Anabolic Steroids: Uses, Side Effects, And Alternatives


The Hidden Side of Athletic Performance: A Comprehensive Overview






1. What Is It?




Definition:


A set of substances, supplements, or performance‑enhancing tactics that give athletes an unfair advantage. This includes anabolic steroids, growth hormones, stimulants, blood‑doping, and certain legal but highly regulated drugs (e.g., testosterone replacements).




Why It Matters:


- Alters natural physiology → increased strength, endurance, faster recovery.

- Compromises fair competition and athlete safety.

- Can create a "coercive" environment where athletes feel pressured to join.



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2. The Spectrum of Substances & Practices



Category Common Examples Typical Effects


Anabolic Steroids Testosterone, nandrolone, stanozolol Muscle hypertrophy, increased protein synthesis


Erythropoiesis Stimulators EPO, blood doping Higher red‑blood‑cell count → better oxygen delivery


Stimulants & Performance Enhancers Amphetamines, caffeine (in high doses), modafinil Enhanced alertness, decreased fatigue


Hormonal Modulators Human Growth Hormone (hGH) Muscle growth, improved recovery


Peptide Hormones Insulin‑like Growth Factor 1 (IGF‑1) Promotes muscle protein synthesis


> Note: The above substances are commonly used in doping practices and can have severe legal, health, and ethical consequences.



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4. How to Use the Formula


Below is a step-by-step procedure for applying the formula.




Step 1: Gather Data



Baseline: Record your current body weight (kg) and training volume (weeks).


Goal: Determine desired weight gain in kilograms and the number of weeks you intend to train.



> Example: You currently weigh 70 kg, plan to train for 10 weeks, and aim to gain 5 kg.


Step 2: Compute \(W \times V\)



Multiply your body weight by training volume.


[
W \times V = 70\,\textkg \times 10 = 700
]




Step 3: Calculate the Weight Gain Ratio



Divide the desired weight gain by the product from step 2.


[
\frac\Delta WW \times V = \frac5\,\textkg700 \approx 0.00714
]




Step 4: Compare to the Empirical Range



The empirical studies show that this ratio should lie between 0.005 and 0.01 for a typical strength‑training program.


In our example, 0.00714 falls comfortably within this window, suggesting that the planned training load is appropriate.







Practical Take‑Away



Item What to Do


Assess your current load Estimate your average weekly lifting volume (sets × reps × weight).


Compute the ratio Divide the resulting number by 1000.


Check against 0.005–0.01 If inside, proceed; if below, consider increasing intensity or volume; if above, reduce load to avoid over‑training.


This quick rule of thumb helps you keep training intensity in check without complex calculations—great for athletes and coaches who need a fast reference tool.