For those looking to enhance their fitness goals, build strength, or improve body composition, SARMs have grown in popularity over recent years. SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are performance enhancing compounds that act on the androgen receptors of muscle and bone tissue.

They stimulate anabolic activity similar to steroids, but in a more targeted way with less side effects. With proper precautions and responsible use, SARMs offer exciting benefits. But how does a beginner start taking SARMs correctly? This guide will provide the key steps for safe, effective SARMs use.

Table of Contents

What are SARMs Exactly?

SARMs are synthetic drugs designed to bind selectively to the androgen receptors in muscle and bone. This stimulates tissue growth, increasing muscle mass and strength. The word “selective” refers to their precise targeting compared to broader acting steroids.

SARMs were originally developed for medical applications like osteoporosis, muscle wasting diseases, and hormone therapy. Their ability to build lean tissue with fewer side effects also appealed to athletes and bodybuilders. While not yet FDA approved, SARMs are legal to obtain for personal use.

Types of SARMs

There are a variety of SARMs compounds, each with slightly different effects. Some common examples include:

Ostarine (MK-2866) – The mildest and most popular SARM. Good for beginners. Promotes moderate muscle gain and fat loss.
Ligandrol (LGD-4033) – Very powerful at building mass. More potent than Ostarine.
Testolone (RAD-140) – Similar effects as Testosterone. Significant strength and muscle gains.
YK-11 – A myostatin inhibitor. Prevents muscle wasting while boosting growth. You can buy Yk11 online as well.
Cardarine (GW-501516) – Not technically a SARM. Increases endurance and fat burning.

Experienced users often stack multiple SARMs for synergistic benefits. But beginners should start with just one mild SARM like Ostarine.

Step 1 – Select Your SARM

When deciding which SARM to use for your first cycle, stick with Ostarine or Cardarine. They are the most researched and deliver results while being relatively mild. Ostarine shines for retaining muscle on a cut, increasing strength, improving joint health, and preventing injuries. Cardarine boosts endurance, energy, and fat metabolism – excellent for both cutting and bulking.

Avoid potent SARMs like Ligandrol or Testolone for your first time using SARMs. You want to assess how your body responds before ramping up to stronger compounds. Be conservative at first rather than aggressive. You can buy sarms online as well but you have to consider their dosage and other factors as well.

Step 2 – Choose Your Dosage

Proper SARMs dosage is essential – too little and you may be disappointed with results, too much and side effects become more likely. The sweet spot is the lowest effective dose to meet your goals. General dosage guidelines:

Ostarine

Cutting (retain muscle in calorie deficit): 10-20 mg daily
Bulking (gain mass in calorie surplus): 20-30 mg daily

Cardarine

10-20 mg daily

Always start on the low end of the dosage range and gradually increase if needed. 8 weeks is the standard SARMs cycle length. Longer cycles or extremely high doses increase the risk of side effects. Once you’ve gained experience with a couple cycles, you can consider slowly adding a second SARM at low doses.

Step 3 – Research Your Source

With SARMs unregulated, it is extra important to find a reputable source. Only purchase from trusted vendors who provide third party lab testing and quality assurance. Beware underdosed, impure, or mislabeled SARMs from disreputable sellers. Research forums and reviews to identify the best SARMs source for purity. You want pharmaceutical-grade products to maximize benefits and safety.

Step 4 – Have Proper On-Cycle Support

Some compounds can help manage potential side effects and further enhance results during your SARMs cycle:

Testosterone base – Since SARMs can suppress natural Testosterone production, a small replacement dose of Test maintains normal T levels.
PCT drugs – Post-cycle therapy medications like Nolvadex or Clomid can kickstart Testosterone recovery.
Liver support – Milk thistle and NAC aid liver function on-cycle.
Anti-estrogens – Drugs like Arimidex control estrogen and reduce water retention if needed.

Utilizing ancillary drugs and supplements adds to the complexity, so save this for future cycles after mastering the basics.

Step 5 – Track Diet, Training, and Sleep

To maximize your genetic potential on SARMs, every aspect of your regimen should be optimized:

Diet – Nail your nutrition plan. Surplus for bulking, deficit for cutting. High protein and healthy carbs/fats.
Training – Follow a progressive overload program tailored to your goals. Allow sufficient recovery.
Sleep – Prioritize 7-9 hours nightly for muscle growth and recovery.
Stress management – Keep stress low through techniques like meditation, yoga, socializing, and nature. This supports hormone balance.

With good diet, smart training, solid sleep, and stress control, SARMs can take your physique to the next level.

Step 6 – Practice On-Cycle Safety

Responsible use is key with any performance enhancer, including SARMs:

Follow medical guidance if using SARMs for hormone therapy, muscle wasting, or other clinical purposes.
Do not exceed recommended dosages or cycle lengths.
Monitor for potential side effects like testosterone suppression, and address accordingly.
Avoid stacking multiple SARMs until you know how each affects you individually.
Use PCT to allow hormone recovery between cycles. Time on = time off.

While powerful, SARMs carry more risks than natural supplements. Respect these compounds.

Step 7 – Track Your Results

Keep detailed notes throughout your SARMs cycle:

Record weekly weight, body fat percentage, and measurements. Take progress photos.
Note daily energy levels, motivation, sleep quality, libido, and any other metrics.
Log workouts with weights lifted, reps performed, subjective difficulty, etc.
Track any side effects and when they occur.

Meticulous tracking allows you to make adjustments if needed and fully appreciate the transformations SARMs provide. You will learn how your body responds best.

Pros and Cons of SARMs

Before taking SARMs, weigh the potential upsides and downsides:

Pros:

Increase muscle mass and strength beyond natural limits
Improve body fat loss and levels of lean muscle
Gain size/strength rapidly with hard training
Retain muscle mass during calorie deficit
Enhanced recovery between workouts
Available in legal, convenient forms

Cons:

Can suppress natural Testosterone
Liver toxicity at high doses
Risk of side effects like hair loss, acne
Fewer research data than steroids
Purchasing risks with no regulation
Requires proper PCT after cycles
Not a shortcut – diet and training are still crucial

The decision about using SARMs comes down to a personal cost/benefit analysis.

The Takeaway – Start Slow and Smart

For those willing to properly educate themselves, SARMs offer intriguing potential. But diving haphazardly can be a recipe for trouble. By selecting mild compounds, conservative dosing, high-quality products, on-cycle support, optimal diet and training, and responsible use – SARMs can provide a window into enhanced human performance. Approach these powerful compounds with the respect they deserve – and the rewards may follow.

In Summary:

Select a mild SARM like Ostarine or Cardarine for your first cycle.
Start with a low dose and assess your body’s response.
Thoroughly research the reputation of any SARMs source.
Use ancillary drugs/supplements for safety and optimal results.
Perfect your diet, training, sleep, and stress management.
Carefully monitor progress and side effects.
Time on = time off. Allow hormone recovery between cycles.

By using SARMs judiciously and maintaining realistic expectations, they offer an avenue to surpass natural limits and take your physique to the next level. Enjoy the journey!