Boost Your Gains: Prohormones for Muscle Strength That Work
Athletes often chase that extra edge to push past plateaus. Who would not want to add more pounds to the bar?
Prohormones for muscle strength have become a popular option for serious lifters who want measurable gains. They convert in the body to key hormones that can support bigger lifts, more reps, and faster recovery. While not a magic bullet, these supplements can complement a solid training plan when used responsibly. This list covers five top prohormones for strength gains, complete with dosing guidelines, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Readers will also find a side by side comparison of key factors, stacking strategies, and safety considerations. Athletes stepping onto the platform or aiming for a new personal record will appreciate this clear, friendly guide. For competitors in tested federation events, exploring legal prohormones for strength can be a smart first step.
Top Prohormones for Strength Gains
1-Androstenedione (1-AD)
1-Androstenedione, or 1-AD, converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. It offers a strong anabolic effect with moderate androgenic activity. Typical cycles run 300-500 mg per day for 6 to 8 weeks. Athletes often report steady strength increases and lean mass improvements.
Benefits include:
- Noticeable boost in bench press and squat numbers
- Reduced water retention compared to other prohormones
- Compatible with basic post cycle therapy protocols
Potential drawbacks:
- Possible headaches or fatigue in week one
- Mild suppression of natural testosterone production
- Liver stress at higher dosages
Ideal for intermediate lifters seeking solid strength gains with lower risk of bloating.
4-Androstenediol (4-AD)
4-Androstenediol, known as 4-AD, converts directly to testosterone. It has a balanced anabolic and androgenic profile that supports overall strength. Most cycles use 300-400 mg per day for 6 weeks. Many powerlifters favor 4-AD for raw strength development (see prohormones for powerlifting).
Key benefits:
- Enhanced force production for heavy squats and deadlifts
- Mild estrogen conversion, easing off-cycle recovery
- Faster onset of measurable strength gains
Drawbacks to consider:
- Possible water retention at higher doses
- Suppression of natural testosterone in prolonged cycles
- Mild acne flare-ups in some users
Best for athletes targeting big lifts without extreme side effects.
Epiandrosterone (Epi-Andro)
Epiandrosterone, often called Epi-Andro, is a milder prohormone that converts to testosterone at a slower rate. Its low androgenic profile makes it one of the legal prohormones for strength. Athletes can cycle 200-400 mg per day for 6 to 8 weeks.
Benefits include:
- Gentle boost in strength with minimal side effects
- Very low estrogen conversion, reducing gyno risk
- Suitable for drug-tested lifters in non-banned federations
Limitations:
- Slower strength gains compared to more potent compounds
- Potential mild suppression of hormones in long cycles
Ideal for beginners or competitors seeking legal compliance.
1-Testosterone (1-Test)
1-Testosterone, or 1-Test, converts to dihydroboldenone, a powerful anabolic compound. It offers a high anabolic rating for serious strength gains. Suggested dosages range from 20-40 mg daily for 4 to 6 weeks.
Benefits include:
- Rapid increases in squat and bench press totals
- Lean muscle preservation during calorie deficits
- Potent androgenic support for drive and focus
Potential downsides:
- Significant suppression of natural testosterone production
- Possible mood swings or irritability
- Liver strain at higher milligram levels
Recommended only for advanced athletes with solid experience and thorough post cycle therapy planning.
Methylstenbolone (MSt)
Methylstenbolone, abbreviated MSt, is one of the most potent over-the-counter prohormones available. Its anabolic rating rivals many prescription steroids. Typical doses sit between 10-30 mg per day for 4 to 6 weeks. Those chasing explosive power may stack MSt with other prohormones for explosive strength.
Key benefits:
- Dramatic boost in one-rep max outputs
- Hard, dense muscle gains with minimal water retention
- Quick results within two weeks
Caution notes:
- High risk of liver toxicity, so strict cycle limits apply
- Strong androgenic effects can lead to acne and hair loss
- Mandatory rigorous post cycle therapy to restore hormone balance
Suited for experienced lifters chasing rapid, high-intensity gains.
Compare Strength Profiles
| Prohormone | Anabolic:Androgenic Ratio | Typical Dosage | Cycle Length | Legal Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Androstenedione | 100:50 | 300-500 mg/day | 6–8 weeks | Banned in competition |
| 4-Androstenediol | 50:50 | 300-400 mg/day | 6 weeks | Banned in competition |
| Epiandrosterone | 10:2 | 200-400 mg/day | 6–8 weeks | Legal OTC |
| 1-Testosterone | 160:60 | 20-40 mg/day | 4–6 weeks | Banned in competition |
| Methylstenbolone | 100:60 | 10-30 mg/day | 4–6 weeks | Banned in competition |
Optimize Stacking Strategies
Beginner Stack
- 1-Androstenedione at 300 mg per day
- Epiandrosterone at 200 mg per day
- Cycle length: 6 weeks
- Basic post cycle therapy begins one week after cycle end
Advanced Stack
- 4-Androstenediol at 300 mg per day
- 1-Testosterone at 30 mg per day
- Methylstenbolone at 20 mg per day (final four weeks)
- Cycle length: 8 weeks
- Enhanced PCT with aromatase inhibitors and testosterone boosters
Post Cycle Therapy
- Start with a natural testosterone booster
- Monitor hormone levels via blood tests
- Maintain a protein-rich diet and moderate cardio
Recognize Safety Concerns
Common Side Effects
- Liver stress and elevated liver enzymes
- Natural testosterone suppression and hormonal imbalance
- Acne, hair loss, or changes in mood
- Water retention or estrogen conversion in some compounds
Legal Considerations
- Many prohormones are banned by sporting federations
- Drug tests can detect several banned metabolites
- Competitors should research approved lists before using supplements
- For fully legal options in tested events, see legal prohormones for strength
Summary and Next Steps
- 1-AD delivers steady strength without excess water retention
- 4-AD supports raw power for heavy lifts
- Epi-Andro appeals to drug-tested athletes with mild effects
- 1-Test triggers rapid gains for seasoned competitors
- MSt offers explosive results but demands strict safety protocols
Athletes ready for a deeper dive on the best prohormones for strength gains may explore that guide next. Readers who have tried any of these supplements can share their experience in the comments below to help others decide.
