WEEK FOURTEEN :: What Are The Best Prohormone Alternatives?

[admin]

TOPIC: What Are The Best Prohormone Alternatives?

For the week of: January 24th - January 31st.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now that prohormone muscle builders are banned, what supplements should people use now to get similar results? What new products have come out that are effective for building muscle? What older products have stood the test of time and continue to give great results?

Create a full muscle building supplement plan (with dosages and schedules if possible) that will help somebody gain muscle in the fastest time possible!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Don't discuss any other topic in this section. ONLY discuss the question above.

The best response will get $50 in credit to use in our online store! The other good responses will be used in an article on the main Bodybuilding.com site, with the poster's forum name listed by it.

Thanks!
Bodybuilding.com

[ford4life]

It appears as a result of the ph ban, many manufacturers are turning to promote alternatives, as they must just for many to stay in business. I will discuss hormonal and non hormonal supps.
Hormonal:
The best legal ph like substance right now appears to be androstenetrione or 6-oxo. Ergopharm is the manufacturer to the number 1 selling brand of 6-oxo. This supplement was used by many ph users for post cycle therapy and naturally jump starts test production. There are no known sides other than those natural to high testosterone levels, e.g. acne and sometimes agression. Some users who have used ph's will not get great results, as the small test boost is nothing compared to what they have used. Other products with similar effects include ZMA, tribulus, and horny goat weed. Taken together, these supplements have a small, but pronounced effect on testosterone production. Nutrex Vitrix and Instone's ForzaT are good products in the category.

Non Hormonal:
Some of the classic bodybuilding supplements are beginning to take their reign once again with the ban. New forms of creatine, including the newest, Creatine Ethyl Esther, has been shown to have great results in many users, including creatine monohydrate non responders, all without the classic water bloat that many (myself included) experienced. Methoxy, a product labeled traditionally as garbage resurfaced in Legal Gear's Product X Dermasize. Many testers on this board had a good deal of success with it, and it has shown promising results. The last category in this section is NO (Nitric Oxide) boosters. They create greater muscle feeding and growth by means of dialation of the body's blood vessels. This expansion causes for easier and more frequent "pumps" which contribute to muscle growth.
Of these products, I would recommend:
Creatine:
VPX Cex
Pinnacle's Estered Creatine
Man Body Octane (citulline malate/endurance)
Methoxy:
Legal Gear Product X
NO Boosters:
BSN Nitrix
MRI NO2
Straight AAKG Powders

These are based on results seen throughout the last year on this forum, as reported by other members.

My Planned Supplements for Upcoming Bulk:
taken 1.5 hrs before, 1 hr post lifting (i lift at 6:30 am, so 5:00 and 8:30 for me)
-VPX Cex, 3g
-Man Body Octane 1 serving
-AAKG Powder 2-3g

After Lifting Shower, Before Bed
-Legal Gears Product X Dermasize, after shower due to transdermal formula.

In the event someone wants to supplement with Androstenetrione (6-oxo), studies have been based on 600mg/day dosages. From this, however, it can be assumed that dosages up to 1g/day will be tolerated by the body. A 6-week cycle is recommended, and it can be dosed like this (all split into 2 servings per day, i.e. 600mg/day = 300mg 1/2 to 1 hr before workout, 300mg before bed
Week1: 400mg/daily
Week2: 600mg/daily
Week3: 600mg/daily
Week4: 800mg/daily
Week5: 1000mg/daily
Week6: 800mg/daily
then taper down to 200-400mg/daily for a week or two to minimize any possible side effects.

[sgt psycho]

current stack:
pinnacle cee (monohydrate non-repsonder...loving cee)
6-0x0 900 mg daily
180-250 whey/protien
fish oil
multi
milk thistle

results very similar to my 1-ad cycle. the 6-0x0 has far less sides. plus the peace of mind that you're not killing your prostate and liver

[Scoobydon]

I have been bodybuilding since I was 14 years old, I am now 22. With my yearly salary I have been able to spend a considerable amount of money on supplements. I have used many pro hormones and other supplements in my years of trial and error. I have used just about every popular creatine product on the market today, with the exception of the latest and greatest Ethyl Ester Creatines. I have used many different brands of Nitric Oxide boosters, only to find I was pissing my money away. The best pro hormone I have ever used would be Higher Power M1D. A.K.A. Methyldienolone. With this product my workout partner and I were able to pack on huge amounts of muscle in very little time. At hardly any cost! I loved this product! But, during my off cycle I have been able to pack on nearly as much muscle as my on-cycle with some non-hormonal supplements.

Many Nitric Oxide boosters I have used worked, but only for 1 week or less. Many advertisements would lead one person to believe that all supplements with the same ingredients will work the same. This is false. For a supplement to properly get into the blood stream it needs a good delivery system. A supplement that won’t let the nutrient be dissolved in stomach acid, or be discarded by the liver. The only Nitric Oxide booster I have found to work well is MRI’s NO2. Sure it isn’t as cheep as others, but the results are well worth the extra money. By the 3rd day of using NO2 I was to begin my arm workout. I was barely able to finish the workout because my biceps, triceps and forearms were so full of blood. Being hardly able to bend your arm is one hell of a pump! Around the 2nd week of using NO2 I could see my body being more vascular and muscular.

