As a personal fitness coach, I work with a lot of athletes and bodybuilders, and it happens too often that I notice clear signs some of them have been taking anabolic-androgenic steroids.
The sudden muscle growth and side effects are very obvious, and they can have a significant health impact that is completely avoidable.
A much better alternative is a legal bulking steroid based on natural ingredients. To find out which ones actually work, we had a team of 17 clients who volunteered to help out with our research and testing over a six-week period.
Here are the best bulking steroids from our results.
The Best Bulking Steroids
- Best Overall Bulking Steroids: D-BAL
- Cheapest Bulking Steroid Supplement: Anabol Hardcore
- Best Bulking Steroid for Weight Loss: Clenbutrol
- Best Bulking Steroid Supplement for Fasting: Winsol
- Best Stacking Steroid Pills: TestoPrime
Our Top Product Recommendations (May 2024)
1 - D-BAL (Best Overall)
- L-Isoleucine : 300 mg
- Ashwagandha : 200 mg
- Suma Root : 200 mg
- Tribulus Terrestris : 75 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Simple formula with proven ingredients to improve lean muscle mass gains without trenbolone acetate or deca durabolin
- Contains added magnesium for faster muscle recovery
- Great herbal ingredients to boost serum testosterone levels
- The capsules are small enough to make them easy to swallow
Cons
- Some users prefer taking powder supplements
After several weeks of rigorous testing and monitoring, it was clear that D-Bal stood out as a top anabolic steroids alternative. The results spoke for themselves, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
It contains a good dose of Ashwagandha, which, according to an article on the Examine website, promotes exogenous testosterone production [1].
It also contains magnesium and vitamin D3, which a study published in the National Library of Medicine, has linked to faster recovery times and improved protein synthesis [2].
It comes in very convenient and small capsules so that you can spread the dose out over the day if needed.
“In terms of testosterone and hormonal balance, ashwagandha has shown promise in supporting testosterone levels.”
- Jordan Stachel, M.S., RDN, CPT, everlywell.com
Quick Facts:
2 - Testo-Max
- Zinc : 10 mg
- D-Aspartic Acid : 2,352 mg
- Ginseng Red Powder : 40 mg
- Fenugreek Extract : 40 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has reliable scientific studies backing up key ingredients
- Practically no side effects were reported by users
- Measured improvements in testosterone production and testosterone cycle
Cons
- Requires taking four capsules each day to get a full dose
When I introduced Testo-Max to some of my clients, I noticed a significant boost in their endogenous testosterone levels, which accelerated their muscle growth.
My dietitian pointed out that the combination of magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B6 is no accident; studies have shown that this is an effective combination to boost free testosterone levels [3].
The great thing about improving natural testosterone levels is that it also doesn’t come with side effects, and none of our clients reported having issues.
Quick Facts:
3 - Clenbutrol (Best for Weight Loss)
- Garcinia Cambogia : 450 mcg
- Guarana Extract : 450 mcg
- Bitter Orange Extract : 342 mcg
- Vitamin B3 : 63 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Positive reports of shorter cutting phases and faster fat loss
- Helps to maintain muscle gains from bulking during a cutting phase
- Natural stimulants can help with mental focus and motivation
Cons
- You need to spend a few days getting the intake timing right
When I first introduced Clenbutrol to my regimen the results were impressive. Many of my clients now regularly add it to their stacks after seeing my transformation.
My dietitian pointed out it contains bitter orange extract, which contains p-synephrine to boost fat-burning processes [4].
It also contains some guarana, which acts as a stimulant [5]. And our testing did find that we felt more focused and motivated during training.
Just give yourself a few days to experiment with the timing as some of our clients had different experiences ranging from 20 minutes to an hour.
Quick Facts:
4 - Winsol (Best for Fasting)
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine : 555 mg
- Choline : 300 mg
- DMAE : 150 mg
- Wild Yam : 300 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Consistent excess fat burning properties within a few days of starting a cycle
- Helps you keep huge muscle and strength gains from bulking
- Added choline helps with fasting and fat metabolism
Cons
- It’s not the cheapest supplement for burning fat
When I hit a plateau during my cutting phase, I decided to give Winsol a shot. The results were astonishing. Not only did I experience consistent fat loss, but many of my clients also reported similar outcomes after I recommended it
The most interesting ingredient is a solid dose of choline that scientists have shown to be linked to potent fat burning properties and appetite suppression [6].
