Thanks! I’m really glad you spoke about your son and your concerns about the whole steroids for gains issue. I’ve got an 18 year old son who wants to be professional rugby player at number 8. The pressure to get ‘juiced up to keep up’ is massive and not nearly talked about enough. Good luck with your endeavours. (I’m a 57 year old osteopath and back training for hill running and long distance cycling. Come to Wales sometime the cycling is awesome).
Thanks Greg. It was your attitude to TRT and “natty or not” videos that made me make it in the first place. Just felt like a bit more openness in the fitness world would be good 👍🏼
It's completely misleading to suggest that steroids don't improve performance in endurance sports. I remember watching as Floyd Landis broke away from the pack to win the tour de France on the last day only to be later disqualified testing for synthetic testosterone.
I'm or will be 66 in a few days. You are the first person on utube that mirror's my training and lifestyle. Be glad to know you can carry a high fitness level for many more years. My love is being active, mountain biking, running, rock climbing, skiing, gym, it doesn't matter. Healthy lifestyle starts with your mental frame of mind. Every adversity needs to be viewed as an opportunity to learn and build from. Love your life let's go down in flames not sitting in a rocking chair.
Thanks Mark glad you decided to talk about this. Very thought provoking. I can relate to some of your experiences I’m 52 and maybe in to my early 40s I could still give forest gump a good race, During my army days I was alway above average fitness. But this last 10 years I’ve definitely lost the spring in my step. Never even considered testosterone fading. All the best
I have known for the last decade that I basically don’t produce any T anymore. Managed to cope in my 40’s. But it’s difficult now at 52. Considering agreeing with doc to start TRT. Tried everything to boost it naturally, without much success
Hi Mark! I just recently discovered your videos (and subscribed!) and this one popped up. I too was in my mid 30's, overweight, high blood pressure, and just unhealthy all around. Went to doctor because I was also experiencing sexual problems and after running blood tests, come to discover I had low for my age testosterone. I committed to improving my overall health, raise my testosterone level, and save my relationship... My health has vastly improved (have gone form 180lbs to 169 while building muscle in the process at 5'4) and am still losing weight. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to save my relationship, but my health journey has managed keep me going and stay positive. My testosterone levels have gone up, and I've found motivation in seeing videos from people like you improving their overall life through simply trying to stay healthy. Keep doing what your doing, you're changing more lives than just your own doing what you're doing!
Good on you Mark for discussing a subject that most youtubers decide to hide. Especially when your usage is because of a deficiency in natural levels of testosterone. Well done👍
My Uni teachers could learn a thing or two from you, man... You somehow managed to go for a 20+ minute ramble about lifestyle and testosterone, and still keep me entertained and captivated. Keep up the good work!
@@frederikfrank-jessen4030 Dropping out today is very different because one must stay on longer now at school whereas leaving school at 16 was not uncommon 25 years sgo.
At 6:30 I nearly fainted, gave up and crawled to the nearest corner to cry in the fetus position… luckily you saved me 10 secs later, because I’m 52. Here’s me making 2023 the year to finally turn things around. Found you channel only this week, looking forward to see and learn more. The part I love the most thus far is “best in the room”. I always told my teams “don’t let perfect get in the way of good or very good”. Now apply that to my health and fitness I must. 😅
Only just discovered your channel a few days ago. Glad that your channel grew more than 10x from 10k to over 100k in just over a year. Thanks a lot and you keep a lot of us driven
I love your humor, work ethic and videos. This too was of interest to me because I’m 56, very, very active and relate to the struggles you described. Thank you for honestly discussing the subject. Pardon me, I’ve already subscribed but plan to binge on all of your videos I’ve not yet seen. Stay awesome!
This was definitely a good subject for you to cover in the honest way that you have. As a female, HRT is thankfully much more talked about (good old Davina) and prescribed and just over a year a go I started my own HRT journey at a private clinic. After a year on oestrogen and progesterone the low mood and tiredness was still a big problem and counselling hadn't helped either. So the clinic tested me for testosterone, and I didn't have any. Testosterone is not offered by the NHS for females but the private clinic could. Having been on a very low dose for the past few months, that feeling of being more 'normal' has, the majority of the time, returned. It has also helped me get back in to training with me running and doing functional fitness in the same week, which I haven't been able to do a for years, without getting run down. I still have dips in mood, but I am female so accept this. So your video is obviously brilliant to help get men to join the dots but will also apply to women who still tend to get prescribed anti depressants. Testosterone can be a revelation and often not considered or thought of. Actually, maybe I should mention it to my husband ....or couples counselling! 😉
I know a few women on testosterone. Bizarre that the nhs jumps to expensive antidepressants but ignores dirt cheap testosterone! Glad your journey has got you in the right path 👍🏼
Great video. I only recently started watching some of your videos primarily because of the indoor bike training you were doing. This one certainly caught me off guard but it was well worth the watch. I very much appreciate your honesty and your deep thoughts into why you created this video. Your concern about your son is quite on point in my eyes. I commend you on doing this honest and open insight into what you’ve experienced and done along with how you’ve “felt” through the process. Having this honest view is quite unique in these times we live in - as typically most videos/post/instagrams/etc are about someone trying to sell the next best solution to everyones “problem”. Thanks for your honesty and openness. 👍🏽
We’re the same age and although I’m not effected by any of the issues you raised I was completely surprised by what you had to say. I’ve always thought of you as full of energy and motivational. You’re a great example of what can be achieved when you put your mind to it and don’t bury your head in the sand. Oh and falling off the bike was funny!!
Thanks for the honesty. One of the reasons I come to this channel is for your candor. As a cyclist and someone who races Zwift and IRL, I would encourage you to speak with your doctors about a TUE, so IF (big if, I know) you get tested you aren’t faced with a negative stigma of a positive test when the use is completely above board.
Very interesting and thought provoking for me. Thanks. In Jan 2020 I was diagnosed with lymphoma - and the central nervous system type - complete with brain tumour. Roll forward to now, after heavy duty chemotherapy and some radiotherapy and I’m nearly 2 years post treatment. Before all this I was, probably, an above average 55 year old triathlete. Sprint, Olympic, half Ironman (once) kinda stuff. Slowly getting back into exercise. Complete mindset change to “taking part and enjoying myself” and not pushing myself to the limit… I’m really happy as a nearly 58 year old now, counting every day as one I’m lucky to have.. My biggest issue is a lack of strength, and seemingly a lack of very much improvement in my strength - despite building myself a training rig in the garden. I’ve been thinking it might be a mineral deficiency kind of thing - but haven’t really considered testosterone levels at all. Some of your symptoms sound a bit familiar…. Having mild mental health issues as well - a lot of which I put down to being a remote worker in a job I don’t really enjoy but don’t want to abandon the generous “death in service” benefits and then keel over after 6 months. Very useful video for me - thanks. I’ll be raising it with my consultant at my check up later this month..
Great video Mark.Taking in any exogenous testosterone can quickly be labelled juicing as it's a relatively fine line to tread between TRT and "something more". The way you describe the calibration process with your doctor really helps to distinguish this and puts into clear terms something that is important to me as a man in his 40s; how sub-normal levels of T can adversely affect one's day to day life. Thanks.