There are so many types of creatine to choose from. As I mentioned above, I have used just about every popular brand of creatine out there. Muscle Tech Cell Tech, EAS Phosphagen HP and XT, SAN V12, Pure creatine monohydrate mixed with grape juice, creatine malate etc. Don’t get me wrong, every one of these products worked. And, they worked to every expectation I had. But, there is one product that surpassed them all. Isatori Meta-Cel. At first I was skeptical about using Meta-Cel. The product claims to give you visual results in as little as 10 days or your money back guaranteed. Well, I tried it, and it worked. I did see results in 8 days. In those 8 days I had put on 5lbs of muscle. 5lbs I could see in the mirror not just the scale. Now, I am not a person who gains muscle easily. I am 5’10”, weigh 245lbs at 8% body fat. Once again, this product is all about the delivery system. It doesn’t use the fancy new creatines out there. Just the proven monohydrate. Getting more creatine into your muscles.

The latest supplement I have found is Optimum Nutrition’s Adenergy. This product is basically just ATP (adenosine tri-phosphate). ATP is the fuel for every muscle movement. By supplementing with ATP you’re really filling your fuel tank, and bringing along an auxiliary tank with you. Since using Adenergy, it really does as the title says, adds energy. I have found myself pounding more reps in my sets. I am able to keep my intensity levels high at the end of my lifting sessions. More weight has been added to my sets. Adenergy is truly a great product. It works synergistically with creatine and NO2.

Everyone who weight lifts or body builds, probably already knows that they need a lot of protein. You probably already know to use protein supplement along with high amount of carbohydrates immediately following a workout. But, what type of protein are you using? More than likely, you’re just supplementing with whey protein. Whey is a very fast digesting protein. It comes and goes like the wind. Try Micellar Casein. Micellar Casein is a very slow digesting protein which will stay in your body much longer. It’s kinda like being on a protein IV with a steady drip. Rather than, taking a whey protein shot. Oh, and don’t ever fall for the night time protein scheme. Ads will tell you that you’re missing out on prime muscle building and to come and spend a huge wad of cash on their supplement. Micellar Casein will do the same damn thing.

There are so many Human Growth Hormone boosters out there also. I can’t really say that one works better than the other. Supplementing with an HGH booster is not a bad idea either. I found ASN Humagro to work pretty good.

Now, by supplementing with MRI NO2, Isatori Meta-Cel, Optimum Nutrition’s Adenergy, and HGH booster and a combination of whey and micellar casein proteins you will be one your way to have an awesome and powerful looking physique. One that will demand attention everywhere you go. Of course these products will not give great results or any at all unless combined with a proper diet, weight training and plenty of water. I can’t stress enough how important water is! 60-80 ounces a day! Now, you or someone you know may have used these products in the past and had no results. Be honest. Ask yourself, Did I drink enough water? How was my diet? Was my intensity in the gym up to par?

Below I will list how I use the following supplements.

MRI NO2: Basically just follow the instructions on the bottle. Take 5 pills in the morning, and 5 pills ½ hour before lunch. Plus you have to make sure you’re drinking your water!

Isatori Meta-Cel: Complete the loading phase as directed on the bottle. Just make sure that the last serving of the day is used immediately following your workout. Your body has an “open window” for nutrients to be taken into the muscles that only lasts 30-60 minutes prior to training. After the loading phase is complete, use one serving 1 hour prior to training and one serving immediately after exercise.

Optimum Nutrition Adenergy: Take one pill as soon as you wake up. Take another around lunch time. And one more ½ hour prior to your workout.

Protein: Use whey protein at least 2-3 times a day. 20-30 grams per serving. Just be sure that one serving is used immediately following exercise. 20-30 grams of Micellar Casein should be used in conjunction with whey, Meta-Cel, and a high carbohydrate meal immediately after your workout. Another 20-30 grams of Micellar Casein should be used just before bed. So that your body as a steady stream of protein through the night.

ASN Humagro: Follow the instructions listed on the bottle. 3 pellets under the tongue, 3 times a day. Morning, Noon and just before bed.

If anyone has any questions or comments. I can be reached at scbydn@hotmail.com

[antihero]

A few months ago prohormones were the obvious choice for those who did not wish to use steroids. But, due to the prohormone ban, those are no longer available. Not only did this ban affect the users, it has also affected the companies that sold these products, because now they lost that income. Now that there are no more pH’s for sale, everyone is searching for the “magic potion” of legal supplements. To get those results, here are the things that you can take.


Food
Food is the most anabolic substance there is. If you want to get big, it’s as simple as this: YOU NEED TO EAT BIG, TO GET BIG. That’s all there is to it. You can track the number of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats you take in on a daily basis, on sites such as: http://www.fitday.com or http://www.bodygain.com/index.php or http://www.startyourdiet.com

Whey
Every bodybuilder knows the important of a high protein diet. And because bodybuilder take in 1.5-2g of protein per pound of bodyweight, that means that some people need 400 or more grams of protein in one day. Because of these high amounts, it can be very difficult to get protein from foods alone, so whey protein is the best way to supplement your diet. For more information about whey protein, go to http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/whey.html.

Creatine Monohydrate
Creatine is a naturally occurring substance found in meats and fish. It is also produced in our bodies by organs such as the liver and kidneys. Creatine allows bigger muscle gains, more energy, and bigger pumps. The best part about creatine is that it has been around for well over 10 years, and there are still no side-effects to taking this supplement. This is one of the best choices for beginners. For more information on how creatine monohydrate works, go to http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/creatine.html.

