SARMS BODYBUILDING

A Comprehensive Overview

(Benefits, Side Effect & Half Life Listed)

SERMS & SARMS Parker, Colorado

Different Types of SARMs & What They Do
To help you navigate this article on SARMs types, we’ve included a table of contents linking to each section:
SARMs are an increasingly popular class of supplement for athletes and bodybuilders looking to improve their physiques and performance. There are a number of different types of SARMs available, which is why we have put together this guide to give a better understanding of the differences between them!

What are SARMs?
(& “SARMs” meaning explained)

SARMS, also known as Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators – what are they?

I won’t bore you with a bunch of scientific mambo jumbo.  SARMS are very potent anabolic muscle builders. 

They work by binding to androgen receptors similar to the way a steroid would.  SARMs, however, are legal.

They are capsules or liquids, you don’t have to inject them. 

They don’t come with the side effects of acne and thinning hair and all the gross steroid side effects. 

There is one MAJOR consideration to take into account with SARMS.

If you are not on testosterone, you absolutely have to do a post cycle therapy (PCT).  Most SARMs have a temporary suppression of your body’s natural testosterone production, and the PCT is essentially the “jumper cables” to get your body producing testosterone at maximum capacity again. 

POST CYCLE IS MANDATORY GUYS. NOT OPTIONAL.

The androgen receptor (AR) is a member of the steroid hormone family, and plays an important role in the physiology of tissues. This receptor includes glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoid receptors, ER, PR and vitamin D3 receptor – key points for this article.

The AR ligands include circulating testosterone and local dihydrotestosterone which bind to AR to activate it. However there are limits to the metabolism and reactivity with other receptors to how effective the use of therapeutic steroidal androgens actually work.

SARMS were discovered to “select tissue” receptors to promote their beneficial effects of androgens without the unwanted side effects.

Androgen receptors are found all over the body – muscle, bone, prostate, secondary sexual organs and seminal vesicles. But in bodybuilding terms, the only part that we really want to see effects of size, mass and strength on is the muscles.

When any androgen cell is stimulated by testosterone this activates an enzyme called 5-a-reductase that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – an androgen hormone that is 10x more powerful than testosterone. Activation of the AR is achieved through binding of the DHT ligand to the binding point of AR, which then causes conformational changes and phosphorylation and final binding to the androgen responsive element (ARE). The ARE then modulates the transcription of the androgen responsive genes. If testosterone is too high an enzyme called aromatase converts testosterone into estrogen, which then exerts estrogen like effects in the cell. A small amount of this naturally occurs, as estrogen is needed in a man’s body as well as testosterone. But too much estrogen and this is when female like symptoms start to occur.

Under normal circumstances, the body carefully regulates its androgen production through feedback mechanisms to prevent imbalances. Taking any form of anabolic steroid, SARM or estrogen modulator disrupts this natural mechanism in a good or bad way.

The main androgen modulators that athletes used are found in the form of “anabolic steroids”. These are known to increase muscle mass, growth and strength.

It must be noted that testosterone is not classed as an anabolic steroid –as it is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. The problem with using anabolics, is the side effects (depending on the type used), however as long as someone trains well the use of anabolic steroids is highly effective. This is why SARMS were discovered, to find the positive effects of anabolic steroids, without the negative effects of the steroid.

SARMs are nontoxic to the liver and have little effect on blood pressure. This eliminates the need for preloading and on-cycle support supplements. Subsequently, a SARM cycle will ultimately be less expensive than a traditional AAS/PH (steroid/prohormone) cycle. The chances of estrogen-related sides and water retention are significantly lower, as well. 

How do SARMs Work?

SARMs target androgen receptors in the body to exhibit their effects in the places we want them to – primarily muscle, but also increasing bone density. When the SARM binds to the androgen receptor, it tells the body to produce more testosterone, which can help bring about the results we strive for in physique and performance sports, such as increased lean mass, strength and recovery.

Which SARMS are not suppressive?

In theory, SARMs should not be suppressive, as you are not supplementing exogenous testosterone. It is not, however, always that clear cut, and SARMs users have reported issues from not conducting PCT after heavy cycles. We wouldn’t like to say that there are ‘non suppressive SARMs’ as this does seem to be highly individual. Milder SARMs, like Andarine or Ostarine, at low to moderate doses, do appear to be less suppressive. Recovery from a SARMs cycle can often be done with over the counter supplements.