I found it helped very well when I took it first thing in the morning to extend fasting times until after a cardio session.
Quick Facts:
5 - TestoPrime (Best for Stacking)
- D-Aspartic Acid : 2,000 mg
- Ashwagandha : 668 mg
- Fenugreek : 800 mg
- Zinc : 40 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Measured blood test results for boosted testosterone levels
- Provides a clear list of the exact ingredients to make stacking a lot easier
- Available with large bulk order discounts to reduce the cost of full steroid cycles
Cons
- You’ll have to take four capsules a day to get the full dose
After using TestoPrime for one full bulking cycle, I was sold. The sustained improvements in muscle mass were evident, and many of my clients echoed my sentiments after trying it out.
What I liked the most is that the company is very clear and open about every single ingredient and the exact amount.
It’s predominantly based on herbs and minerals, and I noticed a good dose of D-Aspartic Acid. This ingredient has been shown to have a link to testosterone production [7].
Quick Facts:
6 - Anadrole
- Tribulus Terrestris : 600 mg
- Soy Protein Isolate : 200 mg
- Whey Protein Concentrate : 200 mg
- Shilajit Concentrate : 100 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps to relax muscle cells after training to speed up recovery processes
- Boosts performance levels at the gym for increased muscle growth
- Comes in easy to swallow capsules to add to your breakfast routine
Cons
- Doesn't contain ingredients to help with body lose fat
I've always been curious about the combination of proteins and herbs in supplements. So, when I tried Anadrole, I was pleasantly surprised by the enhanced muscle function I experienced. It's now a staple recommendation for many of my clients.
The most interesting ingredient is shilajit, which has been linked to improved endurance and strength during resistance training [8].
Another thing that our testing revealed is that we all felt less muscle soreness in the hours after training, indicating that it’s helping with muscle tissue gain and recovery.
Quick Facts:
7 - Trenorol
- Beta-Sitosterol : 600 mg
- Samento Inner Bark : 300 mg
- Nettle Leaf Extract : 300 mg
- Pepsin : 75mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Works well to improve strength levels in training
- Boosts nitrogen levels to boost protein synthesis during recovery
- Doesn’t have any reported side effects
Cons
- I’d like to see some ingredients to help burn fat
I've always been on the hunt for something to enhance my pumps during workouts. When I incorporated Trenorol, the difference was night and day. Many in our testing team felt the same, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
It seems to be down to a good dose of nettle leaf, which scientists have linked to an improvement in blood flow [9].
It also contains pepsin, which my dietitian pointed out as being an ingredient that promotes breaking proteins down into amino acids [10]. It’s ideal for bulking steroids, as it can speed up the body’s ability to create new muscle tissue.
Quick Facts:
8 - Decaduro
- L-Arginine : 150 mg
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine : 75 mg
- L-Citrulline : 75 mg
- Ginseng : 375 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Delivers great pumps for better muscle tone
- Measured improvements in reduced fatigue levels
- Stimulant-free pre-workout is ideal for evening gym sessions
Cons
- Some added fat loss ingredients would be great
I've trained with many bodybuilders, and when I introduced them to Decaduro, they couldn't stop raving about the L-citrulline and L-arginine combo. Personally, I felt a significant boost in my vascularity and pumps, making it a favorite in my stack [11].
But there’s also a good dose of Ginseng, and there are dozens of studies that have tied this Asian ingredient to a significant increase in T-levels, likely due to its impact on testosterone binding protein [12].
“L-Citrulline is an amino acid. It is efficiently turned into L-arginine in the kidneys after supplementation, which makes it a good choice for increasing nitric oxide synthesis in the body.”
- Kamal Patel, Editor & Co-founder at Examine.com
Quick Facts:
9 - Ecdysterone
- Ecdysterone Hydroxypropyl B-Cyclodextrin Complex : 1,000 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Simple supplement based entirely on high-quality Ecdysterone
- Reports of good impacts on muscle gain within weeks
- Seems to absorb easily without any stomach issues
Cons
- Ecdysterone may become a banned substance
This was a completely new legal bulking steroid that I hadn’t heard of before. But there is evidence that Ecdysterone can help you gain muscle mass a lot quicker and, in some cases, within six weeks [13].
The problem is that such an effective natural ingredient for developing new muscle tissue has gained the attention of scientists who advise global sporting bodies on what things to add to banned substance lists.
