Natural Bodybuilding, Figure, Fitness: Is it really?

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by Titania

Gregg Valentino is known as a liar. His massive and grotesque arms were NOT the result of steroids. They were created (loosely used word here) with Synthol which is a non steroid oil used to 'fill up' muscles. It is dangerous (can cause serious trouble if it gets into the bloodstream) and looks disgusting. It can also seriously damage muscle tissue.

I can't comment on whether steroids were used as Valentino stated, or synthol, because I'm not really familiar with either, but I will say, it's very sad to see someone use any chemical in excess, that would cause this type of damage. It's self-mutilation. When I first saw the photos I was shocked. T

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by alexandra-alam

does hydroxycut and lipo 6 count as drugs? or just the illegal ones?

Hi Alexandra, I've heard many of the natural competitions, do not allow fat burners with ephedra. I "think" lipo 6 does not have ephedra(don't quote me), but I'm not sure about hydroxycut. Unfortunately, I'm not really familiar with fat burners, but I'm sure other members will have answers for you. Sorry I wasn't much help. T

[misstransformer]

I asked this in another message, but on average, what is the fat percentage for most amateur figure competitors? I know it varies, but I always like to get feedback from different people who compete and/or train competitors. T

[dvsness]

Originally Posted by misstransformer

I asked this in another message, but on average, what is the fat percentage for most amateur figure competitors? I know it varies, but I always like to get feedback from different people who compete and/or train competitors. T

I would say 7-12% as a loose estimate. It really depends on the individual and the organization.

For the record, if you think there aren't naturals competing in untested shows and enhanced athletes competing in tested ones, you are sorely mistaken. Of course you don't need to use illegal substances to be in a NPC/IFBB show. And there is a reason that detection times are listed in the steroid forum, and it's not for those competing in untested events!

[eroc613]

Originally Posted by armymuscle01

i dont see it as a crutch, cause bottom line is a 100% natural guy such as myself, no prohormones, no steroids, and cheap walmart protein and vitamins at 6'2, will never be in the IFBB competing against guys who are 6'2 300lbs with 2 percent bodyfat or even able to do a local NPC show.

I have witness with my very own eyes, numerous individuals who have awful diets, awful training habits, and who were lazy, with awesome physiques..genetics? I dont know perhaps, but all i know is that when they got off the drugs they shrunk in size...steroids do help alot.

like you said, when it comes to figure and fitness you can do npc or other non-tested shows, cause its a whole lot different than bodybuilding.

i rather do natural shows cause i know (hope) the playing field is level. My last show had a polygraph test and a urinalysis. The Winner gets his results submitted, if he comes back as a failure then the next person takes it, unfortunately the glory is on the stage and that gets taken away.

btw, fatburners are allowed but not ephedra or those that are derivitives of steroids

I don't shrink in size, but my diet is good, and I continue to push myself hard. Don't label a group, because others don't do what is nessecery

[eroc613]

Originally Posted by misstransformer

I can't comment on whether steroids were used as Valentino stated, or synthol, because I'm not really familiar with either, but I will say, it's very sad to see someone use any chemical in excess, that would cause this type of damage. It's self-mutilation. When I first saw the photos I was shocked. T

He also had implants. He makes money because he's a side show, so how ever he can get attention (misleading people) he going to do it.$$$$$$

[biggstrong]

No hydroxycut is not an illegal drug as a natural. For those of you wondering about competing naturally. Go for it, it is the best experience you can pursue. Word of advice,DO IT FOR YOURSELF. This is a self satisfaction competition. Set a goal and go for it... I have been doing it for 5 years and it is great...

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by dvsness

I would say 7-12% as a loose estimate. It really depends on the individual and the organization.

For the record, if you think there aren't naturals competing in untested shows and enhanced athletes competing in tested ones, you are sorely mistaken. Of course you don't need to use illegal substances to be in a NPC/IFBB show. And there is a reason that detection times are listed in the steroid forum, and it's not for those competing in untested events!

Hi Dvsness, this thread was originally posted in June?almost six months ago. At that time I was not familiar with how the competitions worked?or even most of the lingo. Since then I?ve read a great deal, and asked many questions, and now have a better of understanding of the points you?ve made. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. T

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by biggstrong

No hydroxycut is not an illegal drug as a natural. For those of you wondering about competing naturally. Go for it, it is the best experience you can pursue. Word of advice,DO IT FOR YOURSELF. This is a self satisfaction competition. Set a goal and go for it... I have been doing it for 5 years and it is great...

