Some of these are more involved in breaking down cartilage through proteolysis, meaning increased catabolism, whereas others are more involved in blocking the formation of new cartilage (meaning decreased anabolism).
And not only that, but anabolic steroids can also help athletes train harder and recover faster by shortening catabolism -- the process in which proteins are broken down into amino acids.
The processes of catabolism break down bigger molecules, and in breaking their bonds, release the energy you need to stay warm, and move around, and provide your cells with fuel … to build the polymers back up again.