Testosterone and Iron: The Perfect Storm
It’s not surprising that a killer workout can flood your veins with muscle-building T. It’s the physiological reward for getting under the bar and pushing yourself to your limits. How much of a hormonal response you get depends on the amount of muscle you use, as well as the training intensity and volume. In other words, you need to move big heavy weights to get the maximum test boost.
We also assessed T levels after another type of exercise: Pilates. While Pilates is no joke, it doesn’t score as high on the John Wayne scale of manliness as traditional iron-grinding. But the test was worth it just to see M&F Group Creative Director Chris Hobrecker in a leotard.
Our Findings: We used the high-volume workout designed by Senior Science Editor Jim Stoppani, PhD, in the November 2009 issue of M&F (“Training for Mr. T”, page 98), and as you might expect, the subsequent testosterone levels did not disappoint. In fact, one editor actually doubled his resting test levels after performing the routine. This same editor had his testosterone levels cut in half by the Pilates workout.
Conclusion: Training intensity matters. Use heavy, basic lifts for maximum muscle growth.
Pages:
Testosterone and Iron: The Perfect Storm
For Whom the Bell Tolls
Smells Like…Victory
Watch What You Watch
Sex and Intimidation
