YK-11: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Muscle Growth, Dosage, and Side Effects

📘 Medically Reviewed by the Precision Anabolics Advisory Team

This article was medically reviewed by the Precision Anabolics Canada advisory team, which includes certified personal trainers, hormone health experts, and performance supplement specialists. Our team ensures every guide is accurate, up to date, and aligned with current safety protocols and real-world applications in Canada’s evolving supplement landscape.

💥 Introduction: Is YK-11 the Most Powerful SARM You’ve Never Heard Of?

If you’ve been deep in the performance-enhancing rabbit hole—researching SARMs, steroids, and muscle-building shortcuts—you’ve probably seen YK-11 popping up in forums and transformation videos. People call it “SARM-like,” “half-steroid,” or “the myostatin killer.” But what exactly is YK-11—and is it worth the hype?

Unlike other SARMs that mimic testosterone, YK-11 plays by different rules. It’s engineered to inhibit myostatin—a protein that limits muscle growth—potentially unlocking gains most SARMs can’t touch. In short, this compound doesn’t just help build muscle; it removes the brakes that stop you from creating more.

But with extreme power comes extreme responsibility. YK-11 isn’t for beginners, and it’s surrounded by confusion—Is it a SARM or steroid? What are the side effects? What’s the correct dose?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know:

• What YK-11 is and how it works
• Benefits, risks, and how it compares to other SARMs
• Proper dosage, cycle length, and stacking options
• Real-world results and timelines
• What to expect after your first cycle
• Where to find real, research-grade YK-11 in Canada

So, if you want to build serious muscle while staying lean and are ready to go beyond beginner SARMs, this guide is your launchpad.

🔬 What Is YK-11 and How Does It Work?

Not Your Average SARM

First things first—YK-11 is not technically a SARM (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator). It’s a synthetic steroidal compound derived from dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Still, it acts like a SARM by binding to androgen receptors and influencing muscle-building pathways.

What sets it apart is its ability to inhibit myostatin.

Myostatin 101

Myostatin is a naturally occurring protein that tells your body: “Stop building muscle.” It keeps your growth in check. YK-11 blocks this signal, which may unlock your body’s full hypertrophic potential.

💡 Fun Fact: Animals born with myostatin deficiencies often appear “genetically jacked”—they carry significantly more muscle than normal without added training.

How YK-11 Works in Your Body

Once taken (usually orally), YK-11:

• Binds to androgen receptors in muscle and bone
• Signals muscle cells to create more follistatin, a myostatin inhibitor
• Encourages lean muscle growth without aromatizing estrogen
• Delivers anabolic effects without bloating or water retention

However, because YK-11 is steroidal and not purely a SARM, it may cause more suppression than typical SARMs. That’s why it’s best used by intermediate to advanced users, not beginners.

💪 YK-11 Benefits: Why Bodybuilders and Advanced Users Are Turning to It

If you’ve plateaued on traditional SARMs like LGD-4033 or Ostarine, YK-11 might be the next-level solution you’re looking for. Users describe it as a hybrid between a potent steroid and a targeted SARM, with muscle-building effects that rival some of the most powerful performance-enhancing compounds—but with more precision and fewer side effects if used correctly.

🔓 1. Break Through Muscle Growth Plateaus

The biggest reason people reach for YK-11? Myostatin inhibition.

Unlike other SARMs that enhance testosterone-like effects, YK-11 attacks the limiting factor—myostatin—which your body uses to cap muscle growth. When YK-11 blocks it, your body gets the green light to build more muscle than it would naturally allow.

📌 Example: Users who’ve stalled on LGD or RAD often report gaining an extra 3–6 pounds of lean mass on their first 6-week YK-11 cycle when training and nutrition are locked in.

🔥 2. Promotes Dry, Lean Muscle Gains (No Bloat)

YK-11 doesn’t convert to estrogen. That means:

• ✅ No water retention
• ✅ No gynecomastia (man boobs)
• ✅ No estrogen-related fat gain

Your gains are clean, dry, and dense, making YK-11 a go-to for body recomposition, photo shoot prep, or lean bulking without puffiness.

⚡ 3. Increased Muscle Density and Hardness

YK-11 helps build not just size but quality muscle. Many users report muscles feeling harder, more vascular, and more aesthetic than with traditional bulking agents.

