T Nation

Age for First Cycle

Pharma
#1

Background:
I’ve been training for 4 years, the past 2 hardcore. I’m 5’11", 202 lbs. and between 10-12% BF. My training has been great the past 2 years and my diet has been spot on for the past year. I sleep great. I am altogether extremely disciplined and determined to build a great physique.

Too young for AAS?..
Recently, I’ve become a little impatient and decided to look into AAS. I realize I have a alot to learn and I will not do a cycle without properly researching first. Before I commit that much time into research, I’m wondering what you guys think is too young to begin using? I’m only 21 and want to be safe. Before anyone gets the wrong idea, I’m not just gonna rush out and buy some gear. Like I said, I want to be safe.

Please tell me what you guys think about using gear at age 21?

#2

Listen to the new Double Tap. Cy addresses your exact question.

#3

Thanks rainjack, I’d forgot that was coming out today.

Although I only listened once, my take is that avoiding steroids until 24-25 y/o seems to be because of psychological reasons only.

Are there any physiological reasons not to use?

BTW, I’m not some kid who is just rationalizing behaving like an asshole. And I’m not just trying to argue and antagonize what’s being said. I’m just wondering if devoting a lot of time to research would be worth it at my age.

#4

I think you’re right about it being psychological. However. You have to really look at the reasons for wanting to go nuclear.

It all boils down to your choice. You have to weigh the risks, the investment of time and money, and the stress it might play on personal relationships.

Personally, I think that at 21, you have several years of natural growth left in you. If you learn at an early age to depend on the AAS instead of sound training and nutrition - you might be cheating yourself out of a lot of potential mass. But that’s my opinion - and it’s just like an asshole.

#5

[quote]carter12 wrote:
Background:
I’ve been training for 4 years, the past 2 hardcore. I’m 5’11", 202 lbs. and between 10-12% BF. My training has been great the past 2 years and my diet has been spot on for the past year. I sleep great. I am altogether extremely disciplined and determined to build a great physique.

Too young for AAS?..
Recently, I’ve become a little impatient and decided to look into AAS. I realize I have a alot to learn and I will not do a cycle without properly researching first. Before I commit that much time into research, I’m wondering what you guys think is too young to begin using? I’m only 21 and want to be safe. Before anyone gets the wrong idea, I’m not just gonna rush out and buy some gear. Like I said, I want to be safe.

Please tell me what you guys think about using gear at age 21?[/quote]

Bro, if you are still making gains at a decent pace then why cycle? However, if you’ve been at a standstill for some time, maybe doing a short cycle is the right choice 4 you…you have to be the one to decide, don’t let anyone “persuade” you to do so.

But if you’re going to do it, do it right…I have seen way too many college kids look 4 the easy way out and end up on the anabolic rollercoaster-their weights fluctuate like night and day.

MK

#6

I took some test a couple of months ago and I really wish I wouldve waited,I mean really.I needed more info when I started,depending on what your goals are don’t ever hurry it.I’m 23 and got into a car wreck and lost alot of strength,I wanted it back quick like so i decided to hit it up foolishly.

At the time I didn’t even know people took roids for healing purposes,ala Tony Little.I found out though,and when I do my second cycle I’ll be in alot better shape and taking products that will give me alot more gains.Whatever you do don’t make yourself regret it,get into the best possible shape before you do em.Make sure you’ve hit that plateau,you will thank yourself.

#7

Thanks guys for really making me think. I realize that I’ve still got a lot of growing to do, although my gains are coming at a much slower pace now a days. I guess that’s what caused me to consider it–impatience.

When the time comes, I’ll be ready!

thnx

#8

if your gains are slowing a little, try taking in more calories, optimizing your supplementation or tweaking your workouts (intensity, more/less rest, frequency, routine etc). try to learn as much about your body and what you respond to best before you jump into AAS use.

like MK suggested, if you have exhausted all reasonable resources and are having difficulty making gains naturally then maybe a short basic cycle would be ok at your age.

personally (and as some other bros on the board have suggested)i’d wait a little longer and learn as much about yourself and AAS as possible before taking that step.