For many newcomers to bodybuilding, the idea of starting a steroid cycle can be both exciting and intimidating. The truth is, your first cycle will set the stage for how your body responds to anabolic compounds long-term. Done correctly, it can help you build lean muscle, boost strength, and sharpen definition. Done recklessly, it can lead to dangerous side effects and wasted effort.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know before running your first steroid cycle in 2025 β from choosing compounds, setting dosages, and planning cycle length, to recovery through Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT).
β‘ Why Beginners Need a Proper Steroid Cycle Plan
Your very first steroid cycle should be seen as a foundation, not a sprint. With the right setup, you can:
- Minimize estrogenic and androgenic side effects
- Keep natural testosterone suppression under control
- Accurately monitor progress without confusion
- Learn how your body reacts to specific compounds
π Many beginners make the mistake of using too many steroids at once or starting at very high doses. This usually backfires.
π Best Steroids for a First Cycle
Some steroids are considered entry-level friendly because they offer good results without extreme side effects.
Compound | Form | Main Benefit | Typical Duration | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Testosterone Enanthate | Injectable | Muscle & strength | 10β12 weeks | Classic first choice |
Dianabol (Dbol) | Oral | Rapid mass gains | 4β6 weeks | Strong, but liver toxic |
Anavar (Oxandrolone) | Oral | Lean muscle, cutting | 6β8 weeks | Mild, great for men & women |
Turinabol (Tbol) | Oral | Steady lean gains | 6β8 weeks | Fewer side effects than Dbol |
Winstrol | Oral/Injectable | Muscle hardness, vascularity | 6β8 weeks | Excellent for cutting cycles |
π Beginner-Friendly Dosages
Starting low to moderate ensures you can monitor your bodyβs reaction.
- Testosterone Enanthate β 300β500 mg per week, 10β12 weeks
- Dianabol (Dbol) β 20β30 mg daily, 4β6 weeks
- Anavar β 20β40 mg daily, 6β8 weeks
- Turinabol β 30β40 mg daily, 6β8 weeks
- Winstrol β 20β40 mg daily, 6β8 weeks
π‘ Pro Tip: Run only one compound on your first cycle β usually Testosterone. Add others later once you understand how your body reacts.
ποΈ Example Beginner Cycles
π΅ Bulking Cycle (Injectable Focus)
- Testosterone Enanthate: 400 mg/week
- Duration: 10 weeks
- PCT: Start 2 weeks after last shot
π’ Quick Mass Cycle (Oral)
- Dianabol: 25 mg/day
- Duration: 4β6 weeks
- Support: NAC for liver protection
- PCT: Start immediately after
π΄ Cutting Cycle (Lean Gains)
- Anavar: 30 mg/day
- Optional: Winstrol 25 mg/day
- Duration: 6β8 weeks
- PCT: Begin right after last dose
𧬠Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT)
Your bodyβs natural testosterone shuts down when you run a cycle. PCT helps restart it and protects your gains.
Common PCT Protocols:
- Clomid: 50 mg/day for 2 weeks β then 25 mg/day for 2 weeks
- Nolvadex: 40 mg/day for 2 weeks β then 20 mg/day for 2 weeks
π Timing: Start 1β2 weeks after injectables, or the next day after finishing orals.
π« Mistakes Beginners Must Avoid
β Running multiple compounds at once
β Ignoring bloodwork and health markers
β Skipping on-cycle support (like liver protection)
β Drinking alcohol during cycle
β Skipping or delaying PCT
β Final Word
Your first steroid cycle should be simple, structured, and safe. Stick to basic compounds, moderate dosages, and short cycle lengths. Back it all up with a solid diet, intense training, and proper recovery.
If you treat your first cycle with discipline, it sets you up for years of progress without harming your health.