+ 4 First Cycle Log
Hey everyone,
I’m 26 and getting ready to start my first Test E cycle, so I figured I’d share my plan and get some input from those with more experience. Been training consistently for a few years, and I’ve built a solid base — now looking to take things to the next level with a smart, controlled approach.
Stats & Plan:
Age: 26
Height: 178 cm (5’10”)
Weight: 80 kg (175 lbs)
Cycle: Test E @ 300 mg/week for 12 weeks
AI: Arimidex on hand (as needed)
Diet: Around 3000 cal/day, high-protein, moderate carbs
Training: 6 days/week, mostly heavy compounds + accessory work
My main goals are lean mass and strength with minimal bloat. I’ve done my research, but I’d love to hear tips on pinning schedule, AI management, and what early signs of side effects to watch for.
Appreciate any guidance from the community
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Two months in, I’m curious on your progress? This is the exact same cycle I am planning to do.
Shayanasim14solid start bro, 300mg is a clean first run. pin twice a week and only touch ai if you really need it. around week 4 you’ll start feeling the test kick in. stay consistent with food and rest and you’ll grow steady.
LiftedGhostSolid setup, bro you’re starting smart and not overdoing it. 300mg/week is perfect for a first run, you’ll see good gains without wrecking your hormones. I’d say pin twice a week to keep levels steady, and don’t touch the AI unless you actually feel symptoms. You’re on the right track.
ShahzoThanks man, i will keep that in mind
musclehead2whats up bro, solid plan for your first test e cycle, looks like a smart start for lean mass and strength. I’m new to this too, been training a few years like you, and I’d suggest pinning twice a week (e.g., 150mg mon/th) to keep levels stable and watch for early sides, and use arimidex only if you notice bloat.maybe check in weekly to adjust cals if needed, best of luck bro!
ShahzoThanks bro, appreciate the advice
Yeah, I was thinking of splitting the pins twice a week too — seems like the best way to keep things stable. Good call on the Arimidex; I’ll definitely hold off unless I notice any signs of high E2.
I’ll keep an eye on my weight and adjust calories week by week depending on how the gains come in. Trying to stay as lean as possible while still growing.
Thanks again for the input, man good luck with your cycle too, let’s both make some solid progress
alxloveHey man,
Solid plan for a first cycle. It's smart to start conservative, and the fact you've built a base and are thinking about this methodically puts you way ahead of the game.
300mg/week of Test E is a perfect starting dose. You'll make fantastic gains on that, and it allows you to see how your body reacts without throwing the kitchen sink at it. A lot of guys make the mistake of going too high too fast. Split that into two pins, 150mg every 3.5 days (like Monday morning/Thursday evening). This will help keep your blood levels stable, which can minimize mood swings and estrogen-related sides.
Having Arimidex on hand is the right move. Do not take it unless you need it. The goal is to use the minimum effective dose of Test and manage estrogen with the AI only if symptoms appear.
Early signs of high E2 (Estrogen) to watch for: Water retention (puffy face, bloating), sensitive or puffy nipples, mood swings, or getting unusually emotional. If you notice any of these, that's your cue to consider the Arimidex. A good starting protocol is 0.5mg, and see how you feel after a few days. Don't crash your E2—low estrogen feels awful (dry joints, low mood, no energy).
You didn't mention it, but a proper PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) is non-negotiable. Have your Clomid or Nolvadex ready before you start. Get bloodwork done now (pre-cycle) so you have a baseline, and then again around week 6-8 to check your Test and Estradiol levels. This takes the guesswork out of everything.
Your diet and training look good. At 3000 calories, just be prepared to adjust. You might find you need to nudge that up a bit as the cycle progresses and your metabolism kicks up. Listen to your body—you're about to recover much faster, so that 6-day split will likely feel great.
You've got a great attitude and a solid plan. Stick to the basics, focus on your diet and training, and manage sides as they pop up. You're going to have a great first cycle.
Good luck.
ShahzoThanks a lot for the detailed breakdown, bro — seriously appreciate you taking the time to explain everything so clearly. --
Makes total sense about starting at 300mg/week and seeing how my body responds first. I was originally planning 500mg, but after hearing this, I might actually scale it back for the first run. No point rushing into higher doses when I can grow just fine on less and keep things cleaner.
Also appreciate the note on calories I’ll track my weight and adjust as needed once things kick in. Feeling good about keeping the foundation strong and not overcomplicating it.
Thanks again for the advice, bro this kind of input is exactly what I came here for. Respect