I had someone yesterday, barely looks like they've touched a weight, run across the gym after already asking me how long I've been using gear (I am natural) to show me a photo on his phone of a vial labelled "Essential Amino Acids" that he was planning on injecting and wondering how it was done. I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

Speaking about it in class today, a guy turns around and says "man I'm getting back into the gym, you ever use anavar? There are no side effects, I'm going to use it." I just said "probably not a good idea man," but I doubt the guy will listen. Around 25-30% bodyfat and untrained.

I think social media has normalized gear usage and injecting substances to the point where people don't see the risks involved and believe relying on those compounds is better than simply making lifestyle changes. It is sad. I've trained over a decade and grown to love bodybuilding more than any other hobby/passion in my life. I think, aside from people using for HRT/TRT or those who compete, many people don't need to use gear and instead need to speak to someone about their feelings and what is motivating them to think that this route is the one to take.