well you don't need steroids to do that.
This is true. Let's break down my goals for example and why I am getting back on compaired with "gaining 7-8 lbs of muscle" as a final goal:
I am getting into raw powerlifting, am a very soft 215 atm (after cutting from 245 in August). I've been natty for 8 years, and completely detrained after being semi-bed ridden for 8 months and having to take 2 years off from training. My doctors have now cleared me to train hard, and compete in power lifting. Fluid retention from gear is my only concern related to my medical condition (bilateral Meniere's disease) however AI's and a low sodium lower carb diet can regulate this (I already run a ckd and stay under 2000 mg of sodium per day... docs give me diuretics as needed and I have a 30 day supply on hand already)
1) want to maintain a sub 10% bf most of the year from now on.
2) want a 600+ raw squat and deadlift, and a 400+ bench at under 200 lbs bw... in the next few years.
3) want to be able to gain strength and hold onto my current muscle while continuing to cut... which is becoming increasingly difficult. Ideally I would like to recomp soon while gaining strength/power.
4) Just turned 35, want the better mood, energy, recovery from training and sex drive that reasonable use offers.
5) as a former serious gear user and home brewer I am educated on the subject, and I already get bloodwork and a fasted glucose/lipid profile done every 6 months and will be able to monitor my body accordingly.
6) I have an extensive knowledge of nutritional science and exercise science, and advanced training protocols and know how to make the best use of my gear in the gym and the kitchen.