Steroid use has long been a controversial topic in the fitness world. While professional bodybuilding openly allows enhanced athletes, “natural” competitions are meant to showcase physiques built without performance-enhancing drugs. Yet, the reality is that not everyone competing in these events follows the rules. The question then becomes — is using steroids in a “natural” competition simply cheating, or is it a deeper reflection of a flawed system?
Understanding “Natural” Competitions
Natural bodybuilding events were created to give athletes a platform to compete fairly without the use of anabolic steroids, growth hormones, or similar substances. Competitors often undergo drug testing, but the effectiveness of these tests varies. Some organizations use polygraphs or urine tests that only detect recent use, while others lack the funding for advanced testing. As a result, some enhanced athletes find ways to pass and still enter natural contests undetected.
The Moral Dilemma of Cheating
Using steroids in a natural competition is, by definition, cheating. It gives enhanced athletes an unfair advantage in muscle density, recovery, and conditioning. Natural competitors dedicate years to building their physiques without shortcuts, only to lose against someone who bends the rules. This not only undermines the fairness of the sport but also disrespects the dedication of true natural athletes.
However, some enhanced lifters justify their actions by arguing that others are cheating too. They claim the playing field is already uneven, and that testing standards are so weak that “everyone is doing it.” This rationalization blurs the line between ethics and competition, creating a culture of distrust even among genuine naturals.
The Pressure to Use Enhancements
Another layer to this issue is the immense pressure athletes face. Many feel the need to look a certain way to stay competitive or to gain social media recognition. In some cases, the fear of losing or staying unnoticed pushes athletes toward steroid use, even in “natural” events. This highlights a deeper problem in fitness culture—prioritizing appearance and fame over integrity and health.
The Role of Organizations and Judges
Federations that host natural shows have a responsibility to uphold the meaning of “natural.” More rigorous testing, transparency about results, and stricter penalties could discourage cheating. But often, organizations prioritize participation and profits over purity. Judges may even favor the most extreme physiques, unintentionally rewarding those who are enhanced and penalizing those who stay natural.
A Path Toward Integrity
For natural bodybuilding to maintain its credibility, honesty must come first. This includes better education about drug testing, stronger enforcement of rules, and more emphasis on celebrating genuine naturals. It also requires a shift in mindset—from glorifying perfection to appreciating authenticity and hard work.
Final Thoughts
Using steroids in natural competitions isn’t just about breaking rules—it’s about betraying trust. The entire purpose of these contests is to showcase what the human body can achieve naturally. When athletes use steroids and hide it, they damage not only their reputation but also the integrity of the sport itself. True progress in bodybuilding should come from discipline, patience, and transparency, not deception.