What impact does substance abuse have on physical performance?

Substance abuse has profound negative effects on physical performance. Many substances disrupt the body’s natural systems, impairing coordination, strength, and endurance. For example, drugs like anabolic steroids may provide a short-term performance boost but can lead to significant long-term health issues that actually diminish overall physical capabilities. Other substances, such as alcohol, depress the central nervous system, affecting reaction time and agility, crucial components of athletic performance. Additionally, substance abuse can impact cardiovascular health, respiratory function, and recovery times, further hindering an athlete's ability to perform at their best. Overall, the overwhelming evidence supports that substance abuse is detrimental to physical performance, affecting not only immediate abilities but also long-term health and well-being.