Anti-Doping

World athletics is one of the more tightly controlled sports when drug testing is concerned. As a result there are a few "high profile" news bulletins about athletes failing tests but compared to the thousands that take part in the sport, this is a small percentage. The sport's organising bodies and always striving to improve the controls, education and deterrents.

"You are responsible for the substances that are found in your body".

Fortunately there are some very useful web sites that will help guide you through the the banned and allowed substances, the anti-doping control procedures and everything else you should need to know. If you have any doubt consult your coach. However, always remember it is yourself that will be held responsible for any prohibited (i.e., not allowed) substances found in your body.

UK Athletics employs antidopying officers to test athletes during competition and out of competition. For more information check out the UK Athletics website at www.ukathletics.net or email antidoping@ukathletics.org.uk

There are many commercial products available off the shelf in the UK. If you have any doubt about whether they contain banned substances, you can check them out on the UK SPORT web site at www.uksport.gov.uk/did . On this site you identify your sports and country of origin and then enter the commercial name of the product, e.g., Lem Sip Max and it will return feedback on its contents and whether there are any banned substances on the ingredients.

Point to note: If you take any inhaler (asthma, etc.) you are duty bound to register what product you take on an annual basis to UK Athletics. See www.ukathletics.net for further details.