During a bulking phase, bodybuilders are primarily looking to rapidly increase muscle mass in a short period of time; to become bigger, quicker. One of the biggest methods to achieve this is through the consumption of additional carbohydrates and protein, providing the body with the fuel it needs to build more muscle.
However, some bodybuilders opt to use alternative methods to enhance the results. While traditionally the preferred option was anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), there has been a notable shift over the past few years to selective androgen receptor modulators, or SARMs, which are deemed to be a safer solution.
A number of different SARMs have been developed, primarily in an effort to identify new treatments for muscle wasting diseases, and muscle weakness sparked by underlying conditions. These SARMs all have slightly different chemical structures, meaning that they all have slightly different effects on the body’s cells. For example, while some may be used for bulking, others may be better during cutting cycles.
So what are the best SARMs for bulking?
- LGD-4033 Ligandrol
Ligandrol is widely considered to be the best SARM for bulking if the desired result is size gains, rather than strength gains. It’s been shown to be effective at boosting lean body mass without causing increases in fat mass, but some users do report that this chemical can contribute to water retention. This means that Ligandrol may be powerful in increasing size, even though not all of that size is due to muscle growth.
It’s important to remember that some of these size effects will be reversed when the water retention eases. This means that bodybuilders using a SARMs cycle for bulking – using SARMs on and off – will notice changes in shape based on point in the cycle.
- RAD-140 Testolone
Testolone, developed by Radius Health Inc., was created as a potential treatment for some forms of breast cancer. Today, however, it is one of the most common SARMs used to enhance athletic performance. This is considered the best bulking SARM if the aim is to increase strength, rather than simply expand in terms of size. Research shows a 5mg – 30mg dose for 8-16 weeks can produce desirable results.
Some participants in research studies have noted some mild side effects from using Testolone. The most common side effects are difficulty sleeping, and lethargy throughout the day. It is important to be aware of side effects before buying.
Best SARMS stack for bulking
While LGD-4033 Ligandrol and RAD-140 Testolone are two of the best SARMs for bulking, there are many other SARMs that have demonstrated an ability to increase muscle mass. That’s why some bodybuilders stack their SARMs, taking multiple variants together to combine the benefits of the different chemical profiles.
A popular SARM stack for bulking is LGD-4033 Ligandrol and MK-677 Ibutamoren. Research into the simultaneous use of these two SARMs has shown that, together, these chemicals may help to increase body mass by an average of 6%. However, side effects may include loss of bone density, and elevated liver enzymes.
Ultimately, the best SARM stack for bulking is one that works with an individual’s own body. Some people may react more favourably to SARMs such as MK-2866 Ostarine and YK-11 Myostine, both of which demonstrate evidence of muscle growth.
Will SARMs work for bulking?
Research into SARMs for fitness and exercise is lacking, and it’s important to remember that everyone responds differently to these types of chemicals. Age, weight, sex, and health can all impact how an individual responds to SARMs, and what works well for one person may not be the best solution for another.
Generally speaking, however, SARMs such as LGD-4033 Ligandrol and RAD-140 Testolone have been shown to be highly beneficial for bulking purposes.