The Rex Ryan era in New York has not even begun and he already has to deal with a little controversy. Calvin Pace, one of his starting linebackers, has been suspended for the first four games of the regular season for using a banned substance, which has yet to be identified.

“Calvin Pace of the New York Jets has been suspended without pay for the team’s first four regular-season games of 2009 for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances,” said an NFL spokesperson. “Pace’s suspension begins on Saturday, September 5. He is eligible to return to the Jets’ active roster on Monday, October 5 following the team’s October 4 game against the New Orleans Saints. Pace is eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games.”

Pace, who joined the Jets last year after signing as a free agent from Arizona, said in a statement, “This is a situation that resulted from an over-the-counter dietary supplement that contained a substance that I did not know violated the League’s policy. I am responsible for what I put into my body and I should have paid closer attention to the League’s guidelines. I regret that this has happened and apologize to my teammates, the entire Jets organization as well as the fans. Hopefully, this does not distract from our ultimate goal of winning the Super Bowl.”

The Jets stated that they respected the league’s decision and look forward to Pace’s return once the suspension is served.

This may open the door for Vernon Gholston to get some quality playing time. After being selected sixth overall in the 2008 NFL Draft, he was a complete bust and fell into former head coach Eric Mangini’s doghouse. The second-year outside rushing linebacker, who already was getting a fresh start with Ryan, may benefit the most out of this.

The NFL has a long list of banned substances, which is in their “Policy on Anabolic Steroids and Related Substances.” If you have an hour or two to kill, here it is:

Trenbolone is one of the most popular drugs used by bodybuilders today and, when you look at the stats, it is not hard to see why. A very potent androgen with strong anabolic activity, Trenbolone is an extremely effective hardening and cutting agent. In fact, it is considered indispensable when it comes to pre contest preparation. However, it is also extremely valuable in the off-season as it creates a rapid build up of strength and muscle mass. In fact, the anabolic effect is often compared to testosterone or Dianabol with one very important difference – it does not convert to estrogen. This is what truly sets it apart, as most mass building drugs readily aromatize, leading to many estrogen related problems (e.g. water retention gynecomastia).

Due to the lack of water retention, the gains when using this drug are more easily maintained on discontinuing its use. In addition to this, a very hard and defined appearance can be achieved. Also, since gynecomastia is not an issue, there should not be any need to add an anti-estrogen as long as Trenbolone is the only steroid being used.

Due to the highly androgenic nature of this drug an increase in the burning of body fat is observed and a much tighter physique can be achieved without having to resort to extreme dieting.

TRENBOLONE- POINTS OF INTEREST

• Trenbolone is more potent than testosterone with an effect being gauged as three times as strong on a milligram for milligram basis. It is also four times as anabolic as Deca Durabolin and ten times as androgenic. This makes the majority of the weight gained on this drug lean, quality muscle.
• Trenbolone also creates an increase in the levels of the hormone IGF-1 (Insulin like Growth Factor-1) which is highly anabolic within muscle tissue.
• Trenbolone has a stronger binding affinity to the androgen receptor than testosterone. This feature is a major contributing factor to the process of anabolism and fat loss.
• By promoting nitrogen retention and protein synthesis within the muscle Trenbolone allows the food you eat and the nutritional supplements you take to be used more effectively. It also reduces levels of the catabolic hormone cortisol.
• Trenbolone is also involved in the production of red blood cells and increases the rate of glycogen replenishment (both of which contribute not only to stamina but also to recovery from workouts)

SIDE EFFECTS

A reduction in aerobic capacity is the most common complaint with Trenbolone. This is thought to be caused by bronchial dilation resulting from an increase in prostaglandin production. The condition known as “Tren Cough” is often a complaint registered with users of the Acetate version (Trenbolone is available in Acetate and Enanthate forms). Androgenic side effects may also be experienced which include oily skin, aggressive behavior, acne and hair loss. For this reason women would be advised to stay away from this drug.

DOSAGES

If using Trenbolone Enanthate, doses are normally in the 200-600mg/day, since the ester length of this drug is reasonably long. This is usually split up into twice weekly injections.

