2025 Mar 14, 17:24
Richard Freeman, former Team Sky doctor, has been banned for four years by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) after being found guilty of "taking possession of an order of 30 sachets of Testogel (testosterone gel)" at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester in 2011. This case has brought attention to the impact of testosterone on performance and why testosterone levels decrease over time. Testosterone is a hormone that is secreted from the testicles into the blood and has various effects on the body. Some of the benefits of testosterone include increased muscle strength, improved red blood cell production, and psychological boosts during workouts. As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline by around one percent each year starting at the age of 40. This decline is further accelerated by endurance training, with studies showing that prolonged exercise can lead to a significant decrease in testosterone levels
The reasons for this are not fully understood but may be related to increased cortisol levels and changes in hormone production. Not only do male athletes experience this decline in testosterone, but female athletes also have lower levels of testosterone compared to men. In women, testosterone converts to estrogen, which plays a crucial role in reproductive health. However, there is hope for maintaining higher testosterone levels through weight training. Regular strength training can raise testosterone levels and lead to improvements in power output, recovery speed, and stamina. Exercises like leg squats, deadlifts, and lunges are recommended for maximizing the testosterone response. Diet also plays a role in testosterone levels
Testosterone is derived from cholesterol, so it is important to include healthy fats in the diet, such as mackerel, nuts, and olive oil. On the other hand, excessive alcohol consumption can lower testosterone levels, so it is advisable to limit alcohol intake. Overall, understanding testosterone and its effects on performance is crucial for cyclists looking to optimize their training and achieve their goals.