Let’s first state something for the record: I do not use, nor have I ever used, steroids in my life. Secondly, I am not against steroid use in a controlled fashion. This article is simply about setting realistic goals and how comparing yourself to individuals who use anabolic steroids can lead to unrealistic expectations.
When setting fitness goals, it’s important to be realistic and focus on what is achievable within your own natural limits. As a natural athlete, your muscular development will typically look different than someone who uses anabolic steroids. So, avoid measuring yourself by the standards of enhanced athletes. It is simply not a fair comparison and can lead to frustration. Instead, aim to be the best version of yourself with the resources and abilities you have.
Recently, I was listening to Joe Rogan talking about Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock. They discussed how hard and intensely he trains. I am not criticizing him. He has an incredible work ethic and trains intensely. But it is worth examining some realistic points. The Rock comes from a wrestling background, a sport where steroid use has been reported. Looking at his development over the last 20 years, there are signs that suggest he may have used enhancements:
Huge Traps
Dwayne’s traps have always been one of his most dominant muscle groups.
It is rare for natural athletes to have extremely developed traps, but it is common for enhanced users to see significant growth in the trapezius region due to the effect of steroids on androgen receptors.
When someone begins a steroid cycle, their traps are often one of the first muscle groups to grow significantly, especially with steroids that have a high androgen rating.
The Rock’s traps are notably large, and his head appears blockier than in his earlier wrestling days. These factors suggest he might be using enhancements. Again, I am not judging him for it. My point is that for someone like me watching him train and thinking, “I can be like The Rock,” it becomes clear that such a comparison is unrealistic.
What did I conclude? I cannot be like The Rock. I do not have access to the same resources or possibly the same supplements, and I am a natural athlete. Comparing myself to him or setting him as a goal is not fair to me since our situations are so different.
At the end of the day, it is unproductive to compare yourself to Dwayne Johnson or other famous athletes who have resources, teams, and potentially enhancements. It is similar to unrealistic beauty standards set by heavily edited photography, standards that can harm self-esteem.
So let’s focus on being the best versions of ourselves. Work hard, push to reach your own highest level, and do not worry about celebrities who get paid to live on the path they do or others at the gym making rapid gains. They may have different genetics, be younger, or use enhancements, and that does not take away from your dedication and progress. Now go get it!
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