The Use of Steroids in Athletics and its Effects on Athletes

The Use of Steroids in Athletics and its Effects on Athletes According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, an athlete is defined as â€Å"a person who is trained or skilled in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical strength, agility, or stamina.† Athletes train and practice year-round to prepare for the competition and challenges. At times during the preparation, injuries are sustained and fatigue is endured. To rid themselves of these obstacles, athletes take performance-enhancing drugs, which are also known as steroids. In the United States, the use of steroids is illegal without a prescription. When it comes to punishing athletes for the use of performance-enhancing drugs, depending on what sport and/or what league you are playing in,†¦show more content†¦One idea that has been tossed around by Congress and other sports and law related organizations is an â€Å"all-sports test plan† (Associated Press). Representative Cliff Stearns, chairman of a House Energy and Commerce, has proposed that all athletes follow one unified drug testing policy (Associated Press). Our elite athletic organizations, both professional and amateur, should establish uniform, world-class, drug-testing standards that are as consistent and robust as our criminal laws in this area, said Stearns (Associated Press). Stearns would like to see the Olympic drug testing policy used as a foundation to creating the â€Å"all-sports test plan.† Senator John McCain, from Arizona, agrees with Representative Stearns. â€Å"It seems to me that we ought to seriously consider a law that says all professional sports have a minimum level of performance-enhancing drug testing (Bodley 2). Recently in the news, Major League Baseball has been under scrutiny for their weak drug testing policy. With the admission of steroid use among some baseball players, the need for a tougher drug guideline was in order. In 2004, the players association and Major League Baseball agreed to a drug policy testing deal that would test for steroids and p erformance-enhancing drugs. A first positive test results in treatment with no suspension, followed by a 15-day suspension for a second positive and up to a year suspension for a fifthShow MoreRelatedThe Use Of Anabolic Steroids And How Athletes Are Cheating1482 Words   |  6 PagesThe athletic sports world has drastically evolved since the beginning of the creation of sports. Athletes are becoming bigger, faster and stronger. The competitive edge has started to increase and guys are looking for ways to enhance their performances. Many turn to repetitive practices and healthier diets, while some turn to protein powder. No matter the method the average athlete is trying their best to propel his or her efforts past previous marks. Most stick to natural remedies, but there areRead MorePerformance Enhancing Drug Abuse1511 Words   |  7 Pagesand athletes. 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