How Testosterone Levels Effect Physical Performance
Both physical performance and physical appearance are related to testosterone levels in men. The use of testosterone supplements is not uncommon, as they can lead to a number of desired outcomes for the men or women who might take them, usually relating to physical performance. Testosterone is an anabolic hormone naturally made in the body’s testes and adrenal glands. It is responsible for certain natural characteristics, including fitness and strength, sex drive, competitive feelings and bone density. Normally, testosterone levels are higher in men than women throughout life, even though they tend to drop off in men after their mid 20s.
Testosterone causes the changes that boys and girls go through at puberty, including growth spurts and sexual development. In some cases, individuals have been found not to produce much testosterone, leading to a deficiency, or just a mild problem with lowered levels. There are some signs to look for with deficiencies, including reduced libido, wrinkling skin, weight gain, loss of hair, and a loss in muscle and bone tissue density.
In cases of deficiencies, individuals can consider taking a testosterone supplement to balance out the body’s hormone levels, and reverse the effects of the deficiency. New studies have shown that hand-eye coordination as well as body-fat composition can be improved with increased testosterone levels. Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone which is essential to healthy human growth, doing the body a lot of good. Athletic ability is often a reflection of healthy testosterone levels, explaining why athletes are often caught using supplements. The effects, in increased muscle development usually leads to improved results. However, with supplements comes an unfair advantage.
Because of the unnatural advantage it can provide to athletes, taking testosterone supplements is generally banned in most sport arenas. There are a few sports which are not regulated for steroid use, including bodybuilding, power-lifting, and many private sport leagues. It will cause increases in muscle size and strength, improve the individuals perceived energy levels, and intensify feelings- especial anger. However, outside the bounds of regulated amateur athletic competition, testosterone supplement use is perfectly acceptable in cases where it is necessary to help with low levels, and when taken in a safe and prudent manner.
Many aging men are prescribed the supplement by their because it makes feel better by improving looks and sexual performance, and controls chronic cardiovascular diseases. However, there are limited studies on its long term affects to the cardiovascular system, and researchers recommend using caution and careful consideration before making the decision.