Victor Martinez and the GI crew compare Turkesterone or Anavar for muscle growth. 

Everyone wants to know how drugs affect your physique in the gym. What are the different drugs used for? Which ones do bodybuilders use to support muscle growth, and which are better suited for weight loss? Bodybuilding legend Victor Martinez and the Generation Iron team — Victor Martinez, Ehsan Farahi, Vlad Yudin, and Edwin Mejia Jr.  discuss what’s better for muscle growth, Turkesterone or Anavar? 

In addition to discussing these anabolic steroids, the GI team talks about how Ozempic works for weight loss and carb cycling to burn stubborn belly fat. They also discuss the gym culture in America and how it differs in other countries like Kuwait. 

*Note: The Generation Iron team does not endorse or recommend using any drugs discussed in this podcast. It’s all for conversational and educational purposes on how they may affect your body based on anecdotal evidence. 

Ozempic

To start the podcast, the crew discussed Ozempic. According to Martinez, Ozempic is a type II diabetic drug to treat diabetes — Edwin Mejia Jr. (GI producer) joked that the Kardashians also used it. Martinez said that it’s very effective for burning body fat and that the side effect of this drug is kidney failure. 

The GI crew added that a prescription is needed, or you’ll be paying $1200 to $1500 a month, and insurance companies will usually accept only obese patients. The consensus is that it’s good for you if you have an eating problem and struggle with obesity. However, it’s not recommended to do if you’re using it to get in shape. 

Turkesterone or Anavar for Muscle Growth

The Generation Iron team received an email from fans about the pros and cons of Turkesterone (a plant-based anabolic steroid) or Anavar (a steroid) to help with muscle growth. Specifically, Turkesterone is a plant-based ecdysteroid, a performance-enhancing found in herbs — thistle plants native to Central Asia. And on the other hand, Anavar is a medication prescribed to help people regain their weight from medical conditions, including surgery, chronic infection, and trauma. 

Turkesterone 

Turkesterone is a promising natural compound that has been gaining attention in the world of health and fitness, and for a good reason. This powerful substance, derived from the Ajuga Turkestanica plant, boasts an array of benefits that can help improve your overall well-being. Turkesterone enhances muscle growth and strength, making it an excellent addition to any workout routine. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing inflammation, promoting faster recovery, and reducing the risk of injury. 

But, as with any supplement, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects. Some users of Turkesterone have reported mild gastrointestinal issues, such as an upset stomach. Therefore, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before diving into the world of Turkesterone to ensure its safe and effective incorporation into your lifestyle (1).

Anavar

Anavar, a widely recognized steroid, has gained immense popularity in fitness and bodybuilding due to its multiple benefits. It not only aids in shedding body fat but also effectively supports muscle growth and strength gains. This makes it ideal for individuals seeking a well-toned and lean physique. Additionally, Anavar has a low androgenic effect, resulting in minimal side effects compared to other steroids. As a result, it is often considered a safer choice, especially for women. However, like any other medication, Anavar is not entirely without consequences. 

Some potential side effects may include liver toxicity, mild hair loss, and a temporary decrease in natural testosterone production. Therefore, users must consult with their healthcare professionals and adhere to a properly designed cycle to maximize Anavar’s benefits while minimizing undesirable bodily impacts (2).

Victor Martinez noted that even though people are starting to use these steroids again, they’re not new, and people are just beginning to use them again. After a brief discussion, the GI team decided Anavar was the better option. It’s simply the drug more known regarding how it works, its use, dosage, and side effects. Turkesterone isn’t as established, and there isn’t as much research or anecdotal evidence. 

Carb Cycling

Another topic discussed in the episode is what carb cycling is and how does it work? Victor Martinez said it’s lowering your intake of carbs. Martinez used an example and said you would start with about 200 grams of carbs, then reduce your consumption from there — 150g as lower to 100g — he said your body sustaining 100g per day is usually insufficient. 

That’s where “carb cycling” comes in, where you up your intake of carbohydrates for a few days. Vlad Yudin (GI director) chimed in and asked Martinez if it could be bad carbs or if it had to be clean carbs. Martinez responded that the carbs sources should preferably come from complex carbs, such as rice and potatoes. According to Martinez, it will shock your system to start burning fat. Martinez said, “so you have like 3 days low, you have 2 days high, or 1 day high, 2 days low.” 

Gym Culture in Kuwait Vs. the States

The GI podcast crew ended the podcast talking about the gym culture in other countries such as Kuwait — which the GI crew says has a very supportive gym environment — versus the states. And how much equipment is needed to prepare for bigger shows — Victor Martinez said nothing is better than free weights

Wrap Up 

Victor Martinez and the GI team discuss the anabolic steroids Turkesterone and Anavar and name which one is better for muscle growth. They also talked about the drug Ozempic and how some people use it for weight loss — although it’s meant for people with obesity or who are diabetic. Carb cycling was another topic covered, a very effective fat-burning strategy. Lastly, the crew talked about gym culture in the states versus Kuwait. You can watch the full video of the late Generation Iron podcast above. 

Don’t forget to also check back every Tuesday for new episodes every Tuesday only on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded. 

References

  1. Dinan, L., Bourne, P., Whiting, P., Tsitsekli, A., Saatov, Z., Dhadialla, T. S., Hormann, R. E., Lafont, R., & Coll, J. (2003). Synthesis and biological activities of turkesterone 11alpha-acyl derivatives. Journal of insect science (Online), 3, 6. https://doi.org/10.1093/jis/3.1.6
  2. Przkora, R., Herndon, D. N., & Suman, O. E. (2007). The effects of oxandrolone and exercise on muscle mass and function in children with severe burns. Pediatrics, 119(1), e109–e116. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2006-1548
Terry Ramos
As a personal trainer and writer, Terry loves changing lives through coaching and the written word. Terry has a B.S. in Kinesiology and is an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and ISSA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. He enjoys playing music, reading, and watching films when he's not writing or training.