Part 7/9:
The pressure to conform to an exaggerated ideal in bodybuilding fosters a culture of extreme behavior. Athletes often refer to a psychological phenomenon called “Summit Fever,” where the near-zero tolerance for failure encourages reckless choices. The tragic deaths of competitors can be seen as stark reminders of the heights of ambition that can lead to fatal decisions.
Even with the awareness of potential repercussions, many athletes feel that the prestige and respect gained in the bodybuilding community outweigh the health risks involved. As competition intensifies, the boundaries of safe practice continuously stretch, leading to an alarming increase in the number of fatalities associated with the sport.