The Revive Stronger Podcast 499: The Truth About Drug Testing in Natural Bodybuilding - Bob Bell
Dec 20, 2025
In this conversation, Bob Bell, co-owner of the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation, dives into the evolution of natural bodybuilding while emphasizing the need for rigorous drug testing and integrity in competition. He recalls the challenges of drug use in the past and presents the WNBF's 10-year drug-free policy. Bob discusses the impact of innovative event production, the introduction of Classic Physique, and his commitment to encouraging more women to participate. Overall, it's a passionate call for support of truly drug-tested competitions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
From Competitor To Federation Owner
- Bob and Tina started competing in the 1990s and transitioned from non-tested to natural federations after seeing the harms of drug use.
- That shift led Bob to eventually purchase the WNBF in 2014 to protect and grow true natural bodybuilding.
Clear Definition Drives Credibility
- The WNBF enforces a 10-year drug-free eligibility and follows the WADA prohibited list to define 'natural'.
- They ban many substances other federations allow, including some steroids and TRT, to preserve fairness and integrity.
Ask Before You Assume Eligibility
- If you have banned substances in your past, email the WNBF for case-by-case eligibility review instead of assuming disqualification.
- Consistent use of banned substances remains a clear no-go and leads to long bans.