497: The Men’s Physique Debate: Drugs, Judging & The Future - Josh Croggon & Chris Elkins

Dec 6, 2025

Join Professional men's physique competitors Chris Elkins and Josh Croggon as they explore the intricacies of natural bodybuilding. They share personal journeys through injuries, the evolution of judging standards, and the diverse criteria across various federations. The ethics of drug testing takes center stage, with insights into the challenges of maintaining a natural approach amidst industry pressures. Their candid stories highlight both aspirations and setbacks, reflecting on the resilience that defines their competitive careers.

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INSIGHT

Testing Is A Deterrent, Not Absolute

Polygraphs and testing act as deterrents but aren't perfect; promoters struggle with cost and enforcement.
Both guests support layered testing (polygraph plus targeted drug tests) to improve natural integrity.

ADVICE

Make TUEs Nuanced Not Blanket

Advocate for case-by-case therapeutic exemptions rather than blanket bans for non‑anabolic treatments.
Push federations to distinguish anabolic enhancers from injury-recovery peptides in policy.

ANECDOTE

Teen Mistakenly Offered Steroids

Josh nearly accepted dianabol at 16 after a gymmate pitched it as harmless, but researched and flushed the tablets down the toilet.
That early scare helped him decide to pursue natural competition long-term.

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In this conversation, the speakers delve into the world of bodybuilding, focusing on the Men's Physique category. They discuss personal journeys, the impact of injuries on performance, the evolution of judging standards, and the differences between various federations. The conversation also touches on the ethics of drug testing in bodybuilding and the aspirations of athletes as they navigate their competitive careers. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of natural bodybuilding, the temptations of enhancement, and the ethical considerations surrounding drug use in competition. They share personal stories of their journeys, the challenges faced, and the importance of family support. Ultimately, they reflect on their aspirations for the future and the hardest moments they've encountered in their bodybuilding careers. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:56 Choosing Men's Physique: A Personal Journey 03:13 The Transition from Bodybuilding to Men's Physique
06:02 Injuries and Their Impact on Competition
08:51 Judging Perspectives: Insights from Experience
11:38 The Evolution of Men's Physique Criteria
14:31 The Role of Classic Physique in Natural Bodybuilding
17:19 The Future of Men's Physique and Judging Standards
21:19 The Evolution of Competition Federations
23:53 The Thrill of Diverse Criteria in Competitions
25:52 Personal Growth Through Competition
28:12 Reflections on Winning and Competing
30:50 Injury and the Journey Back to the Stage
34:47 Future Aspirations and Goals
36:03 The Complexities of Drug Testing in Bodybuilding
42:04 The Natural vs. Enhanced Debate
42:32 Personal Journeys: Considering Enhancement
45:45 The Influence of Social Media on Young Athletes
47:52 Navigating the World of Natural Bodybuilding
49:05 Family Ties: A Father's Pride
51:10 The Ethics of Drug Use in Bodybuilding
53:23 The Case for a Fair Drug Policy
57:26 Reflections on Competition and Growth
01:00:04 Pursuing New Passions: From Bodybuilding to Poker
01:02:24 Self-Coaching and Support Systems
01:04:28 The Role of Support in Bodybuilding
01:07:05 Navigating Feedback and Self-Perception
01:08:11 The Impact of Social Media on Competitors
01:09:25 Future Aspirations Beyond Competing
01:12:01 Balancing Competing and Other Life Pursuits
01:15:04 The Journey of Resilience in Bodybuilding
01:18:50 Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Purpose
01:23:15 The Mental and Physical Challenges of Competition More from Chris: https://www.instagram.com/chris_elkins/ More from Josh: https://www.instagram.com/joshcroggon_/ Thanks, please comment, like and subscribe! COACHING: https://revivestronger.com/online-coaching/ MINI CUT MOVEMENT: https://revivestronger.com/mini-cut-movement/ MEMBERSITE: https://revivestronger.com/team-revive-stronger/ INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/revivestronger NEWSLETTER: https://bit.ly/2rRONG5 __________________________________________________________________ Epic Workout Clothing (use code STRONGER): • US: https://www.raskolapparel.com • Europe: https://raskolapparel.eu/ • Canada: https://raskolapparel.ca/ __________________________________________________________________ Our Ebooks! Ultimate Guide To Contest Prep Ebook: • https://revivestronger.com/product/the-ultimate-guide-to-contest-prep/ __________________________________________________________________ Stay up to date with the latest research and educate yourself! MASS (Research Review): • https://www.massmember.com/a/2147994108/MxeV4T3M JPS Mentorship • https://jpseducation.mykajabi.com/offers/ab2q2QSo/checkout Muscle & Strength Pyramids • https://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1uk0lvv6e1rqv __________________________________________________________________ When you're interested in online coaching, please go visit our website and follow the application form: https://www.revivestronger.com/online-coaching/

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