I am a 68 years-old natural bodybuilder. I have competed "natural" my entire bodybuilding career. I have done more than 40 shows, won more than 60 trophies, four pro cards in four different natural federations (NGA, WNSO, IDFA (Canada) and NPA) and have competed as a pro six times. I passed a drug test prior to each show. I have also competed in six NPC shows where I won an open lightweight class in an NPC National Qualifier, several masters classes and I am the 2007 NPC Mr. Alabama Masters Champion. I promote shows (NGA Alabama Natural Open), judge shows and MC shows.
I tell you all of this so I can give you a responsible answer to your question.
Yes, if you take creatine, herbal fat reducers, fish oil, and many of the natural supplements on the market, you are not technically natural because you are using a supplement. What the natural federations are trying to provide is a level playing field for those athletes who chose not to use steroids, growth hormones, testosterone boost and prescription diuretics to "enhance" their muscle growth and contest prep. It's a matter of choice. That's why there is an NPC and that's why there are several federations that test their athletes to "catch" abusers. You can choose to go natural or go enhanced. Now, here's the rub. You can beat the drug test. It's a pretty simple test, designed to be a deterrent, to dissuade non-natural athletes from competing. The question is, why would you want to enter a natural show if you weren't natural? Is it a true victory to use a banned supplement, beat the drug test and then win a $25 trophy by besting a group of athletes who did not use banned supplements? It's a matter of Character. If you can't compete in the NPC, with your supplements, maybe you should try another sport. I know that I wouldn't want to have a trophy in my case that I didn't deserve or earn legitimately.
I do not condone nor do I condemn steroid use. I made the choice to take the natural road. Others have made the choice to take the enhanced road. But, where to choose to take your natural or enhanced physique is a matter of Character, isn't it? Remember, we are taking about competing for a $25.00 trophy.
Old Navy