Sophie Okolo, MPH

With so many people going online to find the right approach to fitness and health, we inevitably come across the term “bro science.” Bro science is a colloquial term that is not based on scientific evidence but is typical of information passed down through word of mouth, usually via male fitness enthusiasts. While many people can argue that they know what they are talking about, it can have negative consequences, especially when we’re talking about supplements and the perpetuation of male inadequacy. What are the things to consider for and against bro science?

Supplement Recommendations

While there’s a case to be made for some supplements on the market, such as creatine, that have been well-researched, it’s important to remember that a lot of supplements can interact with medications. Anybody who is looking to take supplements needs to have a fair and balanced approach to them, but one of the major issues is that so many bro science enthusiasts push certain supplements, and the dedicated followers will instantly go out and buy them. MK-677, also known as ibutamoren, aims to promote the secretion of the growth hormone (GH) and increases insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). While there’s MK-677 for sale online, it’s important to exercise a degree of common sense, regardless of the supplement. 

The Pressure to Conform to Unrealistic Standards

The fitness ideal propagated by bro science can inevitably create unrealistic expectations. With so many chiseled males out there in the influencer world and pushing their YouTube videos, it can create inadequacy and low self-esteem because of the attempt to conform to these standards. This can spill into extreme dieting or exercise habits that are detrimental to physical and mental well-being.

Are There Benefits to Bro Science?

The easy thing to do would be to lambast bro science for pushing unrealistic ideals, but we have to look at it in terms of the bigger picture. There are arguments for bro science because of its sense of community. While sharing tips and advice that aren’t scientifically proven can cause potential problems, there is the camaraderie and motivation for individuals to start pursuing healthier lifestyles. The supplement world is not always heavily regulated, but responsible fitness influencers and writers online understand the impact they are making. It also supports a more scientific approach to fitness.

While there are many bro science enthusiasts who jump on certain bandwagons, some aspects of this sector incorporate more evidence-based practices. Many fitness influencers who might promote one style of training do so with a carefully considered approach. Fitness influencers like Dr. Doug McGuff, who preaches the Body by Science approach, is a medical doctor and emphasizes an approach that fits into your life. His super slow protocol, for example, is something that should only be done at least once a week or even longer. And when you start to look at how the medical sector is pushing for a drastic overhaul of bro science, for example, Dr. Peter Attia and his approach to health combined with the advent of more accessible health technology, we might see a drastic change in the evolution of bro science quite soon.