Wrestling, doping behavior and/or doping in Senegal : from consumption logics to circulation logics

Abstract

This study looks at doping and doping behavior among wrestlers in Senegal. It attempts to grasp the practices observed in this respect, as well as the rationale behind the consumption of traditional products or those derived from traditional pharmacopoeia, in order to achieve sporting and social success. In addition, this work questions the types of products and their circulation logics in the wrestling sector. The methodology used to carry out the survey is essentially based on the use of semi-structured interviews as a data collection technique. The results confirm the use of doping and the adoption of doping behaviours by wrestlers. This behavior is based on a triptych: building muscle mass, sporting performance and socio-economic fulfillment. While products related to traditional medicinal plants are accessible to all, doping products - anabolics and steroids in general - circulate in black markets, gyms and networks that most wrestlers are familiar with.