The sport of bodybuilding has its own legacy. Bodybuilding is widely accepted and loved by fans across the world. However, just like every other sport, there are dark sides attached to bodybuilding as well. The biggest threat to the credibility of the sport is the use of steroids by bodybuilders.

The debates on the use of external steroids in bodybuilding seem eternal now. Bodybuilding got the global limelight in the late 60s. Since then, the sport has been under constant criticism for the consumption of anabolic steroids. Many veteran bodybuilders have expressed their concern is a serious issue. Late bodybuilder, Steve Reeves once made powerful statements about this issue in the sport.

Steve Reeves described the change in bodybuilding culture

Steve Reeves is one of the greatest bodybuilders ever born. The bodybuilding legend retired from the sport in 1960 but he continued to be an active observer. One of his old interviews is trending on social media platforms. And his statement still holds relevance in modern times.

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Steve highlighted the drastic change in bodybuilding from a health-oriented culture to just showing off fake muscles. He said, “during my time, I believe that bodybuilding was a health-oriented sport while now, it is all about unhealthy, chemically induced gains and all.”

The veteran bodybuilder was a staunch believer in that bodybuilding comes from genetics. He advised one should not try artificial methods to achieve a certain physique.

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Steve further said that if someone does not have a genetically well-built physique; then they should switch professions instead of injecting artificial hormones. “…you should take up other sports like catching butterflies and ping-pong,” he joked.

Who was the trailblazer behind the change in culture?

Per Steve Reeves, the media was the biggest culprit behind the development of steroid culture. He felt that profit-centric companies were encouraging such an attitude. Steve said, “I think you are the magazines of gone all other ways to sell the products.” He further alleged that these companies were encouraging people to participate in the steroid culture.

Steve Reeves is one of the most inspirational bodybuilders in the sport. He has inspired generations of legends like Arnold and Stallone. He won Mr. America, Mr. World, and Mr. Universe and would have laid his hands on the Mr. Olympia title if it existed back then.

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Do you agree with Steve’s thoughts on the popular culture of bodybuilding sport? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.