Cardarine is one of the most talked-about SARMs (or technically, a PPARδ receptor agonist) for endurance and fat loss. The claims are impressive: improved running capacity, increased fat oxidation, and better overall stamina. Has anyone here used it specifically for a cardio-focused goal, like a marathon or a triathlon? What were your results? What about dosage and cycle length for a cut? Are the cancer risks, which are a major concern from the initial rodent studies, something we should be worried about with human research protocols?
I've had a number of athletes use Cardarine, and the endurance benefits are undeniable. They consistently report a noticeable increase in their VO2 max and the ability to push through longer, more intense cardio sessions. For me, 10-20mg per day is the sweet spot. It doesn't feel like a stimulant, it just feels like you don't get tired as quickly.
On the fat loss side, it's also highly effective. It helps spare muscle tissue while burning fat for fuel, which is perfect for a cutting phase. It's not a thermogenic, but by improving your ability to do more cardio, it helps create a greater caloric deficit. It's a fantastic tool for a cut, especially when stacked with something like Ostarine.
Regarding the cancer risk, the original study used extremely high doses in rodents for a very long period. It's a major cautionary tale, but most researchers believe the risks are minimal at typical human dosages and cycle lengths (e.g., 8-12 weeks). That said, it's still a research chemical and long-term data is nonexistent. That's the elephant in the room.
I've also found it to be very gentle on the system. No suppression, no need for a PCT. It's a standalone compound that works well on its own or as part of a stack. For fat loss, I'd recommend starting at 10mg and seeing how you respond. Some people don't need to go higher.
It's good to hear that the endurance benefits are so clear. The fat-sparing effect on muscle is a huge plus for a cut. And the point about the rodent studies is important context. It sounds like the key is responsible use and not abusing the compound with extreme dosages or lengths.
Exactly. The main benefit for my athletes is the psychological edge. They know they can go longer and harder, which is a huge confidence booster, especially when facing a long race or an intense training block.
I'd also add that it's important to maintain a clean diet and training regimen. Cardarine isn't a magic pill. It simply amplifies the results of hard work. You can't take it and expect to lose fat without being in a deficit.
I also like to mention that it can affect cholesterol levels, often in a positive way by raising HDL. That's a nice side benefit to consider, especially on a cut where diet can be strained.