to natural bodybuilding and fitness, despite
the fact that the use of banned substances
is still prevalent, Park explained. Whether
it’s steroids, growth hormone, prescription
diuretics or blood doping, the use of drugs
within the sport is still a concerning issue
and one that can have a serious, if not fa-
tal, outcome.
Committing to a natural lifestyle is only
part of INBF Canada’s mandate. They also
encourage a sense of teamwork and fam-
ily within the organization, while support-
ing the passion and dedication needed to
reach competitive goals in a non-political
arena. “We promote the positive benefits
of the natural side more than we promote
the negative,” Park explained. “You’re go-
ing to have a longer lifespan; you’re going
to have a longer career. Typically our ath-
letes compete for 15 to 25 years. When
you’re an ‘unnatural’ athlete, usually you
retire in your late 30s, early 40s. We’re just
starting at that time.”
The atmosphere is a supportive one. Prior
to each competition, contest preparation
camps help competitors of all ages and
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JANUARY 2016
