Steroids in Sports

Steroids are commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes of all levels. You will find steroids in High School sports, steroids in baseball, steroids in football, and, of course, steroids in the olympic games. All these sports, and many more others, use anabolic steroids in one form or another. DO NOT think that all NFL players are natural and steroid free. Even retired, they admit that at least 70% of their team used human growth hormone (HGH)!

Even though ancient athletes used herbs and certain foods (such as meat) to gain their performance, anabolic steroids were first known to be used at the 1954 World Weightlifting Championships by the Soviets. The Olympic athletes from the United States followed them soon as well. At this time the use of steroids was forbidden by the Olympic committees. As soon as athletes started being “revealed” using steroids, they and their counterparts started developing ways to by the bans and so the battle began. By the end of the 20th century, steroid use was banned in almost every sport, but still widely used.

Surveys have shown that approximately four to six percent of high school athletes have used steroids and anabolic steroids at some point. This percentage seems to have been actual for the past twenty years (Center for Disease Control and Prevention study) meaning that use is neither as widespread as some media outlets imply nor is use by this group increasing in prevalence.

Baseball is well-known to be a sport that harbors the use of steroids as well. Because of the well-publicized “discovery” of Mark McGuire’s bottle of Adrostendione in his locker, baseball major league employed an anti-drug policy complete with steroid testing guidelines.

So, anabolic steroids are still present in sports even though the organizations do not allow them. Since ancient times people have wanted to enhance their performance to gain the prestige and power that goes along with being great at what they do.

Steroids and Training

You should take the following factors to heart since they are absolutely necessary for a successful training. What role does the use of anabolic steroids play? Very simple answer: athletes who take steroids will make clearly faster, better, and more effctive progress than their natural colleagues. They will also obtain a much higher development stage than would have ever been possible without taking pharmaceutical compounds. Such statements that someone will achieve the same mass as a bodybuilder without taking steroids, but it will only takes longer, is nothing but a completely absurd publicity by the authorities who in their own interest conceal the truth. Read the following lines with an open-minded attitude and try to understand this information for your own needs.

1. High-intensity training: The human organism absolutely refuses any unnecessary change since it feels best in a constant condition, a homeostasis. In order to lure it out of its passivity, several efforts and exertions must be made. The signal that the body needs in order to build up strength and muscle mass is triggered by heavy, hard, and intense training routines. These should consist of relatively few sets. Five to eight sets for large muscle groups and three to four sets for small muscle groups are completely sufficient when every set is carried out until muscle failure.

2. Training with less repetitions: The body has two different types of muscle fibers: Since the muscle hypertrophy almost completely occurs in the fast-twitch white muscle fibers of type 2, a sensible bodybuilding workout must be developed in a way that these are sufficiently stimulated. For this purpose less, heavy repetitions in the range of 6-10 are recommended.

3. Training with progressively heavier weights: In order to build up massive muscles they must be challenged and exposed to regular progressively-higher resistances. This can be achieved when the athlete continuously increases the weight during exercises. The stronger the muscles the larger their appearance. There is no mass without power. The basic exercises such as squats, bench presses, presses behind the neck, rows, barbell curls, dips, etc. are the most suitable.

4. Sufficient rest periods: The muscles are stimulated during the training but they only grow during their rest phase. The higher intensity, the higher the damage of the muscle cell is and the longer the resting phase is. When you train with adequate intensity you simply cannot train every day nor should you attack a muscle twice a week. Accept rest and recovery as important factors of your training success. Every day you train in the GYM should be followed by a complete off day. Bodybuilders who are interested in an optimal strength and muscle gain should train every muscle once very intensely every 7-8 days.

5. Plateau and phase training: The body can be put under maximum stress only for a limited time. If this time is exceeded, development comes to a stop and if continued the performance will get back. For this reason the intensity and extent of the training should be changed every 12-14 weeks. The athlete should enjoy several days off training and then change to a several-week long maintenance training (plateau training).

The following training program considers all essential factors which are necessary for a quick buildup of strength and muscle mass. In combination with anabolic steroids its effectiveness can be considerably increased. Based on the high intensity it is not suitable for natural bodybuilders over a long time. This training schedule is obviously only intended as a suggestion and can be changed by every athlete to meet his individual needs, as long as the discussed principles are met. 

How Steroids Work ?

Steroids are commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes of all levels. You will find steroids in High School sports, steroids in baseball, steroids in football, and, of course, steroids in the olympic games. All these sports, and many more others, use anabolic steroids in one form or another. DO NOT think that all NFL players are natural and steroid free. Even retired, they admit that at least 70% of their team used human growth hormone (HGH)!

