Male Gym Users Research Articles

Exploratory Data Analyses Indicate an Overuse of Dietary Supplements among Male Gym Users in Germany

Background: Dietary supplements (DS) are very popular with the general population, physically active people and professional athletes are often taken without professional advice. Adverse effects on consumer health are increasingly being reported and there are concerns about overdoses of certain nutrients. There are initial indications that some groups of people have a higher affinity to DS than others. It appears that the type of sport and possibly gym membership could have an influence on consumer behaviour. Therefore, this study aimed to identify high consumer groups of DS among the general population in Germany. Methods: The consumption of DS was assessed using an online questionnaire including information about physical activity, gym membership and the consumption and intake doses of DS. Completed questionnaires were returned by 244 participants (m=153, f=91; 30.7±10.4 years SD). The answer options were valued, and subjects were categorized in low, average and high consumers (indicating overdosing). A configural frequency analysis was performed using the independent variables gender, gym membership, consumption. The configurations were tested with an exact binomial test and the p-value was corrected according to Bonferroni (0.05/12=0.0042). Results: Three significant configurations were found (p≤0.0042). The configuration, ‘male-gym member-average consumption’ as well as ‘male-gym member-high consumption’ were significantly overrepresented. Male gym members with low consumption behaviour were significantly underrepresented. Conclusion: This analysis suggests that male gym users in the German population have a higher risk of excessive DS consumption than other subgroups. Awareness campaigns regarding the risk of intake and overconsumption of DS can be targeted to high-risk groups. Due to the small sample size and the different types of fitness gyms, further studies are needed to make clearer statements and identify more precise risk groups.

How Ready Are Gym Users to Refrain from Performance-Enhancing Substances? The Transtheoretical Model of Change as a Theoretical Framework

Methods: A descriptive predictive correlational design was be used to guide this study.The study included a convenience sample of male gym users who agreed to participate in this study. The study subjects were recruited from six private gyms.The study instrument includes subjects’ sociodemographic characteristics of age, living arrangement, family’s socioeconomic status, the performance-enhancing substances that the gym users use. It also includes the Transtheoretical Model of Change measures of Stages of Change for Performance-Enhancing Substances Scale (Short Form), the Stages of Change for Performance-Enhancing Substances Scale (Continuous Measure), the Processes of Change for Performance-Enhancing Substances Scale, the Self-Efficacy for Performance-Enhancing Substances Scale, the Decisional Balance Scale for Performance-Enhancing Substances. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SPSS) for windows, version 28. Results: The study results revealed that around a half are in the Precontemplation Stage of Change, followed by those who are in the Contemplation Stage of Change, those who are in the Action Stage of Change, those who are in the Termination Stage of Change, and those who are in the Preparation Stage of Change. Conclusion: The greater the Pros, the higher the Stages of Change for performance-enhancing substance use the gym user would therein.The greater the Social Liberation, the higher the Stages of Change for performance-enhancing substance use the gym user would therein. The greater the Helping Relationships, the higher the Stages of Change for performance-enhancing substance use the gym user would therein. Keywords: Gym Users; Performance-Enhancing Substances; Transtheoretical Model

Social Media, Body Image and Resistance Training: Creating the Perfect \u2018Me\u2019 with Dietary Supplements, Anabolic Steroids and SARM\u2019s

BackgroundFew studies have assessed the use of dietary supplements, anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and selective androgen receptor modulators (SARM) in male gym users. The comparison of physical appearance with others on social media and the exposure to fitness-related content on social media (i.e., image-centric social media use) may have a profound role in using these compounds due to its role in creating negative body images in male gym users.ObjectiveProvide contemporary data on the use of dietary supplements, AAS and SARM among young male gym users, and test the hypothesis that social media is associated with the use of dietary supplements, AAS and SARM, as a result of a negative body image.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, conducted in the Netherlands, male gym users (N = 2269; 24 ± 6 years) completed an online questionnaire including self-reported measures regarding resistance training participation, image-centric social media use, dietary supplement intake, and body image. The prevalence of AAS and SARM use was assessed with randomized response, a technique to ask sensitive questions indirectly.ResultsOf all participants, 83% used ergogenic dietary supplements (mainly protein and creatine), and an estimated 9 versus 2.7% had ever used AAS versus SARM. Image-centric social media use was positively associated with the use of dietary supplements (r = .26; p < 0.01) and AAS (p < 0.05), but not SARM. Image-centric social media use was associated with a more dissatisfied body image (r = .34; p < 0.01). Body image did not mediate the relationship between image-centric social media use and the use of doping compounds.ConclusionsThe use of dietary supplements in young male gym users is exorbitant, with the use of AAS and SARM being substantial. Image-centric social media use is positively associated with the use of dietary supplements and AAS.

Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Abuse among Gym Users, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.

Background and Objectives: The main aim of the present study was to assess the use of androgenic–anabolic steroids (AAS) and to investigate its potentially unfavorable effects among gym members attending gym fitness facilities in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was carried out during the summer of 2017. Male gym users in the Eastern Province region of Saudi Arabia were the respondents. Information on socio-demographics, use of AAS, knowledge, and awareness about its side effects were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of AAS consumption among trainees in Eastern Province was 21.3%. The percentage was highest among those 26–30 years of age (31.9%), followed by the 21–25 (27.4%) (p = 0.003) age group. Participants in the study were not aware of the potential adverse effects of AAS use. Adverse effects experienced by 77% of AAS users include psychiatric problems (47%), acne (32.7%), hair loss (14.2%), and sexual dysfunction (10.7%). Moreover, it appears that trainers and friends are major sources (75.20%) for obtaining AAS. Conclusion: AAS abuse is a real problem among gym members, along with a lack of knowledge regarding its adverse effects. Health education and awareness programs are needed not only for trainees, but also for trainers and gym owners as they are reportedly some of the primary sources of AAS.

Attitude and health issue awareness of anabolic androgenic steroids use among male gym users in some gym centers in Sulaymaniyah city, Iraq

ABSTRACT Background Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic analogs of testosterone that induce an increase in body mass, muscle mass, bone intensity, collagen deposition, primarily through the action of the androgen receptor, particularly when they are used in supraphysiological doses to boost the serum testosterone level up to 1000 ng/dL. Objective and Method This study was conducted to address attitudes and health issue awareness of AAS use amongst male gym users in Sulaymaniyah city using an anonymous questionnaire. Results Most of the participants (67%) were aged between 18 and 30 years and well-educated (65.7%). However, there was no correlation between education level and participants’ opinions about using or banning AAS. The most commonly used AASs were testosterone (15.2%) and dianabol (12.5%), and injectable forms were frequently used (54.9%). Coaches (18.2%) and friends (12.1%) were the main sources of gym users’ introduction to AAS. Despite being unwilling to disclose, 45.9% of them indirectly admitted or knew someone who had AAS-related adverse effects, including acne, skin rash, eczema (29%), infertility (7.9%), reduced libido (7.9%), testicular atrophy (5.3%). The vast majority (84.8%) of them had information at least about one or more adverse effects of AAS, but still 26.3% of them were active users of AAS. In conclusion The use of AAS was relatively high among gym users in the region.

Support for non-prescribed anabolic androgenic steroids users: a qualitative exploration of their needs

Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) are used by the general population (particularly male gym users) for their anabolic effects (increased muscle mass). Few studies have sought AAS users’ views on what information and support they need. This study focuses on ideal support wanted by people who use AAS. Interviews were conducted with 23 self-declared adult AAS users. Using thematic analysis, six themes were identified aligned to support and information wanted by AAS users: (1) specific types of information wanted: managing risks, (2) mechanisms for communication of advice, (3) specific types of support wanted: medical and emotional, (4) stigmatisation of people who use AAS, (5) paying for support services, (6) legality of AAS use.Integral to the support was that it should be considered within the context of use and identity. Support needs to be specific, targeted towards AAS users ensuring that balanced and evidenced-based advice is given. Sensitivity to AAS users’ perceptions of their drug-use and the stigma of being classified in the same sub-set as other illicit drug users is relevant to facilitating successful engagement. Furthermore, there is a need to consider the emotional issues surrounding AAS use and how to meet these needs.

