Muscle & Performance
Build, preserve, and optimize body composition
Medical Disclaimer
An overview of the compounds most frequently studied for lean mass, strength, and body composition. This page summarizes the published literature and is not a treatment protocol.
Protocol Map
Compounds organized by evidence tier. Foundation compounds have the strongest clinical support. Emerging compounds show promise but lack robust human data.
Foundation
TRT baseline for hypogonadal men
The most widely studied androgen for muscle preservation and body composition in men with diagnosed low testosterone. Decades of randomized controlled trial data support its use under medical supervision.
Literature dosing: 100-200 mg/week IM -- Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines
Fertility-preserving alternative to exogenous testosterone
A selective estrogen receptor modulator that stimulates endogenous testosterone production without suppressing spermatogenesis. Phase III trial data showed significant increases in serum testosterone.
Literature dosing: 12.5-25 mg daily oral
Commonly Added
Growth hormone optimization
A combination growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates pulsatile GH release. Clinical data suggest improvements in body composition and recovery markers when used alongside resistance training.
Estrogen management if clinically indicated
An aromatase inhibitor used to manage elevated estradiol levels that can occur during testosterone therapy. Typically reserved for men with symptomatic estrogen elevation confirmed by lab work.
Emerging
Oral GH secretagogue
A non-peptide ghrelin mimetic that elevates GH and IGF-1 levels via oral administration. Human trial data show sustained IGF-1 elevation, though long-term safety data remain limited.
Joint and tendon support
A synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from gastric juice that shows promise in preclinical models of tendon and ligament repair. Human clinical trial data are still lacking.
Recommended Monitoring
Lab work and clinical assessments commonly recommended when pursuing this goal. Your provider will determine the appropriate testing schedule for your situation.
| Test | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Total Testosterone | Baseline, 6 weeks, then every 6 months | Confirm therapeutic levels and guide dose adjustments |
| Free Testosterone | Baseline, 6 weeks, then every 6 months | Assess bioavailable hormone levels |
| Estradiol (sensitive) | Baseline, 6 weeks, then every 6 months | Monitor aromatization and guide AI use if needed |
| Hematocrit / CBC | Baseline, 6 weeks, then every 6 months | Screen for polycythemia, a known risk of testosterone therapy |
| PSA | Baseline, then annually (men over 40) | Prostate health screening per urology guidelines |
| Lipid Panel | Baseline, then every 6-12 months | Androgens can alter HDL/LDL ratios |
| Fasting Glucose / HbA1c | Baseline, then every 6-12 months | Monitor metabolic health, especially with GH secretagogues |
| IGF-1 | Baseline, 8 weeks after starting GH secretagogue | Confirm GH axis response and rule out excessive elevation |
Lifestyle Foundations
Resistance training 3-5 times per week is essential for realizing the body composition benefits studied in the literature. Protein intake of 0.8-1 g per pound of body weight supports muscle protein synthesis. Sleep of 7-9 hours per night is critical, as GH secretion peaks during deep sleep stages. Progressive overload in training provides the mechanical stimulus for adaptation. Managing chronic stress and maintaining adequate hydration round out the foundational lifestyle factors.
Related Goals
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The compounds on this page require medical supervision and prescriptions. A qualified provider can evaluate whether these approaches are appropriate for you.
Explore Practical Guides →Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The compounds, dosages, and protocols discussed are summaries of published research and do not constitute prescriptions or treatment plans. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment protocol. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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