Even though ancient athletes used herbs and certain foods (such as meat) to gain their performance, anabolic steroids were first known to be used at the 1954 World Weightlifting Championships by the Soviets. The Olympic athletes from the United States followed them soon as well. At this time the use of steroids was forbidden by the Olympic committees. As soon as athletes started being “revealed” using steroids, they and their counterparts started developing ways to by the bans and so the battle began. By the end of the 20th century, steroid use was banned in almost every sport, but still widely used.

Surveys have shown that approximately four to six percent of high school athletes have used steroids and anabolic steroids at some point. This percentage seems to have been actual for the past twenty years (Center for Disease Control and Prevention study) meaning that use is neither as widespread as some media outlets imply nor is use by this group increasing in prevalence.

Baseball is well-known to be a sport that harbors the use of steroids as well. Because of the well-publicized “discovery” of Mark McGuire’s bottle of Adrostendione in his locker, baseball major league employed an anti-drug policy complete with steroid testing guidelines.

So, anabolic steroids are still present in sports even though the organizations do not allow them. Since ancient times people have wanted to enhance their performance to gain the prestige and power that goes along with being great at what they do.

Birth Defects 

Anabolic/androgenic steroids can have a very pronounced impact on the development of an unborn fetus. Adrenal Genital Syndrome in particular is a very disturbing occurrence, in which a female fetus can develop male-like reproductive organs. Women who are, or plan to become pregnant soon, should never consider the use of anabolic steroids. It would also be the best advice to stay away from these drugs completely for a number of months prior to attempting the conception of a child, so as to ensure the mother has a normal hormonal chemistry. Although anabolic/androgenic steroids can reduce sperm count and male fertility, they are not linked to birth defects what taken by someone fathering a child.


Cancer 

Although it is a popular belief that steroids can give you cancer, this is actually a very rare phenomenon. Since anabolic/androgenic steroids are synthetic version of a natural hormone that your body can metabolize quite easily, they usually place a very low level of stress on the organs. In fact, many steroidal compounds are safe to administer to individuals with a diagnosed liver condition, with little adverse effect. The only real exception to this is with the use of C17 alpha alkylated compounds, which due to their chemical alteration are somewhat liver toxic. In a small number of cases (primarily with Anadrol 50®) this toxicity has lead to severe liver damage and subsequently cancer. But we are speaking of a statistically insignificant number in the face millions of athletes who use steroids. These cases also tended to be very ill patients, not athletes, who were using extremely large dosages for prolonged periods of time. Steroid opponents will sometimes point out the additional possibility of developing Wilm's Tumor from steroid abuse, which is a very serious form of kidney cancer. Such cases are so rare however, that no direct link between anabolic/androgenic steroid use and this disease has been conclusively established. Provided the athlete is not overly abusing methylated oral substances, and is visiting a doctor during heavier cycles, cancer should not be much of a concern.

Depression 

Steroid use will obviously have an impact on hormone levels in the body, which in turn may result in a change in one's general disposition or mood. On the one hand we might see very aggressive behaviour, but the other extreme of depression also exists. Depression usually occurs at times when an individual's androgen/estrogen levels are significantly off balance. This is most common with male bodybuilders, at times when anabolic/androgenic steroids are discontinued. During this period estrogen levels may be markedly elevated (from the aromatization of steroids), which is often coupled with a deeply suppressed endogenous testosterone level. Once the steroids are no longer present in the body, the athlete may suffer with a low androgen level until the body catches up. Depression may also occur during the course of a steroid cycle, particularly with the sole use of anabolics. Although these compounds are mild in comparison to androgens, many can still suppress the endogenous Production of testosterone. If the testosterone level drops significantly during treatment, the administered anabolics may not provide enough of an androgen level to compensate, and a marked loss of motivation and sense of well-being may result. The best advice when looking to avoid cycle or post-cycle depression is to closely monitor drug intake and withdrawal. The use of a small weekly testosterone dose might prove very effective if added to a mild dieting/anabolic cycle, warding off feelings of boredom and apathy to training. And of course a strong steroid cycle should always be discontinued with the proper use of ancillary drugs (Nolvadex®, Arimidex®, HCG, Clomid® etc.). Although tapering schedules are very common, they are not an effective way to restore endogenous testosterone levels.

