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DRUG-TESTING POLICY

OVERVIEW

The IAFS Bodybuilding Federation is committed to promoting fair competition, athlete integrity, and the long-term health of competitors.

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The Drug-Tested Division exists to provide a platform for athletes who choose to compete under verified anti-doping standards.

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All athletes competing in Drug-Tested divisions are required to comply with the policies outlined below.

TESTING AUTHORITY & PARTNERSHIP

IAFS utilizes established anti-doping protocols and may partner with third-party organizations and testing providers to administer and validate testing procedures.

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Testing standards are aligned with widely recognized natural bodybuilding guidelines, including comprehensive banned substance lists and enforcement practices.

TESTING METHODS

Athletes competing in Drug-Tested divisions may be subject to one or more of the following:

  • Polygraph (Lie Detector) Testing

  • Urinalysis (Drug Testing)

  • Random Testing (Pre, Post, or Off-Season)

 

Testing selection may be random, placement-based, or suspicion-based at the discretion of the federation.

Failure to submit to testing when required will result in disqualification.

TESTING WINDOW

IAFS enforces a look-back period for banned substances.

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Athletes must be free of all banned substances for a minimum period prior to competition. Detection windows vary depending on the substance and method of use.

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As a general guideline:

  • Short-term substances: minimum 6–12 months

  • Hormonal agents / anabolic substances: up to 7 years or lifetime bans

 

Athletes are responsible for ensuring they meet eligibility requirements prior to registering.

BANNED SUBSTANCES

IAFS prohibits the use of performance-enhancing drugs and methods that provide an unfair advantage or compromise athlete health.

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This includes, but is not limited to:

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Anabolic Agents

  • Anabolic steroids

  • Prohormones

  • SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators)

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Hormones & Growth Factors

  • Human Growth Hormone (HGH)

  • Insulin (non-medical use)

  • IGF-1

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Fat Loss & Metabolic Enhancers

  • Clenbuterol

  • DNP

  • Certain thyroid medications (without prescription)

 

Diuretics & Masking Agents

  • Prescription diuretics (unless medically required and disclosed)

  • Substances used to mask drug use

 

Stimulants & Other Substances

  • Amphetamines (non-prescribed)

  • Certain banned stimulants and performance enhancers

 

IAFS maintains a comprehensive banned substances list aligned with established natural bodybuilding standards.

Athletes are encouraged to review detailed banned substance references prior to competition.

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SUPPLEMENTS & ATHLETE RESPONSIBILITY

Athletes are solely responsible for any substances they ingest.

This includes:

  • Over-the-counter supplements

  • Pre-workouts and fat burners

  • Prescription medications

  • Hormone therapies

 

“I didn’t know” is not an acceptable defense.

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IAFS strongly recommends:

  • Using third-party tested supplements

  • Avoiding products with proprietary blends

  • Consulting a medical professional when necessary

 

THERAPEUTIC USE & MEDICAL DISCLOSURE

Athletes using prescribed medications must disclose use prior to competition if substances fall within banned categories.

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IAFS may require:

  • Physician documentation

  • Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) review

 

Failure to disclose relevant medical use may result in disqualification.

VIOLATIONS & PENALTIES

 

Violations of the IAFS Drug Testing Policy may result in:

  • Disqualification from the event

  • Forfeiture of titles, awards, and placements

  • Suspension from future competition

  • Lifetime ban (for severe or repeated violations)

All decisions are made at the discretion of the federation and may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

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REFUSAL TO TEST

 

Refusal to participate in required testing is treated as a failed test.

This includes:

  • Failure to appear for testing

  • Refusal to provide a sample

  • Tampering with the testing process

APPEALS PROCESS

Athletes may submit an appeal for review in cases of:

  • Disputed test results

  • Medical exemptions

  • Procedural concerns

All appeals must be submitted in writing within the designated timeframe provided by the federation.

FAIR COMPETITION COMMITMENT

 

IAFS is committed to maintaining a fair and level playing field for all competitors.

The Drug-Tested Division represents:

  • Integrity in competition

  • Respect for athlete health

  • A standard of discipline and accountability

Athletes who choose this division are expected to uphold these values both on and off the stage.

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