Q&A with Praetorian - National Level Competitor

[natenator]

damn P. Ripped back and dryyyyyyyyyyyyy

[Praetorian]

damn P. Ripped back and dryyyyyyyyyyyyy

Ahh...i felt water logged that day..it was like 95 degrees and 100% humidity...nuts....also kind got caught mid pose not really flaring the lats as normal...trust me its getting real tight now.
P

[natenator]

I trust I trust LOL

Really gonna try and make it down next sat and show some support!

[Praetorian]

[QUOTE=natenator;394907]I trust I trust LOL

Really gonna try and make it down next sat and show some support![/QUOTE

I appreciate it brother! Plus the CNE is on...elephant ears, pogos, deep fried butter mmmm mmmmm!
P

[natenator]

[QUOTE=natenator;394907]I trust I trust LOL

Really gonna try and make it down next sat and show some support![/QUOTE

I appreciate it brother! Plus the CNE is on...elephant ears, pogos, deep fried butter mmmm mmmmm!
P
dont tell me that ! lol

[ScorpioChiq]

A few candid gym shots (with my cell phone - I twisted his arm for you guys so here they are ;-))

[natenator]

the black and white one makes me think of arnold ;)

[Big D]

those pics are unbelievable, good work P

[razorsedge]

Holy shit P...thats pretty dry and vascular...great width...wait til you throw the carbs into those babies...best of luck!

[stfuhaters]

the black and white one makes me think of arnold ;)

Looks more like Dorian Yates back to me...

[deletedandgone]

Wow, great job! Very solid!

[Delt King]

Scary dry bro!! :shock This should be a hell of a good show.

[MuSuLPhReAk]

A vascular back. Now that is gold. You look great P. Can't wait to see your show pics.

[tiramisu]

That level of conditioning is going to look full blown freaky. Very cool

[Praetorian]

Thanks guys...i was trying to keep things under wraps but my better half got the best of me I guess! Im very excited to see how things pan out when i start taking in some carbs and squeeze out the last little bit of water. Its been a long two years since Montreal 2008...a very tough off season (torn bicep tendon, strained patella, a few minor pec tears) so I am really happy I could pull it all together finally.
Like Arnold always said....I'll be back!
P

[z83]

wow !!!

[Aaron_37]

Good lord. I've never seen pictures of you before, P... I always assumed you were some kind of bodybuilding Yoda in the jungle hahaha. Damn... I'm really impressed, you've got some solid shape there! Can't wait to see you on stage (through pictures.)

[ironwill]

Thanks a tonne....Holy crap TT you are looking absolutely amazing......WOW!!!!!
Now thats what it is all about....Talking the talk, and running the walk!!!lol
I like some of your sayings on FB....lol

[ironwill]

Just looked again, those pics right there may have convinced me that keto is the way to try this yr.....Cant wait for nxt wknd bro, good luck and stay strong...

[Praetorian]

Just looked again, those pics right there may have convinced me that keto is the way to try this yr.....Cant wait for nxt wknd bro, good luck and stay strong...

Thanks for the kind words IW...you would look sick on keto bro...let me know...id be happy to help...plus we worked a few things differently which I think would work awesome with you...something that really only works with bigger guys!
P

[natenator]

do tellllllll LOL

[IronMan]

What about meeeeeeee?!?! LOL I spoke to your lady regarding hiring you guys to be my trainers too! I'm currently 236, with visible abs, just started eating and training more than 2 days a week and 2 meals a day again lol. Now I'm training 3 days a week and 6 meals a day. Still not the greatest but MUCH better than before. Want to do a offseason program with you, and pre-contest as well for provincials next year. Seen your pics on facebook too TT. Unreal man, your gonna do amazing in Toronto! IronWill and IronMan will be your iron underdogs lol.

[Praetorian]

What about meeeeeeee?!?! LOL I spoke to your lady regarding hiring you guys to be my trainers too! I'm currently 236, with visible abs, just started eating and training more than 2 days a week and 2 meals a day again lol. Now I'm training 3 days a week and 6 meals a day. Still not the greatest but MUCH better than before. Want to do a offseason program with you, and pre-contest as well for provincials next year. Seen your pics on facebook too TT. Unreal man, your gonna do amazing in Toronto! IronWill and IronMan will be your iron underdogs lol.

Thanks IM....whenever you are ready we can start....
P

[yooN]

I'm in awe P! You look amazing, I'm definitely rooting for you to win!

[ironwill]

Thanks for the kind words IW...you would look sick on keto bro...let me know...id be happy to help...plus we worked a few things differently which I think would work awesome with you...something that really only works with bigger guys!
P

You got it bro.......Now im excited!!!

[btufts]

Great work TT looking incredible! this makes me want to do keto again but with the stomach issues before ahh!

[Praetorian]

Great work TT looking incredible! this makes me want to do keto again but with the stomach issues before ahh!

That's why I recommend Fiberlyze at the beginning grasshopper.
P

[btufts]

this year i'll be more prepared. finally have a credit card so i can order that at the beginning. lots of it. good luck at nats though bro you look siick!!

[z83]

Hi P,

Is it too early to introduce malto (1 scoop) with my PWO shake as my 4th meal with carbs (i'm done with the 2 first weeks of reintroducing carbs EOM)

Or I should stick to brown rice/oats ?

Is that one more carbs meal each 2 weeks ?

[Praetorian]

Hi P,

Is it too early to introduce malto (1 scoop) with my PWO shake as my 4th meal with carbs (i'm done with the 2 first weeks of reintroducing carbs EOM)

Or I should stick to brown rice/oats ?

Is that one more carbs meal each 2 weeks ?

Too early....wait 4 weeks.
P

[z83]

Too early....wait 4 weeks.
P

wait 4 weeks to add an other carb meal ? (been 2 weeks of 3x prot/fats and 3x prot/fats/carbs (20-30g)

Good luck this weekend. Can't wait to see the pics

[Delt King]

wait 4 weeks to add an other carb meal ? (been 2 weeks of 3x prot/fats and 3x prot/fats/carbs (20-30g)

Good luck this weekend. Can't wait to see the pics

I'd listen to P on this one or you'll end up like me...30lbs heavier in 10 days post contest. lol but i still have some abs and lots of vascularity.

BTW good luck Saturday P. Represent CBB brother.;)

[Praetorian]

wait 4 weeks to add an other carb meal ? (been 2 weeks of 3x prot/fats and 3x prot/fats/carbs (20-30g)

Good luck this weekend. Can't wait to see the pics

Yes 4 weeks in total....so two more then add it..patience is a virtue.
P

[Praetorian]

I'd listen to P on this one or you'll end up like me...30lbs heavier in 10 days post contest. lol but i still have some abs and lots of vascularity.

BTW good luck Saturday P. Represent CBB brother.;)

Thanks DK...go easy on those cabs eh!! Congrats on your win as well.
P

[countrychic]

Crazy conditioning P:) Goodluck this wkend!!!

[ironwill]

Good luck big fella.....we are cheering you on from the West here!!!

[Praetorian]

Thanks CC and IW...I'm putting everything I have into this one....I know there is going to be some great competition and that brings out the best in us all.
Ill try to keep everyone updated with posts as I can...after weigh in...after prejudging, and after night show...gonna have some crazy pics too.
Fly like a butterfly sting like a bee!!
P

[tiramisu]

The teaser pictures were already fairly crazy. It seems like you're shooting for the kind of conditioning Shelby Starnes achieved last year. While I thought he came in too light (which he seems to be fixing with a vengeance this year), his conditioning last year was surreal.

[Praetorian]

The teaser pictures were already fairly crazy. It seems like you're shooting for the kind of conditioning Shelby Starnes achieved last year. While I thought he came in too light (which he seems to be fixing with a vengeance this year), his conditioning last year was surreal.

Well I dont think ill be too light...im guessing after carbing up ill weigh close to 240lbs.
P

[benP]

Hey P, I've never really thought about it, but does it matter where you grip the bar when doing squats? Would there be any advantage to a closer grip than wider, or vice versa?

[Praetorian]

Hey P, I've never really thought about it, but does it matter where you grip the bar when doing squats? Would there be any advantage to a closer grip than wider, or vice versa?

Pick the most comfortable position.
P

[z83]

Hey P,

what's your plan post competition cheat meal ? :p

[fathead]

P- if one were to use gh, and was going to spend x number of $/year or use x number of kits, how would you recommend they use the gh over a year long period?

would you pick a dose and stick with it all year? (say 2iu 365 days)

double the dose and go for half the year? (say 4iu for 6 months)
if so would you focus it on the gaining or cutting phase?

[Praetorian]

Hey P,

what's your plan post competition cheat meal ? :p

No idea...by the time we are done it will be late...I may have to hit the CNE food booths...lol!
P

[Praetorian]

P- if one were to use gh, and was going to spend x number of $/year or use x number of kits, how would you recommend they use the gh over a year long period?

would you pick a dose and stick with it all year? (say 2iu 365 days)

double the dose and go for half the year? (say 4iu for 6 months)
if so would you focus it on the gaining or cutting phase?

Using GH optimally depends on your goals...If you want added muscle you need to run it longer 6 month is fine...and 4iu I would say is fine to start. You would also need a decent cycle with test as a base. If you are dieting then run it for the length of the diet and 2-3 iu per day is enough.
P

[Skyblob]

Hey prae ! Could you take a look at my current cycle please and criticize it please? I'm also wondering if I should go with test only with my future cycles and if i could still grow nicely on it. Thanks bro! Heres the link !

http://www.canadabodybuilding.com/forums/showthread.php?p=395904#post395904

[Praetorian]

Hey prae ! Could you take a look at my current cycle please and criticize it please? I'm also wondering if I should go with test only with my future cycles and if i could still grow nicely on it. Thanks bro! Heres the link !

http://www.canadabodybuilding.com/forums/showthread.php?p=395904#post395904

The cycle you posted is way over complicated...is this a dieting cycle or offseason? Keep things simple...the truth is if you cant grow on some test and an anabolic then nothing is going to help. Off season 500-600 test plus some EQ/deca/tren is all you really need. Why the T3?

Example:
1-8 test cyp 250mg twice weekly
1-8 deca 200mg twice weekly
9-16 sustanon 250mg twice weekly
9-16 EQ 200mg twice weekly
An AI would rarely be needed on this cycle and def not dostinex

The synergistic effect of test combined with an anabolic is maximized on these types of cycles...test on its own will work but not nearly as well.
P

[Skyblob]

T3 was to experiment :P liked it at 50mcg with tren!

Thanks alot for the advice, but may I ask why run deca only for 8 weeks? Why not take NPP? And why eq for so short? Aren't those drugs more effective when used on longer periods? Just curious to hear your awnser ! Thanks :)

[Praetorian]

T3 was to experiment :P liked it at 50mcg with tren!

Thanks alot for the advice, but may I ask why run deca only for 8 weeks? Why not take NPP? And why eq for so short? Aren't those drugs more effective when used on longer periods? Just curious to hear your awnser ! Thanks :)

T3 is useless on a gaining cycle...you are basically killing your gains by burning excessive calories that otherwise would be used to build muscle...not good!
Deca or EQ is fine used for 8 weeks because even though the half life may be long it is still doing the job even after youve switched drugs. NPP does NOT work the same nor give the same results as deca...not as effective for many reasons. A 16 week offseason or precontest diet is the longest you ever need to run....thus spliting deca/EQ/Tren is just fine for half the cycle.
P

[powerrack]

Hey Prae, I know you recommend eod shots even with long esters, if one was to run 750mg test enth and 600mg eq per a week, would you recommend they break up the shots so that the dose would be eod, or would a m/w/f schedule be ok at 250mg test enth/200mg eq respectively on each of those 3 days?

