If you’re a regular to the gym then you might have heard about SARMs. There comes a point when no matter how rigorous your workout routines are and how spot on your diet is, your gains just seem to plateau. This can be frustrating.
Some gym addicts and serious athletes might turn to anabolic steroids during these times, but steroids come with a long list of negative side-effects. For some, they are just not worth the risk. This is where SARMs come in.
If you’re wondering what are SARMs then this definitive guide is for you. Let’s take a closer look at SARMs and what they do so you can decide if they’re your next step towards better gains.
What Are SARMs?
SARMs is an acronym for selective androgen receptor modulators. They work in a very similar way to anabolic steroids, but there is a significant difference that makes them much safer than steroids. Where steroids have a detrimental effect on the body, SARMs only bind to your androgen receptors.
This doesn’t make them completely free of side effects, but it makes them a much safer alternative to anabolic steroids.
SARMs date back to the 1940s. They have been used medically for the treatment of prostate cancer, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, muscle dystrophy, and even breast cancer. They started to become popular among bodybuilders and athletes in the late 90s due to their many noted benefits.
The Benefits of SARMs
SARMs mimic the effects of anabolic steroids, but because they only target the body’s androgen receptors they pose less of a risk than anabolic steroids. This however does mean that there are still some side effects. It also means that SARMs might not give you the same dramatic effect as anabolic steroids. Think of them as steroids for beginners! Let’s take a look at the benefits.
Promote Lean Muscle Growth
By binding with your androgen receptors SARMs increase your testosterone levels. This means that your body recovers more quickly from strenuous exercise. In turn, this means that you’re going to feel fresher in the gym and be able to move more weight. This magical equation results in accelerated lean muscle growth.
Increase Athletic Performance
More testosterone means more energy and better recovery. Your red blood cell count will improve meaning that oxygen and nutrients find their way around the body at an increased rate. This means that your athletic output is going to increase. Your endurance and stamina will go through the roof.
Increased Strength
In an almost exactly similar way as to how SARMs improve your athletic performance, you’ll also notice an increase in strength. It’s quite common for people using SARMs to be hitting new 1RMs every time they hit the gym. If you’re at a sticking point and trying to lift heavy, then SARMs could help you push through your current barriers.
Promote Fat Loss
SARMs allow you to train harder, and the increase in testosterone also means a faster metabolism. As you’re getting stronger and bigger, you’ll also notice that your body is shedding fat. SARMs are great for those looking for that ‘ripped’ look.
Improved Bone Density
Several studies on SARMs have suggested that they can increase bone density and volume. These studies have mainly been carried out on rats with osteoporosis, so it’s difficult to determine whether or not SARMs will be as effective at increasing the bone density of healthy humans.
What Is a SARMs Cycle?
When using SARMs you take them for a predetermined amount of time much like you would with steroids. This is called a ‘cycle’. SARMs might have less negative effects on the body, but you are still artificially increasing your testosterone levels. This means that your body will stop producing its own.
Larger doses of SARMs can also prove to be toxic on the liver, so with this in mind it’s important to only use them for a certain amount of time. Adhering to SARMs cycles is important as it allows you to maximize their positive effects while minimizing the chances of any long-term negative side effects.
SARMs Side Effects
SARMs might be great, but they’re not perfect. Anything that can have such a dramatic effect on your body is going to come with a few side effects. They are very similar to the side effects of anabolic steroids but tend to be less severe.
Liver Damage
Larger doses of SARMs can have a detrimental effect on the liver. Prolonged use of some SARMs will eventually prove to be toxic for your liver. You must use liver support supplements when using SARMs. Refrain from eating fatty foods and drinking alcohol while using SARMs
Changes in Mood
SARMs alter the hormones in your body. Specifically increasing your testosterone levels. People react differently to this, but as with steroids, SARMs can affect your mood. Many people experience irritability, an increase in aggressiveness. Others find that SARMs bring upon depressive symptoms.
Changes in Eyesight
A few SARMs have been found to affect people’s vision. Andarine, for one, has been known to give people a yellow tint to their vision. They can also alter your perception.
High Blood Pressure
Because SARMs alter your hormonal balance and increase your physical work output, they also increase your blood pressure. This can put SARMs users at an increased risk of heart attacks, cardiovascular disease, and strokes.
Sleeplessness
Sleeplessness is commonly reported by SARMs users. Changes in your hormones and elevated blood pressure can play havoc with your sleep. You might find it difficult getting to sleep, and even more difficulty in staying asleep. This can carry over into lethargy and sluggishness during the day. Not great for your workouts!
Are SARMs Legal?
This is the topic of debate with SARMs and one that’s worth looking in to. When you buy SARMs you’ll notice that they’re sold ‘for research purposes only’. They’re not illegal as such, but neither are they approved by the FDA. SARMs manufacturers have essentially found a loophole. It’s legal to sell SARMs for research purposes, but not for human consumption!
SARMs for Bulking
With all that said, SARMs can make a huge difference to your physicality if used responsibly. This is just an introduction to a few of the many SARMs available. If you want to learn more then follow this link. Let’s take a look at some of the best SARMs if you’re looking to get big.
Nutrobal (MK-677)
Nutrobal, also known as Ibutamoren, is known to increase muscle mass and bone density. It will also boost your energy levels and increase your appetite making it the perfect SARM for bulking. Nutrobal doesn’t affect your natural hormone levels so there’s no need to use PCT with it. It can even help you get more sleep!
Andarine (S-4)
Andarine promotes muscle growth and increases strength. It’s a low potency SARM so it’s perfect for new users as its side effects are rare at low doses. Just like Nutrobal, it doesn’t require PCT.
Testolone (RAD-140)
Testolone is a highly potent SARM so it’s important to use PCT and liver support while on a cycle. Testolone will increase your strength and physical endurance meaning you can move a lot more weight in the gym. It also increases your recovery so you can expect to pack on serious muscle mass.
SARMs for Cutting
As well as helping you to get bigger SARMs can also be used for cutting. The following SARMs are recognized for their ability to help build lean muscle while rapidly increasing fat loss.
Ostarine (MK-2866)
Ostarine is the first-ever SARM to hit the market. As well as helping to improve strength and lean muscle mass it specifically targets the androgen receptors of the fats in your body. It will also significantly increase your endurance levels meaning you can train for longer.
Ligandrol (LGD-4033)
Ligandrol is similar to Ostarine. It’s predominantly used for weight and fat loss. Ligandrol is much stronger than Ostarine so it’s important to start with a lower dose to gauge your body’s response to it.
Cardarine (GX-501516)
Cardarine burns fatty acids and uses them for energy making it a great choice for fat loss. It will also boost your energy levels and endurance. It doesn’t interfere with hormone levels like the other cutting SARMs so there’s no need for on-cycle support or PCT.
SARMs Stacks
To get the most out of your SARMs experience it’s recommended that you use more than one at a type. SARMs are often stacked to increase their effectiveness. When combining SARMs it’s important to note that you’re increasing their potency and as a result, it’s crucial that you adhere to the dosage guidelines and recommended cycle length for each SARM.
Are SARMs For You?
If you’re looking for that extra edge in your training or better body composition then SARMs are worth a look. If you’ve been wondering ‘what are SARMs’, then by now you’ll know they’re a great option for people who are uneasy about the idea of taking anabolic steroids but still want to reap the benefits. Be sure to do your research and find a reputable supplier before purchasing any SARMs.
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