Which SARMs are least suppressive?

To avoid suppression, start with one of the milder SARMs previously mentioned at the lowest effective dose, and run for short cycles. 4 weeks should be enough to see results from your first cycle! Before increasing the dose or adding another SARM, look to enhance the effects with a non-hormonal supplement which works via another pathway, such as cardarine or ibutamoren. 

Which are the most suppressive SARMs?

The most suppressive SARMs are the most potent ones, especially when they are run for very long cycles. The most powerful SARMs include YK-11, which we would suggest only for very advanced users.

Can you take different SARMs together?

Yes! SARMs stacks are the logical way to progress your usage if you hit a plateau or are looking for something harder hitting. This also means that you can reap the rewards of two separate SARMs. For example, the highlight of one might be lean, dry gains, whereas the highlight of another might be enhanced recovery. Stacking SARMs should only be done with the correct guidance. 

Are SARMs safe?

Are SARMS safe? Most of the SARMS that have been developed so far are sought to overcome the potential virilisation and/or aromitisatizing effects of steroidal androgens. This was achieved by searching for tissue selective agonists of the AR that could potentially active the AR in specific tissues whilst sparing others.

The SARMS currently developed are non-steroidal, which means they are not susceptible to the enzymatic metabolism of target tissues. Remember, there were certain enzymes that converted DHT into metabolites, or synthesised testosterone from the precursor androstenedione, SARMS are not affected by these enzymes. This means that the SARMS do not convert or break down into the unwanted molecules that cause side effects, like DHT and estrogen.

The anabolic-to-androgenic ratio of steroids is 1:1. That is, you get the muscle building the same effect as you may get man boobs for example. This is where SARMS can come into play. They are more selective in boosting the anabolic effects of muscle building rather than causing the androgenic side effects. This ratio can start as little as 3:1 or go as high as 10:1.

SARMS are a group of synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of testosterone in muscle and bone with minimal impact on other organs and reduced side effects COMPARED to that of anabolic agents. The theory therefore is that you can have the perks of steroids without the side effects.

Are SARMs legal?

All SARMS but RAD-140 are banned by The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and most other global sporting organisations. So yes, they are legal. 

Therefore if you are competing in a tested event or a sanctioned sort that specifically prohibits the use of anabolic agents, then SARMS aren’t for you. However if you are not planning to compete, then SARMS could be part of your daily routine, providing you only buy from a reputable company and do not sell them on.

What are the different types of SARMs?
(Full list of SARMs & what they do)

LGD 4033 (aka Ligandrol)

LGD 4033

LGD 4033 a SARM like Ostarine but 12 times as powerful at  only 1/3 the dose! Ligandrol is the grand daddy for size and strength.  This is the one you take when you just want to be BIG. Not much else to it. Eat these. Eat Chickens. Lift shit. Grow. 16 week cycles starting at 10mg per day and going up by 5mg every 2 weeks until you hit a ceiling you’re comfortable with. Clomid for post cycle 50mg per day for 4 weeks.

LGD 4033 Benefits

Where Ostarine is one of the best SARMs to include in a cutting cycle, LGD has proven itself as a good bulking agent. In a study performed at Boston University, healthy men who were given 1mg of LGD daily gained about 3 pounds in 3 weeks on average. 

No clinically significant changes were noted in liver function tests, PSA (prostate issue/function tests), hematocrit (testing on the ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood) or ECG (electrocardiogram tests, used to check the heart’s rhythm and electrical activity).

LGD 4033 Side Effects

Given the potential for high estrogen side effects while using ligandrol UK, it is recommended that you buy anti estrogen supplement.

LGD 4033 Half Life

The half life of LGD appears to be around 24 to 36 hours. This means that you can take your dose in one hit at the same time each day. 

MK 677 (aka Ibutamoren/Nutrabol)

MK 677

This is by far my favorite.  This is designed to, in so many words, give your body a signal to elevate growth hormone production.  This works very similarly to the way actual injectable hgh works, but its legal, safe, and a fraction of the cost.  It’s safe for women.  Cycle length for nutrabol is as long as your wallet will permit.  There are no benefits to cycling on and on off and there is no added risk for long term use, you simply keep getting the benefits. 30mg per day taken before bed.

