Testosterone, Sex Drive & Muscle Building - Know Your Place!

Testosterone is often called the male hormone. It is connected with libido, confidence, energy and even muscle building.

But how much do you need to ensure you’re operating at your peak?

Understanding Normal

Anything between 300 and 1,000 nanograms per deciliter of blood is considered normal testosterone levels. That’s quite a wide range!

What might surprise you more is that there appears to be no fundamental difference in sex drive, confidence or energy levels in men moving within this range.

It is only if you are under this range that you’re going to see a big difference by increasing your T levels.

A 2015 study by JAMA shows that sex drive improved in men as they moved from below normal to the normal range. The difference in comparison to those already in the normal range was significant.

Why It’s Important to Have Your testosterone Levels Checked

Did you know your testosterone levels drop by approximately 1% every year after you turn 30?

While it may be considered normal it can lead to low T levels. In fact 5% of men between 50 and 59 have low T levels, resulting in diminished libido and energy levels.

But you’ll only get testosterone shots and medication if your levels drop below 300. If not, you’re going to need testosterone boosters or a natural alternative.

Equally if you’ve had a stroke or heart attack in the last 6 months you’re not going to get the medication.

The Science of Testosterone

Despite the extensive studies and research that have been undertaken there remains an element of mystery concerning T levels.

The problem is low testosterone will make you feel tired, not interested in sex and even lacking in confidence.

While for many men this happens as your testosterone level goes below 300, for others it can happen when their level is 400 or even 500!

The fact is every human body is different. The more often you have a testosterone test the easier it will be for you to monitor whether your levels are dropping or not.

This is made more complicated by the fact that your testosterone levels will naturally fluctuate throughout the day:

Levels tend to be highest at 8am in the morning.

Your T levels will gradually drop during the day; until 8pm.

Levels rebuild overnight back to peak.

The difference between morning and night levels can be 200 points for an average 40 year old.

A 70 year old might only drop 50 points.

HIIT or resistance training will boost your testosterone levels.

Your sports team wins, whether you’re playing or watching will increase T levels.

Long distance or endurance sports will reduce testosterone levels. This includes marathon running and long distance cycling.

Stress reduces testosterone.

Obesity makes your T levels drop. Losing just 10 lbs can increase your T levels by 100 points!

Alcohol makes no short term difference. But in the long term it will reduce testosterone production by damaging your liver.

Adding It Up

Increases in your testosterone levels from low to normal will boost energy, libido and confidence. But moving up within the normal range will not normally have the same effect.

However, increasing your T levels, even if they are already in the normal zone, will help with muscle growth. This is one area where the more you have the bigger your muscles can get.

Of course, you need to establish your normal level and you need to choose a reputable lab to test it. Results can vary from lab to lab so once you’ve found one you trust stick with it!