PEDs Flashcards
What are the social reasons for taking PEDs
- the win at all costs attitude
- the fame and fortune attached to success
- high levels of pressure to win
- lack of effective deterrents
- poor role models
What are the psychological reasons for taking PEDs
Steady the nerves = use of beta blockers
- increase aggression = anabolic steroids
Lack of confidence = stimulants
What are anabolic steroids
Artificially produce hormones
Why are anabolic steroids used
- promote muscle growth/increased muscle tissue in the body
- increase storage of protein
- ## increased strength and power as a result of increased muscle tissue
What athletes are likely to use anabolic steroids
Mostly beneficial to power athletes such as sprinters, rugby players, rowers etc
What are the side effects of anabolic steroids
- liver damage
- heart and immune system problems
- changes in behaviour such as increased aggression, paranoia and mood swings
What do beta blockers do
Reduces the release of adrenaline by binding nerve receptors to decrease anxiety
Why are beta blockers used
- helps to improve accuracy in precision sports like darts by steadying the nerves
- keeps heart rate low by widening the arteries allowing for increased blood flow
Which athletes would use beta blockers
- archery
- snooker
- golf
What are the side effects of beta blockers
- tiredness due to low blood pressure
- slower heart rate would affect aerobic capacity
What is EPO
EPO = erythropoietin
- it’s a natural hormone produced by the kidneys to increase red blood cells
- it can be manufactured to increase haemoglobin levels
Why is EPO used
- it stimulates red blood cell production which leads to an increase in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the body
- this therefore delays the onset of lactic acid
What are the side effects of EPO
- blood clotting
- stroke
- death in rare cases