It's not on such a list yet, but that could happen.
Overall, my testing results were good, but I got similar results with products above that didn't have that risk of becoming a banned substance.
Quick Facts:
10 - Anabol Hardcore
- Ecdysterone Hydroxypropyl B-Cyclodextrin Complex : 1,000 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Good impact on muscle tissue development within about eight weeks
- The capsules are small enough to easily swallow
- It’s an affordable option for anyone on a limited budget
Cons
- The company hides behind a proprietary blend
I was initially hesitant about Anabol Hardcore, mainly because of its proprietary label. But after seeing some promising results in my muscle development, it earned its spot on my list of recommended bulking steroids.
Not knowing the exact amounts of ingredients makes it very difficult to stack with other bulking steroids.
We do know that this anabolic steroids alternative is mainly based on Dicyclopentanone [14].
There are some animal studies that have shown a positive effect, and our own results do indicate the easier building of muscle tissue.
How We Tested the Best Bulking Steroids
Here's how we chose the best bulking steroids:
Ingredients
We started by meticulously analyzing the ingredient list of each product. We looked for natural, high-quality ingredients that are backed by scientific research. Any product with questionable or potentially harmful ingredients was immediately flagged.
Our team also consulted with nutritionists and health experts to gain insights into the potential benefits and risks associated with each ingredient.
Convenience
We evaluated how easy it is to incorporate each steroid into a daily routine. This includes assessing the recommended dosage, the form of the steroid (pill, powder, or liquid), and any special storage or preparation requirements.
We also took into account the taste and texture, especially for those steroids that are consumed orally. After all, no one wants to dread their daily dose.
Effectiveness
We collaborated with a group of volunteers who agreed to incorporate these steroids into their fitness regimen. Over a set period, we monitored their progress, noting any changes in muscle mass, strength, and overall physical performance.
Feedback from our testers was invaluable, helping us understand the real-world impact of these steroids. We also kept a close eye on any side effects or adverse reactions, ensuring that safety was never compromised.
Buyer’s Guide
Here’s what I recommend you focus on when choosing bulking steroids.
Post you may like: How Are Steroids Made?
Dosage
It’s one thing to have well-chosen and proven ingredients in your formula, but if the dosage is too low, then they probably won’t be all that effective.
But how do you know if there’s enough?
The only way to determine that is to research studies for an ingredient and see what dosage successful clinical trials used. But that takes a lot of time and effort.
The good news is that we did all of that research and found that the above products have good ingredients at the right dosage based on what scientific studies say.
Supplement Form
Taking legal bulking steroids as powder or capsule supplements really won’t make any difference at all in how you gain muscle mass due to anabolic effects.
It’s mainly a question of preference.
I personally prefer taking an oral steroid stack in capsule form as it gives me a lot more flexibility when planning out my intake for the day.
My stack can include anywhere from three to seven different supplements, and having all the capsules lined up for the day means I don’t waste time measuring scoops of powder and cleaning out a shaker every time.
But I totally get it that some people prefer powders which they can mix with smoothies.
Side Effects
The great news is that legal steroid alternatives don’t have any side effects like a medical anabolic steroid.
With legal steroids, you mainly need to look out for any allergic reactions to the ingredients, so it’s always a good idea to check the label for anything you know you might be sensitive to.
From my experience and research with my dietitian, the only thing we saw was that some people have some bloating after taking legal steroids, but that typically settles down quickly.
Legal Steroid Cycle Length
You should also take a look at the recommended cycle length for an anabolic steroids alternative. This should ideally match up with your intended bulking cycle.
Typically, these legal steroids recommend that you take them for 8-12 week cycles and then take 104 weeks break. That can be a great approach to planning out your overall bulking and cutting phases.
It should also work fine if you run shorter cycles, but I wouldn’t go shorter than four weeks as that’s how long most legal steroids will take to show maximum effect. Don't forget post-cycle therapy after finishing.
Suitability For Stacking
Taking only bulking steroids will have great results, but to achieve the ultimate physique, you’ll want to also stay on top of excess body fat.
During your bulking phase, those extra calories you eat will lead to gaining fat, and that’s why I recommend that you stack legal steroids that target both muscle development and fat gain.
The great thing with the above recommendations is that you can easily combine three or four of them into the best steroid stack and achieve much better results than by choosing just one.
Price
One thing I would say about looking at the price tags of legal steroid alternatives is that this should be the last step you take and only by comparing ingredient dosages and effectiveness.
