Famous Bodybuilders and Their Reported Anabolic Steroid Cycles

[MuscleMecca Crew]

In this thread, we will put up info on famous bodybuilders' steroid cycles. If you know one, feel free to post it here!

 

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Dorian Yates (6x Mr. Olympia, 1992–1997)

• Reported Cycle(pre-contest peak):
  • Testosterone: Specific ester and dosage not fully detailed, but confirmed use.
  • Primobolan: Approximately 300 mg/week.
  • Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca): Around 200 mg/week.
  • Insulin: Used later in his career but discontinued due to negative effects on muscle definition (smoother, bloated look).
• Notes: Yates was candid about his steroid use, emphasizing moderate dosages compared to modern standards. He discussed cycles in interviews.
• Health Context: Yates has spoken about the need for medical supervision and the risks of long-term use.

​

Dorian Yates Steroid Cycle Breakdown: Insight into the Legendary 6x Mr. Olympia (1992–1997)​

Dorian Yates, famously known as "The Shadow," dominated bodybuilding during the 1990s with an unparalleled blend of dense muscle mass, freakish conditioning, and a work ethic second to none. Despite being in an era less open about anabolic steroid use, Yates himself has been notably transparent about his approach, particularly in recent years through various interviews and podcasts.

Here's a breakdown of the cycle Yates reportedly followed during his peak competitive years:

Reported Pre-Contest Steroid Cycle:​

• Testosterone:
  While Dorian confirmed regular testosterone usage, he hasn't extensively detailed the specific esters or exact dosages publicly. However, he's suggested his testosterone intake remained relatively moderate compared to many contemporary athletes who tend to push higher levels.
• Primobolan (~300 mg/week):
  Primobolan (Methenolone) was one of Yates' staples during contest prep. Valued for its minimal side effects, low water retention, and high anabolic properties, Primobolan helped Yates retain hard, dry, and defined muscle tissue while dieting down into competition shape. Approximately 300 mg per week kept his physique dense without excessive bulk or water.
• Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca, ~200 mg/week):
  Another component of his stack, Deca, offered a solid balance of joint lubrication and muscular fullness at relatively conservative dosages. At about 200 mg per week, Deca assisted in muscle recovery and injury prevention, a critical factor given Yates' notoriously heavy training intensity.
• Insulin (Short-term, discontinued):
  In the later stages of his career, Dorian experimented briefly with insulin—a substance that has become much more common in modern bodybuilding. However, Yates quickly recognized insulin compromised his hallmark crisp, dry muscle definition, creating an undesirable smoother and bloated look. Consequently, he discontinued insulin use, reaffirming his commitment to maintaining peak conditioning.

Important Notes on Dorian’s Philosophy:​

Dorian has repeatedly stressed that moderation and intelligent usage defined his steroid cycles. His openness contrasts sharply with some current practices where extreme dosages have become common. Yates has openly criticized excessive steroid use prevalent today, arguing that modern competitors often rely heavily on chemical enhancement rather than consistent, disciplined training and dietary practices.

Health Context & Caution:​

In numerous interviews, Dorian Yates has emphasized the risks associated with prolonged steroid use, advocating strongly for regular medical supervision, responsible dosing, and frequent health check-ups. He openly discusses potential long-term implications and stresses the importance of weighing risks against rewards.

Dorian’s approach and candidness offer valuable lessons. His example illustrates that achieving world-class muscle mass and conditioning can happen without excessive or reckless anabolic steroid use—highlighting disciplined training, nutrition, and moderate cycles.

Discussion Point:
What are your thoughts on Yates' moderate approach to steroids compared to current bodybuilding trends? Could modern bodybuilders benefit from adopting a similar philosophy?

Feel free to share your thoughts below!

 

[Kayce]

This is probably exaggerated but still interesting.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Alleged Steroid Cycle​

Arnold Schwarzenegger, dominant in the 1960s and 1970s, has openly admitted to using anabolic steroids during his competitive career, particularly in a 2005 interview and his autobiography, Total Recall. He emphasized that steroids were legal and doctor-supervised at the time, used in moderate doses compared to modern standards. Based on his statements, interviews with peers, and sources like bodybuilding forums, his alleged cycle included:

• Dianabol (Methandrostenolone): 10–20 mg per day, typically taken orally for 6–8 weeks. Arnold reportedly favored Dianabol for its muscle-building effects.
• Primobolan (Methenolone Acetate or Enanthate): 100–200 mg per week, injected, often used for lean mass and cutting.
• Testosterone (e.g., Testosterone Propionate or Cypionate): 200–400 mg per week, though some sources speculate lower doses (100–200 mg) due to the era’s conservative approach.
• Deca-Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate): 100–200 mg per week, used for joint support and moderate mass gains.

Cycle Duration: Arnold reportedly cycled steroids for 6–12 weeks leading up to competitions (e.g., Mr. Olympia), with off-periods post-contest to minimize side effects. Total weekly dosages were estimated at 500–800 mg, significantly lower than modern bodybuilders’ cycles (1500–4000 mg/week).
Ancillary Drugs: Limited use, as aromatase inhibitors (e.g., Arimidex) and post-cycle therapy (e.g., Clomid) were not common in the 1970s. Arnold relied on medical oversight to manage side effects like estrogen buildup.