Check out this answer from Consensus:
Testosterone supplementation can improve core body strength, particularly when combined with resistance training. It also positively affects body composition by increasing lean mass and reducing fat mass. However, the benefits may vary depending on the population and the type of testosterone supplement used. Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and potential risks of testosterone supplementation.
Testosterone supplementation has been a topic of interest for its potential benefits in enhancing muscle performance and body composition. This article explores whether testosterone supplements can effectively improve core body strength, drawing on findings from multiple research studies.
Effects of Testosterone on Muscle Strength
Several studies have demonstrated that testosterone supplementation can lead to significant improvements in muscle strength. For instance, a study involving healthy young men found that testosterone administration was associated with a dose-dependent increase in leg press strength and leg power, although it did not significantly affect muscle fatigability or specific tension1. Similarly, another study reported that older men receiving testosterone supplementation showed significant gains in muscle strength and aerobic endurance2.
Long-term Effects on Muscle Performance
The long-term effects of testosterone supplementation have also been investigated. A three-year study on older men revealed that testosterone replacement was associated with modest but significant improvements in stair-climbing power, muscle mass, and power compared to a placebo3. This suggests that prolonged testosterone administration can have sustained benefits on muscle performance.
Combined Effects with Exercise
The combination of testosterone supplementation and resistance training appears to yield even greater benefits. Research has shown that men who received testosterone injections and engaged in resistance training experienced more substantial increases in muscle size and strength compared to those who did not exercise or received a placebo4 6. This indicates that the synergistic effect of testosterone and exercise can significantly enhance muscle performance.
Body Composition Changes
Testosterone supplementation has been shown to positively affect body composition by increasing lean body mass and reducing fat mass. In older men, testosterone treatment led to a decrease in fat mass and an increase in lean mass, particularly in the trunk area5. Another study found that testosterone supplementation improved body composition and upper body strength in non-exercising older men8.
Limitations and Inconclusive Findings
Despite the positive findings, some studies have reported inconclusive results regarding the effects of testosterone on muscle strength and physical function. A systematic review concluded that while testosterone replacement might increase physical function, it does not significantly affect muscle strength9. Additionally, a study on young trained males found that herbal testosterone boosters did not significantly increase testosterone levels, strength, or lean body mass compared to a placebo7.
Do testosterone supplements work to help improve core body strength?
E Todd Schroeder has answered Likely
An expert from University of Southern California in Exercise Physiology
Testosterone supplementation will increase skeletal muscle hypertrophy in all muscles of the body including muscles that contribute to core body strength and since increased muscle mass is correlated with increased muscle strength, we can assume that core body strength will be improved.