Symptoms of muscle dysmorphia in male gym users

Symptoms of muscle dysmorphia in male gym users

Knowledge, attitudes and use of anabolic-androgenic steroids among male gym users: A community based survey in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Recreational use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is a growing worldwide public health concern. However, studies assessing the level of awareness and knowledge of its effects on health are fairly limited, especially in developing countries, including Saudi Arabia. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices among male gym members toward AAS in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) from March to October 2016. Twenty gyms were randomly selected from four different geographical regions (clusters) within Riyadh. In total, 482 participants responded to the self-administered anonymous questionnaire, which covered socio-demographic data, data assessing knowledge, attitude and behavior related to AAS use. The mean (±standard deviation) age of study participants was 27.2 (±6.9) years. Among these, 29.3% of participants reported having used AAS, while the majority (53.5%) reported hearing of AAS use, mostly through friends. Most study participants reported awareness of the effects of AAS on muscle mass, body weight and muscles strength (53.2%, 51.1% and 45.5%, respectively). In contrast, a higher proportion of study participants were unaware of the side-effects of AAS use. A high proportion of study participants (43.2%) reported that they had been offered AAS and 68.7% believed that AAS are easily accessible. Most of the gym users (90.1%) reported never having used any narcotics or psychoactive drugs. Regression analysis revealed that use of anabolic-androgenic steroids is significantly associated with “weight lifting practice” OR [95%CI] = 1.9[1.02 − 3.61], P = 0.044; “using supplementary vitamins, OR [95%CI] = 7.8[4.05 − 15.03], P < 0.0001, knowing anyone using anabolic-androgenic steroids’ OR [95%CI] = 7.5[3.78 − 14.10], P < 0.0001, and someone advised Gym users to take anabolic-androgenic steroids” OR [95%CI] = 2.26[1.23 − 4.14], P < 0.008. Our findings suggest that the level of awareness regarding the possible side-effects of AAS is fairly limited. Thus, efforts directed toward educating the public and limiting access to AAS as well as health policy reforms are crucial to reduce future negative implications of AAS use.

Masculinities of Gym Users in the Context of Sustainable Development

The relationship between conceptions of masculinity and sport injuries is presented in this paper describing how male gym users, including bodybuilders and fitness practitioners, have shown risk behaviors that are typical of their gender. A qualitative and quantitative study was applied as a part of the methodology at a gym in the city of Hermosillo, Mexico, focusing on injury risks related to masculinity and their prevention. Questionnaire of injuries disposition and in-depth interviews were applied to gym users. Most of the surveyed users showed knowledge of the proper use of gym equipment and stretching and warming techniques as well as the support of the gym instructors. The main cause of injuries is related to behaviors, since they chose not to ask for instructions to show power and strength to others as a result of the male competitive tension that exists among them due to conceptions of masculinity. It is concluded that, in fact, there is a relationship between conceptions of masculinity and sport injuries. Users report the existence of social tension and that for the sole reason of being male they feel the responsibility and obligation of being the best without taking any prevention or safety measure.

Dietary Supplement Intake and Associated Factors Among Gym Users in a University Community

ABSTRACTDietary supplement intake and associated factors among gym users in a university community in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE), were assessed using a structured, self-administered questionnaire in this cross-sectional study. Adults (N = 320) from five gyms in the University City of Sharjah participated in this cross-sectional study. The prevalence of dietary supplement intake was 43.8%. Statistically significant associations were found between the use of dietary supplements and sex (47.7% males, 28.1% females; p = .006), as well as weight lifting (88.6% taking supplements vs. 11.4% not taking supplements; p < .001), favoring male gym users. The reasons attributed to the use of dietary supplements varied between the sexes. Male exercisers used supplements to increase or maintain muscles mass, strength, and power and to boost exercise recovery. Females mainly used dietary supplements to increase energy, maintain their health, and prevent nutrition deficiency. Overall, protein supplements (whey proteins [48.6%] and protein powder [45.7%]) were among the most-consumed dietary supplements, followed by multivitamins (38.6%), branched-chain amino acids (36.4%), caffeine (35.0%), and creatine (29.3%). A widespread use of Internet-driven, self-prescribed dietary supplement intake was reported among gym users (60.7%). Only 12.8% of dietary supplement users sought information from dietitians. Practical implications suggest that gym instructors and coaches should be sufficiently trained to be able to provide accurate and scientifically sound information on dietary supplements to the exercisers in gyms in the university environment.

