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An International Survey of Image and Performance Enhancing Drug Coaches’ Practices and Services

Ellie Willmott, Luke Cox Orcid Logo, Kim Krigg Orcid Logo, Steve Vigorous, Timothy Piatkowski Orcid Logo

Journal of Drug Issues

Swansea University Author: Luke Cox Orcid Logo

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DOI (Published version): 10.1177/00220426251411514

Abstract

Background: In the absence of governmental harm reduction support, the image and performance enhancing drug (IPED) community has developed its own strategies to mitigate drug-related risks, including the emergence of IPED coaches who provide guidance on drug use. Existing studies on IPED coaching ar...

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Published in: Journal of Drug Issues
ISSN: 0022-0426 1945-1369
Published: Sage Publications 2026
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URI: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa71145
Abstract: Background: In the absence of governmental harm reduction support, the image and performance enhancing drug (IPED) community has developed its own strategies to mitigate drug-related risks, including the emergence of IPED coaches who provide guidance on drug use. Existing studies on IPED coaching are predominantly qualitative, with small, Western-based samples. Methods: This study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional survey to explore the lived experiences of forty-one IPED coaches from diverse global contexts, to examine IPED consumption, related harms, and the scope of coaching services they offer. Results: Coaches reported use of a wide range of injectable and oral steroids, alongside ancillary substances. Coaching practices varied considerably, with client numbers ranging from 0 to over 70. Service provision included bloodwork advice, analysis, and in some cases, drug supply. Conclusion: Findings demonstrate substantial heterogeneity in IPED coaching practices, providing a foundation for the development of a typology that distinguishes informed, evidence-aligned guidance from misinformed or potentially harmful practices within the community.
College: Faculty of Science and Engineering
Funders: Swansea University

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