In today’s bodybuilding and fitness world, the pressure to get results fast has never been greater. Social media glorifies shredded physiques, influencers advertise “enhanced” transformations, and beginners often look for shortcuts to achieve the same look. But one growing concern is how some coaches—especially online trainers—may be encouraging steroid use far too early in a lifter’s journey.
The Allure of Quick Results
Many beginners start training with high motivation. They want to see results fast, and they’re willing to do whatever it takes. This desire makes them vulnerable to suggestions from coaches promising “elite-level gains.” When a coach introduces the idea of steroids early, it can sound like a solution rather than a risk. For inexperienced athletes who don’t understand the long-term consequences, the temptation can be overwhelming.
Coaches and Their Influence
A coach’s role is to educate, guide, and protect their client’s health. Unfortunately, not all coaches follow this responsibility. Some push steroids because they want their clients to achieve dramatic transformations—results that attract more followers and future customers. A client who looks incredible in 12 weeks becomes free advertising. The darker side of the industry shows that ethics often take a backseat to marketing.
On the other hand, some coaches genuinely believe low doses are “safe” and see steroids as just another performance tool. They might not fully understand or disclose the potential hormonal, cardiovascular, and psychological effects that can occur even from short-term use.
The Risk for Beginners
For beginners, steroid use is especially risky. Their bodies haven’t yet adapted to training stress, recovery demands, or consistent nutrition. Natural testosterone levels are typically high, meaning there’s no need for external hormones. Introducing steroids too early can cause long-term suppression of natural hormone production, leading to low testosterone levels once the cycle ends. This can result in fatigue, depression, and difficulty maintaining muscle gains.
Additionally, beginners who rely on steroids too soon often skip the learning process—understanding proper form, recovery, and diet management. When they stop using, they lose not only their gains but also the confidence to train naturally.
The Ethical Problem in Coaching
Encouraging a beginner to use steroids violates the trust between coach and client. It prioritizes short-term results over long-term well-being. A responsible coach should focus on building a solid foundation—teaching proper training techniques, balanced nutrition, and recovery habits. Only after years of natural progress and full education should the conversation about enhancements even begin.
Unfortunately, some “coaches” operate without certifications or moral standards. They may sell steroid cycles as part of their coaching packages or give dosing advice without medical knowledge, putting clients in serious danger.
How to Protect Yourself as a Beginner
Beginners should be cautious about who they hire as a coach. Red flags include promises of extreme transformations in a few weeks, secrecy around supplements, or pressure to “take something to get to the next level.” A good coach encourages patience, consistency, and education before even mentioning enhancement options.
Researching your coach’s background, asking questions about their approach, and seeking references from long-term clients can help you avoid being manipulated into early steroid use.
Final Thoughts
While steroids can be powerful tools for experienced athletes, they have no place in a beginner’s journey. Coaches who push new lifters into using them too soon are prioritizing profit and reputation over safety and ethics. Building muscle takes time, discipline, and proper guidance—not shortcuts. True success in fitness isn’t just about how fast you grow—it’s about how long you can sustain it while staying healthy.