There are theories and anecdotal reports of muscle cramps and tears, and impaired hydration status in athletes taking creatine supplements. However, the studies and reviews of these issues have failed to find an association between creatine use and an increased risk of these problems. However, it is possible that some individuals may respond unfavourably to creatine use. Before taking creatine, the athlete needs to consider whether their sporting activities are likely to truly benefit from an elevation in muscle content. This should be balanced by the “costs”, such as the expense of the supplements, the risk of taking a contaminated supplement and the effect of a small weight gain.