Reported Use of Anabolic Steroids and Ergogenic Substances in Gym/Health Club Settings: Associations with Psychosocial and Exercise Behavior Factors

Abstract

The industry of ergogenic supplements is increasing rapidly

(Cole et al., 2003). Supplements may constitute an important

aid for some vigourous exercise routines, but they may also be

used as a hypothetical mean to achieve increases in muscular

mass. This supposed effect of suplements can lead to its use

by individuals who have high levels of drive for muscularity, a

condition that is known to be associated with muscular

dismorphy (or as it has been called recently vigorexia, Pope et al., 1997). Another psychological factor which can influence

supplement consumption is exercise dependence, a borderline

problem, as most studies present a prevalence of less than

10% in regular exercisers (Palmeira & Matos, 2006).

Symptoms like tolerance or continuity could lead to the use of

ergogenic aids to maintain the exercise levels. Also of interest

for the understanding of the use of suplements are exercise

frequency, volume and intensity, which could explain the

ratesof consumption on a more physicological level.