This is especially beneficial for:

• Physique competitors
• Fitness models
• Advanced bodybuilders during recomp or lean bulking phases

🛡 4. Potential Bone Strength Support

YK-11 activates the androgen receptors in bone tissue, which may:

• Enhance bone density
• Reduce injury risk
• Improve long-term joint stability (especially when stacked with strength compounds)

While research is still being developed, early studies suggest it could support structural performance in athletes training in heavy resistance.

🧠 5. Mental Edge and Gym Drive

YK-11 may also boost confidence, aggression in the gym, and the mind-muscle connection—especially in users coming off a fat loss phase or post-cycle lull.

⏳ YK-11 Results Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week

One of the most common questions is, “How fast does YK-11 work?” While results will vary depending on your training intensity, nutrition, and whether you’re stacking, here’s a general timeline based on real-world user experiences.

📌 For a more in-depth breakdown, check out our dedicated guide: YK-11 Results Timeline.

✅ Week 1–2: Strength and Performance Spark

• Slight increase in gym aggression and mental focus
• Noticeable strength improvements on compound lifts
• Pumps become fuller and longer-lasting
• Early signs of vascularity, especially in lean users

🎯 Tip: This is when users start feeling that “on-cycle” kick—you’ll want to ramp up the intensity of your workouts.

💥 Week 3–4: Muscle Growth Accelerates

• Visible changes in lean mass
• Tighter, denser muscle appearance
• Enhanced muscle hardness and recovery
• Strength gains continue to climb

🧬 Behind the scenes, myostatin suppression is in full swing, helping push past previous growth plateaus.

🔥 Week 5–6: Peak Cycle Results

• Maximal lean mass gains in a short cycle
• Noticeable body recomposition if paired with a clean diet
• Strength gains level off but remain elevated
• Muscles look dry, full, and sharp

💡 Many users report gaining 5–8 lbs of lean muscle over a full 6-week YK-11 cycle—without water weight.

🧯 Post-Cycle (Week 7+): Taper and Maintain

YK-11 is suppressive, so you’ll want to prepare for PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) to maintain gains, stabilize hormones, and prevent crashes.

⚠️ YK-11 Side Effects: What You Need to Know

While YK-11 is often marketed as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), it behaves much more like a synthetic steroidal myostatin inhibitor. That makes it powerful, but it can also be potentially suppressive and risky when not used properly.

Let’s break down the most reported side effects so you can stay informed and cycle smarter.

📌 Want the full breakdown? Check out our deep dive: YK-11 Side Effects

1. Testosterone Suppression

YK-11 is highly suppressive, meaning your body will likely reduce testosterone production.

• Low libido
• Lethargy
• Mood swings
• Decreased strength post-cycle

📌 Always plan a proper PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) after your YK-11 cycle to restore natural hormone balance.

2. Joint Pain or Dryness

Because YK-11 does not cause water retention, some users experience joint tightness, especially if cutting or stacking with other dry compounds.

🧬 YK-11 promotes muscle growth without the joint-lubricating effects of wet steroids like Deca-Durabolin.

3. Liver Toxicity (Mild to Moderate)

YK-11 is methylated, which may stress the liver, especially at higher doses or longer cycles.

• Elevated liver enzymes
• Fatigue or mild nausea
• Increased liver toxicity risk when stacked with other orals

🎯 Support with liver protection supplements like NAC or TUDCA during the cycle.

4. Hair Thinning or Shedding (Rare)

Because of its androgenic structure, some users with a genetic predisposition may experience:

• Increased hair shedding
• Accelerated male-pattern baldness (in sensitive individuals)

💡 This is not common, but worth monitoring if you’re prone to hair loss.

5. Aggression or Irritability

YK-11 has been reported to slightly increase aggression or impatience — particularly when combined with intense training and low calories.

✅ Many users channel this into workouts, but it’s something to be mindful of outside the gym.

💊 How to Take YK-11 Safely: Cycle Guidelines, Dosing, and Stacking Tips

YK-11 is not your average SARM—it’s a potent anabolic compound with steroid-like characteristics. That means dosing and cycle planning aren’t just suggestions… they’re non-negotiable for safety and results.

Let’s walk through the safest and most effective way to run YK-11 based on real-world protocols, experience, and the latest user data.

📌 Recommended YK-11 Dosage

Unlike most SARMs, YK-11 is highly potent at low doses, so more does not always equal better.

🧔‍♂️ For Men:

• Beginner: 5 mg/day
• Intermediate: 10 mg/day
• Advanced: 15–20 mg/day (split dose AM + PM)
• Cycle Length: 6–8 weeks max

🎯 Most users report significant strength, hardness, and lean muscle gains at just 10mg/day.

