Getting lean and defined is more than just diet and exercise. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) have become popular for cutting cycles and fat loss while preserving muscle. With years of experience in the fitness industry I can attest to SARMs transforming body composition.
SARMs target androgen receptors in muscle and bone, the anabolic benefits of steroids without many of the side effects. That means more muscle retention, better fat metabolism and a more defined physique. Whether prepping for a show or just wanting to look leaner, the right SARMs can take your cutting results to the next level.
I will introduce you to the best SARMs for cutting and fat burning. We’ll also go over the best stacks to burn body fat. Whether you’re a seasoned bodybuilder or new to the concept this guide will help you get ripped and shredded.
Top 4 Best SARMs for Cutting and Shredding - Intro
- CARDARINE GW510156
- STENABOLIC SR9009
- LIGANDROL LGD4033
- IBUTAMOREN MK677
The above SARMs are legally available in the United States, UK, Australia and Canada, and several other countries (check website for details).
For maximum benefit I advise combining to create a SARM Stack. This will help you get where you want to be quicker.
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Detailed Reviews of Best Cutting SARMs for Fat Burning
Here is a detailed view of the 4 top SARMs to get that ripped and shredded physique and show that hard earned muscle.
#1 - Cardarine (GW501516)
CLICK to view C-Dine 501516 legal Cardarine SARM brand price and availability
Cardarine (GW501516) for Cutting and Shredding
How it works
Cardarine (GW501516) although not a SARM is often grouped with SARMs due to its effects on fat metabolism and endurance. It’s a PPARδ (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Delta) receptor agonist. By activating PPARδ receptors Cardarine allows the body to oxidize fatty acids more efficiently and use stored fat for energy. Also improves glucose uptake in muscle tissue to regulate blood sugar and reduce fat storage.
Benefits of Cardarine for Burning Fat
Increased Fat Burning: Cardarine increases the body’s ability to burn fat. By increasing fatty acid oxidation it burns fat more than diet and exercise alone.
Improved Endurance: One of the benefits of Cardarine is increased endurance. This allows for more intense and longer cardio sessions which further promotes fat loss during cutting phases.
Muscle Recovery: Cardarine reduces inflammation and muscle soreness so you can train harder and recover faster. This is key to maintaining high performance while in a calorie deficit.
Muscle Preservation: While primarily for losing body fat Cardarine helps preserve lean muscle mass by increasing energy production and reducing muscle breakdown. So the weight loss is mostly fat.
Improved Metabolic Health: Cardarine SARM increases glucose uptake and lipid metabolism for better overall metabolic health. It regulates blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of insulin resistance which is good for long term muscle function and health.
No Hormonal Suppression: Unlike many anabolic agents Cardarine doesn’t suppress natural testosterone production or affect hormone levels. So you can add it to your cutting cycle without the need for extensive PCT.
Cardarine Summary
Cardarine (GW501516) for cutting.-fat loss-endurance-recovery-muscle preservation-no hormonal suppression.
#2 - Stenabolic (SR9009)
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Stenabolic (SR9009) for Metabolism and Endurance
How it works
Stenabolic (SR9009) like Cardarine is not a traditional SARM but is often included in SARM stacks because of its metabolic and endurance properties. It works by activating Rev-ErbA, a protein that controls the body’s internal clock and metabolic processes. By activating Rev-ErbA Stenabolic makes the body burn more fat and increases mitochondrial activity which increases overall energy expenditure and endurance.
Benefits of Stenabolic SARMS for Fat Loss
Burning fat: Stenabolic like Cardarine increases fat metabolism. It makes the body burn more calories and fat even at rest resulting to a bigger reduction in body fat percentage. Can be used to lose weight.
Enhanced Endurance: Stenabolic is known for its endurance and stamina. By increasing mitochondrial activity it allows for longer and more intense workouts which are needed during cutting phases to maximize fat loss.
Faster Recovery: Like Cardarine Stenabolic reduces inflammation. This allows you to perform at a high level and reduces downtime between workouts to maintain muscle gain while cutting.
Lean Muscle Preservation: While this SARMs’ primary function is to cut fat, Stenabolic also helps in preserving lean muscle. By increasing energy production and reducing muscle fatigue it supports muscle retention during caloric deficit.
