First and foremost, I'd like to flag that each of these cutting steroids may be illegal to use without a doctor's prescription, depending on your location. And yes, they are used by competing bodybuilders but bought underground anyway.
In bodybuilding, cutting is like the final touch-up phase, where the main goal is to shed body fat while holding onto those hard-earned muscles. It's all about sculpting that lean and ripped physique you've been dreaming of.
Now, let's be real: achieving this solely through diet and exercise can sometimes feel like a tough mountain to climb. That's where the best cutting steroids step in to lend a helping hand.
These steroids are specially crafted to assist bodybuilders in trimming down fat while safeguarding precious muscle mass. They rev up your metabolism, turning your body into a fat-burning furnace. They can help curb those pesky cravings, making it a tad easier to stick to your calorie-cutting diet. These cutting steroids do, however, have their downsides and side effects which we will touch upon as well. We'll also go through the PCT at the end of the article as I find it as important as the cutting cycle itself.
5 Best Steroids for Cutting in 2024 Summary:
- Anavar (Oxandrolone): Overall the best and well-known cutting steroid for both men and women.
- Winstrol (Stanozolol): Often used to increase vascularity and definition by bodybuilders
- Clenbuterol: Often used in cutting cycles due to its powerful thermogenic properties
- Trenbolone: Promotes a hard, vascular look while preventing catabolism
List & Reviews: 4 Most Popular Steroids for A Successful Shred
1. Anavar
Anavar, also known as Oxandrolone, is like the gentle giant of cutting steroids. It's loved by both men and women looking to trim down while preserving lean muscle mass. One of the most appreciated things about Anavar is its ability to help you shed excess fat without sacrificing those hard-earned gains. It's like having a trusty sidekick in your quest for a leaner physique.
I know that many sources are writing that the FDA still approves Anavar, but that is not true. As Anvar was withdrawn from sale in August 2023. So does that mean that Anavar is more dangerous than other, similar steroids? Based on my reserach, it is easier on the side effects comparing to the other cutting steroids in the list – which is a win in my book. But that does not make it entirely safe and free from side effects.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Helps preserve lean muscle mass | Can be expensive |
Mild androgenic effects | May suppress natural testosterone production |
Low risk of estrogenic side effects | Potential for liver toxicity |
Suitable for both men and women | Requires careful dosing and monitoring |
Used to be FDA-approved for medical use | Possibility of adverse effects on cholesterol levels |
Anavar Dosage Guidelines
Dosage guidelines for Anavar can vary depending on factors like individual tolerance, experience with steroids, and specific fitness goals. Here are some general dosage recommendations:
- For Men: Typically, men may start with a dosage of 15-25mg per day for beginners. Intermediate users might increase to 40mg per day, while advanced bodybuilders might go up to 80-100mg per day (which is far from recommended). Many start with a lower dosage and gradually increase to assess tolerance and minimize the risk of side effects.
- For Women: Women generally require lower doses due to their higher sensitivity to androgenic compounds. A starting dose for women could be around 5-10mg per day. Intermediate users may increase to 10-20mg per day, while advanced users might go up to 20-40mg per day. Women should be especially cautious with dosage due to the risk of virilization (development of male characteristics).
Regardless of gender, split the daily dose into two equal administrations to maintain stable blood levels of Anavar throughout the day.
Cycle length for Anavar ranges from 6 to 8 weeks, although some users may extend it to 10 weeks with proper monitoring. It's important to incorporate post-cycle therapy (PCT) to help restore natural testosterone production after discontinuing Anavar.
2. Winstrol
Winstrol, also known as Stanozolol, enhances muscle definition and vascularity, making it a go-to option for bodybuilders aiming for a lean, sculpted physique. Preferably just a week before completing.
One of Winstrol's key benefits is its ability to promote fat loss while preserving lean muscle mass, which is the ultimate goal during cutting phases. It helps give muscles a harder, more defined appearance, perfect for competitions or achieving that beach-ready look.
If you ask me, Winstrol should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it can carry the risk of many side effects, especially when used at higher doses or for extended periods.
With proper dosage and monitoring, Winstrol can be a valuable tool in a cutting arsenal. It can help one achieve one's fitness goals but if not used with cause, to a prize that many are unwilling to pay. Look at the biggest natural bodybuilders that got to where they are without it or any other steroid.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Enhances muscle definition and vascularity | It may cause joint pain and discomfort |
Promotes fat loss while preserving muscle | May cause joint pain and discomfort |
Improves endurance and performance | Can lead to cholesterol imbalances |
Provides a harder, more defined physique | May increase the risk of cardiovascular issues |
Suitable for both men and women | Potential for androgenic side effects |
Can be used in oral or injectable form | Requires careful monitoring for adverse reactions |
Winstrol Dosage Guidelines
Just as with Anavar, dosage guidelines for Winstrol can vary based on factors like experience level, gender, and individual tolerance. Here's a general overview:
- For Men: The dosage range for men using oral Winstrol is 25-50mg per day. Advanced users might go up to 100mg per day, but this higher dosage increases the risk of side effects and should be approached with caution. For injectable Winstrol, dosages typically range from 50-100mg every other day.
