Honestly I would run them as needed. If you need them to get in shape then use them but they are def not mandatory. Some people say run it weeks on end with Clen be increase as needed. I can't bc after about 6wks it makes me feel like crap so I now go two on two off. If you think you need them Id run it that way from 8-10 wks out. After the first show let your body rest a bit and then us them again. If you are in shape for the first show you may not need them for the second show. If at all for either show.