Metabolic Health: Stenabolic improves metabolic health by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. It helps in managing blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of metabolic disorders which is good for long term fat loss and overall health.
No Hormonal Suppression: Like Cardarine Stenabolic doesn’t interfere with hormone levels or suppress natural testosterone production. This makes it a safer option for those who want to avoid the complications of hormonal imbalance.
Stenabolic Summary
Stenabolic (SR9009) is a ‘must have’ SARM for a cutting cycle. It gives you increased fat burning, endurance, recovery, muscle preservation and metabolic health without hormonal suppression. Like Cardarine it’s a total package to get lean and defined physique while performing at high level.
#3 Ligandrol (LGD-4033)
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Ligandrol (LGD-4033) for Muscle Retention and Lean Mass
How Ligandrol Works
Ligandrol (LGD-4033) is a strong SARM that stands out for its ability to enhance muscle retention and promote fat loss. Unlike Cardarine and Stenabolic, which primarily enhance metabolic processes, Ligandrol directly targets androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue. This selective targeting stimulates anabolic activity, leading to increased muscle mass and strength while supporting body weight reduction.
Benefits of Ligandrol for Fat Loss
Muscle Preservation: Ligandrol is exceptional at building lean muscle mass during cutting phases. While Cardarine and Stenabolic enhance fat metabolism and endurance, Ligandrol ensures that muscle loss is minimized, maintaining muscle density and strength even in a calorie deficit.
Enhanced Fat Loss: Although Ligandrol is primarily known for its muscle-building properties, it also aids in weight loss. By increasing lean muscle growth, Ligandrol boosts the metabolic rate, which helps burn more calories and fat.
Improved Strength: Ligandrol significantly enhances strength levels, allowing for more intense weight training sessions. This complements the endurance benefits provided by Cardarine and Stenabolic, creating a comprehensive approach to cutting.
Faster Recovery: Ligandrol aids in quicker recovery times by promoting efficient muscle repair. This is crucial when combined with the anti-inflammatory effects of SARMS like Stenabolic and the endurance boosts from Cardarine, ensuring you can train consistently at high intensity.
Improved Bone Health: Ligandrol also positively impacts bone density, which is beneficial for overall skeletal health. This is an added advantage over Cardarine and Stenabolic, providing a more holistic approach to physical fitness.
Minimal Side Effects: Compared to traditional anabolic steroids, Ligandrol has a more favorable safety profile with fewer side effects. While some mild testosterone suppression can occur, it is generally less severe than with other anabolic agents, and proper post-cycle therapy (PCT) can easily manage it.
Linagrol Summary
Ligandrol (LGD-4033) is a powerful SARM that, when used in cutting cycles, focuses on muscle preservation, enhanced fat loss, improved strength, faster recovery, and better bone health. It complements the metabolic and endurance benefits of Cardarine and Stenabolic, offering a well-rounded approach to achieving a leaner, more defined physique. By incorporating Ligandrol into your cutting stack, you can maintain muscle mass and strength while effectively reducing body fat.
#4 - Ibutamoren (MK-677) for HGH and Muscle Growth
CLICK to view IBUTA 677 legal Ibutamoren SARM brand
How Ibutamoren Works
Ibutamoren (MK-677) is a unique supplement known as a growth hormone secretagogue. Unlike SARMs like Cardarine, Stenabolic and Ligandrol which target androgen receptors or metabolic pathways Ibutamoren mimics the action of ghrelin. This releases growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) which gives several benefits for cutting and fat loss.
Ibutamoren for Fat Loss
Increased Human Growth Hormone Levels: Ibutamoren increases GH and IGF-1 levels which is important for fat metabolism and muscle growth. Higher GH levels promote lipolysis so you burn body fat while preserving muscle mass.
Muscle Preservation: Like Ligandrol Ibutamoren helps preserve your muscle mass during calorie deficit. It promotes muscle protein synthesis and prevents muscle breakdown so your weight loss is fat loss.
Enhanced Fat Metabolism: While Cardarine and Stenabolic directly oxidize fat Ibutamoren indirectly supports fat loss by increasing GH. This increases your metabolic rate and tells your body to use fat for energy.
