ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the role of ergogenic aids in sports and demonstrates the role of anabolic-androgenic steroids in sports. It focuses on several supplements that have been shown to have a positive effect and have been supported by research in a variety of settings to be ergogenic. The several supplements are ß-alanine, arginine, ornithine, lysine, aspartic acid, boron, branched-chain amino acids, caffeine, carnitine, chromium, coenzyme Q10, colostrum, conjugated linoleic acids, creatine, dehydroepiandrosterone, essential amino acids, glucosamine, glutamine, glycerol, green tea extract, beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, inosine, isoflavones, ketoisocproate, medium chain triglycerides, ribose, and sulfo-polysaccharides. The several supplements also include vanadium, and zinc/magnesium aspartate. The chapter discusses the advise athletes on the role of fluid replacement beverages before, during, and after exercise and advise athletes on the role of caffeine, creatine, and other potential ergogenic aids for specific events. Supplements should never take the place of real food. Anabolic-androgenic steroids are synthetic forms of testosterone, the primary male hormone.
