Here, we unveil the top 7 best steroids to get ripped physique, along with their respective benefits and drawbacks.
Lean without muscle mass equates to being termed “skinny.”
Large size absent defined abs results in the label “fat.”
However, possess a muscular build with a defined core, and you are “ripped.”
To be ripped represents the zenith of body sculpting goals, a condition highly coveted by gym enthusiasts eager for a chiseled, vascular physique.
The most toned individual at the beach often draws covert glances, while on the competition stage, the one with the most defined muscles typically clinches the gold.
While a strict dietary regimen can naturally lead to a ripped physique, patience is necessary as the process can be protracted.
This piece will disclose the anabolic steroids professional bodybuilders utilize to attain that shredded look.
Numerous steroids excel in mass-building, but a select few can simultaneously incinerate fat and augment muscle growth.
7 Top Steroids to Achieve a Ripped Physique
Anavar
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is a commonly prescribed oral anabolic steroid for cutting phases, designed to burn fat and enhance muscle definition.
When compared to other robust steroids, Anavar yields slightly subdued muscle gains, similar to the results from Winstrol, with comparable fat reduction effects.
The preference for Anavar over Winstrol may stem from its mild nature, suitable for both men and women.
Female users find Anavar favorable as it presents a minimal risk of masculinization symptoms, provided it is taken under proper guidance.
Even men hesitant to use steroids due to possible severe side effects often opt for Anavar standalone cycles owing to its comparatively benign profile.
An added benefit of Anavar is heightened glycogen storage in muscle tissue, leading to a fuller muscular appearance as opposed to a flat look.
Anavar also promotes diuretic action, effectively redistributing fluids from outside the muscle cells to the inside, creating a more defined muscle tone.
Despite its reputation as a cutting agent, Anavar can significantly boost strength, dispelling the myth that it is merely a ‘female steroid.’ Amongst strongmen circles, it’s not uncommon to see Anavar used before competitions.
Such strength improvements may be attributed to Anavar’s unique ability to enhance ATP (an essential molecule for energy) transportation within muscle cells.
Anavar Side Effects
Though many users consider Anavar a safer steroid alternative, it is not devoid of side effects.
The primary issues encountered with Anavar are testosterone suppression and elevated cholesterol levels.
While extreme shrinkage of the testicles is not a concern, a moderate decrease in testosterone is typical.
After ceasing Anavar use, normal testosterone production often resumes in just a few weeks.
We have also observed shifts in lipid profiles under Anavar, with increases in LDL cholesterol. This may lead to a slight elevation in blood pressure, though not as dramatically compared to other oral steroids like Dianabol or Anadrol.
Less common side effects include acne and hair loss. Some female users report altered menstrual cycles, particularly with higher doses or toward cycle completion.
Both genders might feel a dip in overall well-being correlating with lower natural testosterone levels, a situation usually resolved with a well-planned PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) to combat any negative feelings.
Trenbolone
Trenbolone sits atop the list as an injectable steroid that is highly effective for a chiseled look, providing impressive results.
Sporting an anabolic rating of 500, it hints at its capability for significant lean muscle gains.
Some users have reported up to 20 pounds in muscle augmentation from their initial Trenbolone cycle.
With an equally high androgenic rating of 500, Trenbolone is also an efficacious fat reducer, aiding in fat loss through androgen receptor stimulation.
The effects of Trenbolone are rapid, with marked changes in body composition achievable in a short timeframe. It can serve both bulking and cutting purposes.
As with Anavar, Trenbolone also possesses diuretic properties, helping to dispel excess extracellular water for a more defined result.
It’s common for the post-cycle phase to present some water weight regain; however, the muscle gains and fat reduction should remain as long as consistent training and good nutrition are maintained.
Trenbolone Side Effects
Trenbolone is not recommended for steroid novices.
Experienced steroid users caution: if the gains appear too good to be true, the adverse health effects coinciding may also be significant.Trenbolone does adhere to the usual pattern of causing notable cardiovascular strain by elevating cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (low-density lipoprotein).
In terms of liver toxicity, Trenbolone displays a certain degree of leniency, likely due to its non-oral route of administration, which may present an advantage.
Yet, the drawback is a pronounced suppression of natural testosterone production following the cessation of the cycle, which could lead to a prolonged recovery period for endogenous testosterone synthesis to normalize. This recovery can be expedited through an effective Post Cycle Therapy (PCT), which can help mitigate the substantial downturn often described as a harsh ‘crash’ after stopping Trenbolone.
With Trenbolone, the risk of gynecomastia is lessened since it does not convert to estrogen (aromatize) and cause elevated estrogen levels, which is a common issue with other bulking steroids. Nonetheless, an increase in progesterone levels due to Trenbolone still renders the risk of developing gynecomastia a possibility.
