ABSTRACT
The research was conducted to examine the perception of the use and effect of ergogenic aids among student athletes of the University of Benin. Five research questions were raised based on what the study was designed to investigate.
Descriptive survey research design method was adopted. The population of the study was total of Five Hundred and Eighteen (518) from which a sample of One Hundred and Four (104) were used which represent 20% of the entire population. Questionnaire were administered to the study sample so as to elicit information on the subject matter. The instrument is a 20 items instrument divided into section A and B. Section A consists of personal bio data and Section B consists of the items to be tested. The reliability of instrument was obtained using pearson’s product correlation coefficient and a coefficient of 0.94 was obtained. The data collected were analyzed by classifying them into frequency counts and percentages and it was presented in a tabular form. Based on the data analyzed findings were obtained, conclusion drawn, suggestion and recommendation were offered.
Based on the findings, it was discovered that athletes of the 21st century make use of ergogenic aids with special reference to student-athletes of the University of Benin. Also the finding revealed that there are several dangers associated with use of ergogenic aids even to the point of death. Furthermore, it was also made clear that a greater percentage of the student-athletes of the University of Benin are aware of these dangers and implications. Finally, the findings discovered the reasons why athletes make use of these aids. Recommended solution includes following:
Athletes should be re-oriented that the main essence of participating in competition is not to win, rather the spirit of sportsmanship should be developed.
Coaches, sports administrators and fans should desist from mounting undue pressure on athletes.
Athletes should be educated on the effects associated with the use of ergogenic aids. Finally, more research should be conducted on the use of ergogenic aids, so as to reduce, if not totally, eradicate or eliminate the negative effects of ergogenic aids.
