Ab Rollers, Androstene and the Hope of Glory

We couldn't stick to the exercise bike, but surely we will to the Stairmaster. Yeah, right. Such body-shaping machines are a testimony to both our pursuit of fitness and our willingness to deceive ourselves. "By hope we are saved," says Paul - but only when our hope is in God.

Tribulus Terrestris: dramatically increases testosterone levels.

Tribulus Terrestris: imported directly from Bulgaria.

Tribulus Terrestris: shows testosterone levels significantly increasing 30 percent or more in five days.

Say what?

Note: Ask if anyone knows what Tribulus Terrestris is. Ask for a show of hands. Tribulus Terrestris is a steroid, used by weight lifters. A "Safe Anabolic Replacement With No Side Effects!" says an ad in the back of a rock-and-roll magazine. "No prescription needed -- anything stronger would be illegal!" Hmmm ... are you sure you want to order anything that is almost illegal? (advertisement in Rolling Stone, February 18, 1999, 78).

In our quest for bulging biceps, curvaceous calves and washboard abs, we have entered the dietary supplement generation. Across the country, people are looking for all kinds of natural drugs to enhance their athletic performance and physical appearance.

Home-run king Mark McGwire created a minor controversy when he...