Swede

I got my Androgel prescription last night for my low testosterone. They gave me 4 months worth - a jell that is applied on the shoulder and/or abs in the morning.

So, I am thinking that I will stop the cardio for a while - I have been doing cardio in the evening 3 to 4 days a week. I will instead focus on my weightlifting 5 days a week, typically during mid-day. My reason is to try to bulk up while my testosterone levels are elevated. I will still get some cardio from the weightlifting since I incorporate low and mid rep ranges. Of course, I will keep my diet up and very clean.

I can always re-evaluate this approach as I work through this change. I want to gain as much lean muscle mass as I can. Then, later this spring or early summer, if need be, I can include the cardio as before. Does this sound reasonable and logical???

NFOMan

Man, get off your ass. If you're going to get into the steroids, then do it! but remember, these are crutches. You have to grab yourself and push yourself -- the steroids only support the effort you are expending. You've got to push yourself, and the steroids will support you.

There is no magic. If you don't challenge your body, the steroids are worthless. Yet the fuck into a proper weight training program. And don't give up. There are people out their who want to help you.

What do you say (and other guys who want to help this guy?

Mista

I don't think he is getting into steroids, rather fixing his naturally low test levels.

Mudge

Nothing wrong with bulking a little if you want, dont expect miracles though.

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Swede

Mista is correct. These are not anabolic steroids. I am 52 years old and as a result of a comprehensive physical including blood chemistry that was done my testosterone level was found to be lower then what is considered normal for my age. So, under careful medical supervision I was given a LEGITAMITE prescription to hopefully bring the level to where it should be.

I have been lifting for one year with decent results, but I think they should be better given the investment in effort, diet, rest, etc. I have learned much from this forum and have tried to apply the knowledge as best as I can. So, once again as I asked above without repeating myself - does it make sense to back off the cardio during this 4 months testosterone boosting phase in order to bulk up?

Swede

Mudge - I am not expecting miracles.... I just want a level playing field with respect to what I should be able to achieve given my genetics, effort, diet, rest, etc.

From what I have read and discussed with my doctor on the effect of increasing my testosterone levels back to within normal, 3 to 5 lb gain of lean muscle mass in four months is reasonable at my age.

NFOMan

Swede: I think I have to apologize. I wasn't looking at the big picture. Keep the thread going.

Gazhole

Personally i would keep some cardio in for general fitness and active recovery.

http://sdatrainingprograms.blogspot.com - Updated 25/04/08

Swede

I am somewhat conflicted on the amount of cardio I should be doing. I think Gaz is correct, I should do some cardio and not completely cut it out.

I have been taking the androgell for a week now and I feel great. I have been very energetic going into the gym. I have also been setting various personal lifting records throughout my routine. But, I believe it is to early to conclude it is due to the increased testosterone levels - this should take a month or so to play out. My gains, I am sure, are due to the changes I have made in diet, rest and making adjustments to my lifting routine - especially the mixed rep ranges I have been utilizing.

This forum has been awesome! I have been on here for maybe 4 or 5 months now and the learnings have been great. It don't all work for me, but I process what I read and experiment with what makes sense to me. If it works, I incorporate it my routine, if not I move on. Thanks everyone.....