Improved Recovery: Ibutamoren helps a lot in recovery by improving sleep quality and muscle repair. This complements the recovery benefits of Ligandrol and the endurance boosts of Cardarine and Stenabolic so you can train hard and often.
Increased Bone Density: Like Ligandrol Ibutamoren improves bone health by increasing bone density. This strengthens your skeleton so you’re less likely to get injured during intense training.
Better Sleep and Well-being: Ibutamoren improves sleep quality which is important for recovery, muscle growth and overall well-being. Better sleep means better training performance and more effective fat loss.
Minimal Side Effects: Ibutamoren is generally side effect free with minimal side effects. Plus it doesn’t suppress natural testosterone production so it’s safe to add to your cutting stack without needing PCT.
Ibutamoren Summary
Ibutamoren (MK-677) is a great addition to your cutting stack with increased growth hormone levels, muscle preservation, enhanced fat metabolism, improved recovery, increased bone density and better sleep. It works well with Ligandrol, Cardarine and Stenabolic each bringing its own strength. Add Ibutamoren to your cutting stack and get leaner and more defined while maintaining peak performance and overall health.
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What are SARMs?
Definition and Mechanism of Action
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator, or SARM, is a type of compound that targets androgen receptors in the body.
Unlike traditional anabolic steroids that affect many tissues, SARMs are designed to hit muscle and bone tissue only. This selectivity helps to maximize muscle growth and fat loss while minimizing side effects.
How SARMs work for bodybuilders and athletes
When bodybuilders and athletes take SARMs they bind to androgen receptors in their muscles and bones. This binding activates the receptors which increases protein synthesis and muscle growth.
SARMs also increase your body’s ability to burn fat making them ideal for cutting cycles. They do this by increasing the metabolic rate and telling the body to use stored fat as fuel.
SARMS Comparison with Traditional Anabolic Steroids
SARMs and anabolic steroids both aim to build muscle and improve performance but in very different ways.
- Selectivity and Side Effects:
- Because a SARM is selective they only hit muscle and bone tissue. This reduces the risk of unwanted side effects associated with steroids such as liver toxicity, cardiovascular issues and hormonal imbalances.
- Anabolic Steroids: Traditional anabolic steroids affect multiple tissues in the body, not just muscle and bone. This broad activity can lead to significant side effects including liver damage, increased risk of heart disease and severe hormonal disruptions.
- Administration and Usage:
- SARMS are typically taken orally which is more convenient and less invasive than injectable steroids. This oral administration also reduces the risk of infections that can occur with injections.
- Anabolic Steroids: Many anabolic steroids are injected which can be painful and inconvenient. Oral steroids are available but often come with a higher risk of liver toxicity.
- Legal Status and Accessibility:
- While not approved by the FDA for human use SARMS are often sold as research chemicals and are more available in some regions. However their legality varies by country and region.
- Anabolic Steroids: Anabolic steroids are controlled substances in many countries including the United States. This means they are only legally available via prescription for specific medical conditions.
- Effectiveness:
- SARMs: A milder yet effective way to build muscle and lose fat. Often preferred by those who want to avoid the harsh side effects of steroids while still getting significant gains in physique and performance.
- Anabolic Steroids: Known for their potency steroids can give rapid muscle growth and strength gains. But their powerful effects come with a higher risk of side effects.
In short SARMs are a targeted and safer alternative to traditional anabolic steroids. They give you muscle growth and fat loss with fewer side effects.
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Benefits of SARMs for Cutting and Fat Loss
When it comes to getting lean and shredded, SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) have many advantages. Let’s break down how they can help you maximize your cutting and fat loss.
Muscle Retention
One of the biggest problems during a cut is retaining muscle while losing fat. Traditional cutting methods will result in muscle loss, but SARMs can counteract that. Here’s how:
- Selective Targeting: SARMs bind to androgen receptors in muscle tissue, promoting anabolic activity (muscle-building) without affecting other tissues. So you can keep your hard earned muscle even when you’re in a calorie deficit.
- Protein Synthesis: Increase protein synthesis so your body can repair and build muscle fibers more efficiently. This is crucial during a cut as it allows you to keep muscle mass even with lower calorie intake.
