 
Supplements
May 7, 2025
Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are a widely discussed and often controversial topic, especially in the world of competitive sports.
Their use is frequently debated, with strong opinions on both sides.
While there are athletes who turn to PEDs to gain an edge, it’s important to recognize the potential risks they pose to your health.
Understanding these risks and making informed decisions is crucial for anyone considering their use.
In this article, we’ll explore PEDs in the context of combat sports—their benefits, potential side effects, regulations, and safety considerations.
We’ll also discuss practical tips for minimizing risks and highlight alternative options that you might want to consider. Let’s dive in!
Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are substances used to improve athletic performance, boost endurance, and accelerate muscle growth.
They include anabolic steroids, stimulants, human growth hormone (HGH), and other compounds designed to give athletes a competitive edge.
The use of PEDs dates back centuries, with early forms of performance enhancement seen as far back as ancient Greece, where athletes used herbal stimulants to improve strength and stamina.
However, modern PEDs gained traction in the mid-20th century when scientists developed synthetic testosterone and anabolic steroids.
Initially, these substances were created for medical purposes, such as treating muscle-wasting conditions.
However, they quickly caught the attention of athletes and bodybuilders who recognized their potential for increasing strength, speed, and recovery.
As competition in sports intensified, more athletes turned to PEDs to stay ahead.
As expected, over time, their benefits became widely recognized—but so did the risks and ethical concerns, leading to stricter regulations in professional sports.
PEDs give fighters a competitive edge by enhancing essential physical attributes needed in combat sports like boxing, MMA, and wrestling.
Here’s a full breakdown of their key benefits:
Anabolic steroids like testosterone and trenbolone help build muscle and increase strength by boosting protein synthesis.
In a fight, this means harder punches, stronger grappling, and better control in clinches.
Substances like EPO and clenbuterol increase red blood cell production, improving oxygen flow to muscles.
This helps fighters maintain a fast pace and push through intense rounds without gassing out.
HGH and IGF-1 speed up muscle repair and reduce recovery time, allowing fighters to train harder and more often without dealing with excessive soreness or injuries.
Stimulants like amphetamine and modafinil improve reaction time, focus, and overall neuromuscular coordination.
In combat sports, quick reflexes and fast movements can make all the difference between landing a strike or getting caught off guard.
When it comes to PEDs in combat sports, the rules are pretty clear—most major organizations strictly prohibit them.
But despite the bans, the reality isn’t always black and white.
Governing bodies like USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) and WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) have strict regulations against PED use.
Fighters competing in organizations like the UFC, Bellator, and boxing commissions are subject to random drug testing, and failing a test can lead to suspensions, fines, or even bans.
However, some organizations have looser regulations or don’t test as aggressively, making PED use harder to track in certain promotions.
Yes—despite the rules, PED use still happens.
Some fighters take the risk because of the competitive advantage, while others find ways to avoid detection by using substances that clear the system quickly or microdosing (taking small amounts to stay under the detection threshold).
There have been numerous cases of high-profile fighters testing positive, but at the same time, many believe that a good number of PED users never get caught.
The reality is that PED use has been around for decades, and in some ways, it has been normalized in elite-level sports.
Many fighters believe they’re at a disadvantage if they don’t use PEDs, especially when they suspect their opponents might be on something.
As previously mentioned, not all promotions enforce strict testing, and some fighters compete in countries with little to no regulation, making it easier to get away with using PEDs.
At the end of the day, while PEDs offer undeniable performance benefits, they also come with risks—both to health and career longevity.
That being said, if you’re a fighter considering PEDs, you should be fully aware of the potential downsides before making a decision.
We’ve talked a lot about how PEDs come with risks—not just for your fighting career but also for your health.
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But what exactly are the potential side effects? Let’s break them down:
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Note: These side effects vary depending on the type of PED, dosage, duration of use, and individual response. However, they can be minimized—or even prevented—if PEDs are not abused and if proper precautions are taken, such as cycling strategies, post-cycle therapy (PCT), and regular health monitoring.