Trenbolone Acetate is usually administered in a daily dosage of 37.5 -75mg and, although a potent solitary steroid, it is often combined with other drugs for greater effect. This would be Winstrol or Primobolan for cutting purposes and Dianabol or Testosterone for mass building cycles. The addition of Dianabol or Testosterone would also increase the level of water retention experienced.

Due to the strong impact Trenbolone has on endogenous (within the body) testosterone levels the use of a drug such as HCG and/or Clomid is recommended on concluding a cycle (preferably a combination of the two). Without this strategy it may take some time for the hormonal balance to return to normal.

N.B. Trenbolone – and all products mentioned in this article – can be found at www.maximedicine.com

Leigh Penman, in addition to be a staff writer at MuscleSport Mag, has been writing for bodybuilding magazines, websites and nutritional supplement companies since 1985. Whilst residing in the UK, she earned the reputation of being one of the top female writers in bodybuilding-related media. Her credits included being a contributing editor on all the magazines in production as well as filling the shoes of Ladies Editor and Showbiz Editor on two publications (the later being on Arnold’s sanctioned magazine, ‘Bodypower’). During this time she also competed successfully on four occasions (placing in the top four in all contests).

Relocating to New York in the late 1990s she focused her writing attention to crystal healing techniques and metaphysics – however, she still maintained a five day workout schedule during this time and gained her personal training certificate.

Having also studied pharmacology in relation to sports performance, her writing began taking her in that direction until the present day which sees her embarking on a return to the magazine world, as well as extending her web-related work in the bodybuilding and fitness field.

Leigh has been working out for close to thirty years so she is clearly a writer who ‘walks her talk.’
She can be contacted personally at zeal2heal@yahoo.com

This is part of a continuing series provided exclusively by MuscleSport Mag giving information on a variety of performance-enhancing drugs for educational purposes. While it is apparent that people are going to use these substances regardless of the health and legal risks involved, quality information is necessary and learning as much about them as possible can only assist an adult making a decision either way.

Primobolan Depot is the injectable version of the steroid methenolone and, although it produces a weaker effect than Deca-Durabolin it is a very good basic steroid whose effects are predominantly anabolic. The fact that an enanthate ester is added to this steroid enables a slow and gradual release from the injection site. This addition allows for a longer half-life of approx 14 days (similar to Testosterone Enanthate) although most athletes prefer to administer it on a weekly basis.

Primobolan’s popularity stems from the fact that it is the only steroid that seems to work well on a low calorie diet (making it a pre-contest drug of choice) and side effects are rarely a problem since it is relatively non toxic, low in androgens and it does not convert to estrogen (aromatize) therefore estrogen related side effects are not an issue. In addition to this it seems to have a positive effect on the immune system (thus its popular use in Aids patients) and the fact that it adds primarily lean mass leads to a strengthening of the whole body system. When you consider these facts it is hard to believe that Primobolan Depot is not legally approved by the FDA in the United States…but that’s politics for you!

Now, having said all of the above, it has to be said that Primobolan does have its side effects including light acne, deepening voice and increased hair growth (these effects resulting form the androgenic residual effect). However, it displays low liver toxicity and usually has little effect on blood pressure and cholesterol, which makes it one of the safest injectable anabolic steroids. It is also worth pointing out that the bodies own testosterone production is only reduced when high dosages are taken for prolonged periods.

Speaking of dosages, the ‘safe’ dosage for men is 100-200mg per week although some bodybuilders have been known to go as high as 600mg/week (and even 800mg). Androgenic effects are inevitably higher at this rate but are usually tolerable. A better option is to stack Primobolan with stronger steroids in order to enhance the effect. Primo, Sustenon 250 and Dianabol is one such stack, which will produce rapid gains. Another example is Primo 200mg/week and Deca-Durabolin 200-400mg/week or Primo with Winstrol Depot 200-400mg/week. Although adding additional compounds can increase side effects, Primobolan does tend to lessen the harshness of the more heavy-duty steroids (e.g. all the testosterones) when added to a cycle.

