Belief #1: "Some chemicals are helpful during training for sports."

Anabolic-androgenic steroids have been suggested to help certain athletes increase muscle and strength. The illegal or legal controlled use of steroids has been identified by some athletes as an effective method to gain an advantage over opponents in athletic competition where increased muscle mass and strength are desirable. The basis for believing these substances can increase muscle mass and strength are that their use will:

1. Increase protein synthesis in muscle.
   
   
2. Block the protein breakdown effect of certain hormones (glucocorticoids) after exercise.
   
   
3. Enhance aggressive behavior which will promote a greater quantity and quality of strength training.

According to the  American College of Sports Medicine Position on the Use of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids in Sports (1984), the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids:

1. Can contribute to small increases in body weight in the presence of adequate diet, often in the lean body mass compartment, but may be largely due to water retention.
   
   
2. May contribute a small amount to gains in strength beyond those normally achieved through high-intensity training and diet alone in some individuals and under rigorous training conditions.
   
   
3. Does not increase aerobic capacity.
   

The College also noted the adverse effects associated with steroid use. These included indications that steroids are associated with mood swings and aggressive behavior.

Additional adverse effects include testicular atrophy, arrested growth in adolescents, masculinization of females, and a greater likelihood of future problems with the liver, heart and blood vessels. The use of steroids is banned by rules of international competition.

Research studies cannot answer all the questions that athletes and coaches ask about steroids. Some athletes believe that these substances will increase their strength and are willing to take the risks associated with their use. Other athletes are not aware of the risks. Still other athletes choose to rely on their own physical and emotional abilities and efforts to increase their strength.

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