How Much Testosterone Do Bodybuilders Take?

Testosterone is a male sex hormone that plays a crucial role in muscle growth, fat loss, and optimal health. However, it’s also the most commonly abused anabolic steroid by gym-goers, with some bodybuilders taking up to hundreds of times the therapeutic dose. But what is the exact amount bodybuilders take, and what are the potential risks and benefits?

While it’s difficult to pin down exact numbers, the dosage of testosterone intake can vary significantly among bodybuilders. An average male produces roughly 7 mg of testosterone a day, about 50-70mg per week. However, bodybuilders using it for performance enhancement will often take between 250 and 1,500mg per week, a far higher dose than the body naturally produces.

A low dose for bodybuilders might start at 200 to 300mg per week. Intermediate users often opt for 500 to 700mg per week, while advanced users might go as high as 1,000 to 2,000mg per week. Of course, this depends on the individual’s goals, experience, and personal tolerance to the side effects. Bodybuilders often ‘cycle’ their use of testosterone, meaning they take the hormone in cycles of 6 to 12 weeks, followed by a period of abstaining or taking diminished doses.

However, increasing the dosage does not always translate to more muscle growth beyond a certain point. Aside from the diminished returns, higher doses can lead to a more significant risk of side effects, including cardiac issues, gynecomastia (breast enlargement in males), suppression of natural testosterone production, mood swings, and liver damage.

Now, let’s talk about an alternative supplement that some bodybuilders favor – The best SARMs for muscle growth.

SARMs, short for Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, are a relatively new type of performance-enhancing drug that’s gaining popularity in the bodybuilding world. What makes them stand out is their ability to selectively stimulate the androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, encouraging growth without the unwanted side effects that come with traditional steroids.

Among the various SARMs, the best SARMs for muscle growth are often considered to be LGD-4033 (Ligandrol) and RAD-140 (Testolone). Ligandrol, in particular, is known for its ability to promote muscle mass without the water retention often associated with traditional anabolic steroids.

Despite the safer profile compared to conventional anabolic steroids like testosterone, SARMs are not without their own potential risks, particularly when misused or overused. Some users report experiencing testosterone suppression, mood changes, and liver toxicity. Therefore, similar to testosterone, responsible use is critical when considering SARMs for muscle building.

Overall, the exact amount of testosterone or any substance that bodybuilders take can vary widely depending on individual factors. It’s important to remember that while such substances can potentially enhance performance and physique, they carry their own risks, and abuse can lead to severe health issues. As always, the focus should be on proper training, diet, and rest, which are the cornerstones of bodybuilding and health.