Female athletes can get good results from 100-200mg a week and 50mg of Winstrol Depot can be added (although virilization problems may occur in sensitive individuals). A safer option would probably be 100mg Primobolan with 7.5mg Oxandrolone (or Winstrol oral, 10mg), which represents a cautious dose for those seeking to experiment with anabolics.
All in all, when you consider the fact that Primobolan is the only steroid that works on a low calorie diet, builds lean mass, adds hardness and tone AND positively effects the immune system it is easy to see why it is one of the most popular steroids on the market and has gained something of a ‘cult’ following over the years.

Leigh Penman, in addition to be a staff writer at MuscleSport Mag, has been writing for bodybuilding magazines, websites and nutritional supplement companies since 1985. Whilst residing in the UK, she earned the reputation of being one of the top female writers in bodybuilding-related media. Her credits included being a contributing editor on all the magazines in production as well as filling the shoes of Ladies Editor and Showbiz Editor on two publications (the later being on Arnold’s sanctioned magazine, ‘Bodypower’). During this time she also competed successfully on four occasions (placing in the top four in all contests).

Relocating to New York in the late 1990s she focused her writing attention to crystal healing techniques and metaphysics – however, she still maintained a five day workout schedule during this time and gained her personal training certificate.

Having also studied pharmacology in relation to sports performance, her writing began taking her in that direction until the present day which sees her embarking on a return to the magazine world, as well as extending her web-related work in the bodybuilding and fitness field.

Leigh has been working out for close to thirty years so she is clearly a writer who ‘walks her talk.’
She can be contacted personally at zeal2heal@yahoo.com or you can also check her out at New York’s favorite metaphysical store www.stickstoneandbone.com

This is part of a continuing series provided exclusively by MuscleSport Mag giving information on a variety of performance-enhancing drugs for educational purposes. While it is apparent that people are going to use these substances regardless of the health and legal risks involved, quality information is necessary and learning as much about them as possible can only assist an adult making a decision either way.

Deca Durabolin has a long history of use in the athletic community and remains to this day to be one of the most popular basic steroids in the steroid world. The popularity it enjoys stems from the fact that it has a very high anabolic activity and produces significant mass increases with relatively few side effects. It also produces less water retention, has less effect on blood pressure and is far less toxic to the liver and kidneys than most of its mass building buddies.

Another interesting quality is that it has the ability to improve collagen production and enhance bone mineral content. This makes it of particular importance to athletes with connective tissue problems and those who experience joint pains.

Of course it would be misleading to present Deca Durabolin as a drug completely free of side effects. When dosages go beyond 400-600mg/week sensitive individuals may see an increase in blood pressure, prolonged bleeding of cuts, increased oil production by the sebaceous gland (leading to slight acne breakouts), increased hostility, increased sex drive and a fall in sperm production. Headaches can also become more frequent. Oh, and of course we cannot overlook the fact that long-term use of this drug by male athletes can lead to impotence (counteracting the increased sex drive experienced when dosages are kept within limits and for acceptable duration).

As for female athletes, women can usually get away with a dose of up to 100mg/week without any major problems. However, virilization problems are always a concern when women use any anabolic substance as individual sensitivities differ. In that respect, deepening of the voice, increased body and facial hair growth and hypertrophy of the clitoris are all possible – though not inevitable.

As with all steroids, diet is very important for effectiveness to be maximized. Protein intake should be high, as should overall calorie intake if significant mass gains are to be experienced.

RECOMMENDED DOSAGES:
Deca Durabolin is commonly used in the range of 200 – 600 mg/week. Going past 600mg is not really advised (of course there are always going to be reports of bodybuilders hitting 800mg/week).

Most male athletes experience good results by taking 400mg/week and, if large gains in muscle mass are the primary goal then stacking with Dianabol and Testosterone is not unknown.

For female athletes 50-100mg/week is the commonly used dose and this is often combined with Winstrol tablets or Primobolan tablets.