I agree completely BiggStrong. Very wise words of advice. T

[dvsness]

Originally Posted by misstransformer

Hi Dvsness, this thread was originally posted in June?almost six months ago. At that time I was not familiar with how the competitions worked?or even most of the lingo. Since then I?ve read a great deal, and asked many questions, and now have a better of understanding of the points you?ve made. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. T

I don't know if you are aware, but i found this thread through http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2007bbsiteawards.htm

[goddessamazon]

Originally Posted by dvsness

I don't know if you are aware, but i found this thread through http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2007bbsiteawards.htm

Hey MissT your thread is listed on that page.

WOW!

I just voted.


This is really cool information. Thanks dvsness!

[one*hot*mama]

Originally Posted by Beefcake Girl

I think you are correct, the drug tests test for usage in the last year for the most part but some tests test for longer periods---there are lifetime drug free shows.

I won't beat a dead horse or spark the old debate but it is totally possible to compete at a high level without drugs---I have close friends who have turned pro without them. I have never touched anything and I just took 2nd at Junior Nationals. I also do not have the genetics to build muscle but though hard training and good eating I have made a lot of progress. And I compete in both natural and non-tested, very competitive events and yes, I do go up against girls who use different substances. But I don't care, I want tough competition and a lot of times, the ravages of such drug use put them at a disadvantage any way (especially with the current judging patterns for figure) that I don't really feel too threatened.

Even if you have a lot of body fat to lose, with good advice, solid dieting and CONSISTENT training, you can transform yourself. We don't all have the genetics to turn pro but I think anyone can step onstage. Competing should not be about winning anyway----it is quite a journey and you learn so much and feel such a sense of accomplishment that it is worth it no matter what you place, in my opinion.

Your post is very inspiring! Thank you!

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by goddessamazon

Hey MissT your thread is listed on that page.

WOW!

I just voted.


This is really cool information. Thanks dvsness!

Hi Dvsness and Goddessamazon!! No I didn't know the thread was listed there. I'll have to mosey on over and take a look. Thank you both for taking the time to stop by and post a message. T

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by eroc613

He also had implants. He makes money because he's a side show, so how ever he can get attention (misleading people) he going to do it.$$$$$$

Arm implants?

[OakExpress]

I know for a fact that people who are using are competing in natural shows. I had the honor of losing my national qualification at a natural show to someone who was using. The thing is you can't control who shows up. All you can do is have integrity yourself, be the best you can be, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

The other thing is that "natural" is really on a continuum. In the NPC, you are considered natural as long as you are only using things available over the counter. So, if a prohormone hasn't been banned yet, you can use it. This too has been something I have faced at natural shows. To me, natural means no steroids, hormones, prohormones, or non-OTC diuretics, clenbuterol etc. However, I will use Amino Acids, Protein Powder, Meal Replacements, herbal diuretics, and creatine. To some, that is not natural.

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by OakExpress

I know for a fact that people who are using are competing in natural shows. I had the honor of losing my national qualification at a natural show to someone who was using. The thing is you can't control who shows up. All you can do is have integrity yourself, be the best you can be, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

The other thing is that "natural" is really on a continuum. In the NPC, you are considered natural as long as you are only using things available over the counter. So, if a prohormone hasn't been banned yet, you can use it. This too has been something I have faced at natural shows. To me, natural means no steroids, hormones, prohormones, or non-OTC diuretics, clenbuterol etc. However, I will use Amino Acids, Protein Powder, Meal Replacements, herbal diuretics, and creatine. To some, that is not natural.

Hi Michael, this was a great statement: "All you can do is have integrity yourself, be the best you can be, and enjoy the fruits of your labor." That is really what it boils down to. We're our greatest competitors. Also, you're still a winner, and your scripture quote is how I live my life each day in every way.! T

[misstransformer]

While browsing the INBA website, the "front" page states they now require blood testing to insure competitors are natural, which made me wonder if this was something new. Does anyone know if the testing is random, or required of all competitors? Also, how close to competition are the tests taken? I think this is great news, and wanted to post an update. There are no guarantees, but at least it shows they're serious about keeping the playing field fair. I'll email the site, but it may take a few days to receive a reply, and I was hoping someone here might know. T

http://naturalbodybuilding.com/