[btufts]

Hey P, as of today i'm starting my off season dietting. Since the show in April I've been eating everybit clean, a cheat or two a week and its nothing ever greasy. Usually chicken and sweet potatoe fries from a local restaurant from here. I'm fairly lean now after cutting down from 220 to 195ish. I'm so dedicated this year I am going to be so prepared for this years show. What sort of off season diet could i do until January/February? Low fat moderate carbs has been working wonders for me thus far any suggestions?

[Praetorian]

Hey Prae, I know you recommend eod shots even with long esters, if one was to run 750mg test enth and 600mg eq per a week, would you recommend they break up the shots so that the dose would be eod, or would a m/w/f schedule be ok at 250mg test enth/200mg eq respectively on each of those 3 days?

MWF is fine yes.
P

[Praetorian]

[QUOTE=btufts;396008]Hey P, as of today i'm starting my off season dietting. Since the show in April I've been eating everybit clean, a cheat or two a week and its nothing ever greasy. Usually chicken and sweet potatoe fries from a local restaurant from here. I'm fairly lean now after cutting down from 220 to 195ish. I'm so dedicated this year I am going to be so prepared for this years show. What sort of off season diet could i do until January/February? Low fat moderate carbs has been working wonders for me thus far any suggestions?[/QUOTE

Moderate carb, moderate fat, high protein...ie 40-50g pro +40-50g carbs + 15-20g fats depending on lean mass.
P

[Praetorian]

Just returned home from the athletes meeting. There are about 9-10 guys in my class (Masters Heavy) I weighed in approx 230lbs...+ or - 5lbs as the scale was a budget bathroom scale with a needle that was shaking like a leaf in a windstorm. I think I am the heaviest guy in the class/show and from what I have seen I should be the hardest. I feel great...full of energy...drying out now...I stop water at 10pm and have my last meal around there too then off to bed and up at 6am.
I want to wish everyone in the show good luck and I am sure we will have some memorable moments tomorrow!
Cheers,
P

[z83]

let's go P !!!

[Big_Papa_B]

Good luck tomorrow P!!!!

[natenator]

bring it!!!!

[btufts]

Kick ass p!

[brandt]

Good luck P...

[Skyblob]

T3 is useless on a gaining cycle...you are basically killing your gains by burning excessive calories that otherwise would be used to build muscle...not good!
Deca or EQ is fine used for 8 weeks because even though the half life may be long it is still doing the job even after youve switched drugs. NPP does NOT work the same nor give the same results as deca...not as effective for many reasons. A 16 week offseason or precontest diet is the longest you ever need to run....thus spliting deca/EQ/Tren is just fine for half the cycle.
P

Alright ! Thanks prae , also another question please :) Tren at middle cycle, should I go enth or acetate ester? Thx ! and also what dosage ? And also, will I still gain after 16 weeks of cycling, lets say I extend it to 20? Thx bro and goodluck , very nice conditioning ! (y) :)

[Praetorian]

Alright ! Thanks prae , also another question please :) Tren at middle cycle, should I go enth or acetate ester? Thx ! and also what dosage ? And also, will I still gain after 16 weeks of cycling, lets say I extend it to 20? Thx bro and goodluck , very nice conditioning ! (y) :)

Tren acetate works much better. 50mg EOD is enough for you at this stage. 16 weeks is long enough....your gain will be minimal if any at all after that...going longer is wasting money and gear and making PCT that much harder.
P

[pseclint]

best of luck P

[Praetorian]

First off Id just like to congratulate Chris White on his win and getting his IFBB Pro card...well done Chris! He looked absolutely phenomenal and nobody was touching him last night.
That being said I am very happy with how I looked and the package I brought to the stage. I was the heaviest guy in the show (as far as I know... the only guy I am not sure about was Dan Kennedy he may have been heavier...he'll have to confirm that) as well I as one of the hardest and most shredded guy in the class. I put a tonne of work and time into this show and the judging inconsistency is just very frustrating. Its tough to go back and regroup not really knowing what the judges are looking for year to year. I know i brought my best last night and I feel I can get even better....So I am taking some time off, going to pamper SC for all her help and then make a plan to bring the best ever package to Cleveland next year at the North Americans. I know its a very tough show and I have my work cut out for me but that will only drive me further.
Id like to thank SC for her complete and utter support, Dave Palumbo for his total faith in me and ultimate prep coaching...by far the best on the planet bar none!! I am going to take some pics this morning just to give you guys an idea where I am condition and size wise...its been a great ride since 96 my very first competition and I am moving on to putting all my efforts into the NA.
I also wanted to say congrats to Tpay (Todd) who looked great and had a stellar third place finish....the guy defied the odds and pulled it off...well done brother.
Bodybuilding has been a passion for me for the last 25 years and I am working with many clients as well as a Pro who is getting ready for the Detroit Pro 202 class. This will be an exciting show and hopefully will lead to bigger and better things in the future for BodyAthletica.
Like Arnold said...I'll be back!
P ;o)

[ScorpioChiq]

I'll post some pics because I think they speak for themselves. P deserved WAY better placing and it's truly unfortunate. But what doesn't destroy you only makes you stronger (like WAY FRIGGIN STRONGER!!). I'm proud of you babe, you looked incredible!

[btufts]

you look incredible in those pics p, you can tell how much hard work you put into your prep you're diced! congrats!

[Praetorian]

Some pics this morning.
P

[deletedandgone]

Damn, that's some crazy solid mass + extremely grainy and dry! Congrats Praetorian!!

[ubcpower]

Congrats prae!
Since you work with Dave you should consider filming an In the Iron Asylum with your wife. Get her to film it and send the video in to Dave to post on the RXMuscle video area. I think it would be awesome for your followers to see.
Once again congrats

[z83]

Damn shredded !!
The veins on your abs looks like lightning
Awesome work !

[Praetorian]

Here is a leg shot I took with my BB after having brunch and a long island ice tea this morning! ;o)
P

[Odysseus]

omg....jesus, if that doesn't win you a spot in the top 3, I really don't know what the heck the judges are looking for. your vascularity, size and definition are amazing.

[ScorpioChiq]

omg....jesus, if that doesn't win you a spot in the top 3, I really don't know what the heck the judges are looking for. your vascularity, size and definition are amazing.

I completely agree!!! That's why, it's the North Americans for 2011. Let's see what the US judges think of an even bigger, better package. Yeh baby!

[Big_Papa_B]

Hey P you look great!! I totally think you got robbed!!! Maybe I missed it in the previous posts...but what place did you end up getting?

[tiramisu]

I've got no opinion on your placing. It's so darn hard to tell without seeing side by side video. Your pictures, however look amazing and your symmetry, structure and conditioning looked great.

I'm not sure the characteristics of judging are significantly better in the NPC than the CFFB. There is a broader pool of judges to select from though and the ability to be judged by a different panel year over year would make me feel a lot better as a competitor. I think both the NPC and CFFB are outweighting muscularity over sym/struct/conditioning but not nearly as badly as the IFBB that has decided that the circus is more important than the sport.

Try not to get too annoyed with the CFFB until you've had a week or two to decompress.

[bossman_1986]

In your opinion which of these cycles would you do and not do, and why?

cycle 1:

test prop
npp
eq

cycle 2:

test prop
npp
tbol

cycle 3:

test prop
npp
eq
tbol

[Praetorian]

I've got no opinion on your placing. It's so darn hard to tell without seeing side by side video. Your pictures, however look amazing and your symmetry, structure and conditioning looked great.

I'm not sure the characteristics of judging are significantly better in the NPC than the CFFB. There is a broader pool of judges to select from though and the ability to be judged by a different panel year over year would make me feel a lot better as a competitor. I think both the NPC and CFFB are outweighting muscularity over sym/struct/conditioning but not nearly as badly as the IFBB that has decided that the circus is more important than the sport.

Try not to get too annoyed with the CFFB until you've had a week or two to decompress.

Not giving up on the CBBF just taking things in a new fresh direction...its time for a change.
P

[Praetorian]

In your opinion which of these cycles would you do and not do, and why?

cycle 1:

test prop
npp
eq

cycle 2:

test prop
npp
tbol

cycle 3:

test prop
npp
eq
tbol

None of them...

I would do this:
test enanthate/cypionate/sustanon
deca/eq/tren
P

[Praetorian]

Hey P you look great!! I totally think you got robbed!!! Maybe I missed it in the previous posts...but what place did you end up getting?

There were 8 in my class...they only listed the top 5 but I believe i was given 6th.
P

[Big_Papa_B]

There were 8 in my class...they only listed the top 5 but I believe i was given 6th.
P

Harsh! :wtf

Something like this can only make you stronger my friend!

[Talo]

Hey man . Great job and good luck with the NA's next year.... Kick ass !!

[Praetorian]

Harsh! :wtf

Something like this can only make you stronger my friend!

I stand corrected.the scores are now out I was given 7th.
P

[cog]

I gave up on judging eons ago.

[blp]

i know a transgender MTF who work in adult industry she pop 4-5 cyalis a day almost year basis and i am not kidding , she make shitload of cash tho,, i was wondering can it bring health issue on long term use?

thks monster

[IronMan]

Yah, broken genitals and a stroke LOL!

[Big D]

Hey P,

i'm on cycle, test, eq, tren E, aromasin,

and my joints are killing me, specially my knees.

do you think aromasin is the culprit ?

I feel so brittle, i'd like to push more on my leg workouts but I can't.

[fathead]

prae- firstly congrats on your recent show you looked great too bad it didnt go down better for ya


question: what is your take on off season carb sources? im talking "lean bulk" off season.

bread? pasta? bagels? what about tortillas?

ill be transitioning into this sort of mode shortly and after months of dieting having some variety would be a blessing, not just MORE volume of yams/rice/oats although ill keep those in there as well im sure

also, would you have general rules about adding food to meals in this off season state? example: if you were having a meal of eggs and oats, would adding some cheese, or berries, or sauces /dressings in general be acceptable?

thanks

[MMASTAR]

What would be the best way to dose 30mg d-bol in 5mg pills? I lift first thing am so i was thinking 15mg preworkout and 15 throughout the day??

[Praetorian]

i know a transgender MTF who work in adult industry she pop 4-5 cyalis a day almost year basis and i am not kidding , she make shitload of cash tho,, i was wondering can it bring health issue on long term use?

thks monster

It appears long term use is not dangerous...however 4-5 per day is a bit more than the study was based on...I would suggest blood work every 3-4 months just to be sure.
P


Results: Four hundred ninety-three (42.0%) men completed 24 months of treatment. In addition, a further 234 (19.9%) completed 18 months of treatment due to a sponsor decision to reduce the study duration. The total tadalafil exposure was 1676.0 patient-years. Tadalafil was safe and well tolerated. Headache (15.8%), dyspepsia (11.8%), nasopharyngitis (11.4%), and back pain (8.2%) were the most common treatment-emergent adverse events. The rate of discontinuations due to adverse events for this 18–24-month study was 6.3% and the rate for any individual event was <1%. Serious adverse events occurred in 8.6% of patients. No consistent pattern of serious adverse events assessed as causally associated with tadalafil administration was observed. None of the four deaths that occurred during the study was assessed as tadalafil related. There were no clinically significant laboratory or electrocardiographic findings or changes in vital signs in mean baseline-to-endpoint analysis attributable to tadalafil. Tadalafil administration was not causally associated with drug-induced hepatotoxicity, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, or renal dysfunction.

Conclusion: Tadalafil at doses of 5, 10, or 20mg taken as needed up to once daily for 18 to 24 months was safe and well tolerated. These findings support the long-term use of tadalafil in the clinical management of erectile dysfunction.

