While many people who work out are familiar with the positive aspects of bodybuilding, there are some drawbacks you should be aware of before you begin your bodybuilding program. In this article, we’ll go over the top five negative side effects of bodybuilding and how to avoid them so that you can get the best results possible from your bodybuilding routine. You’ll learn how to start working out safely and effectively, so keep reading to learn more!
1) Testosterone Suppression
The side effects of testosterone suppression are one reason not to take bodybuilding too far. After all, you don’t want your levels so low that you have problems functioning in everyday life. Additionally, it’s important to realize that when it comes to steroids and testosterone supplements, some are not better than none at all. In fact, taking large doses over an extended period can cause you serious injury; thankfully there are ways around it by preventing negative health consequences through regular workouts and a well-balanced diet. Just remember—if you do choose to use steroids or testosterone boosters be sure that your supplier is properly licensed and regulated. And always follow dosage instructions carefully as they can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors such as age, height, weight, and overall health.
2) Soreness
When you do something intense, like bodybuilding, you’re going to get sore. This is a natural response that shows your muscles are adapting and growing stronger. The downside is that soreness can often turn into injury when people push themselves too hard or aren’t properly warmed up before they start lifting heavy weights. If your muscles feel sore after you exercise, take it easy and only lift weights at 50% of your capacity so they have time to heal. Wait until they are completely healed before doing any intense bodybuilding again. Muscle injuries can be very painful and take months to heal if not treated properly; don’t rush healing for short-term gains in muscle size because those gains could cost you long-term health and wellness.
3) Weight Gain
The biggest reason people begin bodybuilding is, well, for their bodies. But if you’re not careful, you could find yourself gaining a lot more weight than muscle. When most folks train to build muscle, they eat plenty of good calories in an effort to fuel their training. While it’s true that you will gain some fat while bulking up, research suggests that by eating plenty of protein and healthy fats as part of your routine—and at least maintaining your current levels of activity—you can minimize how much fat you add while bulking up. So know what you’re getting into and don’t be afraid to drop some pounds if body composition isn’t where you want it post-workout.
4) Injury Risk
Whether you’re naturally built for large amounts of muscle mass or not, bodybuilding can be hard on your joints. If you’re constantly engaging in high-volume workouts that require a lot of lifting and repositioning, there is an increased risk of injury. In fact, injuries are so common among bodybuilders that some experts think the style is unsustainable long term because so many people give up when they get hurt. The good news is, with proper training and rest periods, bodybuilders have at least as much muscle strength after they recover from an injury as they did before it occurred—and sometimes more! However, if you decide that increased joint pain isn’t worth it to you (because who wants aches?), then all power to you!
5) Cost
A bodybuilding lifestyle can be incredibly expensive, especially in today’s world. For example, you might go out and buy a bunch of supplements that aren’t actually going to do anything for you, pay top dollar for all kinds of different protein powders, pay an insane amount per month for your gym membership or buy a plethora of sports drinks and workout clothes. This all adds up and can really cut into your bottom line if you’re not careful. To stay in shape healthily without spending too much money, try exercising at home with low-cost tools like dumbbells and resistance bands instead of expensive gym memberships and exercise machines.