Creatine Ethyl Ester HCL (CEE)
CEE is a more potent form of monohydrate, simply because its absorption is about 30 times better than that of regular creatine. Those who have had good results in the past with creatine monohydrate should definitely use this product, because it has shown great gains. For a more in depth description of what this does, go to http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/cee.html.

Glutamine
Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the muscles. It is naturally produced by the body, but while the body is under intense stress, the production is not increased even though the demand for it is. Increased amounts of glutamine in the body lead to faster muscle recuperation. For more information about this product, go to http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/glutamine.html.

Testosterone Boosters
Natural Testosterone Boosters are simply what the name implies. They are all natural supplements, which increase your body’s testosterone production. During person’s teenage years, this supplement is not needed, because testosterone production is at a general high point.

Nitric Oxide
Nitric Oxide is a gas that can travel freely through cell membranes. This allows it to increase blood flow, which means that nutrients can be carried to the muscles quicker, and makes it easier to have larger pumps. Nitric Oxide also increases the production of adrenaline. For more information about this product, go to http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/no2.html

Legal Gear: Product X Dermasize
This product is a non-hormonal anabolic that is often overlooked, because it is transdermal. The transdermal slowly seeps through the skin and is eventually absorbed over the next 10-12 hours. And since this is absorbed through the skin, its directly enters the bloodstream, and is absorbed similar to the way an injection depot slowly absorbs into the body. This product is very under-rated, but is actually very amazing. I have had exceptional results with this and will continue to use it. For more information about this product, go to http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/legal/pxderm.html.


My Recommendations for Each Product
Whey Protein
Optimums Nutrition’s 100% Whey Protein - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/opt/whey.html
Creatine Monohydrate
Higher Power Creatine Monohydrate 100% Pure - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/hp/creatine.html
Creatine Ethyl Ester (CEE)
BSN Cell Mass - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/bsn/cell.html
VPX CEX - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/vpx/cex.html
ALRI Cr2 - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/alri/cr2.html
Glutamine
Higher Power L-Glutamine - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/hp/glutamine.html
Prolab Glutamine Powder - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/pl/glutamine.html
Testosterone Boosters
Optimum ZMA - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/opt/zma.html
Optimum Tribulus 625 - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/opt/trib.html
Nitric Oxide
BSN NO-Xplode - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/bsn/xplode.html
BSN Nitrix - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/bsn/nitrix.html
Dermasize
Legal Gear: Product X Dermasize - http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/legal/pxderm.html


Some Possible Cycles/Stacks
Low Budget Stack
-Optimums Nutrition’s 100% Whey Protein
3 shakes per day (1 scoop per shake)
-Higher Power Creatine Monohydrate 100% Pure
week 1: 20g per day
week 2: 20g per day
week 3: 10g per day
week 4: 10g per day
week 5: 10g per day
week 6: 10g per day
week 7: 10g per day
week 8: 10g per day
week 9: off
week 10: off
- Higher Power L-Glutamine
1 scoop in each protein shake

High Budget Stack
-Optimums Nutrition’s 100% Whey Protein
3 shakes per day (1 scoop per shake)
-VPX CEX
3-6g twice per day
-Higher Power L-Glutamine
1 scoop in each protein shake
-Optimum Tribulus 625
1 pill twice per day
-BSN NO-Xplode
1 scoop on non-workout days, 2-3 scoops on workout days
-Legal Gear: Product X Dermasize
use 6 squirts (~4mL) twice per day for 8 weeks, then cycle off for 2 weeks

[Scoobydon]

Antihero, great layout and general descriptions of the supplements! I am someone who already knows this information. But, I still enjoyed reading it. Due to the way you had everything organized. THANKS!

[monsterashu]

THE BEST PROHORMONE ALTERNATIVES

Prohormones are synthetic compounds, which when administered into the system , convert to anabolic hormones through enzymes in the liver.

Prohormones are used by bodybuilders and athletes to increase size, strength, reduce body fat levels , increase lean mass, reduced recovery time etc.Moreover they are also used in hormone replacement therapy too.

They too have the side effects like acne, hair loss, breast tissue enlargement,agression,loss of libido and prostate swelling but the side effects can be reduced if proper precautionary measures are used.

The story after Jan 20 , 2005........

Then came that prohormone bill and they got banned......and that made some people happy and some sad.But after that bodybuilders and athletes are now searching for some legal alternatives and these do exist.

So read on........

First of all , I want you to know that supplements are only supplements. They can't replace a good and balanced diet.They are called supplements because they supplement a balanced diet and your hard work with proper form and knowledge in the gym. Undoubtedly using the correct supplement will give you an edge in your fat loss and muscle building efforts.For maximal testosterone production, apart from supplements , your training routine should include heavy, compound exercises like squats, bench presses and barbell rows.And you should use weights that are 85-90% of your one rep max for 5-6 repetitions ( atleast 3 sets)with upto a minute rest between sets can do wonders for testosterone production.Other techniques for increasing testosterone production include sleep, using monosaturated fats in your diet eg olive oil, nuts etc.Also you must use fundamental supplements like protein , multivitamins for proper gains.Now in the rest of the article I will tell you which products are available as alternatives and then I will give my recommendations but it can be possible that those persons who have used prohormones may not get the same results as before.

Some of the prohormone alternatives available to you are :-

1. Creatine Ethyl Ester (CEE) : It has the same effect as creatine monohydrate but its absorption power is greater. People got great gains with it and if you want to boost your strength and testosterone you should use it.