[Praetorian]

What would be the best way to dose 30mg d-bol in 5mg pills? I lift first thing am so i was thinking 15mg preworkout and 15 throughout the day??

Because of the half life dbol is best taken every four hours.
P

[Praetorian]

Hey P,

i'm on cycle, test, eq, tren E, aromasin,

and my joints are killing me, specially my knees.

do you think aromasin is the culprit ?

I feel so brittle, i'd like to push more on my leg workouts but I can't.

Yes most likely it is the aromasin...why are you taking it? Do you have existing gyno?
P

[Big D]

Yes most likely it is the aromasin...why are you taking it? Do you have existing gyno?
P

yes I have abit of existing gyno and it flares up after a month of being on, so i jumped on the aromasin.

i feel like this is such a waste of time and money, i'm on cycle and cant push at all. I worked out tri's today and my left elbow is just killing me.

so my question is, is there something else I can take to prevent the gyno, but wont be so harsh on my joints ? nolva ?

thanks for the help P.

[Praetorian]

yes I have abit of existing gyno and it flares up after a month of being on, so i jumped on the aromasin.

i feel like this is such a waste of time and money, i'm on cycle and cant push at all. I worked out tri's today and my left elbow is just killing me.

so my question is, is there something else I can take to prevent the gyno, but wont be so harsh on my joints ? nolva ?

thanks for the help P.

Try 20mg nolva twice daily.
P

[Big D]

thanks again P, you wouldn't believe how much this thread helps me.

[Praetorian]

thanks again P, you wouldn't believe how much this thread helps me.

My pleasure...the thing with AI's such as aromasin is that they stop the conversion of estrogen in the periphery. This means the total amount of estrogen circulating in the body will go down...if it drops too much you will see sides such as joint pain, lack of libido, muscle gains tend to slow right down. This is why I don't recommend an AI off season unless it its absolutely necessary. Tamoxifen on the other hand will just block the estrogen receptor...it does not affect total circulating estrogen.
P

[IronMan]

Thank you P for posting this. I've told a few guys this and they sometimes don't believe me. Nolvadex is a site receptor anti estrogen targeting the breast, bone, and liver. As why it is used in the hospitals to treat breast cancers and other types of cancer. As my wife has administered this to patients at the hospital. I also noticed taking Aromasin and too much B6 really killed my joints. As I have had arthritis since I was 14 and have fibro M to top it all off lol. So I REALLY know when things are done wrong! Or if I'm taking to much of one thing. Your advice is so appreciated Prae! Also, congrats on looking freaking insane at Nationals BTW!

[z83]

Hi P,

I'm curious to know your offseason/contest weight. How long you need to diet and which offseason diet you follow ? Are you trying different things each year for diet/training ?

[Praetorian]

Hi P,

I'm curious to know your offseason/contest weight. How long you need to diet and which offseason diet you follow ? Are you trying different things each year for diet/training ?

At 5'11 I was 275lbs this year and weighed in at approx 227lbs...im not sure how accurate the scale was so thats why i say approx. I dieted for 16 weeks this year. I want to be bigger next year yet leaner and harder and weigh in around 235-240lbs...I will be doing things different this off season and applying them to my clients as well. HIT cardio 3-4 times weekly for only 10 min...keeps appetite up and fat down and O2 efficiency up. Keep meals lower in fat only 15-20g and really watch the carb intake using only low glycemic sources. Increasing training volume and using mainly barbells and dumbbells only the odd machine. Really targeting the weak points and going for a very symmetrical look yet massive and very hard full and dry. I am perfecting a new loading technique for next years show on a client at the NA's...this will be a killer advantage next year.
I am totally pumped for the NA next year!
P

[IronMan]

At 5'11 I was 275lbs this year and weighed in at approx 227lbs...im not sure how accurate the scale was so thats why i say approx. I dieted for 16 weeks this year. I want to be bigger next year yet leaner and harder and weigh in around 235-240lbs...I will be doing things different this off season and applying them to my clients as well. HIT cardio 3-4 times weekly for only 10 min...keeps appetite up and fat down and O2 efficiency up. Keep meals lower in fat only 15-20g and really watch the carb intake using only low glycemic sources. Increasing training volume and using mainly barbells and dumbbells only the odd machine. Really targeting the weak points and going for a very symmetrical look yet massive and very hard full and dry. I am perfecting a new loading technique for next years show on a client at the NA's...this will be a killer advantage next year.
I am totally pumped for the NA next year!
P


That's very exciting to hear! Can't wait for when I start training with you! I actually need to ask you guys about the Shouldice Hernia Clinic. Got a few questions...

[z83]

At 5'11 I was 275lbs this year and weighed in at approx 227lbs...im not sure how accurate the scale was so thats why i say approx. I dieted for 16 weeks this year. I want to be bigger next year yet leaner and harder and weigh in around 235-240lbs...I will be doing things different this off season and applying them to my clients as well. HIT cardio 3-4 times weekly for only 10 min...keeps appetite up and fat down and O2 efficiency up. Keep meals lower in fat only 15-20g and really watch the carb intake using only low glycemic sources. Increasing training volume and using mainly barbells and dumbbells only the odd machine. Really targeting the weak points and going for a very symmetrical look yet massive and very hard full and dry. I am perfecting a new loading technique for next years show on a client at the NA's...this will be a killer advantage next year.
I am totally pumped for the NA next year!
P

You should do a log about your training/progress/diet :p

[Praetorian]

That's very exciting to hear! Can't wait for when I start training with you! I actually need to ask you guys about the Shouldice Hernia Clinic. Got a few questions...

Shoot me an email info@bodyathletica.com
P

[Praetorian]

You should do a log about your training/progress/diet :p

I will be doing that on a weekly basis.
P

[Kaly11]

Hey P


Im bulking right now and still doing approx 30mins of cardio 5-6 times per week trying to say somewhat lean...will this effect my gains negatively in any way?

Thanks

[nitrous]

Hey P, Carnitine for fat loss. You think its something that would be worth adding in?

[z83]

hi P,

What would be the next step after 4 weeks of reintroducing carbs each other meals ? I'm approx 4-5lbs heavier than when I stopped dieting. At first I gained weight but it came back to "normal" I guess.

When do you consider is time to lift heavy again. When PCT is done or few more weeks.

Thanks a lot

z83

[Praetorian]

Hey P, Carnitine for fat loss. You think its something that would be worth adding in?

It does work...nothing outstanding...be aware at higher doses it can lower endo thyroid levels...not good.
P

[Praetorian]

Hey P


Im bulking right now and still doing approx 30mins of cardio 5-6 times per week trying to say somewhat lean...will this effect my gains negatively in any way?

Thanks

Yes it will most likely limit your muscle gains quite a bit...3 times per week is enough.
P

[Praetorian]

hi P,

What would be the next step after 4 weeks of reintroducing carbs each other meals ? I'm approx 4-5lbs heavier than when I stopped dieting. At first I gained weight but it came back to "normal" I guess.

When do you consider is time to lift heavy again. When PCT is done or few more weeks.

Thanks a lot

z83

Once PCT is complete and you've had blood work done to prove all is good then you can start back to the higher intensity training.
P

[z83]

Once PCT is complete and you've had blood work done to prove all is good then you can start back to the higher intensity training.
P

am I adding a carb meal now that i've completed 4 weeks of EOM carbs ?

[Forever]

I have a question. I have been reading through this thread and learning as much as I can, but is the majority of this information universal between natural and enhanced trainees?
Obviously the gear specific questions don't apply to natural trainees, but what about the rest of it?

[Praetorian]

I have a question. I have been reading through this thread and learning as much as I can, but is the majority of this information universal between natural and enhanced trainees?
Obviously the gear specific questions don't apply to natural trainees, but what about the rest of it?

Pretty much yes....both nutrition and training will apply to both enhanced natural athletes...obviously enhanced athletes can handle more volume.
P

[Praetorian]

am I adding a carb meal now that i've completed 4 weeks of EOM carbs ?

You can add one carb meal to make it 4 daily, one next weak for 5, then one the following week for 6.
P

[nitrous]

It does work...nothing outstanding...be aware at higher doses it can lower endo thyroid levels...not good.
P

so it would be a good edition if you were already running test and T3?

[Praetorian]

so it would be a good edition if you were already running test and T3?

Its ok...but its not like its going to dramatically increase fat loss...I doubt you would notice any change.
P

[Kaly11]

Yes it will most likely limit your muscle gains quite a bit...3 times per week is enough.
P

thanks

[nitrous]

I doubt you would notice any change.
P

that sucks haha

[powerrack]

Hey P, just clarifying on the injection frequency thing. I feel a little dumb asking, but thought I'd go do you for clarification on this.

Say someone was injecting test/deca, if you are doing 250mgtest/150mg deca eod, does this equate to a weekly dosage of 1000mg test and 600mg deca?

Alternatively, if someone were to take it in the scheme of 250mg test/150mg deca e3d (monday,thursday,sunday,wednesday,saturday,and so on), does that equate to 750mg test and 450mg deca a week?

[fathead]

sorry to be a nag but im guessing you missed by post a few pages back...

prae- firstly congrats on your recent show you looked great too bad it didnt go down better for ya


question: what is your take on off season carb sources? im talking "lean bulk" off season.

bread? pasta? bagels? what about tortillas?

ill be transitioning into this sort of mode shortly and after months of dieting having some variety would be a blessing, not just MORE volume of yams/rice/oats although ill keep those in there as well im sure

also, would you have general rules about adding food to meals in this off season state? example: if you were having a meal of eggs and oats, would adding some cheese, or berries, or sauces /dressings in general be acceptable?

thanks

[Praetorian]

Hey P, just clarifying on the injection frequency thing. I feel a little dumb asking, but thought I'd go do you for clarification on this.

Say someone was injecting test/deca, if you are doing 250mgtest/150mg deca eod, does this equate to a weekly dosage of 1000mg test and 600mg deca?

Alternatively, if someone were to take it in the scheme of 250mg test/150mg deca e3d (monday,thursday,sunday,wednesday,saturday,and so on), does that equate to 750mg test and 450mg deca a week?

Well EOD equates to 7 shots in 14 days= 875mg weekly test and 525mg deca weekly.

ETD equates to 5 shots every 14 days=625mg test and 375mg deca.

To get 1g per week use 300mg test EOD. For 600mg deca use approx 180mg EOD or use 200mg M-W-F.
P

[Praetorian]

sorry to be a nag but im guessing you missed by post a few pages back...

prae- firstly congrats on your recent show you looked great too bad it didnt go down better for ya


question: what is your take on off season carb sources? im talking "lean bulk" off season.

bread? pasta? bagels? what about tortillas?

ill be transitioning into this sort of mode shortly and after months of dieting having some variety would be a blessing, not just MORE volume of yams/rice/oats although ill keep those in there as well im sure

also, would you have general rules about adding food to meals in this off season state? example: if you were having a meal of eggs and oats, would adding some cheese, or berries, or sauces /dressings in general be acceptable?

thanks

Sorry I missed it....and thanks..no worries politics is alive and well but everything happens for a reason...I am primed and ready for the off season and will be making some serious changes. Next time I will give them an offer the can't refuse! ;o)

Off season I prefer low glycemic carbs except post workout. Yams, red potato, brown rice, dark rye bread, red river cereal, oatmeal, brown rice pasta. You have to be careful with some carbs...bagels are very dense carbs...60g usually per bagel...to much for most people. Tortillas are ok if they are lower glycemic, breads should be of the dark variety..I prefer rye.
I do add a slice of cheese or two to my eggs, and berries to my oats etc...nothing wrong with that. Beware sauces you can go overboard with sugars on them..use in moderation.
P

[#8]

What do you think of D-aspartic Acid (DAA)? Is this more bunk?

