Unveiling the Truth Behind Social Media's Unrealistic Standards
In recent years, steroids have become increasingly prominent in the fitness industry, not just in bodybuilding circles but across social media, where influencers present themselves as the epitome of health and aesthetics. What many fail to disclose, however, is that a significant number of these figures use performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), creating a false image of what is naturally attainable. This unspoken reality has distorted the fitness world, leaving young people chasing unrealistic standards, often at the cost of their health.
#1 - The Rise of Steroid Use Among Influencers
Social media influencers are powerful figures in the fitness industry. Many showcase chiseled physiques, incredible muscle mass, and near-zero body fat, all while promoting workout routines, supplements, and nutrition plans. While some of these influencers are transparent about their steroid use, many aren’t, opting to present their bodies as the result of hard work, strict dieting, and "natural" training. The truth is, steroids like testosterone, trenbolone, and human growth hormone (HGH) are widely used by many influencers to accelerate muscle growth, burn fat, and enhance recovery. However, most influencers don't mention the role these drugs play in their transformations, creating an illusion that these results can be achieved through hard work alone. This misleading representation sets a dangerous precedent, making it appear as though such physiques are within reach for anyone who simply "works hard enough."
#2 - The Few Natural Influencers and Genetic Outliers
While there are some influencers who do maintain their physiques naturally, they are a tiny fraction of the population—likely less than 1%—who possess exceptional genetics. These rare individuals have a unique combination of muscle-building potential, low body fat distribution, and the ability to maintain an enviable physique year-round without the use of PEDs. Even for these individuals, the pressure to maintain their physiques is immense. Their livelihoods often depend on their appearance. Many fitness influencers derive their income from brand deals, personal training programs, and sponsorships, all of which hinge on maintaining a certain "look." If their physique were to change, so too could their financial stability, forcing them to live under constant scrutiny and pressure. For these influencers, fitness is no longer just a passion—it's a job that often requires sacrificing balance, mental health, and long-term well-being for the sake of appearance.
"Five years ago, I was being accused of using steroids, and now people say I don’t even look like I lift." – Jeff nippard, pro natural bodybuilder
#3 - The Impact on Reality vs. Expectation
The constant exposure to influencers' idealized bodies has a profound psychological impact on fitness enthusiasts, particularly younger individuals. They see these physiques as the standard and, when they don't achieve similar results after months or years of training, frustration sets in. Many are left feeling inadequate, believing they’re not working hard enough or that they’re failing, without realizing that these physiques are often chemically enhanced or the result of extraordinary genetics. This discrepancy between reality and expectation leads to unhealthy behaviors. People may begin overtraining, severely restricting their diets, or turning to supplements that promise faster results, all while chasing an unattainable ideal. For some, the pressure becomes too great, and they turn to steroids themselves, seeing it as the only way to "catch up."
#4 - The Alarming Trend of Younger Steroid Users
Perhaps the most concerning consequence of this steroid-fueled illusion is the rising trend of steroid use among young people. Studies have shown that steroid use is becoming more prevalent among teenagers and young adults who want to emulate the influencers they follow. This is particularly alarming because the bodies of younger individuals are still developing, and steroid use can have long-lasting negative effects on their physical and mental health.
Common side effects include:
-heart problems
-liver damage
-hormonal imbalances
-Psychological issues such as aggression and depression
Additionally, young users may develop a dependence on steroids, feeling that they cannot achieve their goals without them. The accessibility of steroids through online sources, combined with the glorification of chemically enhanced bodies, has made it easier than ever for young people to experiment with these dangerous drugs. This can lead to a cycle of dependency, where individuals feel they need more and more to maintain their results, ultimately risking their health for a fleeting image of perfection.
#5 - A Call for Transparency
What’s missing from the fitness industry is transparency. Influencers, fitness coaches, and public figures in the fitness world need to take responsibility for the impact they have on their audiences. By promoting unrealistic ideals and hiding their steroid use, they are contributing to a culture of dishonesty that harms the very people they claim to inspire. Instead, the industry should encourage openness about PED use and set more realistic expectations for what can be achieved naturally. It's time to celebrate progress, health, and balance over the obsession with looking a certain way at any cost.
"Steroids aren't just a shortcut, they’re a dangerous shortcut. They come with serious risks that can damage your long-term health in ways that may not be reversible." - Dr mike israetel
#6 - Do You Really Want to Lose Fat, or Are You Being Influenced?
The pressure to look a certain way, often driven by social media, has led many people to prioritize fat loss or muscle gain, even when it may not align with their true goals or health. It's important to ask yourself: Do I really want to lose fat, or am I being influenced by others’ expectations? Body image issues and the fear of not fitting into the fitness culture’s aesthetic ideals can push individuals toward extreme measures. But fitness should be about health, strength, and confidence—not fitting into a mold created by influencers who often don’t disclose the full truth.
Final thoughts
The rise of steroid use in the fitness industry has created a toxic environment where unrealistic standards dominate, and truth is often hidden behind filters and enhanced physiques. This culture is especially harmful to young people who, feeling the pressure to meet these standards, are using steroids earlier and earlier. As a community, we must shift the focus back to health, longevity, and transparency. Being fit isn’t about achieving an Instagram-worthy physique—it’s about feeling strong, healthy, and confident in your own skin, without compromising your well-being for the sake of appearances. Be mindful of who you follow, question the messages being sent, and, most importantly, focus on your personal journey, not someone else's chemically-enhanced or genetically rare transformation.
If you need help with your training & setting realistic, obtainable health goals, click below to learn more about my services! Until next time
Cheers,
-Coach Taj
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