How to politely refuse in-office gym instructor for steroids and protein

manpreet Best Answer 2 years ago

In my office, the in-house gym instructor asked me to have protein, amino and steroids. Almost twice a week he insists that I use those. From my experience, I don't want to use those things at all, because I didn't do any heavy lifting or any heavy weight exercises. I feel good after the workout and this helps me concentrate on my work. But he keeps asking me to use all of the supplements and he also shows me photos of all of the types of products on a regular basis. I don't want to say NO to those products because I want to maintain a friendly environment, and he might get offended if I do so. Is there any way around to refuse him politely? As of now, there is no such policy in the office. Is there some kind of official policy that I could ask HR to implement? My present work culture is a bit different from the western office culture. We usually spend days or even a complete week in the office. This is the reason that I use the gym frequently, and that's why I want to maintain a friendly atmosphere.

As an update, the country of origin doesn't matter because I am unaware of the national laws. And I am not planning to sue anyone. I'll be here for a short period of time. Thus I am not interested in country specific solution.

manpreet 2 years ago

He probably just wants to sell you the products, so the same way you would say no to a waiter offering you a dish you don't want, a polite but firm "No, thanks" should work. Showing doubts or evasive answers will only make him insist again and again.

By the way, protein and other suplements are OK, but steroids are illegal drugs, I don't know if there is a potential risk for the company here but you might consider reporting this anonymously.

Edit: the above paragraph might not be entirely correct for Japan, as possession of anabolic steroids seems to be legal, not sure about selling being legal tho.