[steve_d]

Well EOD equates to 7 shots in 14 days= 875mg weekly test and 525mg deca weekly.

ETD equates to 5 shots every 14 days=625mg test and 375mg deca.

To get 1g per week use 300mg test EOD. For 600mg deca use approx 180mg EOD or use 200mg M-W-F.
P

e3d = 7 every 3 weeks - ie 583 test and 350 deca per week. I am a numbers guy - have to be exact although the difference would likely be negligible.

[Praetorian]

What do you think of D-aspartic Acid (DAA)? Is this more bunk?

Supposedly increases testosterone by 42% above baseline...a formula created by Patrick Arnold is available...never tried it and im skeptical...have to wait and see....useless for enhanced athletes as their T levels are way beyond baseline.
P

[Praetorian]

e3d = 7 every 3 weeks - ie 583 test and 350 deca per week. I am a numbers guy - have to be exact although the difference would likely be negligible.

Its the same thing...you are just extending the duration...the longer the duration the more accurate the dosage...but as you said negligible a best.
P

[shredded_Tris]

Hey Prae,
I was wondering what your take on tanning prior to a show is. (12 weeks till show or whatever)
I have heard tanning makes your skin thicker which is not good when competing obviously. Is there a science to it, cause none of the pro's seem to tan. Or does it not matter at all and I should just go get a base before the competition sprays etc.

[Praetorian]

Hey Prae,
I was wondering what your take on tanning prior to a show is. (12 weeks till show or whatever)
I have heard tanning makes your skin thicker which is not good when competing obviously. Is there a science to it, cause none of the pro's seem to tan. Or does it not matter at all and I should just go get a base before the competition sprays etc.

Well you heard wrong brother...tanning does not make the skin thicker in fact it removes water from under the skin because of the heat you sweat. It can irritate the skin...(UV rays) and cause sub Q water retention a day or two after tanning. Many pros tan...not sure where you heard they dont. A base tan is essential IMO to look good when you apply tanning colouring agents. I usually use melanotan for two weeks then take a week off and go to Mexico prior to my competition diet...my vacation just falls that way each year so when i get back I am very dark and i just maintain it with once per week tanning.
P

[solectronlondon]

P,
You are very knowledgeable, I have read through all the post. You also look amazing! I have one question regarding the use of dht blockers for hairloss? What is your take on them?

thanks

[natenator]

I prefer rye.
P

I like rye too :D

[Praetorian]

P,
You are very knowledgeable, I have read through all the post. You also look amazing! I have one question regarding the use of dht blockers for hairloss? What is your take on them?

thanks

If you are having issues with hair loss namely from androgens such as testoterone, trenbolone, etc Finstride works well to maintain hair as it is while on these compounds and it is generally safe to use.
FYI items such as winstrol, masteron etc have gotten a bad rap lately because they are DHT derivaties...however this is what confuses many...a DHT derivative does NOT convert to DHT...the DHT properties have actually been removed so Finastride is not necessary if taking these products alone...however if they are stacked with an androgen as they should be then definitely use Finastride.
Another FYI...you will only encounter hair loss issues if you are predisposed to it.
P

[Praetorian]

I like rye too :D

I believe you are talking the Crown Royal variety! ;o)
P

[natenator]

I believe you are talking the Crown Royal variety! ;o)
P
I don't discriminate.

Scotch, Whiskey or red wine I definitely do lol

[MMASTAR]

Hey Prae, i am on cycle with test, d-bol, npp and EQ. I started taking 25 mg HG aromasin thinking it would help clear up some bacne, alas, it has been 2 weeks on aromasin and no diffrence, should i drop the aromasin? No problems with gyno in the past, but also a heavier cycle than usual.

[Praetorian]

Hey Prae, i am on cycle with test, d-bol, npp and EQ. I started taking 25 mg HG aromasin thinking it would help clear up some bacne, alas, it has been 2 weeks on aromasin and no diffrence, should i drop the aromasin? No problems with gyno in the past, but also a heavier cycle than usual.

Aromasin wont do squat for acne! Ask your Dr for Clavulin its an antibiotic, it will clear up the acne in a week or less.
P

[fathead]

can you explain how clavulin differs from the other antibiotics dr's prescribe for acne (that never seem to work... for me at least)

[MMASTAR]

I thought using aromasin to help control estrogen would help reduce acne by controling hormone levels??

[Praetorian]

I thought using aromasin to help control estrogen would help reduce acne by controling hormone levels??

Not likely...you would better off to keep blood androgen levels more stable.
P

[Praetorian]

can you explain how clavulin differs from the other antibiotics dr's prescribe for acne (that never seem to work... for me at least)

One it doesnt affect protein synthesis to any significant degree, two it is a combination anti biotic...amoxicillin works by killing the bacteria that is causing the infection. Clavulanic acid helps make the amoxicillin more effective...commonly used to treat infections of the sinus, ear, lung, skin, and bladder.
P

[massabsamurai]

Hey P, i'm gonna be starting a prop cycle in 3 weeks. Can i get away with shooting it twice a week instead of daily or every other day? I do have some test e and sustanon on hand as well.

[Praetorian]

Hey P, i'm gonna be starting a prop cycle in 3 weeks. Can i get away with shooting it twice a week instead of daily or every other day? I do have some test e and sustanon on hand as well.

Are you dieting?
P

[massabsamurai]

nope. Tryina loose some bf as well as adding some muscle. Bulking somewhat.

[Praetorian]

nope. Tryina loose some bf as well as adding some muscle. Bulking somewhat.

Pick one....you cant do both at the same time...dropping bodyfat requires below maintenance calories...building muscle requires above maintenance calories....you need to choose one.
Long ester test will work better in both cases anyway.
P

[shredded_Tris]

I've got one for you P
The whole Catabolic Scare really gets in my head getting ready for a show. I am curious about this. I try and eat supper as quick as I can after my Workout and Cardio at night but I was wondering will you go Catabolic if you exceed a certain time limit and if you think so how soon is that?
Thanks buddy

[Praetorian]

I've got one for you P
The whole Catabolic Scare really gets in my head getting ready for a show. I am curious about this. I try and eat supper as quick as I can after my Workout and Cardio at night but I was wondering will you go Catabolic if you exceed a certain time limit and if you think so how soon is that?
Thanks buddy

That is one of the biggest misconceptions out there in BB....it is also the fuel for the marketing hype behind BCAA's. Many BB's are under the impression that they will lose muscle by doing cardio, not eating as soon as they get up, not taking BCAA's before cardio blah blah blah...its basically bull crap. You dont suddenly start dropping tonnes of hard earned muscle because you didnt eat within 5 min of rising...you have plenty of time to make your breakfast, make your lunch etc for work, have a coffee and finally sit down to eat. The fact is it is actaully quite difficult to drop muscle if you are enhanced and have a decent diet...even doing 3 hours of cardio daily.
You can relax...and you need not rush dinner etc. Try to eat every 3 hours...if you are a bit late dont worry about it youll be fine.
P

[steve_d]

That is one of the biggest misconceptions out there in BB....it is also the fuel for the marketing hype behind BCAA's. Many BB's are under the impression that they will lose muscle by doing cardio, not eating as soon as they get up, not taking BCAA's before cardio blah blah blah...its basically bull crap. You dont suddenly start dropping tonnes of hard earned muscle because you didnt wat within 5 min of rising...you have plenty of time to make your breakfast, make your lunch etc for work, have a coffee and finally sit down to eat. The fact is it is actaully quite difficult to drop muscle if you are enhanced and have a decent diet...even doing 3 hours of cardio daily.
You can relax...and you need not rush dinner etc. Try to eat every 3 hours...if you are a bit late dont worry about it youll be fine.
P

however, if your not enhanced, its a different story - yet at the same time a similar story. You might be more prone to losing muscle, but there isn't a magic recipe that will stop that from happening!

[Praetorian]

however, if your not enhanced, its a different story - yet at the same time a similar story. You might be more prone to losing muscle, but there isn't a magic recipe that will stop that from happening!

It is easier if not enhanced yes but still not so easy as people think.
P

[Tufts604]

Hey Im new to the site but have been reading through this Q and A for over a month. First off thank you for the time you have dedicated to helping others and sharing your knowledge, Ive learned an immense amount reading what I have so far.
Now to my problem.
About nine months ago I did a tte cycle. If i remember correct i was running 300 test E, 300 test C and 300 tren. On cycle my nips did get senistive but i thought it had went away. 2 weeks after last shot I started nolva. I had got the nolva off another guy and think it was bunk. soon after i noticed a slight lump under my right nipple. I am on letro right now trying to get rid off it. Think ill need surgury but thats not in my budget right now.
I would like to do another cycle but my thought was to wait till i had surgury (that could be a few years away). the gyno is not bad barely noticeable. (although tough to tell i think lump is roughly size of small marble)So i talked to two people about this and got two dif approaches 3 including mine. One friend says there are still compounds i can do that will have zero possibility of affecting gyno/estrogen levels and i should run those. My other friend says to just run nolva the whole cycle and it prob be okay.
What is ur take must i wait till i can afford surgury or will either other option be suitable?

[Tufts604]

Hey Im new to the site but have been reading through this Q and A for over a month. First off thank you for the time you have dedicated to helping others and sharing your knowledge, Ive learned an immense amount reading what I have so far.
Now to my problem.
About nine months ago I did a tte cycle. If i remember correct i was running 300 test E, 300 test C and 300 tren every week. I injected 2xs weekly. On cycle my nips did get senistive but i thought it had went away. 2 weeks after last shot I started nolva. I had got the nolva off another guy and think it was fake. soon after i noticed a slight lump under my right nipple. I am on letro right now trying to get rid off it. (2.5mg ED) I Think ill need surgury but thats not in my budget right now.
I would like to do another cycle but my thought was to wait till i had surgury (that could be a few years away). the gyno is not bad barely noticeable. (although tough to tell i think the lump is roughly size of a small marble, if anything prob smaller)So i talked to two people about this and got two dif approaches, 3 including mine. One friend says there are still compounds i can do that will have zero possibility of affecting my gyno/raising estrogen levels and i should run those. My other friend says to just run nolva the whole cycle and it prob be okay. (prob okay isnt that reassuring)
What is ur take? Must i wait till i can afford surgury or will either other option be suitable?
Thanks in advanced!
I hope editing doesnt repost.... if so sorry for filling the page still figuring this out....

[steve_d]

It is easier if not enhanced yes but still not so easy as people think.
P

couldn't agree more...how many times you heard the phrase " oh man, I lost SOOO much muscle the last 3 weeks, etc" meanwhile all they lost was fat and eventually water which equates to losing pounds of the scale, which mentally they figure its muscle.

I am not an expert on what the body needs to do to physically break apart muscle to be used as energy, but it seems a hell of lot harder even from an evalution stand point then it is to lose fat. Even if you stopped eating and just layed there.

[Odysseus]

Hi Prae, I remember you stating that protein bars are basically crap and that they really have no place in bodybuilding - also that one would be better off going with a protein shake and some almonds instead.

The thing is, with this new job I will be starting soon, I won't be able to take in as many whole foods as I normally do, and supplementation will really be helpful. As much as I love shakes in addition to whole food meals, when you're on the go, it's difficult to get all your meals in and sometimes a shake just doesn't feel like it's enough. (Doesn't fill you up, either).

So my question is - why are protein bars considered so inferior? I mean if it contains all the proteins, carbs and fats that are needed and you find one that is low in sugar, why would this not be a good replacement for shakes? For example, those nasty tasting VPX Zero Impact Bars look excellent nutritionally. Mostly powered by whey isolates, complex carbs like oats, pumpkin, etc. and healthy fats.