Hair loss 

The use of highly androgenic steroids can negatively impact the growth of scalp hair. In fact the most common form of male pattern hair loss is directly linked to the level of androgens in such tissues, most specifically the stronger DHT metabolite of testosterone. The technical term for this type of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, which refers to the interplay of both the male androgenic hormones and a genetic predisposition in bringing about this condition. Those who suffer from this disorder are shown to posses finer hair follicles and higher levels of DHT in comparison to a normal, hairy scalp. But since there is a genetic factor involved, many individuals will not ever see signs of this side-effect, even with very heavy steroid use. Clearly those individuals who are suffering from (or have a familial predisposition for) this type of hair loss should be very cautious when using the stronger drugs like testosterone, Anadrol 50®, Halotestin® and Dianabol.

Headaches 

Athletes sometimes report an increased frequency of headaches when using anabolic/androgenic steroids. This seems to be most common during heavier bulking cycles, when an individual is utilizing strongly estrogenic compounds. One should not simply take an aspirin and ignore this problem, as it is may indicate a more troubling side effect of steroid use, high blood pressure. Since high blood pressure invites with it a number of unwanted health risks, monitoring it on a regular schedule is important during heavy steroid use, especially if the individual is experiencing headaches. Some athletes choose to lower their blood pressure in such cases with a prescription medication like Catapres, but most find this an appropriate time to discontinue steroid use. Milder anabolics, which generally display little or no ability to convert to estrogen, are also more acceptable options for individuals sensitive to blood pressure increases. Less seriously, many headaches are due to simple strain on the neck and scalp muscles. The athlete may be lifting with much more intensity during a steroid cycle, and as a result may place added strain on these muscles. In this case a short break from training, and general rest, will often take care of the problem. Of course if anyone is experiencing a very serious or persistent headache, a visit to the doctor may be in order.

Common mistakes

If you ask ten athletes how steroids are best used you will get ten different answers. If you ask for a reason such as why or how come you will get replies such as the following: "The other guys in the gym do it just the same way;" "I have heard that a certain pro is taking the same compound;" "I read in the book that with this one can obtain fantastic results;" and many more can be heard. These statements only reflect what unfortunately is not reality: hardly a athlete knows how steroids should best be used. What shall be taken in what dosage for how long? Is it better when I try this combination or should I rather try another? If I could only know whether my preparations are really originals? Despite the fact that steroids have been used to improve sports performances for more than thirty years most athletes are still uncertain. Thus they can be easily manipulated and influenced. The so-urgently needed information is missing since there are no useful published scientific exams, helpful physicians who are familiar with this subject are few, special magazines conceal the problem, and top athletes deny that they ever used steroids. Consequently, many mistakes are made which, if at all, result in unsatisfying results and the often unnecessary side effects. Although the range of mistakes made is very far-reaching, some stand out since athletes keep repeating them. Everyone taking steroids or considering taking them should read this carefully in order to be sure that he will not be one of the several thousand athletes who keeps making just these mistakes.

1. The use of excessive dosages: Bodybuilders like extremes more than any other athlete. One acts according to the classic incorrect assumption that "more is better." If five tablets work well, then ten must double the effect. With such an attitude the door is open to potential side effects, and it is not even justified by a clearly improved effect. The effectiveness of almost all steroids is dosage dependent up to a certain degree and is achieved when the bonding potential of steroid molecules and steroid receptors is exhausted. When the receptors of the muscle cell are saturated the remaining steroid molecules begin looking for another target. Liver dysfunctions, kidney dysfunctions, hair loss, acne, high estrogen levels, reduced production of the body's own hormones, and aggressiveness often have their origin in dosages which are too high. So called mega doses do not result in a distinctly higher strength and mass gain. Those who believe that 50 Dianabol and 1000 mg testosterone per day is the only way to an "ideal body" have, to put it mildly, the wrong information.

2. Duration of intake is too long: The non-stop use of steroids is not recommended for most athletes for two reasons. First, when high dosages are taken over a long time, the risk of potential side effects increases considerable. The chances of organ damage are especially high when oral 17-alpha alkylated steroids are continuously taken. Second, such a behavior is very dubious since the effect of the administered steroids weakens after a certain time which, with a higher dosage or a different preparation, can only be stopped briefly. Everyone should know that the stronger the steroid the faster its effect decreases so that the use over a long period of time is even more foolish. Will Anadrol the gain increase usually is reduced after only 3-4 weeks while with Deca Durabolin, for example, often continuous progress can be obtained over 10-12 weeks.

3. The use of the wrong steroid preparations: not all steroids are the same. One must make a clear distinction between highly androgenic, potentially-toxic steroids such as Anadrol, Methyltestosterone, Dianabol, Halotestin, etc. and the weaker androgenic, predominantly anabolic and less toxic preparations, such as, B. Primobolan, Deca Durabolin, Anavar, Andriol, and Winstrol, Since, above all. the First mentioned drugs are the ones which cause the several side effects it makes sense to reduce their intake to a maximum of 6-8 weeks. Especially women, young adults, and older athletes should be very cautious when selecting steroid preparations. It would also be desirable that the general public and the media consider this distinction in their future negative general opinions and articles.