MK 677 Benefits

Human studies have shown it to increase both muscle mass and bone mineral density. Dosed at 25mg daily, Ibutamoren has been shown to increase IGF-1 levels by 60% in 6 weeks in humans. A 72% increase in IGF-1 levels was seen after 12 months.

This is by far my favorite.  This is designed to, in so many words, give your body a signal to elevate growth hormone production.  This works very similarly to the way actual injectable hgh works, but its legal, safe, and a fraction of the cost.  It’s safe for women.  Cycle length for nutrabol is as long as your wallet will permit.  There are no benefits to cycling on and on off and there is no added risk for long term use, you simply keep getting the benefits. 30mg per day taken before bed.

MK 677 Benefits

Human studies have shown it to increase both muscle mass and bone mineral density. Dosed at 25mg daily, Ibutamoren has been shown to increase IGF-1 levels by 60% in 6 weeks in humans. A 72% increase in IGF-1 levels was seen after 12 months.

Ibutamoren is non-hormonal and therefore requires no PCT after the cycle is over. It is best utilised in at least a 3 month cycle with dosage increasing each month. The optimal dosing time for MK 677 is at night directly before going to bed. You should start to notice a deeper sleep almost immediately. If you should wake up with numb or tingly hands, do not worry. This is a common side effect of the extra GH in the system.

MK 677 Side Effects

  • Increased hunger
  • Lethargy
  • Impaired insulin sensitivity
  • Water retention
 

MK 677 Half Life

The half life of MK 677 is around 24 hours. This means you can take once per day if you wish. Those who take it to increase appetite might take in a morning, but if it makes you lethargic, you might want to take before bed.

GW 501516 (aka Cadarine)
GW 501516 (aka Cadarine)

These guys are unique.  I’m going to list them as the same, they are technically different but hear me out.  They do the same, the only real difference is how you have to time them. Cardarine you can take at the same time every day, Stenabolic you want to time immediately before your workout.. many users stack them together to enhance the benefits.  These are cardiovascular endurance and a small amount of metabolic support as well.  If you are a runner, swimmer, biker, fighter, crossfitter.. basically any HIGH endurance athlete.. this is for you. It pushes your “breaking point” out a bit further so you can perform for longer and therefore burn more fat.  There is no need to “cycle” this one either. It is safe for men and women and you can take as needed for improvements to your cardio. These guys are unique.  I’m going to list them as the same, they are technically different but hear me out.  They do the same, the only real difference is how you have to time them. Cardarine you can take at the same time every day, Stenabolic you want to time immediately before your workout.

Many users stack them together to enhance the benefits.  These are cardiovascular endurance and a small amount of metabolic support as well.  If you are a runner, swimmer, biker, fighter, crossfitter.. basically any HIGH endurance athlete.. this is for you. It pushes your “breaking point” out a bit further so you can perform for longer and therefore burn more fat.  There is no need to “cycle” this one either. It is safe for men and women and you can take as needed for improvements to your cardio. 

This is actually not a SARM. In fact it is a PPAR Delta Modulator – a selective agonist with a high affinity for the PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors – a group of steroid- and thyroid-sensing proteins that control the expression of genes, thereby regulating cellular development and metabolism).

GW 501516 Benefits

This modulation of PPAR allows the body to utilise more glucose and create more muscle tissue.

Cardarine supplements also regulate the various proteins that the body uses for energy. For the user, this means an increase in energy and endurance, and it may also mean an increase in muscle mass. It is also possible that GW might have a positive effect on blood pressure and lipid profile.

Dosing is in the 7mg to 21mg range, with 14mg being the “sweet spot”. The average GW cycle is typically 4 to 12 weeks. GW is non-hormonal and therefore requires no PCT. However, it does work well in a SARMs stack to further increase fat loss and endurance.

GW 501516 Side Effects

Rat studies have suggested potential risks to health with cardarine supplementation which have meant that human trials on the compound were halted.

GW 501516 Half Life

Cardarine has a half life of about 24 hours.

Rad 140 (aka Testosterone)

Rad 140 Benefits

A fan favorite.  Rad140 is great for hardening up and adding lean mass without any water retention. Nice strength gains, most people report increase burning of body fat and increased vascularity. Rad140 is one of the most popular. Dose 10-30mg per day for 16 weeks followed by 4 weeks of clomid as PCT at 50mg per day.