An exploration into the development of motivation to exercise in a group of male UK regular gym users

A key concern when developing health promotion programmes is how to facilitate adherence to regular exercise. This study explored the values, beliefs and experiences, both past and present, that motivated adult participation in regular recreational exercise. Twenty-eight male gym users who met the American College of Sports Medicine recommendations on Quantity and Quality of Exercise completed the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory and the Perceived Competence Scale. Five participants who scored highly on both the scales took part in semi-structured interviews to explore the factors that led to their regular exercise behaviour. Interview data were subjected to thematic analysis. The development of motivation to exercise regularly was associated with social-environmental factors during childhood that provided encouragement and a variety of opportunities to engage in exercise. This progressed to a stage when the focus was on exercise competence achieved by encouragement, guidance and positive affirmation from teachers, coaches and peers. The final stage shows how the participants' adherence to exercise has become a vital element in the creation of their sense of their identities and their physical and psychological health. The findings of this study suggest that motivation to exercise regularly is developed along a continuum from childhood to adulthood and although the meaning derived from these experiences was different for each participant, a common thread emerged of the importance of choice, support and social-environmental opportunities in creating each participant's exercise role identity.

Usage and perceptions of anabolic-androgenic steroids among male fitness centre attendees in Kuwait--a cross-sectional study.

BackgroundConsidering the recent popularity of bodybuilding and the apparent spread of anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use amongst bodybuilding enthusiasts in Kuwait, there is a relative lack of scientific investigation into the use, knowledge and attitudes towards AAS amongst the population at risk of abusing it. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the frequency, knowledge, attitudes and practice of AAS use amongst male fitness centre attendees in Kuwait.MethodsA cross sectional survey utilizing a self-administered questionnaire was used. Information on demographics as well as knowledge and attitude about and towards the use of AAS was included in the questionnaire. Ten fitness centres in Kuwait were randomly selected and questionnaires were distributed to all individuals leaving each centre on randomly selected days and periods of time for each centre. Overall n = 400 questionnaires were distributed.ResultsA total of n = 194 questionnaires were returned completed (~49 %). Of the responders, 22.7 % used AAS. The 19–25 age group had the highest occurrence (46.8 %) of first-time AAS use. In contrast with non-users, most (70.5 %) of AAS users believed that having an optimally muscular body can only be achieved by using AAS, and a small minority (6.8 %) believed that AAS usage would have significant harms to health. Only 18.2 % of AAS users had appropriate knowledge regarding the side effects of AAS. Non-users were as much uninformed as AAS users regarding the side effects of AAS.ConclusionThe usage of AAS is high amongst male gym users in Kuwait and is likely to present an additional burden to the health service. An effective initiative to minimize the burden of AAS abuse should focus on changing the attitudes towards AAS rather than spreading awareness of their side effects.

Effectiveness of Anabolic Steroid Preventative Intervention among Gym Users: Applying Theory of Planned Behavior.

Use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) has been associated with adverse physical and psychiatric effects and it is known as rising problem among youth people. This study was conducted to evaluate anabolic steroids preventative intervention efficiency among gym users in Iran and theory of planned behaviour was applied as theoretical framework. Overall, 120 male gym users participated in this study as intervention and control group. This was a longitudinal randomized pretest - posttest series control group design panel study to implement a behaviour modification based intervention to prevent AAS use. Cross -tabulation and t-test by using SPSS statistical package, version 13 was used for the statistical analysis. It was found significant improvements in average response for knowledge about side effects of AAS (P<0.001), attitude toward, and intention not to use AAS. Additionally after intervention, the rate of AAS and supplements use was decreased among intervention group. Comprehensive implementation against AAS abuse among gym users and ado-lescences would be effective to improve adolescents' healthy behaviors and intend them not to use AAS.

The effects of exposure to muscular male models among men: Exploring the moderating role of gym use and exercise motivation

This study examines the effects of exposure to the muscular male body ideal on body-focused negative affect among male gym users and non-exercisers. As hypothesized, the impact of media exposure depended on men's exercise status. Non-exercisers ( n = 58) reported greater body-focused negative affect after exposure to images of muscular male models than after neutral images (no model controls), whereas gym users ( n = 58) showed a tendency for less body-focused negative affect after the model images than after the control images. Furthermore, the extent to which gym users were motivated to increase strength and muscularity moderated these exposure effects; men who reported stronger strength and muscularity exercise motivation reported a greater degree of self-enhancement after exposure to the muscular ideal. The findings are interpreted with respect to likely differences in motives for social comparisons.