Bulking — Classic Mass
Test + Deca + Dbol kickstart — the canonical intermediate mass protocol.
Overview
The research-canonical intermediate mass cycle. Testosterone Enanthate as the foundation (long ester, stable serum levels), Nandrolone Decanoate for mass and joint recovery (documented synergy with test), Dianabol as a 4-week oral kickstart to amplify early gains. Aromatase control and full PCT are built in. This is the most-studied mass protocol in the bodybuilding literature.
Who it's for
- 01Intermediate researchers with ≥1 prior clean testosterone-only cycle
- 02Ages 27+ with complete bloodwork history
- 03Researchers with joint-recovery goals (Deca has documented collagen synthesis effects)
What's inside — 6 compounds
$75.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 200 mg
- Frequency
- 2× weekly
- Weeks
- 1-14
- Category
- injectables
400 mg/week split. Drop 2 weeks before test to let Deca clear faster than Test
$69.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 25 mg
- Frequency
- Daily
- Weeks
- 1-4
- Category
- orals
Split AM/PM. Kickstart only — not for the full cycle (hepatotoxicity)
$50.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 0.5 mg
- Frequency
- Every other day
- Weeks
- 1-16
- Category
- orals
May need 0.5 mg EOD due to Dbol aromatization in weeks 1-4, then 0.25 EOD
$40.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 20 mg
- Frequency
- Daily
- Weeks
- 17-20
- Category
- orals
Start 3 weeks after last Test injection (Deca-ET half-life considerations)
$40.00
View PDP →- Dose
- 50 mg
- Frequency
- Daily
- Weeks
- 17-20
- Category
- orals
50 mg daily × 4 weeks, optionally taper to 25 mg final week
Weekly Protocol
Weeks 1–4: Dbol kickstart + Test + Deca. Weeks 5–14: Test + Deca. Weeks 15–16: Test only (Deca dropped). Weeks 17–20: PCT. Deca's long ester requires a 3-week wait before PCT begins (vs 2 weeks for Test-only).
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test Enanthate | 250 mg | 2× weekly | 1-16 |
| Deca Durabolin | 200 mg | 2× weekly | 1-14 |
| Dianabol | 25 mg | Daily | 1-4 |
| Arimidex | 0.5 mg | Every other day | 1-16 |
| Nolvadex | 20 mg | Daily | 17-20 |
| Clomid | 50 mg | Daily | 17-20 |
Expected Outcomes
- 25–40 lb scale weight over 16 weeks (meaningful water + glycogen retention)
- 15–30% strength increase on compound lifts
- Joint-related complaints often resolve (Deca mechanism)
- Longer PCT window due to 19-nor progestational activity
Support Requirements
Items referenced in the protocol. Some are included in the stack; support-only items may need to be ordered separately.
Estradiol control throughout
PCT — primary SERM
PCT — LH/FSH rebound
Optional: testicular volume preservation on-cycle
Optional: libido support (19-nor stacks often reduce libido)
Safety & Warnings
- 19-nor progestational activity can cause prolactin-driven sides — cabergoline on hand recommended.
- Dbol is hepatotoxic — do NOT extend past 4 weeks. Liver panel at week 5.
- Deca kills libido in most users without testosterone dominance — keep Test dose ≥ Deca dose.
- Longer clearance = longer PCT wait. Don't start PCT at week 15.
- Not a first cycle. If you haven't done a test-only cycle, start there.
Frequently Asked
Why not run Dbol the whole cycle?
Hepatotoxicity. 4 weeks at 25 mg is within most researchers' tolerance window; 8 weeks at any dose stresses the liver meaningfully. Kickstart is the evidence-based use.
Can I swap Deca for EQ (Boldenone)?
Yes — EQ is a reasonable swap if prolactin issues are a concern. Different profile (more vascularity, less mass, longer ester). Dose 400–600 mg/wk, 16-week cycle.
Why 3-week wait before PCT?
Deca has a ~15-day half-life (Decanoate ester). Starting PCT while Deca is still suppressing HPTA wastes the SERM window. 3 weeks gives Deca time to clear meaningfully.
Research disclaimer
All stack suggestions reflect the published literature and are provided for research-reference purposes only. Individual protocols require compound-specific planning. Consult the stacking theory guide before designing your protocol. Not medical advice.