Radarine is very new, so there isn’t a lot of real world data on it yet. However, it does look very promising, with an impressive anabolic to androgenic ratio of 90:1! This means that users can experience a wealth of muscle building effects without all the associated androgenic side effects.

RAD is powerful enough to limit the effect of testosterone on the prostate and other unwanted areas. It has even been shown to be more anabolic than testosterone, as well. Dosing appears to be in the 4mg to 12mg range, with optimal cycle length being 4 to 6 weeks. Given its shorter half-life (16 hours), RAD needs to be dosed at least twice daily.

Rad 140 Side Effects

Suppression of testosterone.

Rad 140 Half Life

60 hours.

MK 2866 (aka S22/23, Ostarine or Enobosarm)

MK 2866 (aka S22/23, Ostarine or Enobosarm)

MK 2866 Benefits

This is probably the most well-known SARMs. It is best used to preserve muscle mass while S23 is the most potent of the sarms by far.

Very comparable to the actual steroid Anavar.  This one is my favorite.  Lots of lean mass with no water retention, great strength gains, increased fat burning and vascularity.  Some users, myself included, get snappy on this stuff. A little aggressive.  Dose 10-30mg per day for 16 weeks followed by 50mg per day Clomid for 4 weeks as PCT.in a caloric deficit.

Ostarine is the typical “starter cycle” in the SARM world.  Ostarine is great for a recomp or a cut as its very dry, most people tend to lean up quite a bit on it, increase in vascularity and strength.

No water retention. It’s also actually great as support for your joints, many users report a decrease in joint pain.  Cycle length should be determined by your goal, I like 16 week cycles at 30mg per day followed by Clomid as post cycle at 50mg per day for 4 weeks

MK 2866 Side Effects

Ostarine mk-2866 can and will suppress your natural testosterone production in longer, higher dosed cycles, so a SERM PCT is needed. Ostarine can also cause gyno in some users, so it is recommended that you have an AI on hand.

The average cycle length is 6 to 10 weeks at a dosage range of 10mg to 25mg.

MK 2866 Half Life

Ostarine has a half life of around 24 hours.

S4 (aka Andarine)
S4 (aka Andarine)

S4 Benefits

Andarine is another great one for recomping and hardening up.  SOME USERS do get temporary vision issues on this product where you’ll develop a little bit of a yellow tint.  The weird thing is, some people STILL take it even when they get that side effect because they like it so much. I don’t ever recommend this to anyone personally.  If you ask about it. I’ll warn you about the vision issues.  If you still want it, meet me by the register. 25-50mg per day for 16 weeks. Clomid for 4 weeks for PCT 50mg per day.

  • Increased muscle retention while dieting
  • Increased lean muscle mass
  • Can be stacked
  • One of the better options for females
  • Increased bone strength

S4 Side Effects

A unique side effect of S4 is changes to vision. Andarine can cause a yellow tint to be seen over the eyes, especially at night. This can become develop after a couple of weeks of use once the molecule has bound to receptors in the eyes.

S4 Half Life

The half life of S4 is only about 4 hours in humans, so it would be wise to split doses.

YK-11
YK-11

YK-11 Benefits

YK11 Is a unique one.  Your body has an internal regulator that essentially keeps you from getting bigger, as a survival mechanism.  Think of a governor on your car, you can only go 130 and you’re maxed out. YK11 also gives people the weird ability to maintain a pump even when they’re not working out.  I’ve had guys come in and look like they just finished an arm workout and they hadn’t even worked out in a couple days. Dose 10-30mg per day for 16 weeks followed by 50mg per day clomid for 4 weeks as PCT.

  • Increased muscle mass
  • Stronger bones
  • Fast acting

 

YK-11 Side Effects

  • Liver toxicity
  • Joint pain
  • Increased aggression

 

YK-11 Half Life

YK-11 half life has been suggested between 6 and 12 hours.

Our Conclusion

There are now a number of different SARMs on the market to suit different requirements. Have you tried SARMs? Would you choose any from this SARMs list over other measures like prohormones? If you have any questions definitely swing by Survival Supplements in Parker, Colorado for the best quality SERMS & SARMS