2. Ecdysterone : Technically known as 20-Beta-Hydroxyecdysterone , it is said to increase lean muscle mass , increases endurance and stimulates metabolism with improvement in bodily functions too.When consumed with protein , it shows to increase protein synthesis and invoked positive nitrogen balance.Reseach studies showed no negative side effects, no hormonal interactions, and a very low toxicity level for ecdysterone.

3. ZMA : It stands for Zinc-monomethionine-aspartate and it is a combination of zinc and magnesium minerals. ZMA can raise your testosterone to their top natural levels.It also preserves lean mass along with increasing strength too.

4. Tribulus Terrestris : It is also known as puncture vine. It contains amino acids, calcium, EFAs , iron , vitamin C etc and it helps builds muscle, increases stamina ,stimulates production of maile and female hormones and is good for the immune system too.It is said to increase natural testosterone levels too.

5. Horny Goat Weed : It is a chinese medicine and has testosterone like effects.It is used for improving sexual desire and performance for hundered of years too.The interesting thing is that it has no undesirable side effects.

6. Methoxyisoflavone : They are non hormonal flavones that naturally increase protein synthesis, nitrogen retention, and muscle growth.It is also a cortson-suppressant and enhances recovery time too.

7. Glutamine : It promotes muscle recovery and protects immune system too. Its a must have supplement.

8. Nitric Oxide(NO2) : This gas is used by the body to communicate with other cells in the body.It increases blood flow to muscles and increases muscle pump too.

9. HMB : It stands for b-Hydroxy b-Methylbutyrate.It is a by-product of essential amino acid luecine.Though it is somewhat costly but it increase lean muscle mass and also aids in fatloss too.

10. Citrulline Malate : Citrulline Malate is a compound consisting of Citrulline, a nonessential amino acid that is primarily found in melons, and malate, an apple derivative.It is said to increase NO Production , reduces Lactic Acid and Ammonia and increases ATP and Phosphocreatine Recovery.

11. Maca : It is also known as Peruvian Ginseng.It is said to help in gaining strength, increasing energy and also used a herb for fertility too.

12.Yohimbe : This herb is used for sexual performance but it is also said to increase testosterone production.

13.DHEA : It is another testosterone booster.

14. EFAs : If you are on a low fat diet , then these can give you energy throughout the day. EFAs are found to be contributing to testosterone production.

So, these are some of the alternatives available to you.These can help you in your aim for being muscular in the absence of prohormones.

Also, i have to say that please shop wisely.There are a lot of products available in the market which has got a lot of claims. Many also use false testimonials too. If you are money conscious , then you can shop on www.bodybuilding.com. It has got a lot of diverse range of products with their supplement facts , full page information on supplements , its ingredients with testimonials.Also these are provided at discounted rates.Products from many top companies can be found here. Also you can ask the credibility of supplements on its forum.This can help you to make a correct decision about which supplement to buy.Don't think that I work for bodybuilding.com or affiliated to bodybuilding.com.This is my personal experience and I am telling you this as I think that it may help you.Also fastest shipping is a great feature provided by this website.

From my point of view , the supplements which have stood the test of time are Whey Protein, Creatine, Glutamine and ZMA

My recommendations for supplements are :-

Creatine: Higher Power Creatine

Creatine Ethyl Easter: VPX CEX

Glutamine: Eclipse Sport Supplements Glutamine Powder

ZMA : Higher Power ZMA(night time formula)

Tribulus Terrestris : Optimum Tribulus 625

Protein: Higher Power 100% Whey Power

Methoxyisoflavone: Universal Animal M-Stak , SciFit Methoxy 500 EX

Nitric Oxide: BSN NO-Xplode , IDS NP2 (it contains tribulus extract too and many people has got good results using it)

HMB : SciFit Extra Strength HMB

Ecdysterone : SciFit EcdySterone


So the above are my recommendations. Hope this list may be of some help to you all.


MUSCLE BUILDING SUPPLEMENT PLAN:-

Pre workout supplement plan (approx. 40 minutes prior to training)
Creatine 5 grams
Chromium 45 mcg
Vitamin C 1000 mg
Nitric Oxide: Just follow the instructions on label.( if you use IDS NP2 then take 3 tablets)
Ecdysterone 300 mg ( 20 minutes prior to training)

During workout:
Glutamine 3-5 grams(sipped with water)
Protein 20 grams minimum

Post workout(directly after training)
Protein 20 grams atleast
Glutamine 5 grams

30 minutes after training
Creatine 5 grams with something sugary.

With meals:
Vitamin C 1000mg


Before going to bed
Glutamine 3 grams
ZMA 3 tabets.

After waking in the morning:
Protein: 20 grams as your muscles are without having any significant nutrition for 6-8 hours.
Also you may take a warm glass of water with honey which may sweeten your day.It has a wonderful effect on me and i recommend it to all of you.

60 minutes before lunch
Nitric Oxide (take 3 tablets of IDS NP2. For other products follow the instructions on label).

I didn't give the names of any products so that you can fill in your chosen products for them.
But buy supplements only from trusted sources and after proper knowledge and thorough understanding of their functioning in the body.You can check the huge www.bodybuilding.com databases for it.

If the above article of mine can be of any help to you then I will feel that i have done my work.

