Sports and Testosterone

Testosterone is a powerful anabolic hormone that stimulates and controls the development of muscle, bone, skin, sex organs and most other masculine, physical features. Recently, scientists have discovered that testosterone also aids mental function, enhancing both visual and perceptual skills.

In men, testosterone is produced in the testes by a group of cells known as the Leydig cells. These cells begin secreting high doses of testosterone during puberty to trigger increased lean muscle mass, sex organ development, bone formation and higher energy levels. Testosterone levels peak during a man’s early to mid twenties.

As a man ages, the amount of testosterone produced by the Leydig cells decreases. Recent research has found that one out of every four men over thirty have low testosterone levels (Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, September 2007). By the age of sixty, the average man will have lost nearly 50% of his testosterone supply. In addition, other factors (such as stress, lack of sleep, physical inactivity, the use of prescription medication and drinking) can cause testosterone levels to decline more drastically.

This decline in testosterone can present a significant challenge for male athletes, as reduced testosterone production contributes to muscle weakness as well as decreased bone density.

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