If you’re thinking about PEDs, it’s important to approach them with responsibility and a full understanding of their risks and benefits.
Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:
1. Educate Yourself on What You’re Taking
Not all PEDs are created equal. Some substances, such as anabolic steroids, can rapidly increase muscle mass but may come with serious side effects like hormonal imbalances or cardiovascular issues.
Others, like SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators), are often marketed as safer alternatives, but research on their long-term effects is still ongoing.
Always research the compounds, their mechanisms, and how they interact with your body before making any decisions.
2. Prioritize Health and Safety Over Performance Gains
Your health should always come first. PEDs can enhance physical performance, but improper use or excessive dosages can lead to long-term damage.
If you decide to use them, ensure that you follow appropriate dosing protocols, avoid unnecessary stacking of multiple compounds, and monitor your body’s response.Â
Blood work should be a regular part of your routine to track hormonal levels, liver function, and cardiovascular health.
3. Work with a Knowledgeable Professional
Rather than experimenting on your own, seek guidance from a knowledgeable coach, sports physician, or endocrinologist.
A professional can help you create a plan that minimizes risks while optimizing performance gains.
They can also help with post-cycle therapy (PCT) to prevent hormonal crashes and maintain natural testosterone production.
4. Understand the Rules and Consequences in Your Sport
Different combat sports organizations have strict anti-doping regulations.
If you compete professionally, make sure you understand the rules of your promotion or governing body (e.g., USADA, WADA).
Getting caught with banned substances can result in suspensions, fines, or permanent bans.
If you’re in a sport that regularly tests athletes, you may want to consider legal and natural alternatives that won’t jeopardize your career.
5. Focus on Fundamentals First
PEDs should never replace hard work, skill development, and proper nutrition.
Many fighters make the mistake of relying on substances to push past plateaus instead of refining their technique, improving their conditioning, and optimizing their recovery through natural means.
Before turning to PEDs, make sure your training, diet, sleep, and supplementation (like creatine, amino acids, and adaptogens) are all in check.
6. Recovery Matters Just as Much as Performance
One of the main reasons combat athletes turn to PEDs is for faster recovery.Â
Substances like human growth hormone (HGH) or peptides can aid in recovery, but overuse can lead to side effects like joint pain or organ growth.
Instead of relying solely on PEDs, integrate active recovery methods such as cryotherapy, deep tissue massage, and structured rest periods.
7. Learn from Others’ Experiences
There are numerous case studies of fighters who have used PEDs, with varying results.Â
Some, like Vitor Belfort during his TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) era, saw remarkable performance gains, while others suffered from dependency, post-cycle hormonal crashes, or legal issues.
Learning from real-world examples can help you weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
Before considering PEDs, you might want to explore other methods that can boost athletic performance with fewer health risks.
Below are several evidence-based strategies to enhance your abilities safely:
A well-balanced diet is fundamental for peak performance. Consuming whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports overall health and energy levels.
 Incorporating fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats can reduce inflammation, combat fatigue, and improve agility during physical activities.Â
Maintaining proper hydration is crucial for endurance and cognitive function.
Ensuring adequate water intake and balancing electrolytes helps prevent cramps and supports optimal performance during training and competition.Â
Certain supplements have been shown to enhance performance safely:
PAPE involves performing high-intensity exercises to temporarily enhance muscle performance.
For combat athletes, incorporating PAPE protocols can lead to improvements in power and speed.Â
Adequate rest and recovery are vital for muscle repair and growth.
Incorporating rest days, ensuring sufficient sleep, and engaging in activities like stretching and massage can prevent overtraining and reduce injury risk.​
Certain herbs, such as Rhodiola rosea, have been studied for their potential to enhance endurance and reduce fatigue.
Originally researched by the USSR for improving athletic performance, Rhodiola may offer benefits for combat athletes seeking natural performance enhancements. ​
Emerging technologies, like palm-cooling devices, have shown promise in aiding recovery and improving performance by rapidly reducing core body temperature and normalizing heart rates.