Other less severe side effects associated with Trenbolone, given its high androgenic properties, include acne and hair loss. Additionally, issues related to the prostate are a frequent concern.
Winstrol
Winstrol, which is an oral steroid, is recognized for its dual function of promoting lean muscle mass while also facilitating fat reduction.
While not as potent in muscle building as Trenbolone, Winstrol is comparable in terms of its ability to reduce fat based on our observations.
Winstrol may be the preferred choice for those who are inclined toward oral administration rather than injections and prioritize fat reduction over substantial muscle gain.
A typical Winstrol cycle might yield results akin to Zac Efron’s physical change for “Baywatch” in 2017, where there was a transition from a lean physique to an extremely chiseled look, with a noticeable muscle gain coupled with a substantial reduction in body fat and enhanced vascularity.
Usage of Winstrol can result in gaining approximately ten pounds of muscle while simultaneously losing a percentage of body fat, whether during a lean bulking phase or cutting cycle. It may, however, make the muscles appear somewhat flatter due to its propensity to reduce intracellular water stores.
Winstrol Side Effects
Winstrol is a hepatotoxic steroid, similar to Trenbolone, and should be avoided by novices.
Winstrol can elevate LDL cholesterol and increase blood pressure.
Oral steroids, in general, tend to have a more pronounced effect on the heart by stimulating hepatic lipase due to their liver metabolism, which can adversely affect cholesterol levels and impede blood circulation.
Winstrol has also been documented to significantly raise liver enzymes; thus, it is advisable to limit cycle lengths to 6-8 weeks.
Androgenic side effects such as hair thinning or loss, as well as acne, particularly in those who are genetically predisposed, have been reported.
Winstrol could potentially induce joint pain, attributed to the drying effect it has on the body, thereby reducing joint lubrication, which might not be suitable for older bodybuilders or those with pre-existing joint pain.
Testosterone
Contrary to the notion that only cutting steroids are effective for achieving a ripped physique, testosterone is an outlier.
Testosterone, the first-ever synthesized anabolic steroid, is commonly used during mass-building phases to elevate muscle size and strength appreciably.
However, testosterone is also a powerful fat burner, which might surprise some due to its tendency to cause water retention as a result of aromatization, particularly when users consume a caloric surplus.
During a cutting phase, bodybuilders using testosterone can experience accelerated fat loss while still managing to gain muscle mass, even on a reduced calorie diet.
Testosterone aids in fat loss similarly to trenbolone, by utilizing its androgenic properties to promote lipid breakdown. Although it may not burn fat as effectively as Tren, testosterone is comparable in muscle-building potentials and is a significantly safer compound.
Testosterone Side Effects
Widely considered the safest steroid available, testosterone is commonly prescribed for TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy), with 2.9% of men over 40 years of age currently undergoing TRT to address symptoms like low libido, weak erections, low energy, and general malaise.
Testosterone may elevate cholesterol levels, but its impact on cholesterol and blood pressure is relatively minor compared to other anabolic steroids, positioning it as the most heart-friendly steroid, based on our experience.
Still, as the dosage increases, so does the risk of hypertension.
Since testosterone is administered via injection, it bypasses the liver, rendering it non-toxic to this organ.
The side effects of testosterone are considered to be less critical compared to those associated with other anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS).Gynecomastia (the development of enlarged male breasts, colloquially known as “manboobs”) can be triggered by the high aromatization rate of testosterone, which leads to significant conversion of exogenous testosterone into estrogen. While it poses no physical danger, it can cause psychological distress and is cosmetically unwanted.
To counteract this, patients on testosterone therapy are advised to use a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) like Nolvadex to stave off gynecomastia.
Hair loss may also occur as DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) levels surge, potentially causing scalp hair follicles to shrink and sustain damage. DHT is a potent anabolic hormone that bodybuilders typically do not want to inhibit, noting anecdotally that lower DHT could impede muscle gains.
Regular steroid use can lead to early onset hair loss, although those with resilient genetics might use androgenic steroids without adverse effects on hair health.
Other concerns associated with testosterone usage include acne, increased skin oiliness, and prostate complications.
After a steroid cycle, natural testosterone production can decline, making Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) advisable.
Long-term Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can lead to lower natural testosterone production and potential testosterone dependence.
Post-cycle, medications like Clomid, hCG, Nolvadex, and Anastrozole have been shown as effective PCT options for restarting the HPTA (Hypothalamic Pituitary Testicular Axis) (2).
Equipoise
Often referred to as the ‘horse steroid,’ Equipoise is utilized by veterinarians to boost appetite and increase bodymass in horses after weight loss (3).
Equipoise is a slightly more potent variant of Deca Durabolin and is more cost-effective.
It is also more androgenic than Deca, contributing to moderate lean muscle growth and a decrease in fat.
