EPO Gains

[cactuslover]

Yes after learning more about all of this, I agree. No TRT. I tried it and immediately gained like 10 pounds which is no good for cycling. The question I have is do you get the same effect/outcome regardless of what you take. For instance if you are taking EPO and get your hematocrit up to 54 hemoglobin 18 and or taking Test and get the numbers to the same point...is the effect the same on performance? I always wondered that, because all of the pros in the 90's-2000's etc..were also taking test. Why wouldnt they just use test to get the numbers up and save the risk of EPO. The other thing is you seem to get the boost from having the numbers high, these guys all couldnt test over 50 during competition, so what was the point? I am clearly missing something here...

I've thought about that for myself. My baseline HCT before testosterone was 49.9% and on 200mg/week my HCT hovers around 54-55%. If I consciously hydrate and do 4 liters daily, I can get it down to 53ish but drinking to thirst has me at ~55%. I don't think I'd be a candidate for EPO. I believe I read that most of those Tour guys had HCT in the high 40s even while on EPO so who knows what their baseline was.

 

[bossetti]

I've thought about that for myself. My baseline HCT before testosterone was 49.9% and on 200mg/week my HCT hovers around 54-55%. If I consciously hydrate and do 4 liters daily, I can get it down to 53ish but drinking to thirst has me at ~55%. I don't think I'd be a candidate for EPO. I believe I read that most of those Tour guys had HCT in the high 40s even while on EPO so who knows what their baseline was.

My baseline by not training much was like 44,when training a lot drop to around 39

 

[Beetheone]

Yes I returned to racing this year at 54 and was absolutely gobsmacked at how strong these guys are...Its kind of ridiculous. I am guessing most are using test and hgh minimum.

I would imagine yes. I know for sure almost all the Euros and almost all of the S Americans are doped (or at least taking stuff and decide to race later)

For me, I'm so beyond wanting to race that I don't bother. I don't have the want in me, to prep all week for a race and then I flat or something else stupid happens and the whole week is wasted (been there done that).

I'd rather just ride out of my garage for a group ride and get a solid 4hrs in and enjoy the rest of the day.