The 5 Best SARMs for Bodybuilding

Bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights – it’s a lifestyle centered around sculpting the ideal physique. 

And in the never-ending quest for gains, many turn to selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) as a safe and legal alternative to anabolic steroids. 

But with so many SARMs on the supplement market, how do you know which ones are the best for packing lean muscle? That’s what this definitive guide covers. 

I’ve analyzed the top options for building mass based on real-world results and clinical evidence.

Keep reading as I break down the mechanism, benefits, side effects, legality, and more for each top SARM pick.

Key Takeaways

Feature	Ligandrol (LGD-4033)	Ostarine (MK-2866)	YK-11	S-23	RAD-140 (Testolone)
Muscle Growth 💪	Strong	Moderate	Very Strong	Strong	Very Strong
Fat Loss 🔥	Moderate	Good	Moderate	Excellent	Good
Strength Gains 🏋️	High	Moderate	Very High	High	Very High
Side Effects 😬	Moderate	Mild	Potentially Severe	Moderate to High	Moderate to High
Suppression 📉	High	Low to Moderate	Very High	Very High	Very High
Versatility 🔄	Bulking	Cutting & Bulking	Bulking	Cutting	Bulking
Beginner Friendly 🔰	Moderate	Yes	No	No	No
Research Availability 🔬	Moderate	High	Low	Low	Moderate
Overall Score ⭐	8/10	9/10	7/10	8/10	8/10

What Are SARMs and Why Should You Care?

SARMs, or Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, are a class of compounds that work similarly to anabolic steroids but with a twist. 

They selectively target androgen receptors in specific tissues, primarily muscle, and bone, while minimizing effects on other organs. This selectivity is what makes SARMs so appealing to bodybuilders and athletes.

Now, you might be thinking, “Sounds great, but are they safe?” Well, that’s where things get interesting. 

While SARMs are generally considered safer than traditional anabolic steroids, they’re not without risks. That’s why it’s crucial to understand each compound thoroughly before incorporating them into your regimen.

The Top 5 Best SARMs for Bodybuilding

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are the top 5 SARMs that have been making waves in the bodybuilding community. I’ll break down each one, giving you the pros, cons, and everything in between.

1. Ligandrol (LGD-4033)

If you’re looking to pack on serious muscle, Ligandrol might just be your new best friend. This SARM is known for its potent anabolic effects, making it a favorite among bodybuilders looking to increase muscle mass and bulk up.

Detailed Overview

Ligandrol works by binding strongly to androgen receptors in muscle tissue, promoting rapid muscle growth and strength gains. What’s impressive about LGD-4033 is its ability to produce noticeable results even at low doses.

From my experience working with bodybuilders, Ligandrol can lead to significant lean muscle growth and gains in a relatively short period. I’ve seen clients add 5-10 pounds of lean muscle mass in a single 8-week cycle, which is pretty remarkable.

One thing to note is that Ligandrol can cause some water retention, especially at higher doses. This can be a double-edged sword – it can make your muscles look fuller, but it might also mask some of your muscle definition.

That’s why it’s typically used during bulking phases rather than cutting.

Key Points

• Dosage: 5-10mg per day
• Cycle Length: 8-12 weeks
• PCT Required: Yes, due to its suppressive nature

Pros

• Powerful for building lean muscle mass
• Increases strength significantly
• Effective even at low doses
• Can improve bone density

Cons

• More suppressive than Ostarine
• Can cause water retention
• May affect lipid profiles

2. Ostarine (MK-2866)

Ostarine, also known as MK-2866 or Enobosarm, is often considered the golden child of SARMs. It’s one of the most well-researched compounds in the bunch, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced users.

Detailed Overview

Ostarine works by binding to androgen receptors in your muscles and bones, promoting muscle growth and increased muscle and bone tissue density. What sets it apart is its versatility – it’s effective for both bulking and cutting cycles.

In my experience, Ostarine really shines during a cutting phase. It helps preserve lean muscle mass while you’re in a caloric deficit, which is crucial for maintaining that hard-earned muscle.

I’ve seen clients retain significantly more muscle during cuts when using Ostarine compared to natural cutting.

For bulking, while not as potent as some other SARMs, Ostarine can still contribute to lean muscle gains. It’s particularly useful for those looking to build muscle without the excess water retention often associated with other compounds.

Key Points

• Dosage: Typically 10-30mg per day
• Cycle Length: 8-12 weeks
• PCT Required: Generally not for lower doses, but recommended for higher doses or longer cycles

Pros

• Versatile for both cutting and bulking
• Mild side effects compared to other SARMs
• Well-researched with human trials
• Excellent for preserving muscle during cuts

Cons

• Mild testosterone suppression at higher doses
• Not as potent for muscle building as some other SARMs
• Potential for vision side effects (rare)

3. YK-11

YK-11 is a bit of a wild card in the world of SARMs. It’s often referred to as a “hybrid” compound because it shares properties of both SARMs and traditional steroids. What makes YK-11 unique is its potential to act as a myostatin inhibitor.

Detailed Overview

Myostatin is a protein that limits muscle growth in the body. By potentially inhibiting myostatin, YK-11 may allow for muscle growth beyond what’s typically possible, even with other SARMs or steroids.