- For Women: Women are generally more sensitive to the androgenic effects of Winstrol, so lower doses are recommended. A common starting dose for women using oral Winstrol is 5-10mg per day. Some intermediate users may increase to 10-20mg per day, but again, make sure to monitor for signs of virilization.
Regardless of gender, start with the lowest effective dose and gradually increase as needed while monitoring for any adverse effects.
Cycle lengths for Winstrol usually range from 6 to 8 weeks, although some users may extend cycles up to 10 weeks with proper monitoring. Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is needed to help restore natural testosterone production and minimize the risk of side effects after discontinuing Winstrol.
3. Clenbuterol
Clenbuterol is powerful and often used during cutting phases and the cutting “steroid” that I used at my bodybuilding peak many years ago.
Clenbuterol is actually not a steroid but rather a bronchodilator and beta-2 agonist initially developed to treat respiratory conditions like asthma. However, its ability to increase metabolic rate and promote fat loss has made it popular among athletes and bodybuilders seeking to shed excess body fat while preserving lean muscle mass.
One of Clenbuterol's key benefits is its ability to ramp up thermogenesis. This essentially means it raises your body's core temperature, leading to an increase in calorie expenditure and fat burning. This can help bodybuilders achieve a leaner, more defined physique.
Clenbuterol is also known for its ability to enhance endurance and performance, making it particularly valuable during intense training sessions or competitions.
Note that Clenbuterol also comes with potential side effects and risks, even though it's not a steroid per se. These can include increased heart rate, tremors, insomnia, and electrolyte imbalances, especially when used improperly or at high doses. If you decide to use Clenbuterol, do it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
With proper dosage, monitoring, and attention to safety, Clenbuterol can be an effective tool for those looking to achieve their cutting goals and unveil a more sculpted physique.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Increases metabolic rate and fat burning | Potential for cardiovascular side effects |
Enhances endurance and performance | May cause tremors and insomnia |
Helps achieve a leaner, more defined physique | Can lead to electrolyte imbalances |
Can be effective for cutting cycles | Tolerance can develop, requiring dosage adjustments |
Available in various forms (tablets, liquid, etc.) | Illegal for human consumption in some countries |
Clenbuterol Dosage Guidelines
Again, the dosage varies quite a lot between men and women and depends on your personal tolerance/experience. This is a general overview:
- For Men: Men normally start with a dose of 20-40mcg per day and gradually increase it over the course of several days. The maximum dose for men is usually around 120-140mcg per day.
- For Women: Women are generally more sensitive to Clenbuterol's effects, so they should start with a lower dose, around 10-20mcg per day. The maximum recommended dose for women is typically around 80-100mcg per day.
Clenbuterol is often cycled in a two-week on, two-week off pattern to prevent the body from becoming tolerant to its effects. Some may choose to extend the cycle length to three weeks on and three weeks off, but this should be done with caution.
When using Clenbuterol, monitoring for any signs of side effects, such as increased heart rate, tremors, or insomnia is more than essential. The dosage should be adjusted accordingly or discontinued if any adverse reactions occur.
4. Trenbolone
Trenbolone is another potent steroid often utilized during cutting cycles among bodybuilders. It is known for promoting muscle preservation while simultaneously facilitating fat loss. I've also listed it as one of the best bulking steroids, as it's an aesthetic steroid.
One of Trenbolone's standout features is its capacity to prevent catabolism, which is especially crucial during calorie-restricted phases where the risk of muscle loss is higher. This means that while you're shedding excess body fat, your hard-earned muscle gains remain intact, resulting in a leaner and more defined appearance. My guess is that this is what Sam Sulek is on, although its not confirmed by himself.
However, it's important to acknowledge that Trenbolone is among the more potent steroids and may carry a higher risk of side effects compared to the other options. If you opt-in to try trenbolone, please be cautious and don't turn into one of the Tren twins (twins known for taking way too much steroids)
When used responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, Trenbolone is extremely effective. But again, please be cautious as this is probably the most potent steroid in this list.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Promotes muscle preservation during cutting cycles | Higher risk of side effects compared to other steroids |
Enhances muscle hardness and vascularity | Potential for cardiovascular issues |
Facilitates fat loss while preserving lean muscle mass | May cause androgenic side effects such as acne and hair loss |
Increases strength and performance | Can suppress natural testosterone production |
Provides rapid results | Requires careful monitoring and management |
Suitable for both bulking and cutting phases | Illegal to use without a prescription |
Trenbolone Dosage Guidelines
- For Acetate Formulation:
- Beginners usually start with 50-75mg every other day (EOD).
- Intermediate users may increase to 75-100mg EOD.
- Advanced users might use up to 100-150mg EOD.