[Praetorian]

couldn't agree more...how many times you heard the phrase " oh man, I lost SOOO much muscle the last 3 weeks, etc" meanwhile all they lost was fat and eventually water which equates to losing pounds of the scale, which mentally they figure its muscle.

I am not an expert on what the body needs to do to physically break apart muscle to be used as energy, but it seems a hell of lot harder even from an evalution stand point then it is to lose fat. Even if you stopped eating and just layed there.

Yep you got it right 100%....the whole fear about losing muscle is overrated because there wasn't much to begin with anyway. Guys walk around 200-220lbs and think they are big....when in actuality they are just fat...they didnt lose muscle they lost fat and water and now that they are 165llbs they say "oh i lost a tonne of muscle this diet sucks" no your off season bulking BS sucks, your training sucks, and you were fat period.
P

[Big D]

Yep you got it right 100%....the whole fear about losing muscle is overrated because there wasn't much to begin with anyway. Guys walk around 200-220lbs and think they are big....when in actuality they are just fat...they didnt lose muscle they lost fat and water and now that they are 165llbs they say "oh i lost a tonne of muscle this diet sucks" no your off season bulking BS sucks, your training sucks, and you were fat period.
P

lol awesome.

[z83]

lol awesome.

x2

[Forever]

lol awesome.

x3

[Kaly11]

Hey P

Currently bulking...went to 3 sets of 10,8,8 for reps now for the past few weeks..i have read 6,8,8,10 would be ideal. What are your thoughts on reps for bulking?

Thanks

[Vitamin S]

what can be taken to blut or reduce cortisol any supps??

[Praetorian]

Hey P

Currently bulking...went to 3 sets of 10,8,8 for reps now for the past few weeks..i have read 6,8,8,10 would be ideal. What are your thoughts on reps for bulking?

Thanks

Training shouldn't change from adding lean mass to dieting....rep ranges for upper body should cover from 5-10...thus you are hitting power, strength and hypertrophy ranges. For legs you can add higher rep sets as well...15's ad 20's.
P

[Praetorian]

what can be taken to blut or reduce cortisol any supps??

Pharmaceuticals to reduce/counteract cortisol would include Clenbuterol and Cytadren.
As for supps and other things see article below....
P

High cortisol levels are mainly caused by stress and there are many
ways to reduce the levels of high cortisol, obviously starting with
removing the stressors.
Remember not all stressors involve emotion. Infections, over-training
in exercise, skipping meals, improper diet (activation of gut
associated immunity), high sugar and refined carbohydrate intake and
more also put stress on the body.
You just have to find the stress reduction technique that works better for you
Some of the recommended ones are

deep-breathing techniques
massage
yoga
Neuro-linguistic Programming
meditation
self-hypnosis
moderate aerobic exercise
attitude changes
rest
low glicemic diet (Sugar handling stress increases cortisol levels.)

It is important to remember that without stress reduction, all
therapeutic and support measures will eventually fail.


If you are also looking repair the damage done to the brain from high
cortisol, by mean of nutritional supplements here are some substances
you should consider.

Nutritional Supplements to Support Low or High Cortisol Levels For
basic adrenal support, include:

A good Complete Multiple Vitamin Mineral Supplement.

Mag-C, one capsule three times per day. This is a source of buffered
vitamin C and a source of absorbable magnesium.

Advanced Essential Minerals, two capsules three times per day. Mineral
absorption and assimilation can be impaired by stressed adrenal
glands. Minerals are essential for energy metabolism.

B5, one capsule per day

B6, one capsule per day

One of the best known and most effective ways to lower excess
cortisol levels is with the nutrient Phosphatidylserine (PS).
Phosphatidylserine is believed to facilitate the repair of the
cortisol receptors in the hypothalamus. It is believed that the
cortisol receptors get damaged by high cortisol levels reducing the
ability of the hypothalamus to sense and correct high cortisone
levels. Because Phosphatidylserine helps repair the feedback control
apparatus, it is useful in correcting both high and low cortisol
levels. Phosphatidylserine is also useful for preventing short-term
memory loss, age-related dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Typical
dosages are one to three 100 mg. capsules per day.

However to achieve the levels necessary to help repair the brain
scientists have found that it takes an oral supplementation of about
800 mg daily. At this dose, oral supplementation would cost hundreds
of dollars per month. It is much more efficient and far less costly to
use transdermal (through the skin) delivery by use of a PS skin cream.
In this form, the phosphatidylserine is micellized and is absorbed
through the skin directed to the blood stream. This avoids any PS
being lost through digestion and the first pass through the liver. The
product, ?Cortisol Balance? was designed for transdermal delivery of
PS in levels that will be effective for the protection and repair of
the brain.

There is an abundance of scientific data on the ability of PS to
support and protect the brain. No other nutrient or pharmaceutical can
match the effectiveness of PS. This PS product combined with a
healthier lifestyle will safely enhance brain function.


Adaptogens are an entire category of herbs that assists the body
in coping with stress by restoring hypothalamic cortisol receptor
sensitivity. AdaptaPhase I from Vitamin Research Products is one such
blend of adaptogenic herbs that is based on Russian research. It is a
combination of Siberian ginseng, Manchurian Thorn Tree extract,
Hawthorn extract, Echinopanax elatum and Schisandra. Typical dosages
are from 1 ml. to 4 ml. per day. AdaptaPhase II is an anti-catabolic
blend of herbs that can be used to enhance the effects of AdaptaPhase.

AdaptaPhase II is synergistic blend of ingredients designed to
help the body overcome the exhaustion that is experienced by people
under such extreme stress. The formula includes soy protein isolate,
Rhaponticum carthinoides, Tribulus Terrestris, and Adjuga
turkistanica. These ingredients exert profound energizing, anabolic,
muscle-building effects. This product is best used in cycles, with
each cycle lasting 10 days with a break of two to three weeks between
each 10 day cycle. Dosages range from 4-10 capsules per day depending
upon the individual's weight and the amount of physical or
psychological stress that individual is undergoing.

CortiTrophin is a combination of adrenal concentrate and
glycyrrhizinate. Glycyrrhizinate is a natural cortisol-mimicking
extract from licorice. Taking a small amount of CortiTrophin 25-100
mgs/day can be beneficial in treating symptoms of adrenal exhaustion
and can provide significant relief from the symptoms of chronic
fatigue and fibromyalgia. To best mimic the body's own physiology,
CortiTrophin should be taken on an empty stomach, first thing in the
morning. If a second dose is required, it should be taken before
lunch. Since CortiTrophin mimics the action of cortisol, one should be
very judicious in using it. It should only be used intermittently and
if any adverse effects occur, such as water retention or elevated
blood pressure, use should be discontinued immediately. Individuals
with high blood pressure should be very cautious with this supplement
and should consult their doctor. Saliva testing should be seriously
considered when using cortisol simulating supplements.

The previous information were collected from a series of web sites,
some of them are

http://www.vitaminlife.com/view_article-exec/article_id/809
http://www.advance-health.com/cortisol.html
http://www.drdebe.com/fitness.htm


Here is also a quick guide of "8 ways to Reduce your Cortisol"

1. Use cortisol reduction supplements: I use a variety of herbs in my
clinic to reduce cortisol at peak times. Some of my favorites include:
ashwaghanda, phosphatidylserine, and rhodiola rosea.

2. Eat at regular intervals throughout the day: Avoid skipping meals,
as this will create a cortisol release.

3. Eat right for your Metabolic Type: Excessive carbohydrate intake
creates cortisol release in response to constantly elevated insulin
levels. Find out your metabolic type and eat consistently with it.

4. Utilize stress reduction techniques at peak cortisol times:
Neuro-linguistic Programming, meditation, self-hypnosis, or simply
lying on the floor doing belly breathing for 10-15 minutes can work
wonders at reducing stress and thus cortisol levels.

5. Get to bed on time: Get to bed by 10:30 pm at the latest.

6. Avoid stimulants: Stay away from energy drinks that contain
ephedra-like compounds and caffeine. Stimulants shift the body into
sympathetic dominance, ie. "fight or flight". Stimulants can also
disrupt your sleeping patterns. If you must have your daily coffee, be
sure that you do not drink any after 12 noon.

7. Keep your workouts under 1 hour: At the 1 hour mark, your
testosterone levels begin to decline and cortisol levels rise.
Forty-five minute workouts are even better.

8. Do not overtrain: Strength coach Charles Poliquin recommends not
training more than 2 days in a row. Doing so will simply overtax the
hormonal system and therefore increase cortisol levels. Listen to your
body. If you do not feel recovered from your previous workout, simply
take an extra day off or reduce the number of sets you perform in your
workout.

Sam Visnic is a C.H.E.K. Practitioner, Nutrition Coach, and certified
NLP Practitioner

[ubcpower]

good advice on cortisol!
I am a walking stress case so this will come in handy

[Vitamin S]

what aas causes hairloss, or the most hairloss? i heard its mainly accelerating male baldness pattern, so if u are prone to hairloss it can only accelerate it? is that true? regardless is there some aas one should avoid, if prone to hair loss?

can anything be taken to prevent hairloss while taking aas, or anyhing to thicken hair?

thanks

[Kaly11]

Training shouldn't change from adding lean mass to dieting....rep ranges for upper body should cover from 5-10...thus you are hitting power, strength and hypertrophy ranges. For legs you can add higher rep sets as well...15's ad 20's.
P

Thanks again

[Praetorian]

what aas causes hairloss, or the most hairloss? i heard its mainly accelerating male baldness pattern, so if u are prone to hairloss it can only accelerate it? is that true? regardless is there some aas one should avoid, if prone to hair loss?

can anything be taken to prevent hairloss while taking aas, or anyhing to thicken hair?

thanks

Generally the more androgenic compounds can cause hairloss if you are predisposed to male pattern baldness. Testosterone being the main culprit because of its conversion to DHT. It is a myth that DHT derivatives cause hairloss...ie masteron, winstrol etc do not cause hairloss....as they do NOT convert to DHT...all DHT qualities have been removed. Taking finastride while using test should alleviate any hairloss issues. The only thing that may help thicken hair would be Rogaine.
P
P

[Vitamin S]

is 20mg of cholesterol per scoop of protein powder too high. what should max cholesterol intake be daily.

and should one take saw plametto on cycle, is there certain compounds which effect prostate more than others?

thx

[fathead]

Generally the more androgenic compounds can cause hairloss if you are predisposed to male pattern baldness. Testosterone being the main culprit because of its conversion to DHT. It is a myth that DHT derivatives cause hairloss...ie masteron, winstrol etc do not cause hairloss....as they do NOT convert to DHT...all DHT qualities have been removed. Taking finastride while using test should alleviate any hairloss issues. The only thing that may help thicken hair would be Rogaine.
P
P

can you explain this in depth please (difference between dht conversion, dht derivative, etc)... ive never touched masteron/tren/winny and the like as i have always READ/HEARD that they are a big no no for hair loss which is apparently some sort of bro science myth (according to you).

i have read a million posts and talked to lots of guys who make claims like "winny took the hair off my head like wild fire" or "tren makes me rock hard and my hair fall out like i have cancer."

most steroid profiles as well tend to claim they cause hair loss

so theoretically if you ran cycles of masteron only or winny only you should have zero accelerated hair loss? and where does primo fit into this list?

many thanks from a guy who is unwilling to lose his locks

[O-Train]

is 20mg of cholesterol per scoop of protein powder too high. what should max cholesterol intake be daily.

and should one take saw plametto on cycle, is there certain compounds which effect prostate more than others?

thx

Some days I eat upwards of 2500mg of cholesterol. I wouldn't worry about it.

Edit: I should mention that some people are sensitive to dietary cholesterol. Given that I eat 50+ whole eggs/wk I doubt I am but it's possible you are.

