In the world of strength sports, the question of natural or ‘natty’ status often arises, and the case of CT Fletcher is no exception.
Known for his incredible strength and physique, many have wondered about Fletcher’s use of performance-enhancing substances.
Despite the swirling speculations, Fletcher has been largely transparent about his experiences, admitting to a brief period of steroid use in the 1980s.
This article delves into the details of Fletcher’s journey, from his experiment with steroids to his consequential return to a natural, drug-free regime, eventually addressing the question: Is CT Fletcher truly ‘natty’?
CT Fletcher: Stats, Records, and Rise to Fame
CT Fletcher stands as a remarkable figure in the world of strength sports.
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Born on June 8, 1959, Fletcher grew up in a tough neighborhood in Long Beach, California, where he developed his iron will and tenacity.
His athletic journey began in his teens, and by the time he was in his twenties, he was already making a name for himself in the powerlifting circuit.
Fletcher is most renowned for his astonishing feats in powerlifting.
His record achievements include a strict curl lift of 225 pounds, an impressive feat that still holds in the Strict Curl category.
In his prime, Fletcher also boasted an incredible bench press of 650 pounds and a squat lift of 725 pounds. These numbers are a testament to his immense strength and dedication.
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Beyond his records, what truly sets Fletcher apart is his indomitable spirit and unique approach to training.
His philosophy, “It’s Still Your Set,” encourages lifters to push beyond their limits, fostering a mentality of strength and resilience that transcends the gym.
CT Fletcher’s fame extends beyond his powerlifting prowess.
He is also a celebrated online personality, with millions of followers on social media platforms, drawn to his motivational speeches and the raw honesty with which he shares his life experiences, including his health challenges and his recovery journey.
His larger-than-life persona, coupled with his honest and inspirational outlook on life, continues to endear him to fans worldwide.
Fletcher’s Introduction to Steroids
CT Fletcher’s introduction to steroids came about unexpectedly.
Despite his impressive stature – including his notable 20-inch arms – Fletcher was relatively uninformed about performance-enhancing drugs until an encounter at a competition brought them to his attention.
A promoter at the event inquired about what substances Fletcher was using to enhance his performance, a question that caught him off-guard as he had been navigating his career, up until that point, under the assumption that everyone was playing the natural game.
Fletcher, who was unacquainted with steroids at this time, was suddenly made aware of the prevalent use of these substances in the world of strength sports.
This encounter acted as a turning point, causing him to consider their potential benefits, eventually leading to his brief experiment with deca durabolin in the 1980s.
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The fact that Fletcher achieved his substantial physique and strength, including his 20-inch arms, without the aid of steroids until this point stands as a testament to his natural strength and commitment to his training regime.
The Steroid Experiment
At 21-years old CT Fletcher’s steroid experiment represents a brief but significant phase in his journey.
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Making the decision to leverage the benefits steroids could provide, Fletcher began a prescribed regimen of deca durabolin in the 1980s.
This involved a cycle of 2 months on, followed by 2 months off, a routine he adhered to with diligence.
During this period, Fletcher experienced a dramatic surge in his physical capabilities.
The steroids amplified his strength and muscle mass significantly, leading to an enhanced performance that went beyond his naturally obtained achievements. His physique underwent a noticeable transformation, the effects of which were undeniable.
However, this phase was not devoid of downsides.
The aftermath of the steroid cycle brought with it significant negative impacts. Fletcher experienced a loss in libido, a decrease in strength, and a reduction in muscle mass, effects that far outweighed the temporary benefits he had gained.
This period of steroid usage, although brief, left lasting effects on Fletcher, prompting him to reconsider his decision and ultimately choose to return to a natural, drug-free regimen.
The Aftermath
The aftermath of CT Fletcher’s experimentation with steroids was marked by a significant toll on his body and performance.
As the effects of deca durabolin wore off, Fletcher witnessed a pronounced decrease in his strength, a side effect that was contradictory to the very reason he had turned to steroids.
His muscle mass also dwindled noticeably, a stark contrast to the amplified physique he had grown accustomed to during his steroid cycle.
Most notably, Fletcher faced a loss of libido, an unanticipated and deeply personal consequence of his brief foray into performance-enhancing substances.
These repercussions served as a wake-up call for Fletcher, highlighting the harsh reality of steroid use.
The transient gains he had enjoyed were overshadowed by the long-term impacts, leading him to question the true cost of artificial enhancement.
Reflections and Regrets
In retrospect, CT Fletcher has expressed deep remorse over his brief flirtation with steroids, wishing he could erase this chapter from his life entirely.
Despite the immense gains and enhanced performance he achieved during his steroid cycle, Fletcher profoundly regrets this period, primarily because it tarnished his otherwise clean record. He often reflects on this aspect, expressing his desire to have upheld a fully natural approach throughout his career.
Fletcher’s regret is not merely about the physical toll and negative side effects he had to endure, but also the smudge it left on his reputation as a natural athlete.
