Anastrozole

Beginner First Cycle (Harm Reduction)

Conservative beginner AAS cycle for harm reduction: testosterone-only at moderate dose with on-cycle HCG and post-cycle Nolvadex. Designed to minimise risk while providing meaningful data about individual response to testosterone before adding other compounds.

Anastrozole — only if E2 elevated on midcycle bloods.

Standard TRT Protocol

Evidence-based testosterone replacement with HCG for testicular maintenance and optional low-dose aromatase inhibitor. The most common TRT stack recommended by progressive clinicians.

Use only if oestradiol is symptomatic and above range — many do not need this

Test/Deca Bulk Cycle

Testosterone enanthate + Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca) classic bulk cycle. One of the most popular intermediate AAS stacks. Deca adds significant mass with less androgenic side effects than testosterone alone. Requires HCG on-cycle, an AI if needed, cabergoline for prolactin, and full PCT.

Anastrozole 0.5mg EOD — only if E2 symptomatic on bloods.

Your First Cycle — r/steroids Wiki

The r/steroids community wiki canonical beginner cycle: 500mg/week testosterone enanthate or cypionate for 15–16 weeks, Nolvadex-only PCT. Deliberately higher dose than clinical harm-reduction guidelines (supraphysiological ~2000–3000+ ng/dL) for visible, measurable gains. The most-referenced beginner AAS protocol in English-speaking communities.

Anastrozole ONLY if E2 symptomatic on labs — do not preemptively dose.