Muay Thai and manliness go hand in hand. And that’s true to a certain degree. After all, martial arts are heavily associated with the general perception of male. However, does Muay Thai increase testosterone (male hormone) in your body?
Muay Thai is among the many activities that increase one’s testosterone. In fact, most forms of sports can stimulate the human body to produce this male hormone. Additionally, Muay Thai focuses on both cardio and muscle building, so the testosterone production output will be more consistent.
Of course, there’s more to it than “yes, Muay Thai increases male hormones.” Read on to find out all about testosterone and Thailand’s national martial art.
Does Muay Thai increase testosterone?
As mentioned, it does. Not only does Muay Thai make you look manlier, it also helps with your testosterone production. How? Well… it’s difficult to explain in layperson’s terms. So first, let’s dig a bit deeper into what testosterone is.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is basically a hormone your body produces to make male characteristics differ from females. These differences include sex drive, bone mass, muscle strength, sperm production and much more. (Source)
Of course, men’s bodies naturally produce this hormone. However, it doesn’t mean that women cannot produce it. Women’s bodies also produce testosterone alongside estrogen (female hormone). They are for ovarian function and bone strength. (Source)
Needless to say, men’s bodies produce more testosterone than women’s. If they were to release the same amount, you would see women with broad shoulders and huge muscles everywhere.
Now. The question is: Where does testosterone come from? Well, since it deals heavily with your sex drive, it’s only natural that “sexual organs” produce it. Testicles in males and ovaries in females. (Source)
With all that said, how does Muay Thai increase the testosterone in your body? The answer is in the next section.
Muay Thai-Testosterone relationship
You see. Testosterone helps you strengthen your muscles. So, it makes sense that any tricep-building activities would stimulate this hormone production even more.
As you already know, practicing Muay Thai involves both muscle and stamina training. You need large triceps to generate and absorb more force in fights. And a huge stamina pool will keep you going through the 5 rounds.
Notice something? Yes. The muscle training part closely relates to what testosterone does.
The science behind the process might be difficult to grasp. But basically, the more you use your muscles, the more worn out it would be. Thus, your body produces more testosterone to reinforce their strength..
However, don’t take Muay Thai as the only sport/exercise choice you have to boost your male hormones. Anything works as long as it relates to muscle strengthening. Going to the gym and enjoying those weight machines also works. (Source)
Cardio activities like jogging and aerobics can help with your testosterone output, too. However, the result would be more on a “long run” side.
Most cardio focus on burning calories. That’s why it’s not as effective in raising your testosterone. So, if you want to look manly as soon as possible, add muscle building on your exercise schedule. But don’t go pure muscle either. Find a balanced mix between the two.
How else can you boost your testosterone?
There are tons of ways to increase the output of your male hormones. The most recommended is, of course, exercise. Why? Because it helps with your general health and immune system too.
But if you really need easier methods than training Muay Thai and exercise, well… here they are.
1. Diet control
As of 2023, diet control seems to be the best way to do anything health-related. And of course, boosting testosterone is no exception.
The short of it would be “Eat a variety of food with balanced nutrients.” And well… it couldn’t be more true.
“A variety of food” part means eat food that contains all nutrients. Especially protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
Now, protein may sound sensible. Your body needs it to strengthen and repair your muscles. But fat and carbs? Well… let’s say that good fat helps balance your hormones, and carbs give you fast energy for maintaining your daily life. (Source)
Finally, the “balanced” part. This means don’t go overboard with these 3 nutrients. Eat them at an appropriate amount and ratio. And don’t forget vitamins (especially D), minerals, and water too.
2. Watch your stress
Have you ever heard of “your body reflects your mind?” Yes, this logic works on testosterone production as well.
Stress is scary. Not only does it bring down your mood, it can also increase your food intake too. As a result, you will gain weight and get fat, throwing your hormone level off-balanced. And that’s the last thing you want when trying to get bulky.
So, don’t underestimate the power of stress. Keep it in check, stay happy, and you’ll get manly in no time.
3. Sleep well
“Sleep it off” solves all problems. Yes, you can increase your testosterone by going to dreamland.
As you already know, sleep reduces stress, keeps your hormones in check, and fixes your tired muscles. So, make sure you never pull an all-nighter anymore (or at least minimize it).
4. Take a supplement
Now, this might be a bit controversial. However, you can’t deny that it’s another option to boost your male hormones.
If you’re new to the supplement circle, maybe you should start with vitamin D. There is research that links vitamin D intake to higher testosterone levels. (Source)
Of course, you shouldn’t jump the gun and go buy Vitamin D right now. Please do your research since everyone’s body is different. Only take supplements when you’re 100% sure that it’s safe for you. Or ask a doctor for advice. And speaking of which…
5. See the doctor
Sometimes, the causes of low testosterone levels can be more serious than impaired sleep, improper diet, or lack of exercise. It could stem from a malfunction of your organs, too. Not to mention the chance of it being a side effect of other diseases.
If you tried everything you can (including training Muay Thai) and found no result, seeing a doctor might be a good idea.
So, consult a professional. It’s safer that way.
Muay Thai can boost Testosterone, right?
At this point, you should understand that Muay Thai helps produce more testosterone. Training your muscle for a fight will stimulate your body to release this male hormone. So if you need more testosterone, Muay Thai might be your choice.
But if you don’t like combat sport, other exercise works too. Just make sure that you mix muscle training in the routine, too.
And if you don’t like sport in general, the list above can help you. However, exercise is still the best way to do it.
Like always, if you want to discover more about Thailand, stay guided with ThaiGuider. You might learn something you never knew about this unique country.
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