SPECIAL THANKS
I am lucky that in writing this article I learnt many things from many inspiring people.
I like to thank :
1. www.bodybuilding.com owners and employees who created this wonderful website and all its writers as I learnt all these things from these great people.
2. forum.bodybuilding.com as this is the greatest forum on internet on bodybuilding and all its members are very helpful.
3. My friend Rocky for providing me insights on supplement plan.
4. Puneet Sharma.
5. Dharam Chand Sharma.
6. Deepinder.
Thanks a lot to all of you for your valuable guidance.

MonsterAshu

[antihero]

Antihero, great layout and general descriptions of the supplements! I am someone who already knows this information. But, I still enjoyed reading it. Due to the way you had everything organized. THANKS!

well, i wanted to give general explainations so that even beginners can read it and understand, but i put the links there so that more addvanced people can learn more about the supps they are interested in also. that way it kept the article short enough so that it could keep the readers attention, but it also allows 100% of neccessary information....and im glad you liked it...

[Audioslave]

Now that prohormones are banned it isn't going to be as easy to gain muscle mass, but it can still be easy working out hard, dieting right, and using the right supplements. One cannot look for a supplement to give results like prohormones, you must make the results yourself through the right supplements. Basically, you must focus on supplementing your diet. I don't care what prohormones or steroids your taking, a diet is still key. One of the greatest things about supplements is that they can help build up the diet perfectly. Here are a few things that you must have in your supplement diet right off the bat to gain muscle:

The Essentials

Multi-vitamins
This is very important. Although you may not gain automatic mass with a multi-vitamin it is still essential. This supplies many nutrients and makes a difference if you are deficient in anything. Take one serving in the morning with breakfast.
Reccomended Products: AST Multi Pro 32X, GNC Mega Men

Meal Replacements
I have recently became a firm believer in these. To build muscle you need to eat 5-6 meals per day, and that is not always easy to do. A meal replacement is a nice and easy way of getting in that meal at work or school. A good meal replacement has many benefits such as protein, carbohydrates, EFA's, fiber, vitamins, minerals etc. A good meal replacement has everything you need for a good healthy meal to gain muscle. A good MRP I am taking right now is Prolab Lean Mass Matrix. It's great quality and tastes awesome. Take one serving whenever you cannot fit that meal in. If you cannot get 2 meals in, then use 2 MRP's per day. I use 1 everyday.
Reccomended Products: Prolab Lean Mass Matrix, VPX Micellean

Whey Protein
If protein is the building block of muscle than there is nothing more important for putting on lean mass. Whey is the highest quality protein and gets absorbed the fastest which makes it ideal post workout. Consume 1-2 scoops of whey protein post workout mixed with water.
Reccomended products: AST VP2, PrimaForce Substance WPI, Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey

Flax Oil
Flax Seed is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, along with fiber and other vitamins and minerals. Take 1 tablespoon in the morning and 1 before bed.
Reccomended Products: NOW, HFS

Combine all of these to help supplement your diet and you are already there to making great gains in mass and size.

Now that our diet is in check with the use of the right supplements, let's move onto what "other supplements" we can use to help us duplicate the effects of prohormones. I won't lie, now that prohormones are gone there is really no one legal supplement that can give the same results, but with the right combination of supplements, a good diet, and hard work you can achieve results very close and similar. Here is an overview of a few supplements:

The Supplements For Mass

Creatine
This is one of the most(if no the most) famous supplements out there. While it doesn't work for everyone it is definitely worth trying. Creatine increases muscle mass, recovery, and strength. Creatine gives energy by restoring phophates when they are lost from exercise. This is why only quick high intese sport athletes would benefit from creatine such as sprinters and weight lifters.
If using creatine monohydrate I would reccomend loading creatine at 20-30 grams for the first 5 days, and then maintain at 5 grams per day for 5 more weeks. I would also reccomend mixing your creatine with something high in sugar. I use grape juice and it works well. This helps with absorption.
Different Types of Creatine- Creatine Monohydrate, Dicreatine Malate, and Creatine Ethyl Ester.
All are good choices and sever their purpose.
Reccomended Products: AST Micronized Creatine, Swole V.2, VPX CEX

Glutamine
Here's a controversial supplement. Many studies have came out showing glutamine does not have an effects on muscle mass. Some people hat glutamine, some people love it. I personally like it. The one thing I noticed while taking glutamine in high doses is less or no soreness the days following my workouts. This would help me push harder and train the same muscle group more frequently without any pain. Although I don't belive in glumines ability to raise growth-hormone levels 400%, I do believe it serves a purpose for faster recovery.
If using regular L-glutamine I would reccomend using a minimum of 5 grams pre workout, 5 grams post workout, and 5 grams before bed. I like to use high dosages of glutamine. I would use anywhere from 15-25 grams excluding what is in your protein powder.
Different Types of Glutamine- L-glutamine, N-Acetyl-L-Glutamine, and Glutamine Peptides.
All are good choices in my opinion.
Reccomended Products: Prolab Glutamine, Optimum Nutrition Glutamine

Nitric Oxide
NO2 helps increase blood flow which will carry more nutrients to your muscles, hence making them bigger after being worked. This supplement will work if you stick with it and use the right dosages.
I would reccomend using 6-8 grams per day depending on your weight.
Reccomended Products: MRI NO2, BSN NO-Xplode

Methoxyisoflavone & Ecdysterone
These non-hormonal flavones are supposed to increase muscle mass, protein synthesis, and improve recovery. Unfortunatley this product seems to come off as a scam. Very few people make any good gains with these products. I wouldn't rely on either of these to help you give good results, especially prohormone results.