[wan2lrn]

That was a very interesting post on reducing cortisol. Do you use any of these supplements yourself? I am more interested in the PS skin cream, Adaptophase I and II and cortitrophin.

Even if you weren't into the bodybuilding lifestyle, I believe that reducing cortisol is huge.

As always, thanks again for the outstanding info.

[Vitamin S]

what is your thought on rtd protein drinks. any good if needed in a rush or does the protein degrade and go bad once mixed? i know its true for creatine, but not sure about premixed protein drinks.

thx

[Praetorian]

is 20mg of cholesterol per scoop of protein powder too high. what should max cholesterol intake be daily.

and should one take saw plametto on cycle, is there certain compounds which effect prostate more than others?

thx

Your cholesterol levels (LDL-bad) are more a factor of simple sugar intake than anything...that amount is miniscule...you also need cholesterol intake as it is the building block of hormones.
DHT affects prostate...finastride will help...saw is fine as well....see above posts about DHT.
P

[Praetorian]

can you explain this in depth please (difference between dht conversion, dht derivative, etc)... ive never touched masteron/tren/winny and the like as i have always READ/HEARD that they are a big no no for hair loss which is apparently some sort of bro science myth (according to you).

i have read a million posts and talked to lots of guys who make claims like "winny took the hair off my head like wild fire" or "tren makes me rock hard and my hair fall out like i have cancer."

most steroid profiles as well tend to claim they cause hair loss

so theoretically if you ran cycles of masteron only or winny only you should have zero accelerated hair loss? and where does primo fit into this list?

many thanks from a guy who is unwilling to lose his locks

DHT is the main culprit in hairloss....tren does not convert to DHT but is a very strong androgen...those predisposed to MPB seem to see issues with strong androgens...ie test, Tren, Anadrol etc...the issue as well is most take these compounds in conjunction with test yet blame the other compound not the test. This is the same as in the case with tren causing kidney issues...this is bull as well....any androgen including tren will caused kidney issues if it causes your blood pressure to rise....high blood pressure is the culprit...mostly from a shitty diet in conjunction the an aas. A DHT derivative no longer has the qualities of DHT nor does it convert to DHT...however some may be strong enough andorgen in some individuals suceptible to MPB. Primo is a DHT derivative/
If you are predisposed to MPB there may be no safe aas for you.
P

[Praetorian]

what is your thought on rtd protein drinks. any good if needed in a rush or does the protein degrade and go bad once mixed? i know its true for creatine, but not sure about premixed protein drinks.

thx

Garbage.
P

[Praetorian]

That was a very interesting post on reducing cortisol. Do you use any of these supplements yourself? I am more interested in the PS skin cream, Adaptophase I and II and cortitrophin.

Even if you weren't into the bodybuilding lifestyle, I believe that reducing cortisol is huge.

As always, thanks again for the outstanding info.

I do use some yes...mostly during PCT.
P

[ScorpioChiq]

Adding to the cortisol post, at the clinic we have found that the most effective supplements for reducing cortisol are:

-Destress (milk protein hydrolystate by biotics research) during times of anxiety;
-Relora for clinically reducing excess cortisol and increasing DHEA levels (Douglas Labs makes a great one). Take 2 at night and 1 in the morning; or
-Holy Basil by New Chapter. You can take 2 at night to reduce morning cortisol levels or 2 in the morning;
-Add to that Vitamin C + minerals twice daily, to bowel tolerance and a multi B vitamin.

Balanced, low glycemic diet is crucial - if you blood sugar is all over the place, so are your cortisol levels.

SC

[fathead]

DHT is the main culprit in hairloss....tren does not convert to DHT but is a very strong androgen...those predisposed to MPB seem to see issues with strong androgens...ie test, Tren, Anadrol etc...the issue as well is most take these compounds in conjunction with test yet blame the other compound not the test. This is the same as in the case with tren causing kidney issues...this is bull as well....any androgen including tren will caused kidney issues if it causes your blood pressure to rise....high blood pressure is the culprit...mostly from a shitty diet in conjunction the an aas. A DHT derivative no longer has the qualities of DHT nor does it convert to DHT...however some may be strong enough andorgen in some individuals suceptible to MPB. Primo is a DHT derivative/
If you are predisposed to MPB there may be no safe aas for you.
P

so to clarify, the drugs mentioned (tren/winny/mast) dont cause hairloss through DHT but may cause hairloss because they are strong androgens? so they may "take hair off your head like wild fire" but through a different pathway due to their androgenic potency?

where does test fit in in terms of androgenic potency compared to tren/winny/masteron?

and in terms of the dht derivitives, would proscar or avodart work to combat the effects of these?

thanks

[kg2105]

I'm planning on adding in T3 and Clen into my cutting phase this time around.. how would you run the two compounds for a period of 8 weeks.

[Praetorian]

so to clarify, the drugs mentioned (tren/winny/mast) dont cause hairloss through DHT but may cause hairloss because they are strong androgens? so they may "take hair off your head like wild fire" but through a different pathway due to their androgenic potency?

where does test fit in in terms of androgenic potency compared to tren/winny/masteron?

and in terms of the dht derivitives, would proscar or avodart work to combat the effects of these?

thanks

Yes Proscar will help with aas that convert to dht...however not with those that dont. Most guys predisposed to MPB may see hair issue with strong androgens ie tren...but not winny, primo, or mast...mostly because they are weaker androgens and do not contain DHT qualities or convert to DHT.
P

[Praetorian]

I'm planning on adding in T3 and Clen into my cutting phase this time around.. how would you run the two compounds for a period of 8 weeks.

Do a search iv posted this probably ten times...you need to start low and taper up gradually over weeks.
P

[gsxr750]

P;

Is it true you don't need to really watch sodlium intake on a ketogenic diet? If that's true, why is that?

I usually avoid sodium in general, but if it turns out it's fine on a keto diet i'd be happy for confirmation

[natenator]

P;

Is it true you don't need to really watch sodlium intake on a ketogenic diet? If that's true, why is that?

I usually avoid sodium in general, but if it turns out it's fine on a keto diet i'd be happy for confirmation
don't need to on most diets. Sodium is important.

[shredded_Tris]

Hey P,

I was wondering if there was any point in Taking Benedryl while taking Clen. Does it actually help? and if so how should it be taken
Thanks buddy

[Forever]

Hey P I was wondering what your thoughts are on how long an ECA stack should be taken without a break, and then how long of a break would you recommend before resuming?

[IronMan]

P, you said in a recent previous post that too much Acetyl-L-Carnitine can lower endo thyroid levels. What dose do you consider to be too much or the highest recommended dose. Also, does it lower endo thyroid levels to the point of it causing fat gain? This comes as news to be as using 3-6grams of ALCAR a day does help with fat burning and cardio health. So maybe the lowering of endo thyroid levels isn't enough to lessen the fat burning effects? Thanks!

[Praetorian]

P;

Is it true you don't need to really watch sodlium intake on a ketogenic diet? If that's true, why is that?

I usually avoid sodium in general, but if it turns out it's fine on a keto diet i'd be happy for confirmation


On a keto diet or any low carb diet sodium should be moderately high as well as moderately high water intake. Because your glycogen levels will be drastically reduced the body will flush much more water than normal...along with this water goes sodium. As any BB knows or should know sodium is required for muscle contraction as well as a pump...high sodium and water intake equals low aldosterone and ADH equals dry and hard with vascularity...never lower or avoid sodium while on a low carb or keto diet.
P

[Praetorian]

Hey P,

I was wondering if there was any point in Taking Benedryl while taking Clen. Does it actually help? and if so how should it be taken
Thanks buddy

Unnecessary.
P

[Praetorian]

Hey P I was wondering what your thoughts are on how long an ECA stack should be taken without a break, and then how long of a break would you recommend before resuming?

I would never recommend taking ECA whatsoever...its hard on the adrenals and will eventually cause issues...there are much better things to take.
P

[Forever]

I would never recommend taking ECA whatsoever...its hard on the adrenals and will eventually cause issues...there are much better things to take.
P
What would you recommend?

[Praetorian]

P, you said in a recent previous post that too much Acetyl-L-Carnitine can lower endo thyroid levels. What dose do you consider to be too much or the highest recommended dose. Also, does it lower endo thyroid levels to the point of it causing fat gain? This comes as news to be as using 3-6grams of ALCAR a day does help with fat burning and cardio health. So maybe the lowering of endo thyroid levels isn't enough to lessen the fat burning effects? Thanks!

No more than 3g daily is all that is necessary and it wont affect thyroid.
P

[Praetorian]

What would you recommend?

Clenbuterol.
P

[IronMan]

No more than 3g daily is all that is necessary and it wont affect thyroid.
P

Thank you very much kind sir!! :)

[declan]

Hey P, say you went down from mid teens bf to sub 10% do you expect loose skin? I am currently on my own version of keto and fat loss is awesome vascularity is pronounced on arms, shoulders and chest. However, I notice that my skin is not tight enough not as bad as the midsection though.

I can't afford GH, which some say could help. Would skin naturally shrink if you hold low bf for a long while or you need to have extra help. I notice some guys here who lost a lot of fat and seems to skin tight looks during competition.

[Praetorian]

Hey P, say you went down from mid teens bf to sub 10% do you expect loose skin? NO, IVE DROPED FROM 15% TO 4-5% AND NEVER HAD LOOSE SKIN

I am currently on my own version of keto and fat loss is awesome vascularity is pronounced on arms, shoulders and chest. However, I notice that my skin is not tight enough not as bad as the midsection though.

I can't afford GH, which some say could help. WONT DO MUCH

Would skin naturally shrink if you hold low bf for a long while YES IT WILL....IT IS VERY RESILIENT or you need to have extra help. I notice some guys here who lost a lot of fat and seems to skin tight looks during competition.

P

[declan]

Thanks P. That is the plan anyway, once I get obliques showing I will just maintain till summer. No bulking for me for a year.

[MMASTAR]

Hey P, couple quick questions. Is there a proper formula using percentages to work up to a new max effort lift? Say i want to pull a new 3 RM, do i start at 50% for 3 and add 10% until i get to my max effort set?

One more for ya, what is proper technique for wearing a belt? deep breath in at the top, push abs against belt and hold breath until lift is complete? Thanks.

Sure is great having a guy like you around for questions like this, bro science is one thing but you know your shit and i think most people, like me, trust what you say. Thanks for all the help since this thread started.

[Praetorian]

Hey P, couple quick questions. Is there a proper formula using percentages to work up to a new max effort lift? Say i want to pull a new 3 RM, do i start at 50% for 3 and add 10% until i get to my max effort set?

One more for ya, what is proper technique for wearing a belt? deep breath in at the top, push abs against belt and hold breath until lift is complete? Thanks.

Sure is great having a guy like you around for questions like this, bro science is one thing but you know your shit and i think most people, like me, trust what you say. Thanks for all the help since this thread started.

