TRT Experts: Natty or Not, The Setup

AlphaMD’s new YouTube series, “Natty or Not,” dives into one of the most intriguing topics in fitness and pop culture: Are the incredible physiques of celebrities and athletes achieved naturally, or do they involve the use of steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs? This engaging series aims to set realistic expectations for audiences and foster a better understanding of what’s achievable naturally.

What is “Natty or Not”?

The “Natty or Not” series offers a casual yet informative discussion on the fitness industry, focusing on whether certain celebrities, athletes, and historical figures achieved their physiques naturally or with the help of steroids. Here’s what you can expect:

• Informed Opinions: The hosts provide their perspectives based on research and metrics like the Fat-Free Mass Index (FFMI).
• Historical Comparisons: By contrasting pre-steroid-era bodybuilders with modern athletes, the series highlights the impact of performance-enhancing drugs on today’s fitness standards.
• Audience Interaction: Viewers are encouraged to join the conversation by asking questions and suggesting topics for future episodes.

The Influence of Iconic Physiques

Many fitness enthusiasts grew up idolizing muscular stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone. These celebrities often shared fitness advice that seemed inspirational but was potentially unrealistic for those pursuing a natural path. The series examines:

• The Gap Between Advice and Reality: For example, Arnold’s recommendations of high-calorie diets and intense workouts may work for someone on steroids but could lead to injury or weight gain for natural athletes.
• Setting Realistic Goals: Understanding the difference between natural and enhanced physiques helps prevent disappointment and promotes sustainable fitness practices.

A Historical Perspective on Bodybuilding

The series takes viewers back to the early days of bodybuilding, before steroids were synthesized in 1935 and became commercially available in 1939. Highlights include:

• Natural Bodybuilders: Figures like Eugene Sandow, Bobby Pandora, and Ernest Cadine exemplified impressive, natural physiques in the pre-steroid era.
• The Shift After Steroids: Comparing early 20th-century bodybuilders to modern athletes illustrates the dramatic changes steroids have introduced to the sport.

The Role of Steroids in Modern Bodybuilding

Steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs have significantly altered the aesthetics of bodybuilding and public perception. Key points discussed in the series:

• Arnold Schwarzenegger: While admired for his discipline and work ethic, Arnold’s admitted steroid use highlights the unattainability of his physique for natural athletes.
• Stigma and Realism: The series seeks to normalize realistic goals for natural athletes and destigmatize those who may not conform to today’s superhero-like standards.

The Fat-Free Mass Index (FFMI): A Measure of Muscularity

To assess whether a physique is natural, the series introduces the Fat-Free Mass Index (FFMI):

• What is FFMI?
  FFMI measures muscularity using the formula:
  Fat-Free Mass (kg)÷Height (m)2\text{Fat-Free Mass (kg)} \div \text{Height (m)}^2Fat-Free Mass (kg)÷Height (m)2
• The Natural Limit:
  Research suggests that an FFMI of 25 or below is achievable naturally. An FFMI above 25 often indicates steroid use.
• Historical FFMI Data:
  Most Mr. America winners had an FFMI under 25 until 1944, when the use of steroids began to emerge.

This metric provides a scientific basis for evaluating whether a physique is likely natural.

The Goals of the “Natty or Not” Series

Through this series, AlphaMD hopes to:

1. Educate Viewers: By separating fact from fiction, the series aims to clarify what’s realistically achievable without steroids.
2. Challenge Unrealistic Expectations: Highlighting the impact of steroids on modern aesthetics encourages healthier, sustainable fitness goals.
3. Celebrate Natural Athletes: The series also addresses the stigma faced by actors and athletes who pursue natural physiques in an era dominated by enhanced bodies.

What’s Next for “Natty or Not”?

Future episodes will analyze specific celebrities and their fitness journeys, comparing them to historical and modern standards. Viewers are invited to submit their questions and suggestions, making the series an interactive platform for learning and discussion.

Join the Conversation

“Natty or Not” is more than a series—it’s a movement toward transparency and realistic fitness goals. Whether you’re curious about your favorite actor’s transformation or interested in historical bodybuilding, this series has something for everyone.

Visit AlphaMD.org to stay updated on the latest episodes, and join the discussion by leaving your questions and suggestions in the comments. Let’s explore the truth behind the physiques that inspire us—and set achievable goals for our own fitness journeys.

FFMI Article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7496846/

FFMI Calculator: https://ffmicalculator.org/