Thanks Peter. The line between TRT and Juice is getting VERY slim nowadays....there's even the insane term "sports TRT" floating about to blur things further (and act as an excuse for using when you don't need to) Bottom line, everyone should just do what is best for them and their health 👍
Fantastic video thanks Mark. It takes some gumption to speak so honestly, and I know you don't lack that, but I do think the integrity and authenticity of your channel is great - and hugely benefitted by this one. It was/is a super interesting one, and it's clear you'd really thought that through - so thank you. Also, I've no idea what you do professionally, but by heck you're a good storyteller. Bravo.
53 and generally consider myself to be on a base fitness. I have always struggled with constantly and that old chestnut work life balance I say balance because if work had anything to say it’s mostly why are you not working and this thing about not wanting to do that on the week end is rude. Lockdowns just basically hit most people with a massive wake up call that we all worked to much, being lonely at home is not good, and that exercises are getting out with a community based collective is extremely important. What it’s done I feel is given us a clear vision that we actually need to go and discover and be honest with ourselves sitting on the couch watching Netflix and Games of thrones, and 4 bottles of soft drinks and 3 pizzas and wounding why their life kind of is a boring, sums it up. Being better then most, but mostly being better then your former self is where you should be. Getting your hormones, tested for irregular levels is one of them. Love the material.
Great video! I did a lot of the same thing you did 2 years ago. I lost 60 pounds, mostly through diet, but couldn't muster the energy to work out regularly. Blood work showed that I also had low T. I tried for 6 months to bring it up naturally through diet and herbal remedies, but it didn't help. Finally got on trt. I have a hard time describing the effects, but you really nailed it. You don't wake up feeling like Superman, but you can convince yourself to push for another minute or a few extra reps. After starting taking testosterone, I also learned how many guys are taking testosterone. Almost all of them. All of your heroes are on test. It's really eye opening. I hope for a day where there isn't such a stigma around it. Great video, great channel, and thanks! Keep up the good work.
buddy....it's like you're saying "hey, it's great to see all those diabetics getting their injection"....yes, they are "better", but first and foremost, they are SICK. I would actually like to see the kind of life all those guys on TRT are having, what is their diet, their physical activity level, the kind of job they have, their social life, etc....I would bet that there is much more to work on, before taking the magic pill. You've got the choice : get on Viagra, or get a girl that's really hot....the second part is not the easiest way to go, I understand that....
@@MarkLewisfitness really enjoying your “better than average” journey it’s mega compelling mate. I’d enjoy some insight into your nutrition side of things. You often mention eating clean but are you vegetarian, vegan or neither, do you use supplements or not? Regular home cooked food? So what’s your fuelling and as many agree these days that nutrition is a key differentiator when it comes to sporting performance.
Thanks for your candour Mark. I'm a recent subscriber having only very recently managed to get back into my own health and fitness journey as 50 draws ever nearer. One benefit or reason that you don't mention here is that (just like all of the training and nutrition experiences and pitfalls/struggles you share with us) it has the value of maybe sowing a seed of action. Many of the symptoms you speak of hear are ringing huge bells. My (probably male-typical) assumption to my own lethargy and low mood is that it will simply be diagnosed and/or prescribed as depression. Stupidly this stigma still discourages me from seeking help despite having several close family members who have genuine mental health battles. I am now set on getting some bloods done to see whether this might not be affecting me too. I'm at least a year late to the party in finding your channel but in just a week or 2 there is so much that resonates. Thank you again.
The number of men on depression meds (or scared to raise the issue in case they end up on them) - when they should get hormones checked instead is nuts. Unfortunately, the whole system is a mess and you have the stigma of depression at one end and the stigma of anabolic steroid abuse at the other. In 20 years blood tests for men over 40 for this issue will probably be common place. Right now you have to fight your corner.
Thanks for the video on TRT. Most people who don't suffer from it can never understand how it makes someone fill. I am about to turn 59 next month and have been suffering from low testosterone for a while now. I take a medicine that has to be incerted through an incision in my hip every four months alternating between left and right sides each time. Even with the medicine I don't ever get the feeling of " being juiced " but like you mentioned I feel that I get back to normal or at least close to normal. I've been active all my life, in the gym, playing sports, mud runs, triathlons but sometimes it's a real struggle just to go to the gym. Anyway, I'm sorry for rambling. Just wanted to say I love the video's.
The way you described your symptoms of low testosterone really resonated with me and how I'm feeling. I might look into it. Thanks for sharing your experience with it. I didn't know it was a thing.
Great video. I often worry about this with my kids. I've stayed natural but always done resistance training daily, at 40 this year my body is better than 99% of people my age, I've kept it up to give motivation to my kids to stay natural. Time and consistency is key to everything.
Enjoy the honesty. Many youtubers are juiced to the gills and won't admit it. IMO there is nothing wrong with doing this, it's your body, you are only alive once, and it's totally up to you if you want to do these sort of things. It's not like it hurts anyone.
The problem for lots of RUclipsrs is their message is “look like me, train like me, buy my stuff to achieve that” so saying steroids jars their income - TRT is obviously a long way off hill level juice 😂 but more important, my aim has always been motivate and entertain. Nothing to sell here! 😁
Thanks for this video my man. Ex national level athlete here. Juiced until late 30s been clean for 10+ years, same age as you. Been considering TRT for the same reasons you stated - some level of normality rather than extending my potential (I already pushed past my potential long ago) Gave me lots to ponder. Appreciate it
Do you have low testosterone due to your prior use? Presumably if you take it - it means your body stops producing it, so when you stop taking it you have low testosterone. Sounds like a slippery slope
@@Wargwarn Eeek yeah thats low thats 375ngdl which means your free T is tanked. Very important to get evaluated by a doc and probably replacement if you have symptoms. Theres TheMensHealthClinicUK, BalanceMyHormonesUK, and Ledgers all great options.
@@Wargwarn Nope I directly talked to Dr Travision the ranges are a epidemiological total population number ie numbers of sick people direct quote from Dr Travision who created the range " The ranges are a population study, they are part of picture, but are not to be applied to individuals " This is why we treat symptoms and thats the medical guideline for prescribing testosterone. Def worth seeing BalaceMyHormonesUK or TheMensHealthClinicUK. Time to get optimal and crushing life
Hi Mark I fell into one of your video's yesterday and subscribed straight away. Your content is so straight forward and easy to digest with a large cross section of topics. I'm looking forward to watching more, keep up the good work.
i enjoy your content and your honesty here but dont enjoy the downplaying of advantage the fact your levels wont fluctuate is an advantage on its own but again being happy and healthy is number one as long as you arent competing in anything semi serious
Thanks MARK. Just have to say this in solidarity. I am 44 years old now and started around my last birthday here, 1-2 months ago. Had to get it myself here in Denmark and start up without supervision. I felt so depressed through my mid thirties up to now. It got real bad around few years ago. Felt suicidal and mood peaked up and down and it was mostly down and just a saying. I was more mad than on Test injections funny enough. Felt enormous pain inside and physically. Gained weight last ten years. Use to be so slim. I am 230 lbs now. Been worse. 105 kg.-184 cm. Mostly muscles, but also fat that wont go away and I tried a lot. I also felt like not doing anything at all last few years. Couldn't go outside sometimes or face anything. Couldn't do anything. First got my lab results here in September. They were low. Like 363. You need under 250 to get help here. I started taking own sought out hormones myself. things like TRT - Test Cypionate, between 200 mg - 400 mg in duration of 8 days approx. One thing I noticed was the depression and the feeling of endless despair, did somehow slowly vanish. Less build up anger and frustration. I still need to feel myself again and it will take more time with all respect. At least I started running again last two months and it was a big step for me. I always been very active and slipped into a big dark hole. Its horrible. I really understand each word you share here, I don't even have to correct anything. Its very spot on. I am so glad you raise awareness of this. Huge respect from Denmark. I followed you for some time now. Because you are challenging the physical limits of mortality and aspects of anatomy and its something I can relate to throughout my life of physical battles.