Alpha Lipoic Acid
This antioxidant helps bring nutrients to the muscle cells. It can also increase insulin sensitivity and absorb more creatine into your muscles. This supplement works great with creatine. With the 2 working together they deliver great results. Also look for chromium picolinate- another similar supplement with good benefits.
I would reccomend using 400mgs-600mgs spread throughout the day.
Reccomended Products: Syntrax R, PrimaForce Insopro-R, Legal Gear Slin

HMB
This supplement is supposed to build muscle and burn fat. The effects if HMB aren't half as good as the claims, and they are only somewhat good if taken in really high doses. If you have the money and don't mind spending it then you may want to try it out. Otherwise it is not a must use product.
I reccomend if you are going to use this try to take a minimum of 5 grams per day and stack it with creatine. Do not expect much from HMB.
Reccomended Products: EAS HMB, SciFit HMB

Ribose
Ribose is a 5-carbon sugar that will help with recovery and build muscle. Ribose makes a big difference in muscle recovery from a workout, and helps with energy similar to creatine. The only downside to ribose it the price. It is best used in higher doses, but can be pretty pricey.
I reccomend stacking ribose with creatine and loading it with creatine and use it during the maintaince phase with creatine. I would load at 20 grams and maintain at 5-10 grams.
Reccomended Products: Muscle-Link Ribose Size

Myostatin Blockers
These are bigger scams then methoxyisoflavone and ecdysterone. These are supposed to block the protein myostain which regulates muscle mass. Unfortunately these products do not block myostatin otherwise they would be huge and used by everyone. Stay away it's a scam.

Amino Acids/ Branched Chain Amino Acids
Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein and BCAA's are not made by the body. Obviously one will be able to benefit from using amino acids and BCAA's. They will both help in building muscle.
I would suggest using a liquid amino acid formula and using powdered BCAA's to add to your protein shake. Follow the directions on the bottles.
Reccomended Products: Optimum Amino 2222 Liquid, Twinlab Amino Fuel Liquid

The Stack

Days 1-5
Load creatine at 20-30 grams into 4-6 seperate servings
Load ribose at 20 grams in 2-3 seperate servings

Weeks 1-6
Morning
Multi-vitamin
1 tablespoon of flax oil
3-4 grams NO2

Pre Workout
5 grams creatine
5 grams ribose
5 grams glutamine

Post Workout
Whey Protein
5-10 grams glutamine
5 grams creatine
5 grams ribose

Before Bed
5 grams glutamine

*Also be sure to include 3-4 grams of NO2 before lunch and a meal replacement to replace a small meal that you may not be able to fit in.


Alright, we've gone through the necessities, and other mass building supplements. I felt it would be a good idea to seperate this section from them. Prohormones were used to raise testosterone levels above and beyond our limits. The only way to get remotely close to the effects of this is to naturally raise testosterone levels. Here are a few natural testosterone boosters.

ZMA
Zinc, magnesium, and vitamin b-6 makes up ZMA. Studies have shown ZMA can increase testosterone levels to 30%. Many athletes can be deficient in zinc. A lot of people also find ZMA helps put them in a deeper sleep.
I reccomend taking ZMA about 30 minutes before bed because of its effects on sleeping. Follow the reccomended dose on the bottle.
Reccomended Products: SNAC, Optimum Nutrition ZMA

Tribulus
Unlike prohormones, this plant increases luteinizing hormone levels, which means increased testosterone levels. This is a popular natural testosterone booster.
I would reccomend using around 1.5-2 grams of tribulus for best results. I would use 1.5 grams pre workout and 1.5 about 8-12 hours before of after your workout.
Reccomended Products: Biotest Tribex, S.A.N. Tribuvar

[Audioslave]

Continued.....

6-OXO
Not only does this supplement increase testosterone levels, but it also reduces estrogen levels, which makes a favorite for post cycle therapy after a prohormone cycle. This is the first supplement that came to my head after the prohormone ban. It' legal, and it works.
I think taking 3 capsules in the morning and 3 in the evening may deliver best results.
Reccomended Products: ErgoPharm 6-OXO

Forza-T
This natural testosterone booster is basically a combination of 6-OXO and tribulus, so it is a good product. You may want to look into buying 6-OXO and tribulus seperately to save some money.
I reccomend using 3 capsules in the morning and 3 in the evening.
Reccomended Products: Instone Forza-T

The 6-Week Natural Testosterone Stack

Morning: 300mgs of 6-OXO and 1.5 grams Tribulus
Pre Workout: 1.5 grams Tribulus
Before Bed: 1 serving of ZMA


That's all of it. Now that prohormones are banned you must find out what supplements work right for you and then use them correctly. With a good diet, supplement plan, and training routine you can make crazy results.

[ravadongon]

Nice work, Audioslave. I hope this is your week :)

[Audioslave]

Nice work, Audioslave. I hope this is your week :)

Thanks man. I hope so too. I'm up against some tough competition though.

[hepennypacker52]

This is indeed a good week.

[monsterashu]

Thanks man. I hope so too. I'm up against some tough competition though.


Hello audioslave....
Don't worry about results.
Good post buddy.Its really tooo good.

MonsterAshu

[antihero]

Hello audioslave....
Don't worry about results.
Good post buddy.Its really tooo good.

MonsterAshu

my prediction is that its gonna be:

1st: audioslave
2nd: monterashu
3rd: me (if no one posts anything good yet)

i was kinda hoping to take this two weeks in a row, but you guys are rough competition...

