Runningart2004 wrote:
For some 'light' reading look up the relationship between cholesterol, cortisol, and testosterone.
Research the effect of training on testosterone levels. Research the effect of high intensity training and extended low intensity training.
In a nutshell: If you feel you need help with recovery or find yourself injured often I would say trying to increase your testosterone production would be a good thing.
Athletes, even runners, have used PEDs to increase testosterone production for eons. If you can do it naturally then by all means go ahead.
You want to know the effect of testosterone on running? It is a POSITIVE one. In fact the effect of testosterone on LIFE in general is a pretty positive one.
Alan
You guys are all looking for an easy shortcut to raise T levels. The secret: weight lifting that targets large muscle groups (so not something like bicep curls. The bicep is a tiny muscle). So, compound exercises. THese are SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN to raise Testosterone levels. Perhaps alan can link a few studies for us. There is also a good chance you will get ripped in the long term (don't worry, it won't affect your running unless you look like arnold. Look at solinsky, webb 2007, snell, etc.)
A testosterone boosting cycle that targets most of the body's muscles:
1. Push ups, Pull ups (3-6 sets of each depending on how much time you want to spend)
2. Rest
3. Squats (4-6 sets)
4. Rest.
Yes, that's it. This WILL raise your T levels (something that every runner should think about). Do the pushups from your fists to get an extended range of motion (instead of from palms) and don't be scared to squat low (for good form, search youtube).
THe entire upper body is worked by the push ups and pull ups. The abs and obliques are used a lot as stabilizers. The quads, hamstrings, glutes, inner legs and lower back are used by the squats. The calves are worked a little by squatting and a little by running (they can't grow that much anyway).
If this answer isn't good enough for you, you didn't understand it.