In my experience, YK-11 is not for the faint of heart. It’s incredibly potent, and the results can be dramatic. I’ve seen users gain significant muscle mass and strength in short periods.

However, it’s also one of the more unpredictable compounds in terms of side effects.

One interesting aspect of YK-11 is its potential to increase bone strength. This could be particularly beneficial for bodybuilders looking to keep bone health and support their skeletal system during heavy lifting phases.

Key Points

• Dosage: 5-10mg per day
• Cycle Length: 4-8 weeks (shorter due to potency)
• PCT Required: Absolutely necessary

Pros

• Extremely potent for muscle growth
• May inhibit myostatin, allowing for greater muscle gains
• Can increase bone strength
• Rapid strength gains

Cons

• Limited research available
• Potentially harsh side effects
• Highly suppressive
• Not recommended for beginners

4. S-23

S-23 is often described as one of the strongest SARMs available, and it’s particularly popular among bodybuilders in cutting phases. It’s known for its ability to promote muscle growth, produce hard, dry gains and enhance fat loss.

Detailed Overview

S-23 binds very strongly to androgen receptors, leading to significant anabolic activity. What sets it apart is its ability to produce a “dry” look, meaning users often report looking more vascular and defined.

In my coaching experience, S-23 is incredibly effective for cutting cycles. I’ve seen users dramatically reduce body fat while maintaining or even slightly increasing muscle mass. The strength gains can also be substantial, which is crucial for maintaining performance during a cut.

One unique aspect of S-23 is its potential as a male contraceptive. Studies have shown it can significantly reduce sperm count, though this effect is reversible after discontinuation.

Key Points

• Dosage: 10-30mg per day
• Cycle Length: 8 weeks
• PCT Required: Absolutely necessary

Pros

• Excellent for cutting and achieving a dry, lean look
• Can help maintain or even build muscle in a calorie deficit
• Increases strength and endurance
• May have benefits for bone density

Cons

• Highly suppressive of natural testosterone
• Can cause aggressive or mood changes in some users
• May affect male fertility (temporarily)
• Limited long-term research available

5. RAD-140 (Testolone)

RAD-140, also known as Testolone, is often touted as one of the most potent SARMs available. If you’re looking for dramatic increases in strength and muscle mass, RAD-140 might be right up your alley.

Detailed Overview

RAD-140 is known for its high anabolic-to-androgenic ratio, meaning it provides substantial muscle-building benefits with fewer androgenic side effects compared to traditional steroids. It’s particularly effective at increasing protein synthesis and nitrogen retention in muscle tissues.

Users often report rapid increases in strength, sometimes seeing their lifts go up by 10-15% in a single cycle. The muscle gains can be equally impressive, with some users adding up to 10-15 pounds of lean mass in 8-12 weeks.

However, with great power comes great responsibility. RAD-140 is also known for being one of the more suppressive SARMs. This means you’ll definitely need to plan for post-cycle therapy (PCT) to help your body bounce back after a cycle.

Key Points

• Dosage: 10-20mg per day
• Cycle Length: 8-10 weeks
• PCT Required: Absolutely necessary

Pros

• Extremely potent for muscle growth and strength gains
• Can produce rapid, noticeable results
• May have neuroprotective properties
• Doesn’t convert to estrogen

Cons

• Highly suppressive of natural testosterone
• Can cause significant side effects at higher doses
• May cause aggression or mood swings in some users

How to Choose the Right SARM for Your Goals

Now that we’ve covered the top 5 SARMs for bodybuilding, you might be wondering which one is right for you.

The truth is, the best SARM (or combination of SARMs) depends on your individual goals, experience level, and how your body responds to these compounds.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

1. For Beginners: If you’re new to SARMs, start with Ostarine. It’s milder and well-researched, making it a good introduction to these compounds.
2. For Bulking: Ligandrol (LGD-4033) or RAD-140 are your best bets. They’re potent for muscle growth and strength gains.
3. For Cutting: S-23 or Ostarine are excellent choices. They help preserve muscle while promoting fat loss.
4. For Recomposition: A combination of Ostarine and Cardarine (GW-501516) can be effective. While Cardarine isn’t technically a SARM, it works well in synergy for body recomposition.
5. For Advanced Users: YK-11 or S-23 can provide powerful results, but they should only be used by those with experience in SARMs and a solid understanding of how their body reacts to these compounds.

Remember, always start with the lowest effective dose and gradually increase if needed. It’s also crucial to have proper post-cycle therapy (PCT) planned, especially for the more suppressive SARMs like RAD-140, YK-11, and S-23.

The Importance of Proper Dosing and Cycling

One of the biggest mistakes I see in the bodybuilding community is improper dosing and cycling of SARMs.

It’s crucial to understand that more is not always better. In fact, using too high a dose or running cycles for too long can lead to diminishing returns and increased risk of side effects.