Pretty well the path I’ve taken, without such expense or chemical assistance. Still at it and working around nature’s resistances no longer need the motivation of outside competition. Recently been given a 80th birthday present that acts as a dash board. Now reduced the throttle settings a bit. Swim, cycle, walk, weights 5 days a week and work when necessary . 5/11 @ 182lbs.. Don’t blow up and I’ll continue watching and listening to a sensible man.
Just going back and forth through your timeline. I wasn’t aware that you were supplementing from the newer videos I have been watching. This doesn’t bother me in the slightest and I am glad your doctors worked with you and were able to help you. In my mid 50’s and getting my testosterone tested every couple of years thanks to coach Greg. It’s low but not super low for my age. Honestly would love to try it and see if it would make me feel better than I do. I don’t feel bad but I would like to feel better but for fact that it would crush my natural test and I would have to probably be on it for life has stopped me from pursuing for now. Will check it every couple of years and talk with my doctor if it would be a good time to start. Going to jump around and keep watching your videos.
Thanks. I don’t raise it much it videos as it’s an issue that tends to detract from my core message of “anyone can improve a bit in any way they want”. Some people just jump to “well of course you can do a park run. You take drugs”. So I have the videos up for transparency but leave it there. The alternative is to lean into it as Greg does but then the channel becomes something different.
My buddies have asked me about Testosterone supplementation. As you describe, you're clinically fit for the treatment & it shows how its working for you. As you say, it brings you back to your 'normal' self' & your labs are in the normal range with treatment. Again, thanks for sharing.
Long story short, they think I killed my native testosterone production when I was playing (American)football. 6'5", 400lbs and lifting huge weights. Blood pressure through the roof. Anyway, moral of the story is I was a giant man that suddenly didn't like the gym, got fat(er), got depressed, life sucked for a while. Found work arounds but getting my test back into normal ranges was such a huge change, and in it's own weird way an entirely underwhelming return to normal. I worried a lot about the moral implications of competing on TRT. But, a few years into it I'd never go back. Kinda wanna turn it up too, I'm only on the low end of normal.
Love the channel Mark.Am 55 last 12 ms I have gone from 14st to 11st through diet and exercise (Zwift in particular.riding and running) and feel the best about my shape than I can remember . I loved your 3 Fs for motivation but there has to be something deeper. keeping fit is 99% about the top 2 inches of the body , so how come so many people cant get their heads in the right place, Your TRT issue could be one example but must be others. Few people want to be overweight and actually its super easy metabolically to lose weight. Second point I do worry than when you have reached a target goal for fitness the mental stress of keeping it there and the guilt if it starts to fade is way higher than when you were on the couch. Keep up the great content.
I started TRT about a year ago and it's honestly changed my life, I've trained all my life but at the age of 45 (now 48) starting getting the same symptoms you describe, the main positive effect is level moods, motivation and energy to train - along with a few bonuses like increase in libido and change in body composition. I would recommend any man over 45 (that works out) to have their blood work done and see a private TRT clinic - I also live in the UK and there's no point using the NHS - it takes too long and they're too conservative with what they prescribe. Also, if you're injecting everyday it sounds like your using proprionate - ask your doc to change to Sustanon - you inject every 5 days and the slow release keeps your moods even. Anyway, I love your channel and your message- you've influenced me to sign up for HYROX in April!
I have been watching for about 2 months ...I am a similar age your a breath of fresh air ...honestly is always the best policy ....great topic and relevant to the over 40’s ...off to get my levels taken ....keep up the good work 👍 I will be remaining with you ...your great crack 👍
Really interesting video, Mark. Thank you for being so open. It makes it feel like something men can take control of without all the judgment about masculinity.
Great Video! I see nothing wrong with what you have done and continue to do to improve your overall health for yourself and for the well being of your family. Good on Ya! Thanks for the honest talk and keep up the great work!
Appreciate the honest video. I think most people don't care if someone is on gear or not, but they do care if that person is being dishonest about it, especially if they have a large social media following.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Mark, I am in the same boat. Back in 2016 I was smashing out 2 Ironman triathlons a year along with all the shorter races, then gradually my mood and motivation began to wain to the point where I just couldn’t be bothered.. Not just bothered to train, but bothered to get out of bed. Im still struggling with this to this day. I did have my testosterone checked and although within the “normal range” it is on the low side.. Off the back of this video I will book another chat with the doctor and push them harder to find a solution. Keep up the good work!
Don’t forget….. What the nhs (if you are uk based?) consider “low normal” is borderline dead. Worth checking with a private clinic. On a similar point, anyone being told by their GP their body fat is fine could still be hugely overweight! Basically, the NHS is designed to keep people ticking along around average ….. And the average person is an absolute mess, it is no bar to aim for.
@@MarkLewisfitness I agree 100%... Unfortunately I am based in the UK (not far from you by the looks of your videos running around Green Park) and I consider the NHS an emergency service only.. I used one of the online blood testing services but I assume they still have to follow NHS guidelines. If you have any recommendations for private services im certainly not adverse to throwing money at a problem to get rid of it ;) Keep up the great work!
same here, in my early 50's I came to the point where I went to the bike shop, and gave them all my bikes, wheels, and spare parts....went to do something completely different, and my health went suddenly haywire....bought a new bike, a pair of running shoes, hrm watch, everything is much better now....I think one has to understand what kind of burnout one is facing : mental, physical, social, it goes way over the visit to the shrink (who can be a bad professional too...) ....but keeping active is the bread and butter of a good life.
Hi Great video and thank you for sharing 45 years old almost 2 months into TRT 0.25 twice a week Was suffering with virtually every single symptom of low T. Docs wont give me anything as I was 12nl not below the 8 thresholds (Id probably be near on dead I was) Anyway, as I said, just under 2 months in and I can honestly say that the difference (if only slight at present) is amazing and I feel so much better already
I have thought of a follow up…. But to be honest, there’s not much to say. I simply take a small regular dose to maintain stable hormones and feel good. There really is not much more to it than that!
@@MarkLewisfitness Thanks for responding. You could talk about your side effects and also the side effects of gym bunnies taking steroids (during and when they stop). Might help dissuade people from taking them. Like you, I have a teen boy (16) who compares his body to those he sees on Insta and its certainly not a healthy comparison. Regardless, I love your videos and am slowly going through them. Keep up the good work.
Very interested in hearing more about your trt experience. I’m 40, and I’ve had a very similar fitness journey to yourself. We’re about the same size, and I’ve been feeling a bit lethargic as of late. I was told that I have low-normal t levels. My doctor said that I could go on to see how I feel. However, being on it for life kind of scares me.
