Gachau Njoroge, a prominent Kenyan bodybuilder, has caused a stir in the fitness community with his recent admission of using Viagra before workouts to enhance his gym performance. During an interview on a popular podcast, Njoroge shared that he takes the drug about 30 minutes before hitting the gym to improve his physical output. Despite revealing this unconventional approach, he urged his followers not to follow suit, stressing the risks associated with using such substances.
Njoroge, well known in Kenya’s bodybuilding scene, has always been a figure who sparks conversation. His past has been dotted with controversies, including his open admission in 2024 of using steroids—a practice that has long been associated with severe health risks, even death. He described his steroid use as a personal choice, albeit one that comes with significant dangers. His latest revelation about using Viagra further fuels the conversation on the lengths athletes will go to in their quest for peak performance.
Njoroge’s journey into bodybuilding was fueled by his commitment to fitness, but his financial success in academic writing played a role in his access to supplements and a well-balanced diet. This financial gain allowed him to commit more fully to his training and muscle growth regimen, giving him access to resources that are often out of reach for others in the fitness world. However, he was quick to clarify a common misconception: the idea that athletes who use performance-enhancing substances lose their “natural” status. He has been open about the fact that these substances help him achieve results, but he is clear in stating that they come with a cost.
The use of Viagra as a workout aid isn’t entirely new. The drug, which is typically prescribed for erectile dysfunction, has gained attention among athletes who believe it can enhance their performance. The idea is rooted in the drug’s ability to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, which could theoretically boost endurance and muscle-building capacity. Some believe that Viagra can elevate nitric oxide levels in the body, a key element in muscle recovery and performance. However, while this idea has garnered attention, there is still little concrete evidence to support it.
This isn’t the first time performance-enhancing drugs have raised eyebrows in the fitness community. For years, athletes from various sports have sought ways to boost their physical capabilities through substances like steroids, stimulants, and even drugs like Viagra. The underlying theory is simple: anything that increases blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles can enhance athletic performance, allowing athletes to train harder and recover faster.
However, the science behind Viagra’s efficacy as a performance enhancer is still largely unproven. Studies on the drug’s effects on athletic performance have been limited, and many experts remain skeptical of its benefits. While Viagra may help improve blood flow in certain contexts, there is no definitive evidence to suggest that it offers any significant advantages in a workout or athletic competition for healthy individuals. The Cleveland Clinic recently addressed this issue, dismissing the idea that Viagra can provide meaningful performance improvements for those who are in good health and are not suffering from conditions like erectile dysfunction.
Despite the lack of scientific backing, Njoroge’s open discussion of his use of Viagra sheds light on the growing trend among some athletes to experiment with various substances to enhance their performance. His frankness about his steroid use and other methods to achieve success highlights the pressure athletes face to constantly improve, even if it means turning to controversial or potentially dangerous substances.
Ultimately, Njoroge’s story serves as a reminder that the pursuit of perfection in athletics can sometimes lead individuals to take extreme measures. Whether it’s through steroids, supplements, or even Viagra, the desire to push physical limits often drives athletes to explore new frontiers—regardless of the potential risks involved. However, as Njoroge himself cautions, such practices come with serious health implications, and he urges others to carefully consider the consequences before making similar decisions.
