Controversial Essay on Bodybuilding - 1771 Words

Bodybuilding and Steroids: An Ongoing Controversy Throughout many generations as well as the present day, bodybuilding has been a much favored sport in the fitness industry. The question first begins with what a sport is determined to be. The definition seems to be: â€Å"a human activity capable of achieving a result requiring physical exertion and skill, which by nature, is competitive† (Kennedy 121). Conceivably, bodybuilding fits the definition; However, the primary problem that bodybuilders, the industry, and just the name, bodybuilding, in general face are the numerous controversial issues about the usage of anabolic drugs commonly referred to as steroids. The FDA has banned any and all steroids, causing them to be illegal; Yet, in†¦show more content†¦Tren Xtreme, Mass Xtreme, and Estro Xtreme are among the supplements cited by the FDA as containing steroid-like substances. Under the law, dietary supplements are defined as, â€Å"products that contain minerals and herbs, and do not claim to prevent, mi tigate, or cure specific illnesses† (Shmidt par.15). Thus, the FDA recommends and lists regular, legal foods, which are effective in gaining muscle mass and weight loss. These foods are listed: cottage cheese, lean ground beef, soy, eggs, chicken, fish, and vegetables. Lastly, Andrew Shao, the vice president for the Science and Regulation Council of Responsible Nutrition, working with the FDA, states that â€Å"it is very difficult to ban all substances proven illegal in an industry that strives off of them, making 2.8 billion dollars in sales every year† (Shmidt par.17). They cannot apprehend everyone who takes dietary supplements and anabolic steroids, but are doing their best to make a difference by promoting healthier ways to maintain a well and safe structured body. Controversial to the FDA, Tina Chandler, who is a master trainer and a nationally known woman bodybuilder, stated that although the FDA is correct about the adverse effects of dietary supplements, t hey are erroneous when stating that they are ineffective. In a face to face interview, Mrs. Tina Chandler stated, â€Å"I believe the FDA wants people to think