Your honesty here is the panicle of this issue. Using any drugs is a non issue if they are all fully disclosed prior to an event. Using for ones own personal improvement of life is of course not anyone else’s choice but your own. But again being an influencer it’s right to come clean on this drug issue from the start….it’s a welcome honest debate. If I were to have concern it would be in age group racing/competing. Perhaps 60+. Where one could assume that TRT athletes would eventually over power/ out perform all non TRT athletes. Concluding that all age group athletes would then be compelled to take HRT to give the level playing field. Hence it’s no longer personal choice but essential for age group competing.
I’m 58 years old and have always ate dirty and was always 50-75 lbs overweight. Since retiring I told myself I was going to devote the remainder of my life to eating cleaner and going to the gym 5 times a week. I also started TRT 3 weeks ago and wow what a game changer! I’m going to be starting Peptides this week as well. So far I can definitely tell a difference in my workouts and recovery.
Fantastic video Mark, thank you. Going through these same things at 50 and so interesting to hear you share all this. Subscribed and going to check out more of your content 👍 Great work fella.
Hi Mark!! I didn't knew how you're a serious motorcycle rider.... I will check out that off road video for sure. Really like to listen to your videos, and tips, during driving around London. Good humour, and professional presentations, in any level. No ummms amms.. Subbed, kind regards Robert
Finally got round to watching this video! As expected, couldn't agree with you more on the subject of TRT/steroid etc! Good work! Thanks you for honesty.
love this honesty and your attitude... feel bad for your son but the little interruptions re son/couple's therapy etc were hilarious! :) all the best and thanks for sharing your content mate.. great inspiration!
I had been wondering about this after having watched more than a dozen of your videos. It's certainly an interesting topic, and something that seems to be more prevalent in the English speaking world.
Interesting topic and well handled. I've recently got into ultra running and really enjoy your videos. I watched your bike adventure videos too and it brought back some amazing memories for me as I'm originally from South Africa and also did a 10 day trip through Namibia on a Africa Twin back in 2009. All the best and hope to see you on the trails in the south of England some time.
Hi Mark, love your video’s, relatable content and funny delivery. V.interested in the low T vid particularly as my T has been below 10 for last 15 years since having it checked. Completed 12 full and half Ironman triathlons which I blame for low T, probably incorrectly. Interested to know what made you decide to go ahead with TRT as I’m 50/50 on if I go ahead or not. Keep up the good work 👍
Nice and entertaining video just like all your other videos. I would be interested to hear about all the things you've learned in the past years on how to manage testosterone levels without medication and why it is important to do this as an endurance athlete (as endurance training lowers testosterone)
Great discussion on an important topic. Would have been amazing to see The Rock cover the same subject with such authenticity - you never know, he may come across this and give you shout. 👍
I stumbled across your channel by accident and have had some similar experiences in that at 6,2” I eventually reached 350lbs by age 40 and felt wretched. At 48 I determined to get in shape by 50 and dieted hard, started running, lifting weights (powerlifter style) and doing boxing circuits/sparring sessions. I got to 220lbs before my body called quits and refused to let me get to my 200lb goal. Since then I have continued to work out (running swapped for powerwalking due to knee pain) but not as hard as I could and my weight slowly crept up to around 250lbs, despite a more relaxed but still sub 2000 calorie a day diet. I have always followed strongman, bodybuilders etc. and have a good understanding of what can be achieved completely naturally. For example, Before I saw this video, I knew you were on trt as a minimum, so I congratulate you for your honesty here as there is nothing worse in my eyes than the ‘fake natty’ brigade touting their lies to the kids! The best run I could achieve was 60 minutes for 10k regardless of effort, but powerlifting does act as an opposite force to running ability. I have great strength, but a background in my youth of heavy lifting (and running) so I am now thinking muscle memory might be in play here. I had though that building up to a 140kg bench press and 220kg deadlift for 4-6 reps by mid to late 50’s meant I cannot have low test, but other symptoms now make me wonder. Thank you for this video, I am feeling motivated to investigate further (although daily injections are a concern 😳).
It’s a pity I can’t cover this topic more regularly on my channel but it just comes with too much baggage. I did the initial three videos when I had a handful of subscribers so that I never got to a place where I was having to “come out”. I also felt that, at that point, I had achieved by far the biggest physical achievements of my life. I’ve got in shape, was running under 20 minute park runs at 6 foot 6/100 kg, done ultras, etc. so it wasn’t as though I jumped on TRT early on to achieve things. Also, I was quite happy that the focus of my channel (because I have no qualifications in fitness whatsoever) was always going to be motivation and entertainment rather than education/instruction…… so, to a certain extent, what I can or can’t do shouldn’t affect peoples ability to be inspired to go off and do anything they want. The idea is be motivated by me, don’t copy me is if that makes sense? And you should definitely check your levels - there is simply nothing to lose. Daily injections are about as inconvenient as having to make a coffee in the morning. In fact, coffee takes longer
@@MarkLewisfitness thanks for the reply, I have been seriously ill and not really interested in sex in any way, had severe brain fog and lethargy. My diet was terrible for years after a viral issue seemed to cause all sorts of physical health issues, I became sedentary, (not good) before this happened my health was great I used to run 25 miles a week, my best time for the great south run was an hour and 8 minutes without training on the hottest day of the year. I'm 33 now recently had my total test measured and I am at the level of 23.5nm/ml but I'm wondering if my free test, oestradiol and shbg maybe causing issues with free test, I'm trying to get treatment from a company called Balance My Hormones, I'm not sure if I qualify with those levels of total test, if you have any input/ and, or know a good clinic to recommend that would be appreciated.
@@Chris-kr7gg at 23 nm/ml your SHBG would need to be pretty out of whack to mess up free test - but possible. I did speak to BMH but went to The Mens Health clinic in Poole instead - Dr Robert Stevens there, I'd highly recommend. Out of interest, I assume you never got tested for free test? Because will be the next step, get a full hormone test done.
A few thoughts… - Recently found your channel! Great stuff, you do well! - I’m sure you beat your son in subscriber! With some experience and hard work he will do well also! If he surpasses you, I’m sure you’ll be proud! - iron sharpens iron, your videos, your experience, perception, thoughts, etc.. encourage many. - I believe greatness is manifested in the amount of truth it reveals! Your approach, your content, your thoughtfulness your honesty is what uncovers truth. Great stuff, great topic! Great perspective! Thanks for sharing!
Appreciate your honesty, and I personally think a lot of people will benefit from trt/hrt. Modern lifestyle and plastics in the environment are plummeting male testosterone levels
Ok so odly we are very similar. I am 6'6" 265 and currently trying to get back in shape at 33 I also have low testosterone. There seems to be some unique struggles with being as big as we are. Thank you for making these videos!
Really interesting discussion. Thanks for the open and amusing presentation. From someone who did weight training 3 times a week as well as running and cycling for 20 years, I still ended up looking like a beanpole (6'4" and 75kg), so you'rer not doing too badly. Gave up on the weights to concentrate on the cycling as my body is just not designed to be muscular. Really enjoy following your cycling exploits.
Its one of the most poorly diagnosed issues in the general UK without going private. Brain fog, irritability, poor memory and weight gain. And I thought it was my partner that was "difficult" 1 week a month. 3 years on levels stabilised and as you say I feel normal again. No emotional outbursts and tearfull rainbow isn't on the TV anymore. Re your Son once your HPTA shuts down sometimes no amount of PCT regimes may get it going again. This subject needs to be discussed so well done for bringing this up on your channel.