- Anti-Catabolic: SARMs have anti-catabolic effects, meaning they prevent muscle breakdown. This is especially helpful during intense training and low calorie periods.
Fat Metabolism
SARMs can increase your body’s fat burning ability making them perfect for cutting cycles. Here’s how they enhance fat metabolism:
- Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): Some SARMs like Cardarine (GW-501516) can increase your BMR, so you burn more calories at rest. This creates a bigger calorie deficit for fat loss.
- Lipid Oxidation: SARMs can increase lipid oxidation (fat) so your body uses stored fat as energy. This is great for reducing stubborn fat deposits.
- Glucose Regulation: Certain SARMs improve glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity so you can manage blood sugar levels and reduce fat storage. This is key to getting lean.
Athletic Performance
SARMs aren’t just about looks; they also improve your overall athletic performance. Here’s what you can expect:
- Increased Strength: Ibutamoren and Ostarine (MK-2866) and Ligandrol (LGD-4033) can increase your strength even in a calorie deficit. So you can do high intensity workouts and continue making progress in the gym.
- Endurance: Cardarine (GW-501516) is known for its endurance boosting properties. It improves stamina and cardiovascular performance so you can train longer and more effectively.
- Faster Recovery: Aid in faster recovery by reducing muscle soreness and inflammation. So you can train more frequently and at higher intensities without overtraining.
Minimal Side Effects
One of the best things about SARMs is their safety profile. Compared to traditional steroids, SARMs have several advantages:
- Selective Action: Designed to target specific tissues, so minimal effects on organs like liver and prostate.
- Lower Risk of Hormonal Imbalance: SARMs are less likely to cause severe hormonal disruption compared to anabolic steroids. While some suppression of natural testosterone can occur, it’s generally less and easier to manage.
- Lower Liver Toxicity: Most SARMs are oral and don’t go through extensive liver metabolism so less risk of liver damage compared to oral steroids.
Why Use SARMS for Cutting and Shredding
Adding SARMs to your cutting cycle can give you:
- Preserved muscle mass during calorie deficit
- Increased fat burning and metabolism
- Increased athletic performance with strength and endurance
- Minimal side effects and safer overall
SARMs are a great cutting agent for anyone who wants to get lean and defined while maintaining performance and minimizing health risks.
Best SARM Stack for Cutting - How to Use
When it comes to cutting, stacking SARMs can give you synergistic effects for fat loss, muscle preservation and overall performance. Here we’ll go over the best SARM stacks for each experience level: beginner, intermediate and advanced.
Cutting SARMS Stack for Beginners
Components and Benefits:
- Ostarine (MK-2866): Known for being mild, Ostarine helps preserve lean muscle mass and fat loss. Great for beginners due to its safety profile and effectiveness.
- Cardarine (GW-501516): Although not a SARM, Cardarine is often included in stacks for fat burning and endurance.
Dosage and Cycle Length:
- Ostarine: 10-20mg per day
- Cardarine: 10-20mg per day
- Cycle Length: 8 weeks
This stack is great for beginners as you’ll see noticeable results with minimal side effects. Ostarine helps preserve muscle mass, Cardarine accelerates fat loss and endurance so you can stick to a tough training program.
SARMS Stack Intermediate
Components and Benefits:
- Ostarine (MK-2866): Preserves muscle mass and recovery.
- Cardarine (GW-501516): Endurance and fat metabolism.
- Andarine (S4): Extra muscle hardening and fat loss, more muscle definition.
Dosage and Cycle Length:
- Ostarine: 20mg per day
- Cardarine: 20mg per day
- Andarine: 25-50mg per day (split into two doses)
- Cycle Length: 8 weeks
This stack is more powerful and for those who have some experience with SARMs. Andarine adds muscle hardening effects, muscles will appear more defined and vascular, Ostarine and Cardarine support muscle retention and fat loss.
Best SARMS Stack for Advanced Users
Components and Benefits:
- Ostarine (MK-2866): Boost muscle growth during intense cutting phases.
- Cardarine (GW-501516): Max fat burning and cardiovascular performance.
