Drug Testing & Rules
For complete details on Drug Testing Standards at the NGA, go to section V. of the NGA BY-LAWS
​
​Drug Testing Rules & Natural Standards
Competing in an NGA-sanctioned event means committing to fair, drug-tested competition. The National Gym Association (NGA) enforces strict drug testing policies to protect the integrity of the sport and ensure a level playing field for all athletes. All competitors—amateur and professional—are expected to understand and comply with these rules prior to stepping on stage.
Commitment to Natural Competition
The NGA is a drug-tested federation. Athletes must be free of performance-enhancing drugs and prohibited substances as outlined in NGA rules. Drug testing policies are reviewed annually, and requirements may be updated to reflect current standards. It is the athlete’s responsibility to stay informed and compete in compliance with all NGA regulations.
Polygraph Testing Requirements
All athletes competing in an NGA-sanctioned event are required to successfully pass a polygraph test unless a valid, current waiver is presented.
Key polygraph guidelines:
-
Polygraph testing must be conducted by a certified examiner approved by the NGA
-
Polygraph results are valid for 90 days
-
Athletes must hold a current NGA membership before testing
-
All required waivers and entry forms must be signed prior to testing
-
No athlete may compete in Finals without submitting to polygraph testing
Polygraph testing typically occurs before Prejudging, though scheduling may require it to take place between Prejudging and Finals.
Urinalysis Testing
Urinalysis testing may be conducted at select NGA events at the discretion of the promoter or head judge. Certain competitions require mandatory testing.
Important urinalysis standards:
-
Random testing may be administered at major NGA events
-
First-place professional winners receiving prize money are subject to mandatory urine testing
-
Prize money is not distributed until test results are confirmed
-
Failed tests result in disqualification, with placings adjusted accordingly
These measures reinforce the NGA’s commitment to clean and credible competition.
Banned Substances Overview
The NGA maintains an extensive list of banned substances, including but not limited to:
-
Anabolic steroids and related compounds
-
SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators)
-
Growth hormones, peptides, and insulin-related agents used for performance enhancement
-
Prescription diuretics and stimulants
-
Masking agents and any substances intended to interfere with testing
-
Muscle implants or artificial enhancements
Athletes are fully responsible for researching all supplements and medications they consume. “Unintentional use” is not accepted as a defense.
Medical Exemptions & Prescription Use
The NGA does allow for medical necessity exemptions in limited circumstances. Athletes using prescription medications that contain banned substances must receive approval in advance.
Medical exemption requirements include:
-
Physician documentation on official letterhead
-
ICD-10 diagnosis code
-
Dosage details
-
Recent blood or urinalysis results showing levels within normal ranges
-
Review and approval by the NGA Medical Advisory Panel
Failure to disclose medical use prior to competition may result in disqualification.
Testosterone & Hormone Considerations
Athletes using testosterone for legitimate medical reasons must demonstrate that their levels fall within a normal physiological range for their age. Regardless of medical exemption status:
-
Athletes must pass both polygraph and lab testing
-
The testosterone/epitestosterone (T/E) ratio must not exceed 6:1
-
Athletes are responsible for managing timing and compliance
No exceptions are granted for exceeding allowable ratios.
Consequences of Test Failure
Drug testing results are final and binding. By entering an NGA-sanctioned event, athletes agree to accept all testing outcomes.
Failure to pass testing may result in:
-
Immediate disqualification from the event
-
Loss of awards, titles, and prize money
-
Suspension from NGA competition for up to seven years
-
Ineligibility to compete, judge, promote, guest pose, or participate in NGA events during suspension
Athletes who fail a polygraph may request a retest at their own expense under strict timelines and procedures.
Athlete Responsibility & Transparency
The NGA’s drug testing program exists to protect clean athletes and uphold the integrity of natural competition. Athletes are encouraged to:
-
Review all drug testing rules well in advance
-
Ask questions before competition day
-
Disclose any medical considerations early
-
Compete with honesty and professionalism
If you are unsure whether a substance, supplement, or medication is permitted, it is your responsibility to seek clarification before competing.
Questions About Drug Testing?
Athletes with drug testing questions or medical exemption inquiries should Contact Gator Productions prior to check-in to avoid delays or disqualification.