@@Wargwarn went private, ordered an online test which basically said T count was practically nothing. Then decided speaking to NHS doctor was a waste of time, was going to have a few injections then transfer onto NHS but decided keep private rather than get a lecture from a doctor that has to look up the private prescription I get given. Nebido every 8 weeks works for me, feel much better for it. Hope that helps.
@@Wargwarn My pleasure James. No i pay privately think its circa £120.00, though Iam pretty sure its less. They offered me the gel but for me I knew its wasn't the right solution, plus I have a little lad and wouldn't want him coming into contact with it.
Really interesting and thought provoking video, thanks for sharing. For me, the negative would be (as another mid-40s cat C zwifter) that if you *just* beat me in a zwift race I might mentally discount you in the same way as you discount someone not on zwift power. Does that mean I begrudge your participation? Absolutely not. This isn’t elite sport, we are all doing it for our own enjoyment and perhaps a degree of self improvement. The competition adds to the fun but isn’t the core reason we do it. Far more importantly you have identified a medical issue that was causing harm to your relationships and mental well-being. If TRT has helped address this, that vastly outweighs the downside of gaining a slight performance advantage in some amateur sporting contests. You’ve also raised awareness of the issue and potentially this will help others struggling with an unrecognised hormonal or biochemical deficit. Your channel has been about an ethos of living well, self improvement, some fun with gadgets, good humour and an excellent selection of movie clips. I will continue to enjoy your videos and will not be bothered in the least when you leave me in your digital wake on zwift.
enjoyed the vid. Being a 57 year old trying to get back into some resemblance of being in shape. I have been thinking of getting my testosterone checked also. Thanks for sharing your experience.
I think it's good you bring it up, was wondering if you were clean or not. Your legs seemed super strong and defined, more than what I would have expected.... I would consider you "clean", you need it for health reason and especially talking about mental issues and depression is super important for men, we like to bury that! Actually, this topic needs to be discussed even more!!! Looks like you just want to be healthy and compete BUT at the same time, you not trying to win something like the Nationals or Iron Man, would then consider that cheating. You seem, like most guys, same here , just trying to be healthy and using competition as extra motivation.... Thank you for talking about depression!
Great to see your intelligence and common sense is bigger than muscles 💪 👈 - I’ve forwarded a fair few of your topics to my daughter who is exploring all things health and fitness. I’m 60 so trying to figure out how to maintain muscle mass and ride fast for hours on my bike. Great stuff keep it coming 👍
Another great video and excellent open book approach on a personal topic. Can’t believe it didn’t descend into the gutter though, even briefly. Surely there’s a ‘Days of Thunder’ clip that would have been appropriate.
31 getting a lot of injuries lifting moderately with very low t .. you wouldn’t know looking at me at 6,2 225lbs and pretty built … thinking the injuries are a result of low T because we don’t heal as well .. my question is do you repair more quickly?
personally i would feel my strava times on the bikes would'nt be legit. know my what i mean. i got to 5w/gk and a 70 vo2/max in my mid 40's. trt would take my glory away, crushing young guys just would not feel the same, to be honest, and thats what its really all about. i considered it when i turned 40, but after weighing the pros and cons i came to the conclusion that short term gains werent worth the potential long problems related to trt. became plant based, did some high intensity, now my test is over 600. strongly recommed the natural way to boost test personnally
I’m always surprised that the therapeutic use of testosterone is a touchy subject when woman have been using steroids regularly for decades. I’m glad you feel great. Keep exercising man.
Good honest video
Thanks! I’m really glad you spoke about your son and your concerns about the whole steroids for gains issue. I’ve got an 18 year old son who wants to be professional rugby player at number 8. The pressure to get ‘juiced up to keep up’ is massive and not nearly talked about enough. Good luck with your endeavours. (I’m a 57 year old osteopath and back training for hill running and long distance cycling. Come to Wales sometime the cycling is awesome).
Great video. Just watched it now.
Thanks Greg. It was your attitude to TRT and “natty or not” videos that made me make it in the first place. Just felt like a bit more openness in the fitness world would be good 👍🏼
It's completely misleading to suggest that steroids don't improve performance in endurance sports. I remember watching as Floyd Landis broke away from the pack to win the tour de France on the last day only to be later disqualified testing for synthetic testosterone.
I'm or will be 66 in a few days. You are the first person on utube that mirror's my training and lifestyle. Be glad to know you can carry a high fitness level for many more years. My love is being active, mountain biking, running, rock climbing, skiing, gym, it doesn't matter. Healthy lifestyle starts with your mental frame of mind. Every adversity needs to be viewed as an opportunity to learn and build from. Love your life let's go down in flames not sitting in a rocking chair.
Thanks Mark glad you decided to talk about this. Very thought provoking. I can relate to some of your experiences I’m 52 and maybe in to my early 40s I could still give forest gump a good race, During my army days I was alway above average fitness. But this last 10 years I’ve definitely lost the spring in my step. Never even considered testosterone fading. All the best
L-tyrosine and gut health got me back a little faster.
I have known for the last decade that I basically don’t produce any T anymore. Managed to cope in my 40’s. But it’s difficult now at 52. Considering agreeing with doc to start TRT. Tried everything to boost it naturally, without much success
Hi Mark! I just recently discovered your videos (and subscribed!) and this one popped up. I too was in my mid 30's, overweight, high blood pressure, and just unhealthy all around. Went to doctor because I was also experiencing sexual problems and after running blood tests, come to discover I had low for my age testosterone. I committed to improving my overall health, raise my testosterone level, and save my relationship... My health has vastly improved (have gone form 180lbs to 169 while building muscle in the process at 5'4) and am still losing weight. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to save my relationship, but my health journey has managed keep me going and stay positive. My testosterone levels have gone up, and I've found motivation in seeing videos from people like you improving their overall life through simply trying to stay healthy. Keep doing what your doing, you're changing more lives than just your own doing what you're doing!
Thanks 🙏 and good luck going forward 👍🏼
Good on you Mark for discussing a subject that most youtubers decide to hide. Especially when your usage is because of a deficiency in natural levels of testosterone. Well done👍
My Uni teachers could learn a thing or two from you, man... You somehow managed to go for a 20+ minute ramble about lifestyle and testosterone, and still keep me entertained and captivated.
Keep up the good work!
@@MarkLewisfitness I suppose that's what I'll tell my future students! "You too can become an above average 40 year old, just drop out!"
@@frederikfrank-jessen4030 Dropping out today is very different because one must stay on longer now at school whereas leaving school at 16 was not uncommon 25 years sgo.
At 6:30 I nearly fainted, gave up and crawled to the nearest corner to cry in the fetus position… luckily you saved me 10 secs later, because I’m 52. Here’s me making 2023 the year to finally turn things around. Found you channel only this week, looking forward to see and learn more. The part I love the most thus far is “best in the room”.
I always told my teams “don’t let perfect get in the way of good or very good”. Now apply that to my health and fitness I must. 😅
So many things we do at work and then completely forget when applying to our own health/fitness!
Only just discovered your channel a few days ago. Glad that your channel grew more than 10x from 10k to over 100k in just over a year. Thanks a lot and you keep a lot of us driven
I love your humor, work ethic and videos. This too was of interest to me because I’m 56, very, very active and relate to the struggles you described. Thank you for honestly discussing the subject. Pardon me, I’ve already subscribed but plan to binge on all of your videos I’ve not yet seen. Stay awesome!
