Let the EP Pros tell you why!
Abstract
Among all anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), testosterone reigns supreme as the foundational compound in any well-constructed cycle. This article explores why testosterone should be the base of any AAS cycle, delving into its physiological role, best practices for use, common pitfalls, and application across TRT, cutting, and bulking cycles. Combining scientific reasoning with gym-floor wit, we’ll uncover why skipping test is like building a mansion on sand—impressive until it collapses.
Introduction: Test Is Best (And We’re Not Just Saying That)
You can stack Tren, Masteron, or even dabble in exotic compounds like Superdrol, but if you forget testosterone—you’re setting yourself up for a hormonal mutiny. Testosterone isn’t just a base compound; it’s the baseline for being a functioning adult male. It maintains libido, mood, muscle mass, and sanity.
If your AAS cycle doesn’t include test, congratulations—you’ve just signed up for ‘Crash and Burn: The Estrogen Chronicles.’
Let’s explore why testosterone deserves a permanent residency in your cycle.
Why Testosterone Should Always Be the Base
1.It’s Endogenous – Testosterone is what your body already makes. Introducing AAS suppresses this natural production. Without external test, you’re left with estrogen, cortisol, and the emotional resilience of a Netflix drama protagonist.
2. Prevents Low T Symptoms – Mood swings, brain fog, no libido, zero drive. Sound familiar? That’s what happens when you suppress test and don’t replace it.
3. Supports All Other Compounds – Every other steroid depends on a stable hormonal foundation. Think of testosterone as the concrete slab that supports all the other enhancements. Remove the slab, and good luck keeping the walls upright.
4. It’s Versatile AF – Bulking? Cutting? Recomping? Testosterone can do it all. It’s the Swiss Army knife of hormones.
Best Practices: How to Properly Use Testosterone
•Use Long Esters for Simplicity (e.g., Test E or Test C)– Fewer pins, more stable blood levels.
• Use Short Esters for Control (e.g., Test Prop)** – Great for cutting or short cycles. Just brace for more frequent injections.
• Keep a Consistent Schedule– Inject on time. Your hormone levels aren’t fans of surprises.
• Watch Your Estrogen – Aromatization is real. Use an aromatase inhibitor (AI) wisely—don’t crush your estrogen, just tame it like a hormonal lion.
• Run It the Entire Cycle – Don’t “kick it in” halfway. If suppression begins on Day 1, testosterone should be there from Day 1.
Things to Avoid: Rookie Mistakes with Test
• Running 19-Nors Without Test – Tren without test? That’s a recipe for libido death and hormone chaos.
• Not Having Blood Work Done – Flying blind is cool if you’re a bat. Less cool for your endocrine system.
• Overusing AI – Crushing estrogen can lead to joint pain, fatigue, and a libido that’s deader than disco.
• Bro Science Dosages – 2 grams of test per week because ‘more is better’? Nope. That’s how you end up at the urologist with blood thicker than pudding.
Benefits: Why Test Deserves the Throne
• Muscle Growth – Protein synthesis, nitrogen retention, and myostatin inhibition. Test does it all.
• Fat Loss – Helps regulate insulin sensitivity and lean mass retention during cuts.
• Sex Drive & Mood – Libido enhancer, confidence booster, and anti-depression agent.
• Supports Other Compounds – Makes orals and harsher compounds more tolerable by keeping baseline hormone levels stable – It’s well studied. You can track labs and know what to expect. Unlike that one oral you bought from a guy named Diesel.
Example Cycles Featuring Testosterone as the Base
1. TRT-Style Cruise
• Test Cyp or Enanthate @ 125–200mg/week
• Optional: Low-dose HCG or AI if needed
Purpose: Maintain physiological levels with minimal side effects.
2. Cutting Cycle
• Test Propionate @ 100mg EOD (or 75mg ED)
• Masteron Propionate @ 100mg EOD
• Optional: Anavar or Winstrol (50mg/day)
• AI: As needed based on labs/symptoms
Purpose: Preserve muscle while dropping fat; lean, dry, and functional.
3. Bulking Cycle
• Testosterone Enanthate @ 400–600mg/week
• Deca Durabolin @ 300–400mg/week
• Optional: Dbol kickstart (30–50mg/day for 4–6 weeks)
• AI: As needed
Purpose: Maximize size and recovery while minimizing shutdown side effects.
Conclusion: All Hail the Hormonal King
Testosterone isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re cruising on TRT, dialing in a shredded cut, or chasing thick-season glory, test is your cycle’s MVP. Skipping it is like going into battle with no armor—dramatic, dangerous, and probably dumb.
Respect the base. Respect the hormone. And remember: it’s not just about size. It’s about stability, sanity, and sustainable gains.
Now go forth and cycle wisely, king.
References
Sahay, M., & Sahay, R. (2007). Hypogonadism. Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 11(2), 58.
Basaria, S. (2010). Androgen abuse in athletes: detection and consequences. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 95(4), 1533–1543.
Matsumoto, A. M. (2002). Andropause: clinical implications of the decline in serum testosterone levels with aging in men. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 57(2), M76–M99.