High-intensity interval training (HIIT) involves short bursts of intense activity followed by recovery periods. These exercises recruit multiple muscle groups and tend to produce stronger hormonal responses. Studies show that challenging strength workouts can cause a short-term rise in testosterone after exercise. The intensity of exercise influences the temporal dynamics of testosterone metabolism by variably regulating the neuroendocrine system. Aerobic exercise influences the dynamic equilibrium of testosterone secretion via multifaceted mechanisms, while acute exercise can directly enhance the steroidogenic potential of testicular mesenchymal stromal cells through augmented blood supply (Moir et al., 2024) and sympathetic stimulation (Watt & Spriet, 2004). Testosterone, the principal male sex hormone, participates in numerous physiological processes, including muscle development and recuperation. An additional 40% of testosterone is metabolized in equal proportions into the 17-ketosteroids androsterone and etiocholanolone via the combined actions of 5α- and 5β-reductases, 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and 17β-HSD, in that order. Approximately 50% of testosterone is metabolized via conjugation into testosterone glucuronide and to a lesser extent testosterone sulfate by glucuronosyltransferases and sulfotransferases, respectively. It is bound 65% to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and 33% bound weakly to albumin. The letters a, b, and c following the author and publication year denote different intervention methods employed within the same study. INT, intervene; CON, control group; M, male; F, female; 1-RM, one-repetition maximum; VO2max, maximal oxygen consumption; NA, not available. The inclusion criteria comprised (1) a RCT design, (2) the presence of both an intervention and a control group, and (3) the measurement of testosterone as an end variable, (3) indexed in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR). Practices like meditation, yoga, and breathwork are now integral to recovery routines, further linking testosterone and recovery through holistic wellness. Heavy compound movements (squats, deadlifts, presses) are proven to increase testosterone. Microtears in muscle fibers during training are healed through protein synthesis. Endurance athletes in particular benefit, as testosterone affects stamina just as much as strength. Testosterone is also synthesized in far smaller total quantities in women by the adrenal glands, thecal cells of the ovaries, and, during pregnancy, by the placenta. In the final and rate limiting step, the C17 keto group androstenedione is reduced by 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase to yield testosterone. In contrast to testosterone, DHEA and DHEA sulfate have been found to act as high-affinity agonists of these receptors. The bones and the brain are two important tissues in humans where the primary effect of testosterone is by way of aromatization to estradiol.
