Question

Describe four different types of drugs and their impact on sports performance

Evaluate the impact of four different performance-enhancing drugs on performance in four different types of sport


Discuss, using relevant examples, why some individuals may resort to using performance-enhancing drugs in sport

Answer 1

There are several types of drugs that can impact sports performance, including anabolic steroids, stimulants, beta blockers, and erythropoietin (EPO). These drugs can provide benefits like increased muscle mass, improved endurance, and reduced anxiety, but they also carry significant health risks. Their use is prohibited in most sports organizations.

Step-by-step explanation:

There are several types of drugs that can impact sports performance. These include:

1. Anabolic steroids: These drugs mimic the effects of testosterone and can increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance. However, they can also cause serious health issues such as cardiovascular problems and aggression.
2. Stimulants: These drugs increase alertness and reduce fatigue, allowing athletes to train harder and perform better. Examples include amphetamines and cocaine. However, they can also have negative side effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure.
3. Beta blockers: These drugs can help reduce anxiety and tremors, improving fine motor skills. They are often used in sports like archery and shooting. However, they can also cause dizziness and fatigue.
4. Erythropoietin (EPO): This drug increases the production of red blood cells, improving oxygen delivery to the muscles. It is commonly used in endurance sports like cycling and long-distance running. However, it can lead to thickened blood and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

The use of these drugs is banned in most sports organizations due to ethical concerns and health risks.

Answer 2

ANSWER

Types of Drugs and their Impact on Sports Performance:

Anabolic steroids: Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones that mimic the effects of testosterone. They are commonly used by athletes to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance. However, they can also have negative side effects, including liver damage, heart disease, and hormonal imbalances.
Beta blockers: Beta blockers are used by athletes to control anxiety and reduce the effects of stress on the body. They are often used in sports such as archery and shooting, where steady hands and calm nerves are essential. However, they can also cause side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and depression.
Human growth hormone (HGH): HGH is a hormone produced naturally by the body that stimulates growth and cell reproduction. It is often used by athletes to increase muscle mass and improve endurance. However, it can also have negative side effects, including joint pain, diabetes, and hypertension.
Erythropoietin (EPO): EPO is a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the muscles. It is often used by endurance athletes to improve their stamina and performance. However, it can also increase the risk of blood clots and strokes.
Impact of Four Different Performance Enhancing Drugs on Performance in Four Different Types of Sport:

Anabolic steroids in bodybuilding: Anabolic steroids are commonly used by bodybuilders to increase muscle mass and strength. They can lead to significant gains in muscle size and strength, but can also cause negative side effects, such as acne and hair loss.
Beta blockers in shooting: Beta blockers are commonly used by competitive shooters to reduce the effects of stress on their performance. They can improve accuracy and reduce tremors, but can also cause negative side effects, such as fatigue and dizziness.
Human growth hormone in endurance running: HGH is often used by endurance runners to improve their endurance and speed. It can lead to significant gains in muscle mass and improved performance, but can also cause negative side effects, such as joint pain and diabetes.
Erythropoietin in cycling: EPO is commonly used by cyclists to improve their endurance and stamina. It can lead to significant gains in performance, but can also increase the risk of blood clots and strokes.
Why Some Individuals May Resort to Using Performance Enhancing Drugs in Sport:

To gain a competitive advantage: Athletes may use performance enhancing drugs to improve their performance and gain a competitive advantage over others.
To achieve success and fame: Athletes may use performance enhancing drugs to achieve success and fame in their sport.
Pressure to perform: Athletes may feel pressure to perform at their best, and may resort to performance enhancing drugs to achieve this.
Financial gain: Athletes may use performance enhancing drugs to improve their performance in order to gain financial rewards or sponsorship.
Examples of athletes who have resorted to using performance enhancing drugs include Lance Armstrong, who used EPO and other drugs in cycling, and Barry Bonds, who used steroids in baseball.