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Let’s Debunk Some Myths about TRT

Wellness Tip of the Month

Mira Lutz - Fit Pro

“Performance Optimization”, “TRT”, “Low -T” all are terms that seem to be popping up in every health space recently. And indeed, both testosterone use and testosterone-related research have increased noticeably between 2024–2026. While this could be linked to social media and the increase of Men’s Health marketing with the focus on longevity/performance optimization, expanding research is also increasing awareness of hypogonadism and the impact of testosterone on quality of life. With empirical research shifting focus from libido and erectile dysfunction to quality of life, metabolic syndrome, cognitive effects and functional aging, the vast array of benefits from testosterone is becoming more known and more accepted.

Testosterone plays an important role in muscle maintenance, bone density, sexual health, energy and mood. Low testosterone (which can be assessed by your doctor1) can impact all these areas in negative ways. Studies have shown Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can improve libido, increase motivation and perceived levels of energy and improvement in metabolic markers such as blood glucose and insulin sensitivity.

Yet, there still seems to be conflicting information about the true impact TRT can have. Let’s dive into a few myths.

Myth #1 - TRT is basically the same as anabolic steroids and can cause uncontrollable aggression (‘roid rage’).

While TRT and steroid use are functionally identical, the dose, intent, and physiology are legally different. TRT aims to normalize endocrine function, not exceed it. At appropriate dosing, testosterone is typically kept within the physiological range while anabolic steroid use is often dosed at levels that exceed what is naturally present or normally produced in the body for performance/physique enhancement.

Myth #2 - More testosterone is always better.

Testosterone as with many other hormones has a sweet spot, following a U-shaped curve or threshold relationship. Low levels lead to negative symptoms and dysfunction, normal range (at the bottom of the U curve) is optimal physiological function and excess levels tend to increase risk and produce unwanted side effects such as acne, infertility, blood pressure issues, and mood instability.

Myth #3 - TRT is only for older men, TRT is exclusively an anti-aging therapy.

In reality TRT, can be indicated for younger men with primary hypogonadism, pituitary disorders and/or medication-induced low testosterone. Regardless of age (with proper evaluation) symptomatic low testosterone can impact multiple areas of life (interpersonal, emotional, physical) and is not limited to one age range. Age alone is not the determining factor—symptoms plus confirmed low labs are.

Myth #4 - TRT automatically makes you huge and muscular and replaces the need for diet and exercise.

Testosterone certainly plays a role in body composition, however proper resistance training is truly the driving force in muscle building and fat loss. While low testosterone can hinder muscle building, TRT is an amplifier, not a replacement for exercise and proper strength programing.

Let’s Debunk Some Myths about TRT (cont.)

TRT does not replace foundational physiology. Resistance training remains the primary driver of hypertrophy, strength building and improvement in physical functioning. Additionally, diet drives energy balance and body composition and sleep regulates endocrine function and recovery. Low testosterone does impact all these areas – ability to use proteins and build muscle, insulin sensitivity, and sleep quality but proper testosterone levels is not a panacea for healthy habits. TRT works best as a supporting variable, not a primary intervention.

But what happens when you match TRT and resistance training? Research shows testosterone impacts muscle protein synthesis and bone density regulation – meaning when your testosterone levels are healthy, you are able to build lean mass more easily and maintain bone strength throughout aging. Training is the signal. Testosterone modulates the magnitude of the response.

Healthy testosterone levels improve nutrient partitioning in the body. More amino acids (found in proteins) are directed toward muscles and muscle building, there appears to be a reduced tendency toward fat accumulation in the body and some research as shown improved insulin sensitivity.

Talk to your care physician if you think you are experiencing low testosterone. And if you have started TRT or have been taking medically recommended doses of testosterone, talk to a Peak Fit Pro to help you on your strength building journey!

Sources

1Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline: Testosterone Therapy in Men With Hypogonadism Bhasin S, Brito JP, Cunningham GR, et al. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2018.

Testosterone Physiology in Resistance Exercise and Training Vingren JL, Kraemer WJ, Ratamess NA, et al. Sports Medicine. 2010.

Meta-analysis of Testosterone Therapy and Muscle Strength in Older Men Age and Ageing. 2023.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Testosterone Therapy Outcomes Huo S, Scialli AR, McGarvey S, et al. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2016.

Nationwide Patterns in Testosterone Replacement Therapy U.S. Pharmacist. 2025.

Workout Challenges

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Stabilize with Side Plank

Fit Pro Tip of the Month

Nadine Corda - Fit Pro

Side Plank is an isometric exercise that strengthens the obliques, deep core muscles, shoulders and glutes. It also enhances the body’s ability to stabilize itself, and because it is a neutral spine position it works the core muscles without putting any pressure on the spine.

Side plank can be adapted in different ways to accommodate a variety of strength levels. Let’s take a look at the different adaptations.

Picture 1 demonstrates the use of a chair to put less strain on the body. A chair, or any sort of sturdy bench, table or countertop edge can be used. This furniture option makes the pose accessible for individuals who are unable to get down to or up from the floor. (Recently, when I had a long layover in an airport, I did some exercises using a chair because I certainly did not want to get down on the airport floor!)

Picture 2 demonstrates our first floor option with a knee used as support to take some of the strain off the body.

Picture 3 demonstrates both legs straight, and the feet arranged heel to toe for a wider foot base to balance on.

Picture 4 demonstrates the most challenging version with the feet stacked to make a smaller foot base to balance on.

Picture 5 demonstrates the option to be on the forearm instead of the palm. This option requires more core strength but takes the pressure off the wrist. The forearm version can be used with any of the other options pictured.

Practice side plank for an equal amount of time on both sides and work your way up to 1 minute or longer per side. Keep track of your time in side plank so you can be aware of your progress, and celebrate your wins!