[layman51]

My first thought is the study must be capturing what they call “newbie gains” or “diminishing returns”. The sedentary experimental group can gain muscle so fast because they are just starting out on their journey.

Also, it kind of reminds me of the idea that athletes take these as performance enhancing drugs because it helps them in the same way that following a strength-training program would help them.

[loeg]

It isn't just beginner gains. Testosterone and anabolics are really, really effective. (They also have horrible side effects.)