Here are some general guidelines for SARM cycles:

1. Cycle Length: Most SARM cycles run for 8-12 weeks. Anything longer than this can increase the risk of side effects and suppression.
2. Time Between Cycles: It’s important to give your body time to recover between cycles. A good rule of thumb is to take as much time off as the length of your cycle (e.g., 8 weeks on, 8 weeks off).
3. Start Low: Always start with the lowest effective dose and only increase if necessary. This allows you to gauge your body’s response and minimize potential side effects.
4. PCT: Plan your post-cycle therapy before you even start your cycle. This is crucial for helping your body recover and maintaining your gains.
5. Listen to Your Body: If you experience severe side effects, don’t hesitate to stop your cycle early. Your health should always come first.

The Role of Diet and Training with SARMs

Here’s something that might surprise you: SARMs are not magic pills. I know, shocking, right? The truth is, while SARMs can significantly enhance your results, they work best when combined with a solid diet and training program.

Nutrition

When using SARMs, your nutritional needs may change. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Protein Intake: Increase your protein intake to support muscle growth. Aim for 1.6-2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.
2. Caloric Intake: Adjust your calories based on your goals. If bulking, increase your caloric intake. If cutting, create a modest calorie deficit.
3. Micronutrients: Don’t neglect your vitamins and minerals. They play crucial roles in muscle growth, recovery, and overall health.
4. Hydration: SARMs can increase muscle fullness, which means you’ll need to drink more water to stay properly hydrated.

Training

To maximize the benefits of SARMs, you’ll want to adjust your training:

1. Increase Volume: SARMs enhance recovery, so you can often handle more volume. Gradually increase your training volume to stimulate growth hormone.
2. Progressive Overload: Continue to challenge your muscles by progressively increasing weights or reps.
3. Focus on Compound Movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses stimulate the most muscle growth.
4. Recovery: While SARMs can enhance recovery, don’t neglect rest days. They’re crucial for muscle growth and preventing burnout.

Potential Side Effects and How to Manage Them

While SARMs are generally considered safer than traditional anabolic steroids, they’re not without potential side effects. It’s crucial to be aware of these and know how to manage them:

1. Testosterone Suppression: This is the most common side effect, especially with more potent SARMs. Proper PCT is crucial to help your body recover.
2. Liver Stress: Some SARMs can cause mild liver stress. Supporting liver health with supplements like milk thistle can be beneficial.
3. Cholesterol Changes: SARMs can affect lipid profiles. Regular bloodwork and cardiovascular support supplements can help manage this.
4. Acne and Hair Loss: These are less common but can occur, especially in individuals prone to these issues.
5. Mood Changes: Some users report increased aggression or mood swings. If this occurs, consider lowering your dose or discontinuing use.

Remember, the key to managing side effects is awareness and proactive measures. Regular blood work, proper supplementation, and listening to your body are crucial.

The Legal Status of SARMs

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. The legal status of SARMs is a bit of a grey area in many countries. In the United States, for example, SARMs are not approved for human use by the FDA. They’re often sold as “research chemicals” and are illegal to sell for human consumption.

In competitive sports, SARMs are prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and most major sports organizations. Using them can result in disqualification and other penalties.

It’s crucial to be aware of the legal status of SARMs in your country or region. Always prioritize your health and comply with local laws and regulations.

Alternatives to SARMs

If you’re not comfortable with the potential risks or legal status of SARMs, there are alternatives you can consider:

1. Creatine: One of the most well-researched and effective supplements for muscle growth and strength.
2. Protein Supplements: Whey, casein, and plant-based proteins can help support muscle growth and recovery.
3. Beta-Alanine: Can improve muscular endurance and workout performance.
4. Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Support muscle recovery and may help reduce muscle soreness.
5. Natural Testosterone Boosters: Ingredients like D-Aspartic Acid, Fenugreek, and Ashwagandha may help support natural testosterone levels.

Let’s compare all of these options:

Substance	Anabolic Effect	Androgenic Effect	Risk of Side Effects	Legal Status
SARMs	Moderate to High	Low to Moderate	Moderate	Gray Area
Anabolic Steroids	Very High	High	High	Illegal (without prescription)
Prohormones	Moderate to High	Moderate to High	High	Mostly Illegal
Natural Testosterone Boosters	Low	Low	Low	Legal
Creatine	Low to Moderate	None	Very Low	Legal

While these alternatives may not be as potent as SARMs, they’re generally safer and legal for use in most countries and sports organizations.

Are SARMs Right for You?

At the end of the day, the decision to use SARMs is a personal one that requires careful consideration. They can undoubtedly be powerful tools for bodybuilding, potentially helping you build muscle and lose fat more effectively than natural methods alone.

However, it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. SARMs are not without side effects, and their long-term impacts are not yet fully understood.

Moreover, their legal status means they’re not subject to the same quality control and regulation as approved pharmaceuticals or supplements.

If you do decide to use SARMs, educate yourself thoroughly, start with low doses, and always prioritize your health. Regular blood work, proper PCT, and a solid foundation of diet and training are non-negotiable.

Remember, there’s no shortcut to a great physique that doesn’t come with potential drawbacks.

Whether you choose to use SARMs or stick to natural methods, consistency, hard work, and patience will always be the most important factors in achieving your bodybuilding goals.

Stay safe, train hard, and may your gains be ever in your favor!