Well there isnt any magic formula...and you arent a powerlifter so maxes shoudlnt be a great concern generally. Getting strong is important dont get me wrong but you dont need equations to do it. Lets take bench press if you can hit say 315lbs for 5-6 reps then normally your 3 RM would be approx 340-345 or so...about a 25-30lb increase depending on the person.
A belt helps create stability by increasing internal pressure. You need to pull air into your belly not your chest and push against the belt....the belt should be very tight as well. In basic terms you always hold your breath when you lift...what happens when you let the air out of a balloon...thats what will happen to you if you let the air out as you lift.
P

[Vitamin S]

p,

in addition to dextrose / whey isolate what else is good to add or throw in a post workout shake?

thx

[Praetorian]

p,

in addition to dextrose / whey isolate what else is good to add or throw in a post workout shake?

thx

I am not fond of dextrose as it can cause serious stomach issues because it pulls water into the gut...that is why I prefer waxy maize or as a second choice malto. Dextrose also tends to cause fat gain in many who are very carb sensitive. My post workout shake contain whey protein isolate+waxy maize+creatine (Creapure) monohydrate + celtic sea salt.
P

[A_N_T]

Hi P, do you recommend for guys who compete slowly reintroduce carbs or just relax and eat what you want?
and what do you tgink about MCT oil on diet? bulking?
thanks

[Praetorian]

Hi P, do you recommend for guys who compete slowly reintroduce carbs or just relax and eat what you want?
and what do you tgink about MCT oil on diet? bulking?
thanks

You must reintroduce carbs slowly or you can end up with peripheral edema and cardiac issues...very dangerous. MCT oil is ok for off season but never while dieting...it would become a preferential energy source while dieting and would slow fat loss dramatically.
P

[Memo]

You said about 5 pages back that you like to use cortisol blocker during pct. Could you please tell me which one you believe being effective. Is Phosphatidylserine working?

Thank you

[A_N_T]

thank for the answer P!
it's mean i mestup a bit :)
what do you recommend or use for appetite on bulking cycle? and do you recommend/use any enzimes?

[nitrous]

Hey P,

I've got a question for ya. A buddy of mine is going to compete in a regional show in 8 months.. its a tested show and i was going to compete with him.. never competed before and would have prefered a none tested show but this is the one he wants to do.

Currently i'm 170 (cut down from the beginning of summer at 190) and just in my PCT right now.. current pic is avatar.. I'm only 5'5-6..

With 8 months to compete i was thinking roughly 4 months bulking 4 months cutting.. Would it be worth going on a 6-8 week cycle of test prop and tren ace with some dbol to help with the bulking as it would be out of the system by the show or with crashing a bit after pct would i be better off to just do the whole thing naturally? i'm not new to cycling and wouldnt be using compounds i havent used before..

the other option i am thinking is just use GH and some peptides but this avenue would be new to me..

Though i will be using IGF-1LR3 throughout bulking regardless.. Thanks P!

[fathead]

Hey P,

I've got a question for ya. A buddy of mine is going to compete in a regional show in 8 months.. its a tested show and i was going to compete with him.. never competed before and would have prefered a none tested show but this is the one he wants to do.

Currently i'm 170 (cut down from the beginning of summer at 190) and just in my PCT right now.. current pic is avatar.. I'm only 5'5-6..

With 8 months to compete i was thinking roughly 4 months bulking 4 months cutting.. Would it be worth going on a 6-8 week cycle of test prop and tren ace with some dbol to help with the bulking as it would be out of the system by the show or with crashing a bit after pct would i be better off to just do the whole thing naturally? i'm not new to cycling and wouldnt be using compounds i havent used before..

the other option i am thinking is just use GH and some peptides but this avenue would be new to me..

Though i will be using IGF-1LR3 throughout bulking regardless.. Thanks P!

are you asking for advice on how to cheat at a tested show? if so get lost

[nitrous]

are you asking for advice on how to cheat at a tested show? if so get lost

a tested show means you have to have nothing in your system when you step on stage and tested... no that is not what i am asking him. i am asking him if it is worth doing a cycle before the show or not.. obviously i would leave enough time for everything to get out of the system... last i checked this is Q&A for Praetorian not fathead..

[steve_d]

doesn't matter who's thread this is. Praetorian, nor anyone else on this board is going to support you in a decision to continue juicing throughout a prep for a tested show. do a non-tested show, or support your friend in the tested show. Just don't compete in it. I don't care how many people you think are in the show that are not clean...don't add to it.

[Praetorian]

You said about 5 pages back that you like to use cortisol blocker during pct. Could you please tell me which one you believe being effective. Is Phosphatidylserine working?

Thank you

I said i like to use something to counter the effects of cortisol....ie clenbuterol, GH... not a cortisol blocker. Clen and GH work great at this.
P

[Praetorian]

thank for the answer P!
it's mean i mestup a bit :)
what do you recommend or use for appetite on bulking cycle? and do you recommend/use any enzimes?

Short bouts of high intensity cardio ie 10 min on stairclimber will help with appetite. Digestive enzymes can help if yo have digestion issue...as well a good probiotic daily.
P

[Praetorian]

Hey P,

I've got a question for ya. A buddy of mine is going to compete in a regional show in 8 months.. its a tested show and i was going to compete with him.. never competed before and would have prefered a none tested show but this is the one he wants to do.

Currently i'm 170 (cut down from the beginning of summer at 190) and just in my PCT right now.. current pic is avatar.. I'm only 5'5-6..

With 8 months to compete i was thinking roughly 4 months bulking 4 months cutting.. Would it be worth going on a 6-8 week cycle of test prop and tren ace with some dbol to help with the bulking as it would be out of the system by the show or with crashing a bit after pct would i be better off to just do the whole thing naturally? i'm not new to cycling and wouldnt be using compounds i havent used before..

the other option i am thinking is just use GH and some peptides but this avenue would be new to me..

Though i will be using IGF-1LR3 throughout bulking regardless.. Thanks P!

I would suggest preparing for a level 1 OPA show...why do a tested show if you are using gear and at least you know where you stand on a level playing field.
P

[nitrous]

doesn't matter who's thread this is. Praetorian, nor anyone else on this board is going to support you in a decision to continue juicing throughout a prep for a tested show. do a non-tested show, or support your friend in the tested show. Just don't compete in it. I don't care how many people you think are in the show that are not clean...don't add to it.

when stepping on stage i wouldnt be on anything for the previous 4 months.. i think that puts everyone on a level playing field since everyone has that opportunity..

its like saying Jay and Phil are cheating because they are on and its an illegal substance..

I AM NOT SAYING I WILL STEP ON STAGE IN A TESTED SHOW WHILE IT IS STILL IN MY SYSTEM..

if i wanted to get passed a test while being on i could do that.. its not hard.. but that is also not what i am going to do or suggesting it

[nitrous]

I would suggest preparing for a level 1 OPA show...why do a tested show if you are using gear and at least you know where you stand on a level playing field.
P

i wanted to do the sandra whickham instead which is a non tested show but he is dead set on doing this show because otherwise he will be all out bulking during his wedding which he would rather be most of the way done his cutting... i want to do this show with him..

i was not suggesting i do a show while being on.. i am talking about short ester that is discontinued 4 months out of a show.. this is something everyone has the opportunity to do..

since i have never done a show before i dont think jumping into the Western Canadians is putting me in an unlevel playing field

[Praetorian]

when stepping on stage i wouldnt be on anything for the previous 4 months.. i think that puts everyone on a level playing field since everyone has that opportunity..

its like saying Jay and Phil are cheating because they are on and its an illegal substance..

I AM NOT SAYING I WILL STEP ON STAGE IN A TESTED SHOW WHILE IT IS STILL IN MY SYSTEM..

if i wanted to get passed a test while being on i could do that.. its not hard.. but that is also not what i am going to do or suggesting it

Tested show are supposed to be for athletes who do not do drugs period. It is the same as the Olympics...yes the Olympics are tested but they also do random out of competition testing to prevent drug use during the off season because an athlete using drugs out of competition still retains an advantage. It matters little if the drug shows up on a test or not. If you want to do tested shows than I would suggest to prepare naturally.
P

[Praetorian]

i wanted to do the sandra whickham instead which is a non tested show but he is dead set on doing this show because otherwise he will be all out bulking during his wedding which he would rather be most of the way done his cutting... i want to do this show with him..

i was not suggesting i do a show while being on.. i am talking about short ester that is discontinued 4 months out of a show.. this is something everyone has the opportunity to do..

since i have never done a show before i dont think jumping into the Western Canadians is putting me in an unlevel playing field

What your friend does is up to him...when and where you compete is your decision and should have little to do with his decision. Preparing for a show is a tonne of work and money and you dont make decisions like because of a what a buddy is doing. Doing a tested show where other athletes are drug free and you are not is not a level playing field.
You want to do drugs then compete with others doing drugs...its quite simple actually. Otherwise dont do drugs and compete naturally.
P

[nitrous]

What your friend does is up to him...when and where you compete is your decision and should have little to do with his decision. Preparing for a show is a tonne of work and money and you dont make decisions like because of a what a buddy is doing.
P

i want to do a show.. that isnt what it is about.. my reasoning for wanting to do the same show as him is we are able to push eachother and compare eachother while preparing for the show..

as for the AAS before hand or not thank you for your opinion.. perhaps i'll just stay off while preparing for it

[A_N_T]

P, how many calories you suggest to eat on bulking cycle? i heared rule of 40,50,60 kkal per kilo.... what do you think?

[zarazen]

Are FCPAQ competitions like Championnat Québec de l'Ouest drug tested events? I know there are separate FCPAQ natural events which are drug tested but just curious about the rest.

[natenator]

a tested show means you have to have nothing in your system when you step on stage and tested... no that is not what i am asking him. i am asking him if it is worth doing a cycle before the show or not.. obviously i would leave enough time for everything to get out of the system... last i checked this is Q&A for Praetorian not fathead..
You are ****ing delusional.

[steve_d]

You are ****ing delusional.

well said. It's bad enough he wants to do what he wants to do...But to add to it, openly admits that he sees nothing wrong with it. At least those that are cheating likely have enough morals to know they are cheating - just can't help it, and therefore hide it. Both are bad, but I think its worse to completely think its ok.

[natenator]

well said. It's bad enough he wants to do what he wants to do...But to add to it, openly admits that he sees nothing wrong with it. At least those that are cheating likely have enough morals to know they are cheating - just can't help it, and therefore hide it. Both are bad, but I think its worse to completely think its ok.
Praetorian is too polite to tell him he's a ****ing douchebag but I sure as **** ain't.

nitrous: you are a first class douchebag and I hope a large, heavy bus runs your douchebag ass over. I don't want yyou to be killed though. Just physically maimed enough so that you walk with a limp, twitch like a junky and have facial disfigurement for the rest of your life.

[nitrous]

Praetorian is too polite to tell him he's a ****ing douchebag but I sure as **** ain't.

nitrous: you are a first class douchebag and I hope a large, heavy bus runs your douchebag ass over. I don't want yyou to be killed though. Just physically maimed enough so that you walk with a limp, twitch like a junky and have facial disfigurement for the rest of your life.

you guys are too uptight about a simple local show.. you make it sound like its life or death.. hell you dont even win money.. imagine that some guy wants to look as good as possible if he is going to step on stage.. lets end all life on this planet as it is that ridiculous.

nate perhaps you should pop some aromasin cuz with a mood like that perhaps your estro is a little high ;)

[Praetorian]

i want to do a show.. that isnt what it is about.. my reasoning for wanting to do the same show as him is we are able to push eachother and compare eachother while preparing for the show..

as for the AAS before hand or not thank you for your opinion.. perhaps i'll just stay off while preparing for it

I would suggest doing it naturally...you will learn alot more because there is little room for error when not assisted and you have to work that much harder. Thus if in the future you decide to do a non tested show you will have an advantage.
P

[Praetorian]

P, how many calories you suggest to eat on bulking cycle? i heared rule of 40,50,60 kkal per kilo.... what do you think?

Everyone is different because they have different metabolisms thus there is no one formula. I make sure my fat and protein intake is measured and add carbs in for energy. If i am putting on too much fat ill back off the carbs...so its really an ongoing adjustment. If i were to guess...7-8 meals at 700cal each or so....5000-6000....more on the weekend because of cheat meals.
P

[A_N_T]

thanks! have similar thoughs... how many grams of fat i can't decide 1.2 per kilo? or more?

