Testosterone Levels, Masturbation, and bodybuilding
First of all, I'd like to point out that this is a serious post. I am not a troll.
We all know that testosterone is a hormone that can promote an anabolic environment in the body. It seems that higher levels of testosterone in the blood correlate to higher levels of hypertrophy (otherwise no one would take anabolic steroids). In addition increased levels of testosterone also appear to promote higher levels of libido (hence the marketing of test-boosting supplements such as tribulus as "performance" enhancers). As teen bodybuilders, our lifting regimens and nutrition/supplement plans cause us to have elevated levels of testosterone. As a result, we have the tendency to "beat off" more than the average teen (not that the average teen doesn't do this a lot). However, I have read that this act decreases the levels of free testosterone in circulation for a significant period of time. Obviously, decreased levels of free testosterone would result in a less anabolic environment. There must be a solution to this dilemna.
The obvious answer would seem to be, "stop jacking off stupid!" However, I have heard that extended periods of this sort of "abstinence" can actually decrease your testosterone level. I posted this topic in the advanced teen forum for several reasons:
1. Teen guys tend to relate to this problem.
2. Worrying about the hormonal aspect of muscle growth is a somewhat advanced part of bodybuilding and should only be considered after solid training and nutrition plans are created.
I believe this topic could lead to a good discussion and would benefit all of us at these forums. The questions are: What is the optimal pattern of masturbation in order to maintain maximum testosterone levels? Does the difference in testosterone actually make a difference in terms of gains? Feel free to correct me if I have any misconceptions. I am thinking maybe a 2 times a week schedule. Please provide any input you have. It would seem that optimizing testosterone levels is a good way to promote gains.