The Claim
Six hours after a single bout of strenuous anaerobic running, testosterone and androstenedione concentrations in male runners are reduced by 51% and 40%, respectively, compared to baseline levels, with a greater reduction than the 12% decrease observed during a day of normal activity.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
After a single intense sprint or high-intensity running session, testosterone and androstenedione levels in male runners drop by 51% and 40% within six hours, which is a larger decrease than the 12% drop seen during a regular day of normal activity.
See the scientific wording
Testosterone and androstenedione levels in male runners fall below baseline concentrations 6 hours after a single bout of strenuous anaerobic running, with reductions of 51% and 40% respectively, a decline more pronounced than the 12% decrease observed during a day of normal activity, suggesting a prolonged suppression following intense exercise.
Intense running triggers the brain to release stress hormones that signal the testes to stop making testosterone and related hormones, causing their levels to drop sharply for hours after the run.
What the research says
1 studyAfter a hard sprint, this study found that men's testosterone and related hormones dropped way lower than normal six hours later—more than they drop on a regular day. So yes, intense exercise really does temporarily suppress these hormones.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.