This was definitely a good subject for you to cover in the honest way that you have. As a female, HRT is thankfully much more talked about (good old Davina) and prescribed and just over a year a go I started my own HRT journey at a private clinic. After a year on oestrogen and progesterone the low mood and tiredness was still a big problem and counselling hadn't helped either. So the clinic tested me for testosterone, and I didn't have any. Testosterone is not offered by the NHS for females but the private clinic could. Having been on a very low dose for the past few months, that feeling of being more 'normal' has, the majority of the time, returned. It has also helped me get back in to training with me running and doing functional fitness in the same week, which I haven't been able to do a for years, without getting run down. I still have dips in mood, but I am female so accept this. So your video is obviously brilliant to help get men to join the dots but will also apply to women who still tend to get prescribed anti depressants. Testosterone can be a revelation and often not considered or thought of. Actually, maybe I should mention it to my husband ....or couples counselling! 😉
I know a few women on testosterone. Bizarre that the nhs jumps to expensive antidepressants but ignores dirt cheap testosterone! Glad your journey has got you in the right path 👍🏼
Great video. I only recently started watching some of your videos primarily because of the indoor bike training you were doing. This one certainly caught me off guard but it was well worth the watch.
I very much appreciate your honesty and your deep thoughts into why you created this video. Your concern about your son is quite on point in my eyes. I commend you on doing this honest and open insight into what you’ve experienced and done along with how you’ve “felt” through the process. Having this honest view is quite unique in these times we live in - as typically most videos/post/instagrams/etc are about someone trying to sell the next best solution to everyones “problem”. Thanks for your honesty and openness. 👍🏽
We’re the same age and although I’m not effected by any of the issues you raised I was completely surprised by what you had to say. I’ve always thought of you as full of energy and motivational. You’re a great example of what can be achieved when you put your mind to it and don’t bury your head in the sand. Oh and falling off the bike was funny!!
Great video. So many people try and hide this stuff when it’s great to have a discussion about this.
Thanks for the honesty. One of the reasons I come to this channel is for your candor. As a cyclist and someone who races Zwift and IRL, I would encourage you to speak with your doctors about a TUE, so IF (big if, I know) you get tested you aren’t faced with a negative stigma of a positive test when the use is completely above board.
No different than your inhaler, you'd need a TUE for that too
I’ve been on trt for 3 years now. Like you I didn’t notice anything amazing overnight; just a slow progressing to being more like normal.
Very interesting and thought provoking for me. Thanks. In Jan 2020 I was diagnosed with lymphoma - and the central nervous system type - complete with brain tumour. Roll forward to now, after heavy duty chemotherapy and some radiotherapy and I’m nearly 2 years post treatment.
Before all this I was, probably, an above average 55 year old triathlete. Sprint, Olympic, half Ironman (once) kinda stuff.
Slowly getting back into exercise. Complete mindset change to “taking part and enjoying myself” and not pushing myself to the limit…
I’m really happy as a nearly 58 year old now, counting every day as one I’m lucky to have..
My biggest issue is a lack of strength, and seemingly a lack of very much improvement in my strength - despite building myself a training rig in the garden. I’ve been thinking it might be a mineral deficiency kind of thing - but haven’t really considered testosterone levels at all. Some of your symptoms sound a bit familiar…. Having mild mental health issues as well - a lot of which I put down to being a remote worker in a job I don’t really enjoy but don’t want to abandon the generous “death in service” benefits and then keel over after 6 months.
Very useful video for me - thanks. I’ll be raising it with my consultant at my check up later this month..
Great video Mark.Taking in any exogenous testosterone can quickly be labelled juicing as it's a relatively fine line to tread between TRT and "something more". The way you describe the calibration process with your doctor really helps to distinguish this and puts into clear terms something that is important to me as a man in his 40s; how sub-normal levels of T can adversely affect one's day to day life. Thanks.
Thanks Peter. The line between TRT and Juice is getting VERY slim nowadays....there's even the insane term "sports TRT" floating about to blur things further (and act as an excuse for using when you don't need to) Bottom line, everyone should just do what is best for them and their health 👍
Lots of athletes on TRT now. Legal juicing in that sense I reckon. Awesome vid Mark.
Fantastic video thanks Mark. It takes some gumption to speak so honestly, and I know you don't lack that, but I do think the integrity and authenticity of your channel is great - and hugely benefitted by this one. It was/is a super interesting one, and it's clear you'd really thought that through - so thank you.
Also, I've no idea what you do professionally, but by heck you're a good storyteller. Bravo.
Might not add directly to your endurance performance but the ability to quickly regenerate is greatly increased.
I think the bounce back from hard t raining to do more hard training is how it then bumps endurance ability, no?
I'm on trt as well, it was life changing because it gave me my life back
Def do a before after video. We need more of these.
53 and generally consider myself to be on a base fitness. I have always struggled with constantly and that old chestnut work life balance I say balance because if work had anything to say it’s mostly why are you not working and this thing about not wanting to do that on the week end is rude. Lockdowns just basically hit most people with a massive wake up call that we all worked to much, being lonely at home is not good, and that exercises are getting out with a community based collective is extremely important. What it’s done I feel is given us a clear vision that we actually need to go and discover and be honest with ourselves sitting on the couch watching Netflix and Games of thrones, and 4 bottles of soft drinks and 3 pizzas and wounding why their life kind of is a boring, sums it up. Being better then most, but mostly being better then your former self is where you should be. Getting your hormones, tested for irregular levels is one of them.
Love the material.
Great video! I did a lot of the same thing you did 2 years ago. I lost 60 pounds, mostly through diet, but couldn't muster the energy to work out regularly. Blood work showed that I also had low T. I tried for 6 months to bring it up naturally through diet and herbal remedies, but it didn't help. Finally got on trt. I have a hard time describing the effects, but you really nailed it. You don't wake up feeling like Superman, but you can convince yourself to push for another minute or a few extra reps.
After starting taking testosterone, I also learned how many guys are taking testosterone. Almost all of them. All of your heroes are on test. It's really eye opening. I hope for a day where there isn't such a stigma around it.
Great video, great channel, and thanks! Keep up the good work.
buddy....it's like you're saying "hey, it's great to see all those diabetics getting their injection"....yes, they are "better", but first and foremost, they are SICK. I would actually like to see the kind of life all those guys on TRT are having, what is their diet, their physical activity level, the kind of job they have, their social life, etc....I would bet that there is much more to work on, before taking the magic pill.
You've got the choice : get on Viagra, or get a girl that's really hot....the second part is not the easiest way to go, I understand that....
Nice share Mark. I am a similar age and there is little sincerity on social media at times and yours is fresh and engaging 👍🏻
@@MarkLewisfitness really enjoying your “better than average” journey it’s mega compelling mate.
I’d enjoy some insight into your nutrition side of things. You often mention eating clean but are you vegetarian, vegan or neither, do you use supplements or not?
Regular home cooked food? So what’s your fuelling and as many agree these days that nutrition is a key differentiator when it comes to sporting performance.