Incorporating such tools into your training regimen may enhance recovery times and overall performance.
So, you’ve decided you’re ready to explore PEDs and want to know which ones are actually worth your attention.
Good news—you’ve made it to the most exciting part of this article. Here, we’ll break down some of the top PED options based on user experiences and available studies.
Let’s dive in and find out what really works.
You’ve probably heard about RAD-140 before as it’s one of the most popularly used SARMs out there, especially among bodybuilders.Â
The thing with RAD-140 is that it’s often used as a go-to for lean muscle growth with minimal water retention.Â
Users frequently report noticeable improvements in both physique and strength within just a few weeks!
Ultimately, studies suggest that this SARM is ideal for bulking with lean mass, boosting strength gains, and preserving muscle during a cut.
So, if your goals line up with those benefits, RAD-140 might be worth adding to your routine.
Next on the list is MK-677. It’s often mistaken for a SARM, but it’s actually a growth hormone secretagogue; and it works by boosting your GH and IGF-1 levels.
That might sound a bit technical, but to put it simply: it helps improve recovery, enhances sleep quality, and supports long-term fat-free mass gains.
Many users also report noticeable improvements in skin, hair, and joint health while using MK-677.
It’s typically recommended if your goals revolve around recovery, fat loss support, better sleep, and sustainable, long-term progress.
Next up is LGD-4033, which is another well-studied SARM alongside RAD-140.
LGD is known for delivering consistent muscle gains and noticeable strength improvements.
It’s also generally well-tolerated and has a solid safety profile in short-term use.
While its effects are somewhat similar to RAD-140, LGD-4033 is often better suited for those in a recomposition phase or going through a clean bulk focused on strength gains.
GW-501516, better known as Cardarine, is a PPARδ receptor agonist, and is often stacked with SARMs for enhanced results.
It’s widely reported to improve endurance and promote fat burning, making it a solid choice if you’re aiming to boost cardio capacity and stamina during intense training sessions.
Cardarine is especially ideal for those focused on fat loss and engaged in high-energy activities like running, crossfit, or other cardiovascular sports.
Rounding out the list is S4; our third recommended SARM.
This one shines during cutting cycles, thanks to its muscle-hardening effects and its ability to support fat loss while preserving lean muscle.
Users often report increased vascularity and that sharp, “dry” look that’s especially sought after during a cut.
Despite this, it does come with a unique (but temporary) side effect: some experience a yellow tint or slight light sensitivity in their vision at higher doses.
Nothing serious, but definitely something worth knowing ahead of time.
All in all, S4 is best used when your goal is definition, detail, and that clean, sculpted appearance.
Deciding whether to use PEDs in combat sports is a personal choice, but it’s one that should be made with full awareness of the risks and responsibilities involved.
While these substances can enhance performance, they also come with potential health consequences and ethical considerations.
If you’re competing, understanding the rules of your sport is crucial to avoid jeopardizing your career.
At the end of the day, there’s no substitute for hard work, smart training, and proper recovery.
Whether you choose to pursue PEDs or explore natural alternatives, prioritizing your long-term health and performance should always come first.
We wish you the best of luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
The percentage varies by sport and competition level.Â
Studies suggest that 10-40% of elite athletes may use performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), with higher prevalence in strength-based and endurance sports.
However, due to underreporting and limited testing, the actual number could be higher.
To evade detection, a PED must have a short detection window, low dosage requirements, rapid metabolism, and chemical modifications.
Some athletes use designer drugs, microdosing, or masking agents to bypass tests, but anti-doping agencies continually update detection methods.
PEDs create an unfair advantage, health risks, and integrity concerns in sports.
They undermine fair competition, pressure athletes to use substances to stay competitive, and pose long-term health consequences like organ damage and hormone imbalances.
Their use also raises legal and moral dilemmas regarding role models in athletics.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided above is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek your physician’s advice or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or read.We bear no responsibility or liability for your use of any compound.Â
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