Anti-Doping in Sport
Keep Athletes Safe and Sports Fair
What is Anti-doping?
Anti-doping refers to the global program to prevent the use of banned substances and methods in sports. It is designed to prevent, deter and detect doping and serves to protect the integrity of sport and the rights of clean athletes. It is led by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and supported by the Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP) from Sport Integrity Canada.
Why is Anti-Doping Important?
Anti-doping efforts protect athletes’ health, ensure fair play, and build trust in sport. Anti-doping also protects the safety of sports. Using banned substances can lead to serious health risks like organ damage and increased injury.
For young and community athletes, learning and knowing the rules about clean sport early on keeps athletes safe and sports fair for everyone.
Practical Tips for Supporting Anti-doping
Taking a proactive approach to anti-doping is easy if you know what to do and watch out for.
Take a Food-First Approach
Supplements can sometimes contain banned substances. To support your health and performance safely, focus on balanced nutrition with whole foods.
Know the Prohibited List
Keep up-to-date on which substances and methods are banned. Checking WADA’s Prohibited List regularly helps you stay compliant.
Understand Testing and Your Rights
Anti-doping tests can happen at many competition levels. Knowing the testing process and your rights during testing helps you stay confident and prepared.
Be Careful with Medications and Supplements
Certain medications and supplements may contain banned substances. Before taking any, consult the Global DRO (Drug Reference Online) to check if they are allowed in sports. When in doubt, ask a healthcare professional or contact Sport Integrity Canada.
Additional Resources
For more information on anti-doping, explore these resources:
Support and Guidance
Parents, guardians, and caregivers play a critical role in their children’s sport experiences. They’re a young athlete’s best resources and their biggest supporters in a complex anti-doping system. For more information about how to support a young athlete, visit Sport Integrity Canada at the link below.
If you’re unsure what to do, talk to a healthcare professional or consult with your sport’s governing body. There are also helpful educational programs, like Sport Integrity Canada’s Clean Sport course, that cover the basics of anti-doping and help you make safe choices.
Who Might Be Tested for Doping
Anti-doping tests can happen at certain competitive levels but aren’t common for recreational athletes or young children. For more information on testing requirements and whether they apply to you, check Sport Integrity Canada’s requirements page. Testing is usually reserved for athletes in the following two groups:
Athletes Competing in Events with Testing Protocols:
If you’re competing in events where testing is part of the rules, you might be subject to testing.
Athletes in a Registered Testing Pool:
High-level or elite athletes may be part of a Registered Testing Pool, which means they may be selected for testing both during and outside of competitions.
Athlete Rights and Responsibilities
If you are selected for anti-doping testing, it’s essential to know your rights and responsibilities. Knowing your rights and responsibilities helps make the testing experience smooth and ensures your participation in clean, fair competition.
During the testing process, you have the right to:
Be Informed:
You will be notified of your selection for testing, and the process will be explained to you.
Have a Representative:
You may choose to have a representative, such as a coach or guardian, with you during testing.
Ask Questions:
You can ask the doping control officer questions to understand the procedures fully.
Privacy During Sample Collection:
Your privacy will be respected during the sample collection process.
You also have responsibilities to ensure a fair and valid test, including:
Providing Accurate Information:
Share accurate information about any medications or supplements you are taking.
Following Instructions:
Cooperate with the testing procedures as directed by the doping control officer.
Reporting Concerns:
If you have any concerns about the testing process, you should report them as soon as possible.
Learn More:
Learn more about athlete rights and responsibilities.