Thanks for your candour Mark. I'm a recent subscriber having only very recently managed to get back into my own health and fitness journey as 50 draws ever nearer. One benefit or reason that you don't mention here is that (just like all of the training and nutrition experiences and pitfalls/struggles you share with us) it has the value of maybe sowing a seed of action. Many of the symptoms you speak of hear are ringing huge bells. My (probably male-typical) assumption to my own lethargy and low mood is that it will simply be diagnosed and/or prescribed as depression. Stupidly this stigma still discourages me from seeking help despite having several close family members who have genuine mental health battles. I am now set on getting some bloods done to see whether this might not be affecting me too. I'm at least a year late to the party in finding your channel but in just a week or 2 there is so much that resonates. Thank you again.
The number of men on depression meds (or scared to raise the issue in case they end up on them) - when they should get hormones checked instead is nuts. Unfortunately, the whole system is a mess and you have the stigma of depression at one end and the stigma of anabolic steroid abuse at the other. In 20 years blood tests for men over 40 for this issue will probably be common place. Right now you have to fight your corner.
Well done Mark for being so open. I found it extremely interesting and has got me thinking about getting tested myself. Thanks.
Thanks for the video on TRT. Most people who don't suffer from it can never understand how it makes someone fill.
I am about to turn 59 next month and have been suffering from low testosterone for a while now. I take a medicine
that has to be incerted through an incision in my hip every four months alternating between left and right sides each time.
Even with the medicine I don't ever get the feeling of " being juiced " but like you mentioned I feel that I get back to normal
or at least close to normal. I've been active all my life, in the gym, playing sports, mud runs, triathlons but sometimes it's a real struggle just to go to the gym. Anyway, I'm sorry for rambling. Just wanted to say I love the video's.
The way you described your symptoms of low testosterone really resonated with me and how I'm feeling. I might look into it. Thanks for sharing your experience with it. I didn't know it was a thing.
Great video. I often worry about this with my kids. I've stayed natural but always done resistance training daily, at 40 this year my body is better than 99% of people my age, I've kept it up to give motivation to my kids to stay natural. Time and consistency is key to everything.
same here
Enjoy the honesty. Many youtubers are juiced to the gills and won't admit it. IMO there is nothing wrong with doing this, it's your body, you are only alive once, and it's totally up to you if you want to do these sort of things. It's not like it hurts anyone.
The problem for lots of RUclipsrs is their message is “look like me, train like me, buy my stuff to achieve that” so saying steroids jars their income - TRT is obviously a long way off hill level juice 😂 but more important, my aim has always been motivate and entertain. Nothing to sell here! 😁
Good and honest dialogue of you putting yourself out there. Putting the authenticity of this channel above the rest!
Thanks for this video my man. Ex national level athlete here. Juiced until late 30s been clean for 10+ years, same age as you. Been considering TRT for the same reasons you stated - some level of normality rather than extending my potential (I already pushed past my potential long ago)
Gave me lots to ponder. Appreciate it
Do you have low testosterone due to your prior use? Presumably if you take it - it means your body stops producing it, so when you stop taking it you have low testosterone. Sounds like a slippery slope
Thanks Mark. This video has made me realise I need to get tested and this could be why I've been feeling so crap for the past 10 years.
If you are in the UK go to TheMensHealthClinic or BalanceMyHormonesUK. If ur n the USA go to DEfy, MAtrix, FRank Instititue, or Dr ERic PRime X
@@HeritageCast OK, mines 13 nmol/l...
@@Wargwarn Eeek yeah thats low thats 375ngdl which means your free T is tanked. Very important to get evaluated by a doc and probably replacement if you have symptoms. Theres TheMensHealthClinicUK, BalanceMyHormonesUK, and Ledgers all great options.
@@HeritageCast that's low? I thought that was normal?
@@Wargwarn Nope I directly talked to Dr Travision the ranges are a epidemiological total population number ie numbers of sick people direct quote from Dr Travision who created the range " The ranges are a population study, they are part of picture, but are not to be applied to individuals " This is why we treat symptoms and thats the medical guideline for prescribing testosterone. Def worth seeing BalaceMyHormonesUK or TheMensHealthClinicUK. Time to get optimal and crushing life
As a relatively fit 50 year old and keen zwifter I did enjoy this video, not as much as you falling off your bike at the top of the alpe though :)
The truth hurts 🤣
Hi Mark
I fell into one of your video's yesterday and subscribed straight away. Your content is so straight forward and easy to digest with a large cross section of topics.
I'm looking forward to watching more, keep up the good work.
Your analytical thought processes, especially as narrated by you, are very clear and enlightening.
i enjoy your content and your honesty here but dont enjoy the downplaying of advantage
the fact your levels wont fluctuate is an advantage on its own
but again being happy and healthy is number one
as long as you arent competing in anything semi serious
Mine fluctuates wildly, 500 point swing makes me wonder about the quality control
Thanks MARK. Just have to say this in solidarity. I am 44 years old now and started around my last birthday here, 1-2 months ago. Had to get it myself here in Denmark and start up without supervision. I felt so depressed through my mid thirties up to now. It got real bad around few years ago. Felt suicidal and mood peaked up and down and it was mostly down and just a saying. I was more mad than on Test injections funny enough. Felt enormous pain inside and physically. Gained weight last ten years. Use to be so slim. I am 230 lbs now. Been worse. 105 kg.-184 cm. Mostly muscles, but also fat that wont go away and I tried a lot. I also felt like not doing anything at all last few years. Couldn't go outside sometimes or face anything. Couldn't do anything. First got my lab results here in September. They were low. Like 363. You need under 250 to get help here. I started taking own sought out hormones myself. things like TRT - Test Cypionate, between 200 mg - 400 mg in duration of 8 days approx. One thing I noticed was the depression and the feeling of endless despair, did somehow slowly vanish. Less build up anger and frustration. I still need to feel myself again and it will take more time with all respect. At least I started running again last two months and it was a big step for me. I always been very active and slipped into a big dark hole. Its horrible. I really understand each word you share here, I don't even have to correct anything. Its very spot on. I am so glad you raise awareness of this. Huge respect from Denmark. I followed you for some time now. Because you are challenging the physical limits of mortality and aspects of anatomy and its something I can relate to throughout my life of physical battles.
Amazing that you found the video so relatable. Many thanks for your kind words here, and I hope your journey onwards and upwards continues 👍🏼
@@MarkLewisfitness Indeed I did. Thanks bother:) Wish you the best as well!
Pretty well the path I’ve taken, without such expense or chemical assistance. Still at it and working around nature’s resistances no longer need the motivation of outside competition. Recently been given a 80th birthday present that acts as a dash board. Now reduced the throttle settings a bit. Swim, cycle, walk, weights 5 days a week and work when necessary . 5/11 @ 182lbs.. Don’t blow up and I’ll continue watching and listening to a sensible man.
Just going back and forth through your timeline. I wasn’t aware that you were supplementing from the newer videos I have been watching. This doesn’t bother me in the slightest and I am glad your doctors worked with you and were able to help you. In my mid 50’s and getting my testosterone tested every couple of years thanks to coach Greg. It’s low but not super low for my age. Honestly would love to try it and see if it would make me feel better than I do. I don’t feel bad but I would like to feel better but for fact that it would crush my natural test and I would have to probably be on it for life has stopped me from pursuing for now. Will check it every couple of years and talk with my doctor if it would be a good time to start. Going to jump around and keep watching your videos.
