Bulking — First Cycle
Testosterone-only — the only stack a first-cycle researcher should reference.
Overview
The published consensus on a researcher's first cycle is simple: a single long-ester testosterone base with proper aromatase control and a full SERM-based PCT. No orals, no second compound. This stack maximizes signal-to-noise: you learn how your endocrine system responds to a single variable before layering a second compound on a future cycle.
Who it's for
- 01First-cycle researchers with ≥2 years of consistent training
- 02Ages 25+ with established baseline bloodwork (total T, estradiol, LH/FSH, liver panel)
- 03Researchers who have read a full cycle-theory primer and understand the commitment
What's inside — 4 compounds
$65.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 250 mg
- Frequency
- 2× weekly
- Weeks
- 1-12
- Category
- injectables
Split 2× weekly (Mon/Thu) for stable serum levels
$50.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 0.5 mg
- Frequency
- Every other day
- Weeks
- 1-12
- Category
- orals
Start at 0.25 mg EOD, titrate off bloodwork (target E2 ~30 pg/mL)
$40.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 20 mg
- Frequency
- Daily
- Weeks
- 14-17
- Category
- orals
20 mg daily × 4 weeks starting 14 days after last test injection
$40.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 25 mg
- Frequency
- Daily
- Weeks
- 14-17
- Category
- orals
25 mg daily × 4 weeks — stacked with Nolvadex
Weekly Protocol
Weeks 1–12 are the active cycle. Week 13 is a clearance week (test has a ~10-day half-life). PCT begins week 14 once exogenous testosterone has cleared. Run bloodwork at week 4 (to verify AI dosing) and 4 weeks after PCT completion (to confirm HPTA recovery).
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test Enanthate | 250 mg | 2× weekly | 1-12 |
| Arimidex | 0.5 mg | Every other day | 1-12 |
| Nolvadex | 20 mg | Daily | 14-17 |
| Clomid | 25 mg | Daily | 14-17 |
Expected Outcomes
- 15–25 lb scale weight over 12 weeks (significant water retention expected)
- Measurable strength increase (10–20% on compound lifts)
- HPTA suppression — recovery via SERM PCT typically complete in 8–16 weeks
- Likely side effects at range: mild acne, water retention, libido swings
Support Requirements
Items referenced in the protocol. Some are included in the stack; support-only items may need to be ordered separately.
Safety & Warnings
- Do NOT run without a planned PCT. Suppressing endogenous production without recovery is endocrine malpractice.
- Pre-cycle bloodwork is not optional — you need a baseline to measure against.
- Injection site rotation required (quads, glutes, delts) to avoid scar tissue.
- Crashed estrogen from over-dosed AI is worse than elevated estrogen. Titrate slowly.
- Not for researchers under 25 (HPTA still developing).
Frequently Asked
Why only testosterone?
First cycle establishes your individual response — how your system aromatizes, where estradiol lands, what dose of AI you need. Layering a second compound obscures every signal. Get one variable clean first.
How long to wait between cycles?
Time off = time on + PCT, minimum. A 12-week cycle + 4-week PCT = 16 weeks minimum recovery before another cycle. Confirmed with post-PCT bloodwork.
Do I need HCG?
Optional for 12-week cycles. Beneficial for preserving testicular volume — 500 IU 2× weekly starting week 2 through end of cycle. Not included in this base stack.
Research disclaimer
All stack suggestions reflect the published literature and are provided for research-reference purposes only. Individual protocols require compound-specific planning. Consult the stacking theory guide before designing your protocol. Not medical advice.