Equipoise can be included in both ‘lean bulking’ or ‘cutting’ cycles due to its minimal impact on water retention, except at very high doses. Its gradual and consistent gains mean cycles may extend beyond 8 weeks.
Equipoise, typically combined with other steroids, can enhance overall gains. However, for those seeking pronounced results, it’s rarely used alone.
For cutting phases, Equipoise pairs well with non-aromatizing steroids like Trenbolone, Anavar, or Winstrol.
Equipoise Side Effects
Equipoise (Boldenone) is recognized for its minimal health risks, particularly regarding cardiovascular strain.
While it does aromatize, it’s at a much lesser degree, providing some maintenance of HDL cholesterol levels.
EQ is also an injectable steroid, posing no significant risk to the liver.
Yet, testosterone suppression after a cycle is inevitable, and potential androgenic effects like prostate enlargement, oily skin, or hair thinning may occur. These side effects are generally less intense than those caused by testosterone.
Equipoise is rated among the safer steroids for getting lean, alongside Anavar and Testosterone.
Primobolan
Famed for its use by Arnold Schwarzenegger during cutting phases, Primobolan aids in getting competition-ready.
Available in either oral or injectable forms, Primobolan is often combined with other “dry” steroids like Trenbolone to increase its efficacy.
Primobolan is not highly anabolic, meaning muscle gains will be modest (up to 10 lbs).
While not a standalone solution for getting ripped, Primobolan is an effective addition to any cutting stack due to its safety profile.
Primobolan does not cause substantial fat loss due to its mild androgenic properties. Therefore, it’s ideal for furthering fat reduction while preserving muscle mass and strength at lower caloric intakes.
Primo Side Effects
Primobolan is the most secure injectable steroid available.
The side effect profile of Primobolan is similar to Anavar, with few concerns.
Primo does not exhibit significant liver toxicity due to its unique oral pharmacology; it’s not c-17 alpha-alkylated.
While somewhat androgenic (about half as much as Testosterone), the likelihood of experiencing oily skin, acne, and hair loss is relatively low.
As Primobolan does not aromatize, there is no concern for gynecomastia or water retention.
Primobolan is known to cause slight elevations in LDL cholesterol levels, but its effects are moderate when compared to other steroids, with impacts slightly above those of Testosterone and Deca Durabolin.
While suppressive, Primobolan is considered the most tolerant steroid for natural testosterone levels post-cycle. However, PCT may still be necessary.
Proviron
Proviron (Mesterolone) is a potent oral steroid that’s an underrated tool for cutting due to three main factors:
- High androgenicity
- No conversion to estrogen
- Augmenting the effectiveness of other steroids.
Proviron contributes significantly to muscle definition and vascularity when combined with a cutting cycle.Proviron’s strong androgenic characteristics aid in accelerating fat reduction during a cutting phase and can quickly provide a lean and shredded look, a result of its action against the aromatase enzyme.
Proviron exhibits a notable preference for attaching to SHBG, which can lead to an increase in circulating free testosterone (4). This capability enhances the effectiveness of other anabolic steroids when used in combination with Proviron.
Due to its role in potentiating the effects of other steroids, Proviron has earned the moniker of the ‘wingman’ steroid. It gained fame during the golden era of bodybuilding, contributing to the iconic silhouettes that are celebrated to this day.
Proviron Side Effects
While many anabolic steroids contribute to a greater chance of infertility, Proviron stands out with its beneficial impact on both the quantity and quality of sperm.
Studies indicate that Proviron can depress total testosterone levels (5) when taken at higher dosages (70 mg or more daily), but this reduction appears more pronounced when compared to other steroid options.
Since Proviron is an oral steroid that does not convert to estrogen, it tends to cause a significant rise in total cholesterol levels, by lowering HDL and raising LDL. Consequently, Proviron usage can lead to pronounced elevations in blood pressure (6), warranting caution when combined with other oral steroids known to impact cardiac health adversely.
Best steroids to get ripped – Summary
The most effective steroids for achieving a defined physique are those that can both build muscle mass and strip away fat at the same time.
Many steroids can achieve this dual objective, yet each comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Should you wish to attain a highly-defined physique without regard for potential side effects, Trenbolone and Winstrol would be the preferred options.
On the other hand, for those who prioritize minimizing side effects, Anavar and Primobolan offer safer, albeit costlier, alternatives.
REFERENCES
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7480784/
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6181727/
Dr. Grant Fourie, a specialist in male hormones, is based in Cape Town, South Africa. He provides comprehensive treatments for conditions related to low testosterone, such as erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and mood changes. His methods include hormone replacement therapy and other modern treatment options.
Contact me via email or phone to book personal appointment in my clinic: The Village Square, Cape Town - South Africa
