Seeking Advice On Next Phase

catdadironman · Feb 24, 2026

I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND

I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY

Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.
My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL

After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD

Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.
After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.
Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.
Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

LevButlerov · Feb 25, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

welcome to the EVO family

@catdadironman you look really good! ripped thick and lean! amazing size.
careful with injectables, you can try to do it with orals or test prop for example but nothing long ester, mostly guys will add anavar winstrol and light test prop dropping it 2 weeks out from bloods TRT

Start a TRT log now with your weekly dose and pin days, daily food and bodyweight, training and cardio, sleep, BP readings, and full labs so the EVO family can actually steer this summer push instead of you flying blind. 15min of your time!

HOW-TO LOG?

Why is a Log Journal important?

Doing a log will actually help you way more than just dropping random updates. When you lay it all out week by week you start to see patterns in your body that you won’t catch otherwise.
Other guys here run logs all the time and there’s no privacy issue, nobody is asking for your name or anything personal, it is just training, diet, and how the compound feels.
The feedback you get is also way better because people can follow along and spot things you might miss. It also helps the next guy who is thinking about running the same compound so you are giving back while you learn.
Even if you think you might not stick with it, just starting the log makes it easier to come back and add quick notes. That way you get more out of what you are running instead of keeping it all in your head.

To really guide you we need more info from you:

Please share your diet, training, cardio, sleep, supplements etc log with us in a NEW thread, full log journal so our guidance is based on facts you provide.
It will take 15-20 minutes max.
We have 100s of years of experience between us, so you need to post a LOG Journal with your stats (weight,height,age, years training, cycle history) diet, training, cardio, supplement, sleep details. If you don't log what you eat or train now, open NOTES on phone and start recording it there and paste here. Very easy.
Please post a Log Journal asap for us

Kopite67 · Feb 25, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

Look fantastic @catdadironman . Really lean, vascular and ripped. Look forward to seeing where your journey takes you next

Demon_throne · Feb 25, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

Honestly bro, I would look at considering hgh or something you could get it legit

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

Not sure how things are done where you are or through your clinic but when I was on with one 4 years ago I had to do bloods for them every 6-8 weeks, and if anything was out of the ordinary, test to high anything like that you could get booted.

A mate of mine who got clean at the same time we both got in with the same clinic and he missed his self administered shot by being 1 day late, since his levels were abnormally high to what they were meant to be he got booted

Dreamer · Feb 25, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

Looking great man, your plan is solid, keen to see you log it and watch your progress. I would suggest Primo or EQ with test to keep gainining and remaining lean and dry

Pigsy · Feb 25, 2026

Will be following

Noah Wixx · Feb 25, 2026

It always starts with trt...ask me how i know lol

HarleyGuy · Feb 25, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

Welcome aboard brother! You definitely have a great plan in place and I'm very grateful you conquered alcohol. I too am almost 5 years sober as well and will die without ever having touched a drop again.

I'm looking forward to following your log you have mad genetics bro. Let's get some more diet/macros and training details up and this will be super comprehensive!

Mobster · Feb 26, 2026

Just to start with you should not have raised it to 250mg as that's deffo in the higher range and just prefaces going on cycle.

On the using a clinic. Only that script makes sense vs the money aspect.

stevesmi · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

keep in mind with trt. if you run too much it will thicken up your blood and put pressure on your kidneys'. my suggestion is drop the normal cruise trt down to more like 100mgs a week. You certainly have a terrific physique and I get what you're trying to do. If you want to do it the more healthy way, that's the way I would do it and then you can blast higher amounts of gear.

Ulter · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

That strategy could work but if you want to do it the healthy way, make sure you're getting your blood work done and make sure you're getting your blood pressure checked. @catdadironman

ceo · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

Bros, you can run 400 or 500 mg but do that as a blast. @catdadironmanDon't keep that as a long-term dosage. You're going to end up having issues with your heart health if you do.

2Thick · Feb 26, 2026

I hope to see you put up a log. I think you've got some good potential. You look fantastic already. I can't imagine you in a year from now.

ROIDDERS · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
I’ve been lurking on the forums for a while, soaking up knowledge and adding to my understanding. I’m posting now because I’ve reached a bit of a crossroads in my PED journey and would appreciate some perspective.

BACKGROUND
I’m a 42-year-old male. I was heavily into lifting and fitness from my teens through my late 20s. Life took some hard turns, and I developed a serious drinking problem that lasted into my late 30s. I’m now sober and on the other side of that chapter, but the damage to my body was real.

Over time, I rebuilt both my physical and mental health, and today I feel better than I ever have.

When I restarted this journey in May 2025, I weighed 210 lbs at roughly 25% body fat. I regret not taking before photos, but at the time I was unhappy enough with my physique that it didn’t even cross my mind.

MY TRT JOURNEY
Last year, I started TRT through one of the larger online clinics. I know those clinics take criticism here, but I’ve chosen to stay with them for two main reasons:

I travel frequently, and for professional reasons having a legal prescription is vital for me personally. Having this alone is worth the extra money.

My insurance covers any provider-ordered blood work, which makes the overall cost a wash when I did the math on how much comprehensive labs would cost several times a year.

I started at 160 mg/week, dosing M/W/F, which worked well for me. After stellar labs in October, my provider increased me to 200 mg/week.

Around that time, I also started tirzepatide (15 mg/week until recently). Between TRT, GLP use, diet, and training, I dropped to 175 lbs and approximately 6% body fat.

