For competitive body builders to build bigger muscles faster is a constant temptation but for the average non competitive body builder there is another natural option - natural body building. True it is a much slower process but the long term gains far outweigh the adverse affects that even legal steroids may have on your body over an extended period of time. Steroids are usually used for a short duration of say 6-8 weeks with a substantial period of time elapsing before starting on the next course of steroids. It is not recommended that anyone take steroids on a continuous basis. This on and off program tends to produce short term spikes in muscle mass and muscle strength. The advantage of natural body building is a slower but steadier increase in muscle mass rather than the peaks and lows of those on steroids. I am sure many of you have seen or heard of the affects on a body builder who stops using steroids - Rapid loss of muscle bulk and strength. The affects of steroids are fairly short lived and can result in some dramatic changes to both physique and health of a body builder. Natural body building results in a steadier and more constant performance rather than the often times spectacular ups and downs of steroid induced muscle bulk and strength performance. When you achieve top results as a natural body builder you will be able to maintain your muscle bulk and strength for as long as you continue intense training without adverse affects on your general health. You will not experience any dramatic muscle wasting that is many times seen in body builders when they stop using steroids. Loss of muscle bulk and strength are two of the most dreaded words for body builders. Natural body building will help most to avoid these pitfalls. So why do people use steroids? Most of us are impatient creatures and want instant results so the steroid alternative is very attractive. Probably one of the most important factors that affect a person's decision to use steroids or go the natural way is what is their reason for body building - is it just to look and feel better or are they in it for the competition. So it is your call - you decide whether using legal steroids will benefit you and your objectives. Or play it safe and go for the healthier, steadier natural body building program that will have longer term benefits for a healthier lifestyle - Its your choice.