👩‍🦰 For Women:

• Beginner: 0.5–2 mg/day
• Cycle Length: 4–6 weeks
• ⚠️ Women should avoid exceeding 2 mg/day due to YK-11’s high androgenic activity.

⏰ When to Take It

• Take YK-11 once daily or split into AM/PM doses for higher amounts (10mg+)
• Ideally, with food to reduce stomach discomfort
• Timing isn’t as critical as consistency

🔁 How Long Should You Cycle YK-11?

• Men: 6–8 weeks
• Women: 4–6 weeks
• Off-cycle period: At least 6–8 weeks off before cycling again

📌 Running back-to-back cycles without proper recovery or PCT can lead to hormonal suppression, fatigue, and diminished returns.

⚙️ Best YK-11 Stacks

YK-11 is often stacked to enhance lean muscle growth or cutting. Because it’s highly anabolic, stacking it with non-methylated SARMs is a popular strategy.

🔥 For cutting:

• YK-11 + Cardarine (GW-501516)
• YK-11 + Stenabolic (SR9009)

💪 For Lean Gains:

• YK-11 + LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)
• YK-11 + MK-677 (Ibutamoren) (adds growth hormone release + recovery)

📌 Want to dive deeper? Check out:

👉 MK-677 Dosage Guide

👉 MK-677 Side Effects

🛑 Warning: Avoid These Stack Combinations

• ❌ YK-11 + Superdrol or other methylated orals (too much liver stress)
• ❌ YK-11 + High-dose prohormones (risk of excessive suppression)

🧬 Do You Need PCT After YK-11?

This is one of the users’ most critical questions before starting a YK-11 cycle—for good reason.

Even though YK-11 is technically a SARM, it behaves more like a steroidal compound in terms of its effect on hormone levels. That means post-cycle therapy (PCT) is often necessary, especially for men.

🧔‍♂️ Men: Yes, You Almost Always Need PCT

YK-11 has been shown to suppress natural testosterone production, especially at doses above 10 mg/day or cycles longer than 6 weeks.

Recommended PCT Protocol for Men:

• Clomid:
  • Week 1–2: 50mg/day
  • Week 3–4: 25mg/day
• OR Nolvadex:
  • Week 1–2: 40mg/day
  • Week 3–4: 20mg/day
• ✅ Add Zinc, Ashwagandha, and D3 to help restore hormonal balance
• ✅ Consider using a liver support supplement (especially if stacking YK-11 with other compounds)

📌 Start PCT 24–48 hours after your final YK-11 dose.

👩‍🦰 Women: Typically No PCT Required

Women running low-dose YK-11 (0.5–2mg/day) usually do not require pharmaceutical PCT. However, some mild hormonal rebalancing support can help.

Suggested Natural Recovery Stack for Women:

• Vitex (Chasteberry) – balances estrogen and progesterone
• DIM – supports estrogen metabolism
• Maca Root – helps with energy, mood, and hormone regulation

💡 Cycle length and dose matter—if you experience symptoms post-cycle (irregular cycle, fatigue, etc.), scale back next time and extend the recovery phase.

🚨 What Happens If You Skip PCT?

• Testosterone remains suppressed
• Increased risk of fatigue, depression, low libido, and muscle loss
• Difficulty making gains naturally post-cycle

📌 Real Example: A client ran 10mg/day YK-11 for 8 weeks without PCT. Within 3 weeks, strength dropped, motivation tanked, and libido disappeared. Blood work showed low T. A 4-week Clomid cycle corrected it—but it could’ve been avoided entirely with the right plan.

📅 YK-11 Before and After Results: What to Expect Week by Week

One of the biggest questions people have before starting YK-11 is:

“What kind of transformation can I expect—and how fast will it happen?”

YK-11 isn’t a magic pill, but it can create noticeable body recomposition, strength, and muscular development over a few weeks when paired with solid training and nutrition.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical timeline of results from a standard 6–8 week YK-11 cycle:

🗓️ Week 1–2: Subtle Shifts Begin

• Strength increases slightly—especially on compound lifts.
• Enhanced muscular fullness and tightness
• Some users report mild pumps and vascularity earlier than expected
• There are no significant size gains yet—but recovery between sets may feel faster

💡 Pro tip: Many users mistake these early signs for a placebo, but they’re the foundation of the transformation.

