Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to Fitness and Performance 9th Edition by Scott Powers, Edward Howley

Exercise 3

Discuss the use of testosterone and growth hormone as aids to increase muscle size and strength, and discuss the potential long-term consequences of such use.

Step 1 of 3

Testosterone is a steroid hormone secreted by the testes (and ovaries to some extent, in females). It is secreted by interstitial cells of the testes. It is both an anabolic and androgenic hormone. It promotes tissue building and masculine characters. The plasma testosterone concentration increases from 10% to 37% during endurance or strength training workouts. This is due to the stimulus of exercise that needs muscle protein synthesis.

Due to its effect on muscle growth, athletes are more attracted to testosterone abuse. Androgens like testosterone, when combined with resistance training, provide greater gain in lean body mass, muscle mass, and strength. The improvement in lean mass and muscle tissue greatly enhances an athlete’s performance or endurance.