In conclusion, Deca Durabolin is often used where problems with testosterone use have been encountered. It is less prone to aromatization and is deemed to produce an overall sense of well being.

One word of warning for those intending participating in drug tested events though, metabolites of this drug last in the body for 18 months (and possibly longer depending on body fat levels during use) so it should not be used if a drug tested contest is in the foreseeable future.

Leigh Penman, in addition to be a staff writer at MuscleSport Mag, has been writing for bodybuilding magazines, websites and nutritional supplement companies since 1985. Whilst residing in the UK, she earned the reputation of being one of the top female writers in bodybuilding-related media. Her credits included being a contributing editor on all the magazines in production as well as filling the shoes of Ladies Editor and Showbiz Editor on two publications (the later being on Arnold’s sanctioned magazine, ‘Bodypower’). During this time she also competed successfully on four occasions (placing in the top four in all contests).

Relocating to New York in the late 1990s she focused her writing attention to crystal healing techniques and metaphysics – however, she still maintained a five day workout schedule during this time and gained her personal training certificate.

Having also studied pharmacology in relation to sports performance, her writing began taking her in that direction until the present day which sees her embarking on a return to the magazine world, as well as extending her web-related work in the bodybuilding and fitness field.

Leigh has been working out for close to thirty years so she is clearly a writer who ‘walks her talk.’
She can be contacted personally at zeal2heal@yahoo.com or you can also check her out at New York’s favorite metaphysical store www.stickstoneandbone.com.

This is Part One in a series of Q & A interviews by the staff of MuscleSport Mag with an anonymous anabolic steroid user. M.T., a 37 year-old male, recently completed a 12-week cycle of Deca-Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate), and decided to sit down with us and share his results. This is by no means a recommendation to use performance-enhancing drugs, merely for informational purposes.

MSM: When did you begin your Deca cycle?

MT: I started in January and finished up in April. One cc a week from a 300 mg bottle.

MSM: What type of gains did you experience?

MT: About 10 pounds. As far as size goes, I didn’t do measurements before hand. I know…how could I forget that? Things happen. Judging by looking, there was a difference, but without ‘before and after’ numbers, I won’t know exactly.

MSM: How about strength gains in the gym?

MT: This is where I know that the stuff had an effect on me. I was able to put up weight that I haven’t been able to handle in a long, long time. Bench went up approximately 60 pounds, squats nearly doubled. All the other exercises went up, too.

MSM: No exact numbers to offer?

MT: You have to realize that I’m not the type of person that sat there and documented all of my maximums. I didn’t keep a training log and jot down when I was able to pass my shoulder press by 10 pounds. I just went to the gym and did my workout. In retrospect, I wish I did keep better notes so I can really evaluate the cycle. I can only go by how I felt and what I did for the most part.

MSM: Deca is normally part of a stack with testosterone and not usually taken alone. When you read the various forums on the muscle/steroid websites, Deca-only cycles are looked at as taboo. Why did you decide to do it that way?

MT: In a perfect world, someone who wants to use steroids would have their choice of what to buy and when. Because of all of the laws and how steroids are looked at today, it’s not like you can go to the supermarket and pick up some gear. You have to take what’s available when it’s available. At the time, that was all I could get. And besides, I wanted to go slow since this was the first cycle that I have done in a while.

MSM: You stole my thunder there a bit. My next question was if this was your first cycle or not?

MT: I did a pyramid cycle of Anadrol-50 when I was 19. From one half a pill up to three a day, and back down.

MSM: That’s a while ago, but I have to ask anyway. Which one had a more positive effect on you?

MT: The A-50, no doubt. You have to remember that gear was much more potent back then and a lot easier to buy. Plus, Deca is a milder steroid than Anadrol. There are pluses and minuses with both. With the oral, you have to worry about side effects more. They’re much more toxic than injectibles. They’re easier to take than using a spike, though. The Deca had a positive side effect, too, with the joint pain. If you have a bad knee, for example, the water retention from it will make that go away. Anyone that squats any weight to speak of will have knee pain at some point and time, especially as you get older.