This candid admission underscores Fletcher’s commitment to natural strength, and highlights the importance he places on honesty and integrity in the realm of strength sports.
His experience serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring athletes, reinforcing the belief that true strength lies not in artificial enhancements, but in discipline, dedication, and the indomitable power of the human spirit.
Motivation Behind Steroid Use
CT Fletcher’s decision to use steroids was fueled by a desire to elevate his standing within the realm of strength sports, rather than a simple quest for physical enhancement.
He yearned to be recognized, featured in magazines, and celebrated as a notable figure in the industry.
This pursuit of fame and acknowledgement within the competitive landscape was a significant motivator behind Fletcher’s steroid experimentation.
He aspired to be someone of significance within his chosen field, a desire that was momentarily achieved through his steroid-induced transformation.
However, the hefty price he paid, both physically and reputationally, has since made him question the validity of these fleeting moments of fame.
The Return to Natural
Following the negative impacts of his steroid use, CT Fletcher made the conscious decision to return to his roots – natural strength training.
After witnessing first-hand the detrimental effects of performance-enhancing substances on his body and overall health, Fletcher decided that the risks far outweighed the benefits.
His return to natural training marked a pivotal moment in his career, redefining his approach to fitness and strength sports.
This decision was not merely a return to his previous ways, but an active choice to reject artificial enhancements and instead, dedicate himself wholeheartedly to natural methods.
His commitment to natural training methods was unwavering, despite the temptations and pressures prevalent in the world of strength sports.
Fletcher’s return to natural training, after his brief experimentation with steroids, demonstrated his resilience and commitment to the core values of sport – discipline, hard work, and integrity.
This period also served as a testament to his dedication to maintain his health and uphold the sanctity of natural bodybuilding.
His journey continues to serve as an inspiration for many, reinforcing the idea that true strength and success in strength sports come from hard work and dedication, not artificial enhancements.
CT Fletcher: Natty or Not?
The debate regarding CT Fletcher’s status as a natural athlete or a steroid user is a contentious one.
Fletcher’s brief experimentation with steroids at the age of 21 undeniably tarnishes his record as a natural athlete, even though he chose to discontinue their use after experiencing negative side-effects.
However, his decision to return to natural strength training and his unwavering commitment to natural methods thereafter, suggest that he should not be dismissed as a steroid user outright.
His openness about his past and his commitment to steering clear of performance-enhancing substances after his early experimentation demonstrate his dedication to natural strength sports.
It is important to note that while his youthful indiscretion may put a question mark over his “natty” status, the majority of his career unfolded free of artificial enhancements.
Therefore, while CT Fletcher’s status remains controversial, his decision to revert to a natural, drug-free regimen for the majority of his career casts him more in the light of a natural athlete who briefly strayed, rather than a habitual steroid user.
CT Fletcher’s Remarkable Achievements: A Testament to Natural Strength
CT Fletcher’s achievements in the realm of strength sports are nothing short of extraordinary.
A six-time world champion in powerlifting, three-time bench press champion, and three-time strict curl champion, Fletcher has established himself as one of the preeminent figures in the world of strength sports.
What makes these accomplishments all the more remarkable is that the majority of them were achieved without the aid of steroids.
Fletcher’s unrivaled strength was honored when he was inducted into the World Association of Benchers and Deadlifters Hall of Fame
He has also set records that still stand today, including a strict curl record of 225 pounds. These feats are a testament to Fletcher’s unwavering dedication, discipline, and passion for the sport, as well as his commitment to natural strength training.
His accomplishments serve as an inspiring reminder that true strength and success in strength sports can be achieved through hard work and dedication, with no need for artificial enhancements.
Fletcher’s journey is indeed a powerful testament to the prowess of natural strength and the extraordinary heights it can reach.
His career is a testament to his mantra, “I command you to grow!”, a philosophy that focuses on the power of will and the potential of the human body when it is pushed to its limits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the narrative surrounding CT Fletcher’s status as a natural athlete, or ‘natty,’ is complex, yet compelling.
His brief foray into the world of steroids, driven by ambition and desire for recognition, should not overshadow the immense accomplishments he achieved through natural training.
Fletcher’s story emphasizes the importance of integrity, discipline, and dedication in the realm of strength sports, demonstrating that real strength is a byproduct of perseverance and hard work, not artificial enhancements.
His openness about his past, including his steroid use, coupled with his unyielding commitment to natural strength training, offers valuable insights and lessons for anyone aspiring to excel in strength sports.
Fletcher stands as a testament that true success is not about fleeting moments of fame or superficial physical enhancements, but the long road of discipline, hard work, and respect for the essence of sport.
His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that the power to achieve lies within us, not in external substances. Therefore, while the debate around CT Fletcher’s ‘natty’ status may continue, his impact on the world of strength sports and his advocacy for natural training remain unimpeachab