You might find a cheap legal steroid, but if it’s half as effective for performance and muscle protein synthesis compared to our top recommendations, then you’re not getting value for money.
I would recommend that you set yourself a goal and then get the best supplements to get you to that goal.
Then add to the stack according to your budget, rather than focusing on individual prices.
Who Should Take A Bulking Steroid?
Anyone who has hit a plateau or needs to speed up muscle weight gain should take a natural bulking steroid.
Anabolic steroid alternatives have a similar effect to illegal hormone drugs, just not at the same speed. But you can still gain lean muscle mass faster than you normally would.
This doesn’t have to mean you’re a bodybuilder, but if you need to get stronger for your chosen sport, then legal bulking steroids are a great option to improve human growth hormone production.
They are also a good option for anyone who has been struggling with the effects of low testosterone on weight gain. Breaking that health impact with legal bulking steroids can significantly boost your overall well-being.
You should also regularly go to the gym for legal steroids to have the desired effect. These are not magic pills that will bring down your body fat percentage and build up lots of lean muscle mass while you sit on the couch all day.
Related Article: Do Anabolic Steroids Shut Down Testosterone
Who Shouldn't Take Bulking Steroids?
Any athlete who wants to gain fitness but not more muscle mass shouldn’t take legal bulking steroids. There are many types of sports where more muscle mass will not be the solution and can actually slow down progress.
For example, long-distance runners have to build up muscle strength, but they don't want to carry large, bulky muscles.
I would also say that you shouldn’t start taking legal bulking steroids if you haven’t sorted out your diet for a bulking phase yet. What you eat and how much you eat play a critical role in protein synthesis. Get that right first, and then start adding supplements for muscle gain to your routine.
Finally, be aware of the psychological impact of steroids. Steroid use has been linked to a range of mental health issues, from mild mood swings to severe disorders like depression and mania. Some users report feelings of heightened aggression, commonly termed "roid rage," while others may experience anxiety or paranoia.
If you struggle with mental health, this is something to keep in mind before using bulking steroids.
FAQs
Are Natural Bulking Steroids Banned in Sports?
No, natural bulking steroids are not banned in sports. They mainly contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids to boost your body’s natural ability to produce more testosterone and lean muscle mass.
Can You Take Legal Bulking Steroids Long-Term?
Yes, you can take legal bulking steroids long-term. Most of these products are designed to be taken in 8-12 week cycles with a couple of weeks break at the end of each cycle. But you can repeat the best steroid cycle continuously without running into health issues.
What Is the Closest Legal Supplement to Steroids for Bulking?
D-Bal is the closest legal supplement to the best steroids for bulking. It’s based on a few herbal ingredients and amino acids that trigger a natural response in the body to build muscle mass.
What Legal Steroids Do Bodybuilders Take for Bulking?
Bodybuilders often take legal steroids like Ashwagandha and Fenugreek for bulking. These are two of the most common T-booster supplements that come closest to anabolic steroid drugs in the long term.
What’s the connection between steroids and the aging process?
While steroids might offer short-term gains in terms of youthful vigor and enhanced physical performance, the long-term implications for the aging process are complex. Some research suggests that chronic steroid use can accelerate bone density loss, skin thinning, and even cognitive decline.
Will you need to adjust your diet when taking steroids?
No, you don’t need to make diet adjustments before taking anabolic steroid alternatives other than what you would do for a regular bulking phase. When you add the right type of non-injectable steroids, it will lead to improved protein synthesis and faster muscle building.
Our Verdict on the Bulking Steroids
Having personally tested various bulking steroids with my team, D-Bal stood out as the clear winner. Our hands-on experience showed consistent and impressive results with this product.
It has a simple formula of proven ingredients with reliable scientific evidence to support them.
It’s the closest we’ve seen to illegal steroids and comes with the major benefit of not having nasty side effects. In fact, it’s perfectly fine to take this legal steroid alternative long-term to achieve better results for your physique.
Consider stacking it with some of the other recommendations for even better results.
Our #1 Recommendation
D-BAL (Best Overall)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Simple formula with proven ingredients to improve lean muscle mass gains without trenbolone acetate or deca durabolin
- Contains added magnesium for faster muscle recovery
- Great herbal ingredients to boost serum testosterone levels
- The capsules are small enough to make them easy to swallow
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of May
- Some users prefer taking powder supplements
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