Does Running Increase Your Testosterone?

Running is great for your heart, it's great for your mental health, it’s even great for your love life, apparently. With run clubs the new alternative to dating apps, and seemingly everyone signing up for a half marathon these days, running fever is in the air (it is the lead-up to the London Marathon, after all). With this in mind, we thought it's the perfect time to take a look at how all this exercise affects your hormones. While running is undoubtedly beneficial for your overall health, the question we want to answer is: does running increase testosterone? 

Curious to find out? Then ready, set, let’s go!

Why Do We Need Testosterone in the First Place?

Before we get into whether running does in fact increase testosterone, first let’s explain why having healthy levels of testosterone matters. Testosterone is a hugely important sex hormone for both men and women. Your body needs to produce enough testosterone for you to feel at your best; otherwise, you will start to experience some very annoying symptoms that can have a real impact on your quality of life. Low testosterone in women is one of the main causes of a lack of sex drive. It can also lead to low energy, mood swings, and can even lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression, and it’s the same for men. That’s why it’s important to listen to your body and make sure you are producing enough of the stuff. 

Now that we’ve cleared up why testosterone is so vital, the question you’ve been waiting for… does running increase testosterone?

The short answer is yes. Let’s look at how it works. 

How Does Running Increase Your Testosterone? 

Studies show that running, along with other types of exercise, does boost your testosterone levels. This is because exercise activates your endocrine system, which is the network of glands and organs in your body that are responsible for producing many of your hormones. When your endocrine system kicks into action, it stimulates the production of testosterone, along with many of the other hormones your body needs to function correctly. This is why exercise is so essential to your hormonal health. 

But Not All Running Is Created Equal

However, intensity matters. And when it comes to testosterone, it turns out that slow and steady does not win the race. Faster sprinting and interval running have been shown to be more likely to increase testosterone compared to running at a slower pace. That’s because short, intense bursts of exercise cause your body to release a surge of anabolic hormones, such as testosterone, to help with recovery and muscle repair. Long-distance running has actually been linked to lower testosterone. Overtraining can also lead to a spike in the stress hormone cortisol, which is bad news for your hormones. So, before you get carried away and sign up for the next ultramarathon, remember when it comes to running, there is a tipping point, so don’t overdo it and always listen to your body.

What Other Ways Can You Boost Your Testosterone? 

It’s also important to remember that it’s not just running that increases testosterone. Regular exercise has amazing benefits for your hormones, testosterone included. Both men and women who exercise regularly experience better hormonal health because, as we’ve discussed, exercise activates your endocrine system and helps regulate many of your key hormones. Not only that, but exercise also boosts your serotonin and endorphins and reduces stress levels, which is excellent for your mental health.

Did you know that, along with exercise, there are many other ways to increase your testosterone levels? From getting a sound night’s sleep, to eating a healthy diet, to even sleeping naked, have all been linked to an increase in testosterone. 

But while all of these are great ways to naturally boost your testosterone, if you are struggling with a hormone imbalance, then realistically, going for a run or sleeping in your birthday suits isn't going to cut the mustard.

So, what can you do instead? 

Heal your symptoms with an effective hormone solution, of course.

A Hormone Solution That Works

At Hormones + You, our low-dose testosterone cream is specially formulated for women using the highest quality, plant-derived bioidentical hormones that work in harmony with your body.

Developed by a passionate team of expert doctors and pharmacists, this easy-to-apply cream addresses the root cause of your symptoms by gently rebalancing your hormone levels. The result? More energy, a healthier sex drive, improved mood, and renewed confidence

So, what are you waiting for? Start an online consultation now and take control of your hormones for good, with your prescription treatment delivered straight to your door.