Also I was not sure where to post this. It transcends any one of the sport subforums. And is not about getting BSL. Its defiantly not a “help me with my cycle” thread. So given its a bit more of an open ended question I’ll stick it here. If the Mods see fit to move it - so be it.
This seems like a good time for this tread. As I’ve been meaning to ask this question for a long time - but it always “crass” to ask it in the wake of some one leaving us. So with no noticeable passing’s recently (albeit 2 very sick strongmen) here goes:
Given that a majority of the worlds sporting bodies are working hard on limiting player harm (NFL, Rugby, Boxing, Soccer to name a few) can the associated world of weight training hold out much longer in turning a blind eye to PED use?
Buy this I mean the obvious use of large dosages by the pro’s.
My opinion - I’m on the side of player safety. I think they will have to step in, and soon. But I’ve really changed my mind on this in the last 3 years. I used to be much more “if they know the risks and don’t mind - then let them play” - but not anymore. And the reason is simple - the older I get the more I realise people are never “fully” in control of what they do. And all the while there is a competition, someone will want to win it. And they will do more and more extreme things to win it. Unfortunately in weightlifting more PED’s normally means better gains. But more risk. And the whole sport almost being a game of chicken with whomever is willing to take the biggest risk winning. Or at least you need to take obscene amounts to be competitive.
For that reason, I dread to think what goes on behind closed doors for professional athletes. The cruise that look like a blast. The blast that look like 5 peoples gear. These are people that have families and friends. Is it right we encourage these guys to play Russian roulette with their lives for a trophy?
I don’t think so.
I also admit that there is no “easy” solution. IF the sports some how introduce a good testing procedure and remove all / most PED’s from the sports of strong man, power lifting and BB’ing - you could have a guy running a fairly low grade cycle bigger stronger leaner than a guy on stage at the worlds in any 3 of those.
I’d like to hear peoples POV,
If you think its “fine” - then do you see the comparison with other sports where they (the governing bodies) are trying to limit long term health issue? Like repeat concussion. In rugby there was a movement opposing changes, saying that they were “ruining the game” - until a few famous guys were diagnosed with early on set dementia. That focused the public s mind on “human” angle.