Anavar is a popular anabolic steroid known for its mild nature and ability to help bodybuilders maintain muscle mass while losing fat. Because of its reputation as a "clean" compound that rarely causes water retention or gynecomastia, it has become a staple in many cutting cycles across all levels of experience. Below you will find an extensive guide on how to incorporate Anavar into your training regimen, tailored for beginners, intermediates and advanced athletes, along with practical instructions on dosage, cycle length, post-cycle therapy, diet, and training considerations.



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Understanding Anavar


Anavar is the brand name for oxandrolone, a synthetic derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It was originally developed to treat conditions such as muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and severe burns. In bodybuilding circles, its main appeal lies in the following attributes:





Low androgenic activity – this reduces the likelihood of side‑effects like acne, hair loss or gynecomastia.


High anabolic potential relative to side effects – it promotes lean muscle gains without significant water retention.


Excellent fat‑loss synergy – when combined with a calorie deficit and resistance training, Anavar can accelerate the breakdown of adipose tissue.


Short half‑life (≈ 9 hours) – this allows for flexible dosing schedules and quick clearance from the body.



Because it is relatively mild, many users prefer to stack Anavar with other compounds such as testosterone or trenbolone for a more potent anabolic effect. However, stacking can also increase overall risk of side effects, so careful planning is essential.





Anavar Cycle by Bodybuilding Level



1. Beginner Cycle (4–6 Weeks)


Goal: Learn the fundamentals of steroid use while minimizing risks.




Day Dosage


1‑7 20 mg/day


8‑14 40 mg/day


15‑21 60 mg/day


22‑28 80 mg/day


Key Points





Gradual ramp‑up prevents sudden hormonal shock and helps the body adjust.


Monitoring: Check liver enzymes (AST/ALT) and lipid profile every 2–3 weeks.


Diet: Aim for a slight caloric deficit (~200–300 kcal below maintenance). Protein intake should be ~1.5 g per pound of body weight to preserve muscle.


Training: Emphasize compound lifts (squat, deadlift, bench) with moderate volume (3‑4 sets × 8‑12 reps).


Post‑Cycle Therapy (PCT): After the 28‑day cycle, start an aromatase inhibitor such as anastrozole (0.5 mg every other day) for 7 days, followed by a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERMs) like tamoxifen (20 mg daily) for 4 weeks.




2. Intermediate Cycle (6–8 Weeks)


Goal: Increase muscle mass while continuing fat loss, with more pronounced anabolic support.




Day Dosage


1‑7 30 mg/day


8‑14 50 mg/day


15‑21 70 mg/day


22‑28 90 mg/day


29‑35 100 mg/day


Key Points





Higher total dose (≈ 420–560 mg over the cycle) gives a stronger anabolic stimulus.


Stacking option: Pair with testosterone enanthate or cypionate at 200 mg every two weeks to maintain natural testosterone levels and enhance recovery.


Diet: Slightly higher protein (1.6 g/lb), moderate carbs (~2–3 g/lb) for energy, and a small caloric deficit of ~300‑400 kcal.


Training: Increase volume to 4‑5 sets per exercise, incorporate supersets or drop sets for muscle fatigue.


PCT: Begin anastrozole at 0.25 mg every other day for the first week, then shift to tamoxifen 20 mg daily for 6 weeks.




3. Advanced Cycle (8–12 Weeks)


Goal: Maximize lean muscle gain while cutting fat, often used in final stages before a major competition or physique showcase.




Day Dosage


1‑7 40 mg/day


8‑14 60 mg/day


15‑21 80 mg/day


22‑28 100 mg/day


29‑35 120 mg/day


36‑42 140 mg/day


Key Points





Total dose (≈ 800–1,000 mg) provides a powerful anabolic stimulus. This level requires close medical supervision and liver monitoring.


Stacking options:


- Testosterone: 250 mg every week to support natural production.
- Trenbolone or Deca‑Durabolin: For an extra push in muscle density; however, these compounds have higher androgenic activity and should be used cautiously.




Diet: Protein remains high (≈1.7 g/lb). Carbohydrate intake is tailored to training intensity – more carbs on heavy days, less on light or rest days. Maintain a moderate caloric deficit (~400‑500 kcal).


Training: Focus on hypertrophy and strength; use periodization (intensity blocks) to avoid overtraining.


PCT: More aggressive protocol is necessary. Start with anastrozole 0.25 mg every other day for 2 weeks, then switch to tamoxifen 20 mg daily for 8 weeks, supplemented by a natural testosterone booster if needed.







Practical Ways to Run Anavar Cycles



Timing and Administration




Morning dose: Most users take Anavar in the morning because it can boost energy levels. A second dose mid‑day (if higher doses are used) helps maintain stable blood levels.


Split dosing: For doses above 80 mg, splitting into two or three smaller doses reduces peak concentration and may lessen liver strain.




Monitoring Side Effects




Liver Function Tests – AST/ALT should be checked before the cycle starts and then every 3–4 weeks.


Blood Lipids – LDL and HDL levels can shift; consider statin therapy if needed (consult a physician).


Mood & Sleep – Anavar can cause mild mood swings or insomnia in some individuals; keep a log to detect patterns.




Dietary Considerations




Protein: Essential for muscle repair, aim for 1.5–2 g per kilogram of body weight.


Carbohydrates: Adjust based on training load; high carb days support glycogen stores and recovery.


Fats: Include healthy fats (omega‑3s, nuts) to aid hormone synthesis.


Hydration: Drink at least 3–4 liters per day. Adequate water helps liver detoxification.




Training Recommendations




Compound Lifts – Squat, deadlift, bench press, overhead press form the core of any anabolic cycle.


Accessory Work – Pull‑ups, rows, curls, triceps extensions to target all muscle groups.


Volume & Intensity – Increase both gradually; aim for progressive overload while allowing adequate recovery.


Recovery – Sleep 7–9 hours per night, consider massage or foam rolling.







Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) Essentials


Anavar is a non‑aromatizing steroid, meaning it does not convert to estrogen. However, it still suppresses the hypothalamic‑pituitary‑gonadal axis, so PCT is vital:





Aromatase Inhibitor – Anastrozole 0.25–0.5 mg every other day for the first week prevents estrogen rebound.


SERM – Tamoxifen or Clomiphene at 20 mg daily for 4‑8 weeks stimulates natural testosterone production.


Natural Testosterone Booster – Supplements such as Tribulus terrestris, DHEA, or zinc may support recovery but are not substitutes for medical supervision.







Final Thoughts


Anavar is a versatile compound that can be tailored to fit the needs of beginners through advanced competitors. Its mild profile makes it an excellent choice for cutting cycles where water retention must be minimized. Regardless of level, the key to success lies in disciplined dosing, vigilant monitoring of health markers, and adherence to a well‑structured diet and training program. By following the guidelines above, athletes can harness Anavar’s benefits while keeping risk at acceptable levels.