oldSchoolBulker
New member
When it comes to bodybuilding and hormone optimization, one of the most frequently asked questions is: *What blood tests should I get, and when should I get them?* Whether or not you're using anabolic steroids (AAS), maintaining a regular bloodwork routine is essential for long-term health and optimal performance. Below, I’ve outlined a comprehensive list of tests that I believe everyone—regardless of steroid use—should consider, as well as specific timing for those using AAS.
When to Get Bloodwork Done:
A. Around Age 24
This is typically when you are at your healthiest, making it an ideal time to get a comprehensive physical, including the blood tests listed below. Keeping these results can serve as a baseline for your health, giving you a reference point for your optimal levels. It can be useful later in life, for instance, when considering testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in your 50s or 60s. Your doctor will use these initial results to assess your "normal" levels.
B. Before Starting AAS
It's essential to get bloodwork done before beginning any AAS cycle. This will help determine if you're healthy enough to proceed, though it should never replace a full physical exam by a healthcare provider. Baseline bloodwork ensures you understand your hormonal profile and gives you a reference to track any changes during your cycle and recovery.
C. Before Starting Each AAS Cycle
Getting bloodwork before every cycle ensures you’re starting from a healthy place. This will help you detect any imbalances or health issues that might have developed since your last cycle or blood test.
D. Six Weeks Into Your AAS Cycle
Testing mid-cycle is crucial for several reasons. It can help identify potential issues like:
- Low-quality or counterfeit gear
- Liver stress from oral compounds
- Hormonal imbalances, including prolactin or progesterone issues, especially with 19-nor compounds
- Whether your aromatase inhibitor (AI) is properly adjusted
E. Eight Weeks After PCT (Post Cycle Therapy)
This test is important to evaluate the effectiveness of your PCT by comparing your post-cycle bloodwork to your baseline results (taken in step B). It helps you assess whether your hormonal levels have fully recovered.
Recommended Blood Tests:
1. LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
2. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
3. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
4. Pregnenolone
5. Progesterone
6. Prolactin
7. Estradiol (Sensitive, not Regular)
8. Metabolic Profile Panel
9. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
10. Thyroid Panel (Complete, not just TSH)
11. Lipid Panel
12. Total Testosterone
13. Free Testosterone
14. SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin)
15. Growth Hormone Serum
16. IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)
17. Vitamin D
18. Vitamin B12
19. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and Free DHT
The Cost of Bloodwork and Why It’s Worth It
While blood tests can be expensive, especially if paying out-of-pocket, they are non-negotiable if you are using AAS or aiming for long-term health optimization. If you can’t afford regular blood tests, you should seriously reconsider using AAS, as it’s like owning a high-performance car without being able to afford maintenance or fuel.
I hope this guide helps you make informed decisions about your health and training. If you have any personal experiences or additional insights regarding bloodwork or AAS cycles, please feel free to share them with the community. Your input could be invaluable to others navigating similar paths.
When to Get Bloodwork Done:
A. Around Age 24
This is typically when you are at your healthiest, making it an ideal time to get a comprehensive physical, including the blood tests listed below. Keeping these results can serve as a baseline for your health, giving you a reference point for your optimal levels. It can be useful later in life, for instance, when considering testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in your 50s or 60s. Your doctor will use these initial results to assess your "normal" levels.
B. Before Starting AAS
It's essential to get bloodwork done before beginning any AAS cycle. This will help determine if you're healthy enough to proceed, though it should never replace a full physical exam by a healthcare provider. Baseline bloodwork ensures you understand your hormonal profile and gives you a reference to track any changes during your cycle and recovery.
C. Before Starting Each AAS Cycle
Getting bloodwork before every cycle ensures you’re starting from a healthy place. This will help you detect any imbalances or health issues that might have developed since your last cycle or blood test.
D. Six Weeks Into Your AAS Cycle
Testing mid-cycle is crucial for several reasons. It can help identify potential issues like:
- Low-quality or counterfeit gear
- Liver stress from oral compounds
- Hormonal imbalances, including prolactin or progesterone issues, especially with 19-nor compounds
- Whether your aromatase inhibitor (AI) is properly adjusted
E. Eight Weeks After PCT (Post Cycle Therapy)
This test is important to evaluate the effectiveness of your PCT by comparing your post-cycle bloodwork to your baseline results (taken in step B). It helps you assess whether your hormonal levels have fully recovered.
Recommended Blood Tests:
1. LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
2. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
3. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
4. Pregnenolone
5. Progesterone
6. Prolactin
7. Estradiol (Sensitive, not Regular)
8. Metabolic Profile Panel
9. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
10. Thyroid Panel (Complete, not just TSH)
11. Lipid Panel
12. Total Testosterone
13. Free Testosterone
14. SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin)
15. Growth Hormone Serum
16. IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)
17. Vitamin D
18. Vitamin B12
19. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and Free DHT
The Cost of Bloodwork and Why It’s Worth It
While blood tests can be expensive, especially if paying out-of-pocket, they are non-negotiable if you are using AAS or aiming for long-term health optimization. If you can’t afford regular blood tests, you should seriously reconsider using AAS, as it’s like owning a high-performance car without being able to afford maintenance or fuel.
I hope this guide helps you make informed decisions about your health and training. If you have any personal experiences or additional insights regarding bloodwork or AAS cycles, please feel free to share them with the community. Your input could be invaluable to others navigating similar paths.
