u/Chance-Tip8820

I’m currently on my first cycle running 375mg/week of Test E, split into 3 IM injections.

I’m in week 3 right now and honestly feel almost nothing so far — no major gym performance increase, no crazy energy, no mental boost, nothing noticeable yet.

My natural testosterone before starting was around 400 ng/dL.

For people who’ve run similar doses:
What did you notice week by week?
When did strength, pumps, recovery, confidence, libido, etc. actually kick in?
Was the progression gradual or did it suddenly “hit” around a certain week?

I’m also planning to run closer to 20 weeks if bloodwork and side effects stay good. Honestly, I don’t understand how people run only 10–12 week cycles — it feels like by the time Test E fully builds up, you’re already close to ending it.

Curious to hear experiences from people who’ve run 300–500mg Test E as a first cycle.

I’ve got 250 mg Test E ampules and I’m trying to decide how to start.

For context: I’ve been lifting for a while, diet is dialed in, and I’m currently cutting from 226 lbs down to around 200 lbs (I’m 6’3”). My natural total test sits around 400.
I’m debating whether to start at 250 mg/week or go straight to 500 mg/week.

Main questions:
What can I realistically expect from 250 mg in terms of mental clarity, libido, and strength/muscle retention while cutting?

Is 250 mg actually noticeable, or is it too mild?

Can I reasonably avoid needing an AI at that dose?

Longer-term, I’m thinking of adding something like Primo or Anavar toward the end of the cut, but right now I’m just trying to figure out the best way to start with Test.
Would appreciate input from people who’ve run both lower and higher starting doses.