- Andarine (S4): Muscle hardening and extra fat loss.
- Stenabolic (SR9009): Boosts metabolic rate and endurance, faster fat loss and more workout capacity.
Dosage and Cycle Length:
- Ostarine: 20mg per day
- Cardarine: 20mg per day
- Andarine: 50mg per day (split into two doses)
- Stenabolic: 20-30mg per day (split into three doses)
- Cycle Length: 8-10 weeks
This advanced stack is for experienced users to get into peak shape. Stenabolic adds to the stack by boosting metabolic rate and endurance so you can train harder and longer. The combination of these SARMs will give you maximum fat reduction and muscle definition.
SARMS Stacks Summary
- Beginner Stack: Ostarine and Cardarine for a safe and effective SARMs introduction with muscle gains, preservation and fat loss.
- Intermediate Stack: Add Andarine for more muscle hardness and definition and fat loss and endurance.
- Advanced Stack: Add Stenabolic for a big boost in metabolism and endurance to get elite level lean body mass conditioning.
Each stack is designed for different levels of experience so you can safely and effectively progress through your cutting cycles to get your desired physique.
Who Should Use Cutting SARMs?
Cutting SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) can be highly effective for specific individuals aiming to achieve a leaner physique while retaining muscle mass. However, they are not suitable for everyone. Below are the categories of people who might benefit from using cutting SARMs:
1. Bodybuilders and Fitness Competitors
- Goal: Achieve a shredded, competition-ready physique.
- Benefits: SARMs help to preserve muscle mass while cutting body fat, which is crucial during pre-competition phases.
2. Athletes in Weight-Class Sports
- Goal: Meet specific weight requirements without sacrificing performance.
- Benefits: SARMs can help athletes lose fat while retaining strength and endurance, ensuring they remain competitive in their weight class.
3. Recreational Lifters and Fitness Enthusiasts
- Goal: Improve body composition and aesthetics.
- Benefits: Can aid in achieving a more defined and muscular appearance, enhancing overall fitness and self-confidence.
4. Individuals Struggling with Stubborn Fat
- Goal: Reduce fat in difficult areas while maintaining muscle.
- Benefits: SARMs can target fat loss more effectively than diet and exercise alone, particularly in stubborn areas like the abdomen or thighs.
5. People Looking to Break Fat Burning Plateaus
- Goal: Overcome stagnation in fat loss and muscle retention.
- Benefits: SARMs can provide the necessary boost to break through plateaus, keeping progress on track without drastic changes to diet or training.
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FAQs
What Are the Best SARMs for Cutting and Fat Burning?
The best SARMs for cutting and fat burning include Cardarine (GW-501516) for enhanced fat metabolism, Stenabolic (SR9009) for increased endurance and fat loss, Ligandrol (LGD-4033) for muscle preservation, and Ibutamoren (MK-677) for improved recovery and metabolic health.
Can Women Use SARMs for Cutting?
Yes, women can use SARMs like Stenabolic and Cardarine (GW-501516) for cutting due to their mild nature and lower risk of virilization. Both of these help reduce body fat and muscle preservation without significant side effects.
What Is the Most Effective SARM Stack for Definition and Shredding?
An effective stack for definition and shredding includes Cardarine (GW-501516) for fat burning, Stenabolic (SR9009) for endurance, and Ligandrol (LGD-4033) for muscle preservation. This combination maximizes fat loss while maintaining muscle mass and improving overall performance.
Do SARMs Have Side Effects?
While SARMs are generally safer than anabolic steroids, they can still cause side effects such as hormonal imbalances, liver toxicity, and cardiovascular issues. Proper dosing, cycle management, and post-cycle therapy (PCT) are essential to minimize these risks.
How Long Should a Cutting SARM Cycle Last?
A typical cutting SARM cycle lasts between 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the specific SARM and individual goals. Longer cycles can increase the risk of side effects and require more extensive PCT to restore natural hormone levels.
Can you buy SARMS legally in the USA?
The legality of SARMs varies by region. In the United States, they are not approved for human use and are sold as research chemicals. However, legal hybrid brands like CrazyBulk offer products designed to mimic the effects of SARMs without the legal issues.
By Chris Bates