Responses to intensive training and methandrostenelone administration. I. Contractile and performance variables.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of methandrostenelone (Dianabol) on contractile and performance variables in the rat. Thirty-six male Sprague Dawley rats 90 days old were divided into sedentary and exercise groups; they were further subdivided into Dianabol (0.35 mg/kg/day) treated and untreated groups. The exercise groups underwent a program of high intensity training 7 days/week for 6 weeks. Training produced changes in isometric force-time characteristics indicating increased production of tension. Performance test scores increased significantly from 3 weeks to 6 weeks. Performance by exercise and exercise with Dianabol groups was indistinguishable. It is concluded that Dianabol did not significantly alter the adaptations of the rat to high intensity training.