CURRENT PROTOCOL
After feeling great on 200 mg/week with no sides—and having some extra testosterone on hand from my previous lower dose—I increased myself to 250 mg/week.

I feel excellent. The only minor issue has been occasional slightly elevated blood pressure, but with proper hydration and consistent cardio, it seems more like isolated readings than a trend. I monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit weekly with a home device, and those numbers remain within normal range.

My provider also prescribed 25 mg/day Anavar to assist with lean mass while on the GLP-1. I’ve been on it for 8 weeks and have been very happy with the results, but I have reached the end of this portion of the protocol.

I’m currently tapering down the tirzepatide and introduced 1 mg/week retatrutide, primarily with lipid management/recovery in mind while running Anavar.

Due to my work schedule I am doing Push/Pull/Legs/ Upper. Everything is hit twice a week, and diet is on point. I have regained more size, and much faster than I could have hoped for.

I am thrilled with the results - and want to push it even further this summer.

PLAN GOING FORWARD
Here’s where I’m torn.

My next clinic blood work is in about 8 weeks. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny when renewing my prescription, I plan to reduce back to 160 mg/week temporarily to ensure health markers are well within normal ranges at the blood draw.

The loose plan:

Run 160 mg/week for ~2 months.

After bloodwork and renewal, increase to 400–500 mg/week if labs support it.

Add a second compound for a 12-week summer cycle.

Pay full freight for comprehensive labs mid cycle to avoid prying eyes at the TRT clinic.

Going into summer in the U.S., I’d prefer to maintain a lean, dry look. That has me deciding between Masteron or Primobolan as an add-on.

I realize I’m planning ahead before getting updated comprehensive labs, but I’d prefer to secure a validated source for a full 12-week run rather than risk availability issues later.

I’m open to suggestions, critiques, or alternative approaches. Appreciate any insight.

Current Photos are attached.

If you're worried about the clinic flagging your blood work, then just stop the testosterone ahead of time. This will ensure that your levels come back down to Earth by the time you get the blood work done. Just a suggestion. @catdadironman

catdadironman · Feb 26, 2026

Kopite67 said:
Look fantastic @catdadironman . Really lean, vascular and ripped. Look forward to seeing where your journey takes you next

Dreamer said:
Looking great man, your plan is solid, keen to see you log it and watch your progress. I would suggest Primo or EQ with test to keep gainining and remaining lean and dry

HarleyGuy said:
Welcome aboard brother! You definitely have a great plan in place and I'm very grateful you conquered alcohol. I too am almost 5 years sober as well and will die without ever having touched a drop again.

I'm looking forward to following your log you have mad genetics bro. Let's get some more diet/macros and training details up and this will be super comprehensive!

2Thick said:
I hope to see you put up a log. I think you've got some good potential. You look fantastic already. I can't imagine you in a year from now.

Thanks for all the kind words and encouragement! I am excited to be part of this community!

catdadironman · Feb 26, 2026

Demon_throne said:
Honestly bro, I would look at considering hgh or something you could get it legit

Not sure how things are done where you are or through your clinic but when I was on with one 4 years ago I had to do bloods for them every 6-8 weeks, and if anything was out of the ordinary, test to high anything like that you could get booted.

A mate of mine who got clean at the same time we both got in with the same clinic and he missed his self administered shot by being 1 day late, since his levels were abnormally high to what they were meant to be he got booted

My clinic is pretty liberal on their tolerance ranges. I had no issue with my provider bumping me to 200mg nor with them scripting anavar. I have significantly dropped my dosing and will be independently testing in a month to see how the trend down is looking.

Mobster said:
Just to start with you should not have raised it to 250mg as that's deffo in the higher range and just prefaces going on cycle.

On the using a clinic. Only that script makes sense vs the money aspect.

The 250mg was a mild blast (at least for me) - that is not my cruising dose. Settled back into 120/week until labs.

stevesmi said:
keep in mind with trt. if you run too much it will thicken up your blood and put pressure on your kidneys'. my suggestion is drop the normal cruise trt down to more like 100mgs a week. You certainly have a terrific physique and I get what you're trying to do. If you want to do it the more healthy way, that's the way I would do it and then you can blast higher amounts of gear.

Ulter said:
Hematocrit That strategy could work but if you want to do it the healthy way, make sure you're getting your blood work done and make sure you're getting your blood pressure checked. @catdadironman

Testing hematocrit weekly with a home monitor to keep an eye on trends (never been above range), and testing BP at least every other day (generally in range).

ceo said:
Bros, you can run 400 or 500 mg but do that as a blast. @catdadironmanDon't keep that as a long-term dosage. You're going to end up having issues with your heart health if you do.

Def was a mini blast - not a long term dose. I am cruising at 120/week now until labs.

stevesmi · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
Testing hematocrit weekly with a home monitor to keep an eye on trends (never been above range), and testing BP at least every other day (generally in range).

that is important!

ceo · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
Def was a mini blast - not a long term dose. I am cruising at 120/week now until labs.

Bro's 120 sounds good to me.

Ulter · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
Testing hematocrit weekly with a home monitor to keep an eye on trends (never been above range), and testing BP at least every other day (generally in range).

Beautiful job on this. Keep it up.

2Thick · Feb 26, 2026

catdadironman said:
Thanks for all the kind words and encouragement! I am excited to be part of this community!

EVO family loves you as well.

ballin2504 · Feb 27, 2026

Glad to see you got a log up

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