30 Seconds SummarySteroids, dosage, and the placebo effect
- Steroids are associated with significant physiological effects, but their impact is also strongly influenced by the user's expectations.
- Two studies highlight the powerful placebo effect in steroid usage: one with lifters and another with national level powerlifters, both showing substantial gains merely from believing they were taking steroids.
- In the first study, lifters thought they received steroids but took a placebo and made dramatic gains, far surpassing their earlier improvements.
- In the second study, powerlifters given a placebo believed it to be a steroid and subsequently beat their personal records; however, those informed about the placebo effect regressed.
- These cases illustrate that while steroids do have real effects, the psychological impact of believing one is taking steroids can also significantly enhance performance.
- The takeaway is the potential of mental belief in enhancing physical performance, suggesting that individuals may be stronger than they realize and can potentially unlock further strength through self-belief.
Stronger By Science
Greg Nuckols