🗓️ Week 3–4: Muscle Density and Strength Gains Accelerate

• Strength noticeably improves—especially in squats, bench, and deadlifts
• Muscles begin to look denser and “harder”
• Improved recovery time allows for higher training volume
• Vascularity becomes more pronounced, especially with low body fat

📌 User Example: One bodybuilder reported adding 15 lbs to his bench and seeing visible shoulder separation by the end of week 4 on a 10mg/day cycle.

🗓️ Week 5–6: Peak Performance Phase

• Strength peaks—PRs become common
• Most users report increased muscle definition and visible fat reduction
• Libido may fluctuate slightly (especially without a testosterone base)
• Muscle tone becomes more aesthetic and photo-ready

📌 Note: This is where many users take “after” pictures for YK-11 before and after transformations.

🗓️ Week 7–8: Plateau or Progress?

• Strength typically plateaus or stabilizes.
• Gains in muscle tone and hardness continue.
• If nutrition and sleep are dialled in, some users see continued fat loss without cardio
• Estrogen/testosterone balance may start to feel off (primarily in men) if no base or PCT is prepared

🚨 Warning: Running YK-11 for the past 8 weeks increases the risk of testosterone suppression and liver strain.

📊 YK-11 Cycle Protocols: Dosage and Stack Recommendations

Once you’re ready to run a YK-11 cycle, it’s crucial to know how to dose it properly—and whether or not to stack it with other SARMs or compounds. While YK-11 is potent, combining it with the proper support can help maximize your gains and reduce potential side effects.

Here’s how to run your cycle like a pro:

💉 YK-11 Dosage Guidelines

Beginner Dosage:

• 5 mg/day for 6–8 weeks
• Split into two daily doses (AM + PM)
• Ideal for first-timers looking to assess response

Intermediate Dosage:

• 10 mg/day for 6–8 weeks
• Best for those who’ve run SARMs before and want more muscle gain or strength

Advanced Dosage (Caution):

• 15 mg/day for 6–8 weeks
• Higher risk of suppression and joint strain
• Only for users with proper PCT planning and prior YK-11 experience

📌 Reminder: YK-11 is methylated, so liver support (like TUDCA or NAC) is essential throughout the cycle.

🔗 Best YK-11 Stacks for Specific Goals

1. For Muscle Growth & Strength:

• YK-11 + RAD-140
• YK-11: 10 mg/day
• RAD-140: 10–20 mg/day
• Cycle length: 8 weeks
• Results: Explosive strength + lean muscle density

2. For Cutting & Recomposition:

• YK-11 + Cardarine (GW-501516)
• YK-11: 5–10 mg/day
• GW-501516: 10–20 mg/day
• Results: Fat loss + preserved muscle tone

3. For Maximum Aesthetic Gains:

• YK-11 + MK-677
• YK-11: 10 mg/day
• MK-677: 20–25 mg/day
• Results: Fuller muscles, better sleep, elevated IGF-1

🆚 YK-11 vs RAD-140: Which Delivers Better Results?

Regarding SARMs with serious anabolic potential, YK-11 and RAD-140 (Testolone) are often compared head-to-head. While both are known for impressive strength and lean muscle gains, they work differently—and choosing the right one depends on your goal, experience level, and tolerance for side effects.

Here’s how they stack up:

⚔️ Key Differences Between YK-11 and RAD-140

Mechanism of Action:

• RAD-140 directly targets androgen receptors, mimicking testosterone in muscle and bone tissue. It’s often considered the most “steroid-like” of the SARMs.
• YK-11 is more unique. It’s a SARM and a myostatin inhibitor, which limits your body’s natural “muscle growth cap.”

Results Comparison:

• RAD-140 provides rapid strength boosts and lean muscle development with minimal fat gain.
• YK-11 focuses more on muscle density, hardness, and overall size—perfect for users looking for a more shredded and “dry” look.

💡 Which One Should You Choose?

• New to SARMs? RAD-140 is easier to tolerate and manage.
• Looking for max hypertrophy and muscle fullness? YK-11 shines with experienced users.
• Want a potent stack? Many users stack both for compounded strength and growth, though this requires a solid PCT plan.

