
How to Build a Beginner-Friendly TRT Stack (2025 Update)
Thinking about starting TRT but not sure where to begin? You're not alone. Thousands of men, especially in the 25–40 age range, are realizing their energy, libido, and recovery issues might be hormone-related — and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) could be the solution. But starting TRT without a strategy is a fast track to side effects, shutdown, and wasted time.
This guide will walk you through building a beginner TRT stack for 2025, combining clinical basics with cutting-edge biohacker tips from the r/BodyHackGuide community.
Step 1: Get Comprehensive Bloodwork
Before pinning your first ml of testosterone, get a full hormone panel:
Total Testosterone
Free Testosterone
SHBG
Estradiol (E2 sensitive)
LH, FSH
Prolactin
CBC, CMP
DHT and Lipid Panel
This gives a baseline and helps you know if you truly need TRT — or if your levels can be restored naturally via PCT protocols, peptides, or lifestyle optimization.
Step 2: Start with a Conservative Testosterone Dose
For most beginners, 100–125mg/week of Testosterone Cypionate or Enanthate, split into 2 injections per week (e.g. Monday/Thursday), is ideal. This keeps blood levels stable and minimizes side effects like estrogen spikes or mood swings.
Avoid going over 150mg/week unless advised by a specialist — more is not better. Let the body adjust and observe.
Step 3: Optional Add-ons for Optimization
HCG (250 IU twice weekly): Prevents testicular atrophy and may support fertility.
Low-dose Anastrozole (0.125–0.25mg as needed): Only if you develop high E2 symptoms (bloating, emotional swings, nipple sensitivity).
Peptides like Ipamorelin or CJC-1295: Support GH levels, improve sleep, and aid recovery — especially if you’re in your 30s+.
Step 4: Dial in Your Support Supplements
Include these essentials to maximize your stack’s effectiveness:
Vitamin D3 + K2
Omega-3s (EPA/DHA)
Magnesium Glycinate or L-Threonate (for sleep and cortisol)
Zinc (helps with testosterone metabolism)
Reddit users on r/BodyHackGuide frequently share bloodwork showing dramatic improvements in energy, sex drive, muscle mass, and confidence with this minimalist, smart TRT protocol.
Step 5: Track Your Progress Weekly
Log the following in a tracker or Reddit post:
Morning wood and libido
Mood and focus
Gym performance and recovery
Sleep quality
Blood pressure and hematocrit
Re-test bloodwork at 6–8 weeks and adjust accordingly. Many Redditors opt to stay on TRT for life, while others cycle off with PCT after 6–12 months using Clomid, Nolvadex, or HCG tapering.
Join r/BodyHackGuide to share your stats, stacks, and struggles. Whether you’re just starting out or tweaking your protocol, our experienced members can help you optimize your stack and avoid rookie mistakes.