- For Enanthate Formulation:
- Beginners usually start with 200-400mg per week, administered in two equal doses.
- Intermediate users may increase to 400-600mg per week.
- Advanced users might use up to 800mg per week, although doses exceeding 600mg are not typically recommended due to increased risk of side effects.
Trenbolone is not recommended for women. Read more about the best steroids for women here.
Cycle lengths typically range from 6 to 10 weeks, with some advanced users extending cycles up to 12 weeks. However, longer cycles increase the risk of adverse effects and should be undertaken with careful consideration.
Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is a must here to help restore natural testosterone production and mitigate the risk of side effects after discontinuing Trenbolone. PCT protocols may include medications like Clomid or Nolvadex, but the specifics should be tailored to individual needs and discussed with a healthcare professional.
Buying Guide
Purpose
Before you try ANY steroids, or even supplements, in fact, I want you to figure out your purpose for using it. Do you even need it or can you do the journey without it? You can lose weight without cutting steroids; it is just going to take more time and effort. So set your mind straight and continue reading if you absolutely feel like you're going to have to buy shredding steroids to get leaner.
Potential Risks
Now, let's talk about the flip side. While cutting steroids can work wonders, they also come with potential risks. Things like cardiovascular issues, liver toxicity, hormonal imbalances, and wonky cholesterol levels are on the watchlist. Misuse or overuse can lead to serious health complications, so using them responsibly is crucial.
Legality
Legal matters matter! The legality of cutting steroids varies from place to place. Some might require a doctor's prescription, while others could be completely off-limits without one. Be sure to check the rules and regulations in your area before diving in.
Ingredients
What's inside? Cutting steroids contain a mix of ingredients, such as Testosterone Propionate, Trenbolone, Anavar (Oxyandrolone), Winstrol (Stanozolol), Clenbuterol, and Masteron (Drostanolone). Each has its own set of effects and potential risks, so it's important to know what you're getting into. Can you find natural replacements? Do your homework and read properly about each ingredient and consult it with your doctor.
Dosage
Getting the dosage right is key if you've made your decision to proceed. Start low, go slow. Dosages vary based on factors like gender, experience level, and how your body reacts as I mentioned for each cutting steroid. Always follow the recommended guidelines, and never exceed the dose to avoid unwanted side effects.
Price
Cutting steroids can vary in cost depending on the brand, formulation, and dosage strength. Quality and safety should always be top priorities. While budget-friendly options might be tempting, investing in reputable products from trusted sources is the way to go to ensure authenticity and effectiveness.
Post Cycle Therapy
If you think you can stop a cycle and return to your regular day-to-day, think twice! Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is crucial after completing a cycle of cutting steroids to help restore natural hormone levels, minimize side effects, and ensure overall health and well-being. Your PCT will obviously depend on the cutting setoid that you choose and how your body reacts to it. But here's how professional bodybuilders usually treat their PCT:
- Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Medications like Clomid (Clomiphene) and Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) are commonly used during PCT. These SERMs help stimulate the body's production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which in turn stimulates the testes to produce testosterone. SERMs also help prevent estrogen-related side effects like gynecomastia.
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): Many professionals choose to incorporate hCG into their PCT. hCG mimics the action of LH in the body, stimulating the testes to produce testosterone. It's mostly used during the early stages of PCT to kickstart natural testosterone production and is used for around 20 days, twice daily.
- Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs): Aromatase inhibitors like Arimidex (Anastrozole) may be used to prevent the conversion of excess testosterone into estrogen. This can help mitigate estrogen-related side effects and promote a smoother transition during PCT.
- Monitoring and Blood Tests: Regular hormone levels and overall health monitoring are essential during PCT. Blood tests can help assess testosterone, estrogen, and other hormone levels, allowing adjustments to the PCT protocol as needed.
- Lifestyle Factors: Yes, your lifestyle is important during the PCT. Lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and stress management support hormone balance and overall health.
The specifics of PCT may vary depending on factors such as the types of steroids used, the duration of the cycle, individual health considerations, and personal response to the medications. I'd say you should consult with a healthcare professional or experienced bodybuilding expert to develop a personalized PCT plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
Which Cutting Steroid Shall I Choose?
If we consider the potential risks and effects, I'd say Anavar is the best cutting steroid for beginners. It's safer than most other options and definitely helps if you're looking for the optimal shred. This is probably the option I'd go for myself if I ever hit cutting steroids again. Anavar is also the most common go-to cutting steroid among professional bodybuilders.
Then again, there is Trenbolone, which has more potential side effects but even more results and can be an option for risk-takers. If you go for it, please ensure that you're monitoring your health and doing a proper PCT.
Time to round up the list of the best cutting steroids. Pick wisely from the list and follow the safety guidelines to enjoy a safe and fast introduction to bodybuilder shredding.
If you're still unsure of the definition of cutting or shredding, you might want to read our article about cutting vs bulking.