique is the clean high pull which is an alternative for pulling a solid front. The technique aims to strengthen your core muscles to make subsequent turnovers simpler. 
Watch The Numbers 
Check your number and those of your opponents before the competition kicks off. Checking them does not only prepare you psychologically but also gives a glimpse of your competitors. Of course, this is only necessary if you’re taking part in a bodybuilding contest because this is where you gauge their relative strength. 
Warp Up is the Key 

It is very little you can do to improve strength or muscle during warm-up. However, there is a lot more you could gain from it than those two. For instance, you are warming up before an Olympic lifting event boosts confidence and sends your adrenaline rushing. The latter should not mean tension but rather being in the perfect mood to unleash the beast within you.
You Need Discipline in Olympic Lifting 
Bodybuilding is a highly demanding sport that requires you to have the best discipline. Discipline ranges from avoiding foods and drinks that don’t contribute anything positive to your Olympic lifting to keeping time. You don’t have to spend valuable time chatting the day away with your buddies. Use that time to make yourself perfect in Olympic lifting. 
Check Your Squat Pattern
Virtually about Olympic lifting is done by the book. You don’t have to spend all your time trying to invent new techniques because there’s nothing that hasn’t been tested. For instance, the correct squatting pattern involves making your back straight, reducing inward knee collapse, and having the right depth. 
Muscle Action Timing
Muscles respond differently to the first, second, third, and subsequent pulls. Ensure you adapt accordingly to the muscle reaction to avoid overstretching them. Moreover, underperforming in the initial draws reduces the quality of lifts. Essentially, strive to maintain a balance, so you’re neither harming your body nor doing below your potential.
Related Article:: Dwayne The Rock Johnson Vs. John Cena Workout Motivation 
Boost Your Olympic Lifting Flexibility
A static routine is all you need for strength and stability. The stationary practice should be part of your being fully conversant before the actual lifting. 
Outlift the Opposition
The Olympic lifting is all about who lifts the most weight.  Always ensure you’re ahead of your opponent or training partner by a kilogram or less. That way, you will teach a competitive culture to help you fare well in any bodybuilding competition. Importantly, choose your poundages wisely to ensure you have a competitive edge. 
Lower the Barbell Actively 
Lifters don’t do as much work while lowering the weights as lifting them. But did you know that reducing the barbell is an active movement that involves every muscle in your body? Furthermore, active lowering is a factor judges consider in bodybuilding competitions. 
Train Hard 
There is no better strategy for professional lifting than consistent training. You can’t learn everything through observation or reading about it. Get up every day and, take yourself to the gym, do the actual lifting using the correct procedure. Only that way will you master it to perfection. 
Don’t Waste Time on Top of the Pull
Every second wasted on top of the pull is a point taken off your record. There’s not much strain when the bar is down, but the same cannot be said when it is above your shoulders. Therefore, always act on the barbell as soon as you’re in a perfect position. 
Keep Your Shoulders Back
It is the best way to keep your core straight when lifting. Notably, the shrugged, laid-back shoulders will reduce the strain on the muscles in the lower part of the body. 

Do More Strength Training for Olympic Lifting
Strength training is the ultimate secret to all-all-around Olympic lifts. Boost your strength as much as possible before standing in front of that barbell. Use the right equipment, diet, and supplementation to perform Olympic lifting. 
Join Lifting Classes 
It is rewarding when you do everything like a professional. Instead of trying to learn everything in the streets, why not find yourself a good coach or personal trainer for the same? A good lifting course will cover areas such as general physical preparedness, flexibility, mobility in,  techniques and more. 
The Barbell Is Not Everything 
The Covid-19 Pandemic has taught us to improvise when things get thick. You can still train for Olympic lifting even without the barbell. Work on technique and power through maximum strength, peak power, velocity, and speed. 
Overall
Olympic lifting is an integral part of bodybuilding every bodybuilder can’t run away from. It is also one of the most technical aspects of the sport. We hope the strategies we have shared will go a long way in preparing you to be one of the best Olympic lifters. Our shop and blog are full of goodies for all your bodybuilding needs. Please feel free to explore. 

Also Read:: 5 Best Bodybuilding Forums