[Audioslave]

I appreciate the compliments guys. All of the articles are absolutely great this week. Everyone did a really wonderful job. I'm not worried about the results, but I am anxious to see how it turns out.
I wish you all good luck :)

[monsterashu]

my prediction is that its gonna be:

1st: audioslave
2nd: monterashu
3rd: me (if no one posts anything good yet)

i was kinda hoping to take this two weeks in a row, but you guys are rough competition...

Hello Antihero....
U r one of the best buddy.
You can take not just two but many many weeks in a row.Have faith in yourself.
In view of mine , I am just out of the competition man as very very knowledgable and resourceful people like you have written wonderful posts.I have gained from these really.


Audioslave don't be anxious man.....u too are one of the best here in the forum and u will win , trust me buddy.


MonsterAshu

[sword chucks]

Introduction

Before we go into prohormone alternatives, we must first take a close look at what it is that prohormones do. Prohormones are substances that cause the creation of anabolic hormones in the body. The resulting nuerotransmitters are sometimes the same ones that have been made illegal years ago. However, since these anabolic hormones have been banned, for a long time prohormones were a loop hole in bodybuilding contests.

Allowing the user to get results similar to those caused by steroids, prohormones gave huge benefits in the means of strength, size, and conditioning.

Now that prohormones are no longer allowed for competitors in bodybuilding contests, we must look down to other compounds and substances that will match the results that prohormones elicit.

Overall mass gain

Nothing beats plain old food when it comes to bulking up or retaining muscle during a cutting phase. Diet is at least 90% of the bodybuilding journey. So it makes sense to fill the body with protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals.

Whey protein is a popular protein supplement. While it is not necesary, whey protein is biologically very efficient and can help bodybuilders to reach their daily quota of protein. This type of protein powder is generally not too expensive and can be bought in bulk anywhere and everywhere.

Egg protein is also a viable food supplement. Egg protein is extremely efficient in the body and there are many cheap egg protein powders for sale.

Dextrose is an extremely efficient carbhydrate as well and should be a staple for any diet. Why? Because it is the most useful energy source in the body. This corn sugar is useful because it refills muscle glycogen stores and boosts energy.

For essential fatty acids, nothing can beat the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Having a good amount of fats in the diet boosts testosterone levels and stimulates many functions in the body, such as leptin release, diffusion of oxygen into the bloodstream, and hemoglobin release, to name a few. Flax oil is another example of a good EFA.

Cell volumizing

Lately, while eating and building muscle cells has been done and done again, cell volumizing has become something worth looking into. By making the muscle cells themselves larger by puffing them up with nutrients, a big difference can be seen.

Creatine is one key player in cell volumization. The muscles become stuffed with creatine, water, and other nutrients, and appear bigger than usual while taking creatine. Recent studies have inspired the creation of new types of creatine, each one more potent and biologically efficient than the last. Creatine Ethyl Ester Hydrochloride is, so far, the most efficient form of creatine. It is esterified so that it is forced into the cells to cause massive volumization. Many mixtures with CEE include other cell volumizers that will be discussed later and can cause a real explosion of mass. Creatine's benefits also include an increased ATP production, causing more power to be generated.

Amino acids like L-glutamine are extremely abundant in the muscle cells and add even more mass. Recently, a new form of Glutamine, N-Acetyl L-Glutamine, has come into play and has been known to better increase muscle glycogen storage and growth hormone production.

L-Taurine is an amino acid that has been shown to rival L-glutamine in its abudance in muscle cells. It also works well with creatine because it enforces water uptake into the muscle cell and aids in nerve firing, which can add to muscle strength.

Another helper in pushing nutrients into the muscle cells is Nitric Oxide, sometimes called NO2. It is a free-flowing gas that can increase the nutrient partitioning effect, making it a useful supplement.

One step below prohormones are..

Finally, there are some substances that alter the body's hormones in ways similiar to the banned steroid hormones. These products boost the body's hormone levels naturally, but if there is anything else soon to be banned, these are likely them.

Let's first look at natural hormone producers. ZMA is one that comes to mind. This product is a combination of Zinc Monomethionine Aspartate plus Magnesium Aspartate and vitamin B-6, and is an all natural product. This product has been proven through various studies to increase anabolic hormone levels greatly. The ratio of ingredients in this product is crucial- generally, the following set up can be used- Vitamin B6: 11mg, Magnesium: 450mg, Zinc: 30mg.

There are also a few natural test boosters out there. Tribulus is one such product. It is a plant that enhances test levels. It enhances them by increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion.

And there are some products that are so new and so useful that one wonders why they have not been banned since their creation. Product X is one such product. It is an all natural product containing natural ingredients that reduce catabolism and promote an anabolic state in the body. It can be applied transdermally, and takes around 12 hours to reach its destination. It is extremely effective and easy to use, making it a real loop hole in the prohormone ban.

Examples of each product

Protein powder- ON's 100% whey and egg proteins

Dextrose- NOW dextrose

EFA's- Nature's Science EFA's

Creatine monohydrate- higher power or micronized creatine

CEE- VPX CEX or Jacked

Glutamine- Higher-power L glutamine

Taurine- NOW taurine

Nitric oxide- Pinnacle NOX2

ZMA- optimum ZMA

Tribulus- optimum tribulus 625

Product X- Product X dermasize

Taking these supplements

Now that you know how these supplements work, you can decide when to take them. Some example schedules for each product are:

Food supplementation will vary with diet.