MSM: I have to ask this question. Some say that Deca is a death sentence as far as ‘Deca Dick’ goes. What did you feel in this category?

MT: Maybe I’m one of the lucky ones, but I didn’t have any issues with that. When the cycle first started, I actually felt like my libido was a bit high, believe it or not. As the weeks went on, I just felt the same way as I always did before the cycle. When I needed it to work, it did! It may have taken a little longer than usual, but nothing more than a good case of ‘whiskey dick.’ I think that a lot of this is psychological, anyway. Your mind can trick you into losing it, and if you’re going in thinking that the Deca is going to ruin it for you, that’s what will happen.

MSM: What type of diet did you follow?

MT: A lot of people miss the boat when they decide to juice up. Some think that they can take a weekly needle, train three times a week and everything will take care of itself. Sorry, it doesn’t come that easy. If you want to make any sort of decent gains, what you eat is nearly as important as how you work out, and you need to get to the gym more.

What I did is follow a high-protein, low carb diet. Obviously, it was low fat, too. You have to eat a lot and break it up into five or six meals a day. We’ve all read about the mass diet, right? It works the same, just more intense and more calories.

You also have to drink a lot of water. If you’re doing it right, you should be going to the bathroom all day long. Drink water in place of everything else, especially soda and alcohol. Eliminate them, just as you eliminated fattening foods. Everybody loves pizza, but if you are to do this correctly, grilled chicken should take the place of many of the those good but bad for you meals. If you find yourself at McDonald’s, just quit the cycle because you’re not going to see any results.

MSM: Is sleep an important part of the equation?

MT: When I did the cycle way back when, not as much. But now that I’m getting up there, a good night’s sleep has become a big part of getting it done right. On the nights I didn’t get a good seven or eight hours, my workout suffered the next day. When you sleep good, you have more energy and feel better all day long, even to eat the amount of food you need to. When you’re shot, you don’t feel like boiling eggs or even making a bowl of oatmeal.

MSM: Once you finished the cycle, how long before you began your Post-Cycle Therapy?

MT: I waited three weeks before starting Nolvadex. The PCT lasted three weeks and appeared to do the job. I didn’t have any noticeable side effects and my bodyweight has been around the same since the Deca cycle ended. Maybe a few pounds less, but we’re talking less than five here. My strength is somewhat less, but nothing drastic.

Maybe I was just naïve then, but I never even heard of PCT when I did the Anadrol. No one in my gym at the time – and there were a lot of juice monkeys there – told me about it and I always felt that I kept some of those gains. The strength went down, but I kept some of the size and shape. Before that, I looked like a kid because I was. In good shape, played sports and all, but not until I did that cycle did I look ‘big.’ I trained hard after that and always kept some of it.

MSM: So it seems that you’re experience was positive all around from this.

MT: Listen, it’s not right for everyone. Some people look jacked and they’re clean from Day One. Others need something extra. When I did the Anadrol, I was too young. Definitely. That was too soon to use anything like that. But I did it and that’s that.

When I decided to do the Deca, I felt that I had hit a wall and my training was getting harder and harder to do. Maybe because I’m older, I don’t know. But I did a lot of research and knew what I was getting into. I knew that Deca was not the strongest gear in the world, but that was one of the reasons why I chose it. Did I make a mistake? Maybe, but that’s my problem. I feel that I did it the safest way I could and didn’t want to get too crazy right off the bat.

MSM: Do you think that you’ll take anything in the future?

MT: I’m going to do a 10-week cycle of Sustanon-250. I want to wait a little before jumping back into it. The formula that I read was ‘time on plus PCT equals time off.’ Something close to that should be safe. There are other factors involved and you have to have a crystal ball to make sure that no business trips or something like that will happen and screw you up in Week 8. When it looks like a clear 10 weeks when you can commit totally to it, you have to take advantage of that. If it’s a week or two sooner than you want it to be in a perfect world, you have to make that decision. Just as you made the decision that using the stuff was what you were going to do.

MSM: Thanks for your time and we hope to speak to you again after you’re finished.

MT: No doubt. And I’ll remember to take measurements this time.