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What Does Natty Mean in Bodybuilding: The Ultimate Guide to Natural Fitness

When one steps into the vibrant and often intimidating world of bodybuilding, one term that frequently surfaces is 'natty.' But what does 'natty' mean in bodybuilding? Why is it so important, and how does it shape the landscape of fitness? This article is here to demystify the term and delve into what it truly means to be a 'natty' athlete.

What Does 'Natty' Mean?

'Natty' is short for 'natural.' In the context of bodybuilding, it refers to athletes who refrain from using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) such as anabolic steroids, human growth hormone (HGH), and other illicit substances. For a bodybuilder to be considered 'natty,' they must rely solely on natural methods like diet, exercise, and legally available supplements.

The Natural Movement

The natty community is growing, motivated by ethics, health concerns, and long-term sustainability. Many natural competitions and federations have emerged, such as the International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA) and the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF). These organizations implement stringent testing protocols to ensure a level playing field for all participants.

Criteria for Being Natty

A bodybuilder can claim to be natty if they adhere to various guidelines, typically monitored by natural bodybuilding organizations:

  • Absence of anabolic steroids
  • No use of HGH or other illicit performance enhancers
  • Monitoring through polygraph tests and urinalysis
  • Use of legal supplements like protein powder, creatine, and BCAAs

The Benefits of Staying Natty

Staying natty offers multiple benefits, from avoiding the potentially harmful side effects of PEDs to enjoying long-term health. Here are some of the key advantages:

  • Healthier lifestyle: Avoid the dangerous side effects of steroids, such as liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and hormonal imbalances.
  • Longevity: A natural approach often transforms into a sustainable lifestyle, allowing athletes to maintain their physiques longer.
  • Ethical considerations: Competing on a fair playing field ensures true merit and accomplishment.

Challenges of Being Natty

On the flip side, the natural route is fraught with challenges:

  • Slower progress: Expect slower muscle gains and fat loss compared to those who use PEDs.
  • Stereotyping: Natty athletes often have to go the extra mile to prove their legitimacy.
  • Diet and training limitations: The natural route requires stringent diet and training regimens to achieve optimal results.

Training and Diet for Natty Bodybuilders

For those who choose to stay natty, adhering to a disciplined training and nutrition plan is crucial.

Training

  • Periodization: Incorporate different training phases to ensure continuous progress and prevent plateaus.
  • Compound exercises: Focus on multi-joint movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
  • Recovery: Allow adequate rest and recovery to avoid overtraining.

Diet

  • Macronutrient balance: Ensure a balanced intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.
  • Caloric surplus/deficit: Adjust calorie intake based on bulking or cutting goals.
  • Micronutrients: Pay attention to vitamins and minerals for overall health and performance.

Supplements for Natty Bodybuilders

While avoiding illegal substances, natty bodybuilders can still benefit from certain legal and safe supplements:

  • Protein powders: Essential for muscle recovery and growth.
  • Creatine: Supports strength and muscle gains.
  • Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs): Aid in muscle recovery and prevent catabolism.
  • Multivitamins: Ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients.

Success Stories

Many athletes have achieved phenomenal success while staying natty. Bodybuilders like Mike O'Hearn and Ulisses Jr. serve as inspirations, proving that incredible physiques can indeed be built without PEDs.

How to Verify Natty Status

While it's challenging to prove natty status definitively, certain methods and protocols can help:

  • Drug tests: Various forms like urine and blood tests.
  • Polygraph tests: Assess athletes' honesty about PED use.
  • Transparency: Athletes often disclose their training and diet plans to maintain credibility.

Conclusion

While the debate over natty versus enhanced bodybuilding will likely continue, the benefits of staying natty are clear. From better health to ethical competition, choosing the natural path offers a fulfilling and sustainable approach to bodybuilding. So, if you're considering a commitment to bodybuilding, going natty might just be the ideal path for you.

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