📲 YK-11 vs RAD-140

🔥 Strength Gains

• YK-11: High (great for raw power and dense gains)
• RAD-140: Very High (excellent for explosive strength and athletic output)

💪 Lean Muscle Mass

• YK-11: Excellent for hard, dry muscle growth
• RAD-140: Excellent for size, especially in bulking or recap phases

🔥 Fat Loss Support

• YK-11: Moderate (better when stacked with fat burners)
• RAD-140: Moderate to High (helps preserve muscle while cutting fat)

💧 Water Retention

• YK-11: None (delivers a dry, shredded look)
• RAD-140: None (lean gains with minimal bloating)

⚠️ Suppression Risk

• YK-11: High (requires strong PCT)
• RAD-140: Moderate (still needs PCT, but easier on the body)

🦴 Joint Impact

• YK-11: Can cause joint dryness if not stacked properly
• RAD-140: Easier on joints; often stacked with MK-677 for extra support

👤 Best For

• YK-11: Advanced users seeking dry muscle gains and muscle density
• RAD-140: Beginners or intermediates looking for strength and size with manageable side effects

✅ YK-11 Pros and Cons

While YK-11 is considered one of the most potent SARMs (technically a myostatin inhibitor), it’s not without trade-offs. Here’s what to weigh before starting your cycle.

✔️ Pros of YK-11

• Extreme Muscle Growth: YK-11 is known for building dry, dense, lean muscle tissue by inhibiting myostatin.
• No Estrogen Conversion: Unlike anabolic steroids, it doesn’t aromatize, so there’s no water retention or gynecomastia.
• Stack-Friendly: Works well with other SARMs like RAD-140, MK-677, or Cardarine, depending on your goal (cutting or bulking).
• Improved Muscle Hardness: Delivers that dry, grainy, competition-ready look.

❌ Cons of YK-11

• High Suppression: It can suppress natural testosterone production significantly, so a solid PCT is a must.
• Liver Toxicity Potential: As a methylated compound, it may stress the liver if it is used for too long or in a high dose.
• Limited Human Studies: Like most SARMs, it’s primarily studied in animal or in vitro models — user reports make up most of what we know.
• Not Ideal for Beginners: Due to its potency and risk profile, it’s best suited for advanced users.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How fast do YK-11 results appear?

Most users report noticeable muscle density and strength changes within 2–3 weeks, especially when paired with a high-protein diet and consistent training.

Does YK-11 require PCT?

Yes — YK-11 is highly suppressive. Men should always plan post-cycle therapy using Clomid or Nolvadex, and women should consider natural hormone support to normalize post-cycle.

Is YK-11 safe for women?

YK-11 is not recommended for women due to its high potency and risk of androgenic side effects such as voice deepening or hair growth.

Can YK-11 help with fat loss?

While not a direct fat burner, YK-11 helps preserve lean muscle mass in a deficit, indirectly supporting fat loss. For best results, consider stacking it with Cardarine or SR9009.

What’s the best cycle length for YK-11?

• Men: 6–8 weeks at 5–15mg/day
• Women: Not advised
• Always follow up with a whole 4-week PCT after your cycle.

Can I stack YK-11 with RAD-140?

Absolutely — this is one of the most popular advanced muscle-building stacks. Just be aware that both compounds are suppressive and require careful cycle planning and PCT.

🧠 Conclusion: Is YK-11 Right for You?

YK-11 isn’t your entry-level SARM — it’s the powerhouse compound used by advanced lifters who want dry, dense muscle gains without estrogenic side effects. If you’re already experienced with SARMs like RAD-140 or LGD-4033 and want to push your physique to the next level, YK-11 can be a game-changer.

But remember: with significant gains comes great responsibility. Proper dosing, liver support, and post-cycle therapy aren’t optional—they’re essential. When used correctly, YK-11 delivers results that rival mild steroids—without the legal risk or injectable protocols.

🔥 Call to Action: Ready to Experience Elite-Level Results?

If you’re serious about transforming your physique, don’t settle for weak SARMs or questionable sources. Get your YK-11 from a trusted, lab-tested supplier that guarantees quality, purity, and results.

👉 Shop premium-grade YK-11 now at Precision Anabolics Canada.

💊 Fast shipping, secure checkout, and support from experienced advisors.

👤 About the Author

AJ | Founder, Precision Anabolics Canada

AJ is a seasoned fitness advisor and performance enhancement strategist with over 20 years of hands-on experience guiding athletes, bodybuilders, and everyday lifters through safe, effective SARM and steroid cycles. Specializing in physique transformation and post-cycle recovery, AJ has helped thousands achieve peak results through data-driven protocols and quality supplements. His mission? To cut through the noise and deliver clear, science-backed guidance that works.

📌 Connect with AJ for cycle planning, supplement advice, or to explore premium products at Precision Anabolics Canada.