CEE- 2g in the morning, 4g pre/post workout. With CEE a very little amount is necesary when compared to regular creatine. Always try to take this when the stomach is nearly empty. On rest days have 2x 3-gram servings throughout the day.

Taurine- 2g in the morning, 4g pre/post workout. Use in conjunction with CEE. Always try to take this when the stomach is nearly empty. On rest days have 2x 3-gram servings throughout the day.

Glutamine- Take this 1 to 2 times daily, having 3 to 5 grams each serving.

Product X dermasize- Apply 6 squirts twice per day to thin skinned areas, each time about 6-10 hours apart. Use for up to 8 weeks then cycle off for 2-4 weeks.

Tribulus- 750 to 1250 mg per day should be taken and divided up among meals.

ZMA- 2 to 3 capsules each day, in between meals and on an empty stomach. Be careful of taking this with dairy products.

Conclusion

We established what prohormones are and what they do, and we provided other supplements that can mimic their effects. Always consult a doctor before beginning a supplementation program. Make sure to have a complete understanding of your needs and the product's effects before making a selection as well. I hope that these products prove to be useful alternatives to prohormones.


sword chucks

EDIT: I made one change to a sentence because the grammar was a little shaky.. so if you want to re read it then you can :dunno:

[PimpEM_atoz]

More intensity!!!! Work that much harder. It will make up for lost supplements.

[JRAM]

I for one want to thank all you guys for contributing your knowledge of PH alternatives. I'm in the middle of my first and apparently my last cycle of PH's. Many of the alternatives I take today but, reviewing the combinations some of you have provided are great and I look forward to trying some of these. At least I'll be able to compare to some degree the difference between taking PH's and taking the now "legal" supplements. Maybe this action will inspire some of us to keep on the right track of eating properly and training harder.

Peace:cool:

[antihero]

I for one want to thank all you guys for contributing your knowledge of PH alternatives. I'm in the middle of my first and apparently my last cycle of PH's. Many of the alternatives I take today but, reviewing the combinations some of you have provided are great and I look forward to trying some of these. At least I'll be able to compare to some degree the difference between taking PH's and taking the now "legal" supplements. Maybe this action will inspire some of us to keep on the right track of eating properly and training harder.

Peace:cool:

im glad these articles helped you in some way, and i just want to remind everyone, that without the proper diet and training, supplements are useless...

[hepennypacker52]

Where's the SesaThin!!! :D

[monsterashu]

im glad these articles helped you in some way, and i just want to remind everyone, that without the proper diet and training, supplements are useless...

I will like to add proper rest too with diet and training for supplements to be effective.

[Audioslave]

I will like to add proper rest too with diet and training for supplements to be effective.

Yep, you and antihero couldn't be more right. Diet, training, and sleep are all jey to success.

[ford4life]

Yep, you and antihero couldn't be more right. Diet, training, and sleep are all jey to success.
i agree- but that wasnt the question asked here for us to answer

[sword chucks]

Well saying that sleep, training, etc are alternatives to ph isn't entirely true.. the article was probably supposed to be on alternative supplements.

They are necesary tho :)

[josh689]

One of the articles says that you should consume Glutamine and Creatine in your post workout meal. WRONG if you do this you will not take full advantage because they will battle for resources.

[wiseguy1111]

It's interesting reading all the comments. The question was what product out there is going to replace PH. NONE. There is nothing legal out in the market that can replace PH. All the products listed are good in some shape or form, but none are going to put 10 to 15 pounds on you in 3 weeks.

[italionstallion]

this is a great thread, and all in all everyone said basically the same thing. which in my opinion makes this thread that much better, there is a high level of coherence/agreement amongst the posters, so the reliability is high. very nice job everyone, thanks a lot you all helped me with my decisions. i just bookmarked this page so i will always be able to reference it.

[wally01]

Hi guys....I taking supplements arround 5 years but now i would like to try prohormone.I living in Uk and here is not too much prohormone to buy anywhere but i found few and i would like to ak which I shoul take for first time:

1) they seling like a stack,3 together
-DecaVol
-4 AD
-Arom X

2) 1-Androsterone

3)17-Hydroxy-Mesterone

4) Anabol 5

5) Epithin-E

6) I-GH-1

7) Methyl 1-D

Somebody told me this stack which i putt under number 1 will be good for me like for 1st time because have unblock too but i would like to double check with You guys.Maybe i should make stack with other products from my number from 2 to 7-but which one?Thanks.

[hjdanzi]

I like natural tetosterone boosters like tribex 700 from Saturn Supplements. Tribex 700 Pro-Test Advanced Tribulus Enhancing Booster For Men has Tribulus Terristris , DHEA, Zinc, Yohimbe and Nitric Oxide. When i start lowering the dosis of my cycle i start taking 1 capsule in the morning, the second week one in the morning and one at night.. and finally three capsules in the day for a whole month! It's great.. and it works well for pct as well.

[osufan8]

i am thinking of stacking 6-oxo extreme and tribulus. has anyone had any experiences or negative/positive results from this combo?

i have been using ON zma (following the rules as far as diet, sleep, etc.) and did not obtain a great increase in results opposed to going without it. maybe one more run through a bottle will prove different? how long should it typically take to start gaining noticeable benefits of something like zma? i think i may just be i am expecting too much.

[gymratluke]

Hands down best stack ever....

8 weeks of Supremacy/MassFx/LeanFx

/thread