4. The selection of an unfavorable intake schedule: The effectiveness of every steroid program can be considerably increased by a clever combination of steroids since they have a synergetic effect. This means that with a low total dosage one can obtain better results. Since various receptors are attacked it is possible to delay the receptor saturation so that the steroid combination will remain effective over al longer period of time. At the same time potential side effects can be minimized. Instead of, for example, taking 50 mg Dianabol per day, the athlete should take 20 mg Dianabol/day and 200 mg Deca Durabolin/week. Generally one can say that best results can be obtained by combining an oral with an injectable steroid. The combination of two oral preparations such as Dianabol with Anadrol or Anavar with Methyltestosterone makes less sense. Since the protein-building and nitrogen-retaining effect of most steroids decreases after a few weeks one should begin with a low dosage which is increased slowly and evenly during the intake interval. Athletes whose steroid cycle is longer than 6-8 weeks should usually switch to a completely different combination. Another frequently-made mistake is the sudden interruption of the steroid regime. Many side effects, a possible rebound effect, and strength and weight loss can be minimized if the dosages are decreased slowly and evenly. This also includes that at the end of the intake interval not the highly effective steroids such as Anadrol and testosterone are taken but that the athlete switches to milder preparations and includes these during discontinuance.

5. The use of fakes: To correct this problem is very difficult for most athletes since the black market with its overwhelming preponderance of faked steroids represents the only source of supply. Unsatisfying results, often no positive results at all, and an unusual number of side effects are unfortunately common and caused by the use of fakes. Many faked steroids are impure, do not contain the alleged substances, are often considerably under dosed or contain something completely different as specified on the label.

6. Disinterest in periodical exams by a physician: Every athlete who takes steroids should have a physician periodically check his blood, urine, ph value, liver values, and the blood pressure. As important as the preliminary implementation of these tests is the right timing. It is important that the First exam is carried out before the regime. Thus it can be determined whether the athlete has the physical condition to use steroids or, based on certain factors should avoid certain preparations. This also helps obtain reference and comparison data so that in a later exam possible changes in results can be easily determined. The second exam is recommended 5-6 weeks after the steroid intake. Further administration of steroids should depend on the result of the exams. If the results are acceptable, four weeks after termination of the steroid program another test should be made to check whether or not possible smaller deviations were normalized. Have your physician give you a written copy of your blood results and check the Various values together with your physician.

7. Negligence of external factors: The use of steroids alone does not guarantee impressive results. Their effect strongly depends on four individual factors which together have a synergetic effect and are therefore called the magic rectangle: Training, nutrition, rest, and attitude. Especially when steroids are taken many athletes have a tendency to neglect these important requirements.

How to inject?

All oil based and water based anabolic steroids should be taken intramuscularly. This means the shot must penetrate the skin and subcutaneous tissue to enter the muscle itself. Intramuscular injections are used when prompt absorption is desired, when larger doses are needed than can be given cutaneously or when a drug is too irritating to be given subcutaneously. The common sites for in tramuscular injectons include the buttock, lateral side of the thigh, and the deltoid region of the arm. Muscles in these areas, especially the gluteal muscles in the buttock, are fairly thick. Because of the large number of muscle fibers and extensive fascia, (fascia is a type of connective tissue that surrounds and separates muscles) the drug has a large surface area for absorption. Absorption is further promoted by the extensive blood supply to muscles. Ideally, intramuscular injections should be given deep within the muscle and away from major nerves and blood vessels. The best site for steroid injections is in the gluteus medius muscle which is located in the upper outer quadrant of the buttock. The iliac crest serves as a landmark for this quadrant. The spot for an injection in an adult is usually to 7 1/2 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) below the iliac crest. The iliac crest is the top of the pelvic girdle on the posterior (back) side. You can find the iliac crest by feeling the uppermost bony area above each gluteal muscle. The upper outer quadrant is chosen because the muscle in this area is quite thick and has few nerves. The probability of injecting the drug into a blood vessel is remote in this area. Injecting here reduces the chance of injury to the sciatic nerve which runs through the lower and middle area of the buttock. It controls the posterior of each thigh and the entire leg from the knee down. 

If an injection is too close to this nerve or actually hits it, extreme pain and temporary paralysis can be felt in these areas.

This is especially undesirable and warrants staying as far away from this area as possible.

FOR INTRAMUSCULAR INJECTIONS: