Erin Oprea, the Nashville-based celebrity fitness trainer known for coaching country music superstars including Carrie Underwood and Kelsea Ballerini, has received a five-year ban from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) after testing positive for multiple prohibited substances, USADA announced on Friday 11 September 2026.
The 49-year-old, who competes as an amateur age-group triathlete, returned a positive urine sample collected in competition at the Music City Triathlon in Nashville on Sunday 31 May 2026, where she finished fourth. According to USADA, the sample showed ostarine, LGD-4033 (ligandrol) and exogenous testosterone. Specialized isotope-ratio mass spectrometry testing confirmed that the testosterone was synthetic rather than naturally produced.
All three substances are non-specified anabolic agents prohibited at all times under the World Anti-Doping Code. While the standard sanction for such violations is four years, USADA extended Oprea’s ban by an additional year, citing the combination of multiple prohibited substances and her lack of cooperation with the resulting investigation as aggravating factors.
Oprea’s suspension formally began on 16 June 2026, the date her provisional suspension took effect. She has also been disqualified from all competitive results achieved on or after 31 May 2026, including any medals or prizes.
Outside of triathlon, Oprea is far better known as a “trainer to the stars,” having built a fitness brand and social media presence by working with high-profile clients and publishing best-selling diet and workout guides.
Photo Credit: Today.com, @erinoprea
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