[steve_d]

you guys are too uptight about a simple local show.. you make it sound like its life or death.. hell you dont even win money.. imagine that some guy wants to look as good as possible if he is going to step on stage.. lets end all life on this planet as it is that ridiculous.

nate perhaps you should pop some aromasin cuz with a mood like that perhaps your estro is a little high ;)


Not life or death. Simple fact is you shouldn't do that show. It doesn't matter that committing murder is a bigger deal than doing a tested show taking test during your prep. It still shouldn't be done and that's all were saying.

No one on this board will agree with you on this one. At least openly. It's simply not fair to the guys who are clean. case closed.

[natenator]

you guys are too uptight about a simple local show.. you make it sound like its life or death.. hell you dont even win money.. imagine that some guy wants to look as good as possible if he is going to step on stage.. lets end all life on this planet as it is that ridiculous.

nate perhaps you should pop some aromasin cuz with a mood like that perhaps your estro is a little high ;)
My mood is fine and in check. I don't need to be in a mood or emotional to think you a douchebag and even if I were those things I would still believe you to be a douchebag. Perhaps, a bigger one if there's such a grand as a grand douchebag -- maybe Jersey Shore level of douche.

[Memo]

I said i like to use something to counter the effects of cortisol....ie clenbuterol, GH... not a cortisol blocker. Clen and GH work great at this.
P

I was going to use ghrp-2 and cjc 1295. ghrp-2 rise cortisol, is it something I should be worried about or the GH rise effect will counteract the rise in cortisol.

Will test used with the peptides be enough to counteract the cortisol?

[Memo]

I said i like to use something to counter the effects of cortisol....ie clenbuterol, GH... not a cortisol blocker. Clen and GH work great at this.
P

I find it hard to believe that clenbuterol has anti-cortisol effect since it is adrenergic. can you please tell me more information on this topic.

thank you

[nitrous]

Simple fact is you shouldn't do that show.

you mean it is something i shouldn't do if i use AAS in my prep.. this show is 8 months away

[nitrous]

My mood is fine and in check. I don't need to be in a mood or emotional to think you a douchebag and even if I were those things I would still believe you to be a douchebag. Perhaps, a bigger one if there's such a grand as a grand douchebag -- maybe Jersey Shore level of douche.

whether your mood is in check or not that is relative

[steve_d]

you mean it is something i shouldn't do if i use AAS in my prep.. this show is 8 months away

sure, if it is a cbbf show, there is technically no rules against the amount of time being drug free, therefore fine - your not breaking any rules in the sense that as long as you pass the test, your good to go.

But the reality of it is, you've likely used in the past, and used enough that you are at an advantage regardless of using over the next 8 months. So yes, even if you plan to go clean for the next 8 months, I still don't think you should do that show. I can't tell you the amount of time before its "acceptable". Some say never, others think 5 years, etc, or if you truly decided to turn a leaf and stay natural from now one. But the fact that you asked P if its "worth" taking test dbol, etc during your next 4 months implies that no - you don't fit in that category, and you fall in the category of wanting to look your best at a show and doing so in just the way to get away with it. You seem to know how to get away with it, so what is the point of your question? Are you asking if staying clean for 4 months before the show vs. 8 month before the show will make a differencE? of course it will...

[fathead]

you really figure that if ronnie coleman is off the sauce for 4 months he should enter a tested show because "nothing is in his system"?

i dont think you understand the point of a tested show, either that or youre trying to justify cheating to yourself and others.

lets get back on topic and not trash prae's thread, cheater mccheaterpants can open a new thread if he really wants to get flamed more on this topic.

[Vitamin S]

hey p,

does fiber delay stomach emptying or speed it up? I was wondering this coz some i over heard some trainer talking that it makes a difference when combinging foods such as egg whites and oatmeal, where oatmeal has fiber and egg whites dont', and you should eat them in a certain order (i forget which he said) but does this make sense ? he was saying if you eat a certain food then eat a higher fiber food it pushes or speeds up digestiona nd then u don't fully absorb the nutrients? kind of like eating a salad after a steak instead of before like most do?

thx

[MMASTAR]

Hey P, what do you think is the best way to run IGF-1LR3 for a first timer with this pep?

[Praetorian]

I was going to use ghrp-2 and cjc 1295. ghrp-2 rise cortisol, is it something I should be worried about or the GH rise effect will counteract the rise in cortisol.

Will test used with the peptides be enough to counteract the cortisol?

We are talking PCT here...thus higher levels of cortisol....so you wouldnt be taking test. Dont make things complicated and this peptides wont help....all you need is clen....gh is a great addition if affordable. This is really only for afew weeks until you recover then you are fine.
P

[Praetorian]

I find it hard to believe that clenbuterol has anti-cortisol effect since it is adrenergic. can you please tell me more information on this topic.

thank you

Its common knowledge that clenbuterol has an anti catabolic effect...there is much information if you look for it.
P

[Praetorian]

hey p,

does fiber delay stomach emptying or speed it up? I was wondering this coz some i over heard some trainer talking that it makes a difference when combinging foods such as egg whites and oatmeal, where oatmeal has fiber and egg whites dont', and you should eat them in a certain order (i forget which he said) but does this make sense ? he was saying if you eat a certain food then eat a higher fiber food it pushes or speeds up digestiona nd then u don't fully absorb the nutrients? kind of like eating a salad after a steak instead of before like most do?

thx

If you eat alot of fibre bowel transit time will be reduced and you will have a bulkier stool. You will absorb nutrients just fine.

P

[Praetorian]

Hey P, what do you think is the best way to run IGF-1LR3 for a first timer with this pep?

Post workout 10-20mcg (no more...using too much downgrades receptors very quickly) per shot and run it for 4 weeks with two weeks off repeat this two more times.

[Memo]

We are talking PCT here...thus higher levels of cortisol....so you wouldnt be taking test. Dont make things complicated and this peptides wont help....all you need is clen....gh is a great addition if affordable. This is really only for afew weeks until you recover then you are fine.
P

You do not believe peptides are working?

[MMASTAR]

Post workout 10-20mcg (no more...using too much downgrades receptors very quickly) per shot and run it for 4 weeks with two weeks off repeat this two more times.

nothing on non workout days?

[razorsedge]

whether your mood is in check or not that is relative

Nitrous...Prep for the spring with your pal . Use the gear and let him stay clean. Push the shit out of each other and he can compete in Kelowna and 2 weeks later, you put your ass on the stage in Fort St John at the Northern Classic which is not tested...learn from each other, keep great notes for comparison later plus you have the extra 2 weeks to lean out but like everyone else said...stay off the Westerns show stage. What would you think if you busted your ass like ur buddy, totally clean, and failed to qualify for another show like Prov because another guy was on gear and he finished ahead of you...train to be the best you can. If you show up in Kel, everyone on this board that will be at the show will jeer the shit out of you and I'll lead them.

[Praetorian]

You do not believe peptides are working?

I have yet to see any evidence of that...why not go with something proven over time...again why make things more complicated than they need to be.
P

[Praetorian]

nothing on non workout days?

In the morning on non training days.
P

[O.S.B.B.]

Hey Prae,

Do you feel that taking GH without slin or igf-1 is worth it as far as cost/gains goes?
Secondly, if taking GH in the AM isn't an option, would mid afternoon be acceptable?? (train in the AM around 8)

Thanks a lot man, look forward to the reply.

[Praetorian]

Hey Prae,

Do you feel that taking GH without slin or igf-1 is worth it as far as cost/gains goes?
Secondly, if taking GH in the AM isn't an option, would mid afternoon be acceptable?? (train in the AM around 8)

Thanks a lot man, look forward to the reply.

You do not need insulin or igf to benefit from gh just a good androgen ie test. Morning would be the first choice but afternoon will work yes.
P

[evoke]

Question about bulking.

I'm doing 1.5h weightlifting(5d/wk) in morning and 1.5hour boxing/cardio in evening(7d/wk). (enhanced)
I can't seem to gain significant muscle. I gained a bit of fat though.

Does cardio SIGNIFICANTLY hinder gains? (i really don't want to quit boxing).
Few pages ago, you said it's OK to do "even doing 3 hours of cardio daily".

Basically, what can I do different to bulk efficiently?

[fathead]

Question about bulking.

I'm doing 1.5h weightlifting(5d/wk) in morning and 1.5hour boxing/cardio in evening(7d/wk). (enhanced)
I can't seem to gain significant muscle. I gained a bit of fat though.

Does cardio SIGNIFICANTLY hinder gains? (i really don't want to quit boxing).
Few pages ago, you said it's OK to do "even doing 3 hours of cardio daily".

Basically, what can I do different to bulk efficiently?

not to hijack, but when i was boxing 4-5x a week i couldn't KEEP weight on let alone add any. i would say that boxing type cardio in that quantity will significantly hinder gains, it is very different than what prae mentioned about low intensity cardio during contest prep and not LOSING muscle. why your getting fat though is beyond me... id assume poor diet choices

lets see what prae says though

[O.S.B.B.]

You do not need insulin or igf to benefit from gh just a good androgen ie test. Morning would be the first choice but afternoon will work yes.
P

2-3 iu's sufficient?

[Praetorian]

Question about bulking.

I'm doing 1.5h weightlifting(5d/wk) in morning and 1.5hour boxing/cardio in evening(7d/wk). (enhanced)
I can't seem to gain significant muscle. I gained a bit of fat though.

Does cardio SIGNIFICANTLY hinder gains? (i really don't want to quit boxing).
Few pages ago, you said it's OK to do "even doing 3 hours of cardio daily".

Basically, what can I do different to bulk efficiently?

Stop the 1.5hrs of boxing and cardio and youll gain muscle. Unfortunately you need to choose a sport. Higher amounts of cardio are done while dieting....you dont gain muscle dieting. If you are getting fat your diet is to blame.
P

[Praetorian]

2-3 iu's sufficient?

For fat loss yes...youll need more for muscle gain.
P

[evoke]

Stop the 1.5hrs of boxing and cardio and youll gain muscle. Unfortunately you need to choose a sport. Higher amounts of cardio are done while dieting....you dont gain muscle dieting. If you are getting fat your diet is to blame.
P

OK, so I will stop boxing/cardio for now.

Should I do weightlifting twice a day?
Should I do anything during the 2 "off" days? Maybe cardio/boxing on "off" days? :)

Weightlifting for 1.5h (5times/wk) seems too little...

Thanks.

[Praetorian]

OK, so I will stop boxing/cardio for now.

Should I do weightlifting twice a day?
Should I do anything during the 2 "off" days? Maybe cardio/boxing on "off" days? :)

Weightlifting for 1.5h (5times/wk) seems too little...

Thanks.

Weight training 5 days per week, one major body part per session..approx 1.5 to 2 hours total workout time including getting changed etc. If you feel this is insufficient than your intensity level is extremely low. You can do cardio on off days no more than 30 mins each session.
P

[brutus]

You are ****ing delusional.



Exactly. Tested is for drug free fella! Just like dicks are for chicks!!!

[White T]

I'm starting week 9 of a 12 week, 625mg/week Sustanon 250 cycle. 6'4, 250lbs, 30 years old. Libido was great for the first 4 weeks and ever since has been gone completely. Unable to perform whatsoever. Have not used any anti-es, but have Nolva and Clomid for PCT. Any recommendation to remedy this issue? Would herbals help, Trib etc, or would an AI or SERM while "on" make a difference in sex drive?

[declan]

What is your opinion on priming or slight deficit in caloric intake before a bulk? Will it significantly help put on lean mass due to the rebound or its just a myth? I think I read this lots of times from competitors who just finished a gruesome diet and did put on quality mass afterwards.

[Vitamin S]

p,

what is a good pre workout muscle rub, i used to use finalgon, but can't get it anymore it was really good, hot and stung came with applicator. i have tried bengay and all that crap just doesn't seem to activate or do anything at all?

thx