Thanks. I don’t raise it much it videos as it’s an issue that tends to detract from my core message of “anyone can improve a bit in any way they want”. Some people just jump to “well of course you can do a park run. You take drugs”. So I have the videos up for transparency but leave it there. The alternative is to lean into it as Greg does but then the channel becomes something different.
My buddies have asked me about Testosterone supplementation. As you describe, you're clinically fit for the treatment & it shows how its working for you. As you say, it brings you back to your 'normal' self' & your labs are in the normal range with treatment. Again, thanks for sharing.
Long story short, they think I killed my native testosterone production when I was playing (American)football. 6'5", 400lbs and lifting huge weights. Blood pressure through the roof. Anyway, moral of the story is I was a giant man that suddenly didn't like the gym, got fat(er), got depressed, life sucked for a while. Found work arounds but getting my test back into normal ranges was such a huge change, and in it's own weird way an entirely underwhelming return to normal. I worried a lot about the moral implications of competing on TRT. But, a few years into it I'd never go back. Kinda wanna turn it up too, I'm only on the low end of normal.
Love the channel Mark.Am 55 last 12 ms I have gone from 14st to 11st through diet and exercise (Zwift in particular.riding and running) and feel the best about my shape than I can remember . I loved your 3 Fs for motivation but there has to be something deeper. keeping fit is 99% about the top 2 inches of the body , so how come so many people cant get their heads in the right place, Your TRT issue could be one example but must be others. Few people want to be overweight and actually its super easy metabolically to lose weight. Second point I do worry than when you have reached a target goal for fitness the mental stress of keeping it there and the guilt if it starts to fade is way higher than when you were on the couch. Keep up the great content.
Awesome video as always ✊🏾👊🏾👍🏾. I can’t comprehend how you don’t have more subscribers 🤷🏾♂️
I wonder this all the time. I love these videos.
Fascinating Mark a really thought provoking vid always love the honesty and diversity of your content
I started TRT about a year ago and it's honestly changed my life, I've trained all my life but at the age of 45 (now 48) starting getting the same symptoms you describe, the main positive effect is level moods, motivation and energy to train - along with a few bonuses like increase in libido and change in body composition.
I would recommend any man over 45 (that works out) to have their blood work done and see a private TRT clinic - I also live in the UK and there's no point using the NHS - it takes too long and they're too conservative with what they prescribe.
Also, if you're injecting everyday it sounds like your using proprionate - ask your doc to change to Sustanon - you inject every 5 days and the slow release keeps your moods even.
Anyway, I love your channel and your message- you've influenced me to sign up for HYROX in April!
Enjoyed this honesty. The topic doesn’t directly apply to me but I still found it rather interesting. Keep ‘em coming.
I have been watching for about 2 months ...I am a similar age your a breath of fresh air ...honestly is always the best policy ....great topic and relevant to the over 40’s ...off to get my levels taken ....keep up the good work 👍 I will be remaining with you ...your great crack 👍
Really interesting video, Mark. Thank you for being so open. It makes it feel like something men can take control of without all the judgment about masculinity.
Great Video! I see nothing wrong with what you have done and continue to do to improve your overall health for yourself and for the well being of your family. Good on Ya! Thanks for the honest talk and keep up the great work!
Just wanted to say thank you for being so open and honest about something that still is a bit taboo to in some circles.
Appreciate the honest video. I think most people don't care if someone is on gear or not, but they do care if that person is being dishonest about it, especially if they have a large social media following.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Mark, I am in the same boat. Back in 2016 I was smashing out 2 Ironman triathlons a year along with all the shorter races, then gradually my mood and motivation began to wain to the point where I just couldn’t be bothered.. Not just bothered to train, but bothered to get out of bed.
Im still struggling with this to this day. I did have my testosterone checked and although within the “normal range” it is on the low side..
Off the back of this video I will book another chat with the doctor and push them harder to find a solution.
Keep up the good work!
Don’t forget….. What the nhs (if you are uk based?) consider “low normal” is borderline dead. Worth checking with a private clinic. On a similar point, anyone being told by their GP their body fat is fine could still be hugely overweight! Basically, the NHS is designed to keep people ticking along around average ….. And the average person is an absolute mess, it is no bar to aim for.
@@MarkLewisfitness I agree 100%... Unfortunately I am based in the UK (not far from you by the looks of your videos running around Green Park) and I consider the NHS an emergency service only.. I used one of the online blood testing services but I assume they still have to follow NHS guidelines. If you have any recommendations for private services im certainly not adverse to throwing money at a problem to get rid of it ;)
Keep up the great work!
@@jamesvale2508 jump onto IG and message me your test result if you want. I’ll tell you whether it’s worth going further with.
same here, in my early 50's I came to the point where I went to the bike shop, and gave them all my bikes, wheels, and spare parts....went to do something completely different, and my health went suddenly haywire....bought a new bike, a pair of running shoes, hrm watch, everything is much better now....I think one has to understand what kind of burnout one is facing : mental, physical, social, it goes way over the visit to the shrink (who can be a bad professional too...) ....but keeping active is the bread and butter of a good life.
Hi
Great video and thank you for sharing
45 years old almost 2 months into TRT 0.25 twice a week
Was suffering with virtually every single symptom of low T. Docs wont give me anything as I was 12nl not below the 8 thresholds (Id probably be near on dead I was)
Anyway, as I said, just under 2 months in and I can honestly say that the difference (if only slight at present) is amazing and I feel so much better already
I am so pleased you talked about this. An important subject men don’t like to discuss. Please do a follow-up with side effects and more details.
I have thought of a follow up…. But to be honest, there’s not much to say. I simply take a small regular dose to maintain stable hormones and feel good. There really is not much more to it than that!
@@MarkLewisfitness Thanks for responding. You could talk about your side effects and also the side effects of gym bunnies taking steroids (during and when they stop). Might help dissuade people from taking them. Like you, I have a teen boy (16) who compares his body to those he sees on Insta and its certainly not a healthy comparison. Regardless, I love your videos and am slowly going through them. Keep up the good work.
your story for use is understandable and respectable. no worries man, glad things are going better.
Thanks 🙏
Hi Mark,
"What is to give light must endure burning."- VIKTOR FRANKL.
You are a star!
It's never too late.
Well done... good conversation to have and you approached it with a spot on attitude IMHO. Hats off to you bud.
Very interested in hearing more about your trt experience. I’m 40, and I’ve had a very similar fitness journey to yourself. We’re about the same size, and I’ve been feeling a bit lethargic as of late. I was told that I have low-normal t levels. My doctor said that I could go on to see how I feel. However, being on it for life kind of scares me.
What decision did you make Eric?
Right on, brother! Appreciate your willingness to take this matter head-on! Good on ya!
Your honesty here is the panicle of this issue. Using any drugs is a non issue if they are all fully disclosed prior to an event. Using for ones own personal improvement of life is of course not anyone else’s choice but your own. But again being an influencer it’s right to come clean on this drug issue from the start….it’s a welcome honest debate. If I were to have concern it would be in age group racing/competing. Perhaps 60+. Where one could assume that TRT athletes would eventually over power/ out perform all non TRT athletes. Concluding that all age group athletes would then be compelled to take HRT to give the level playing field. Hence it’s no longer personal choice but essential for age group competing.
I’m 58 years old and have always ate dirty and was always 50-75 lbs overweight. Since retiring I told myself I was going to devote the remainder of my life to eating cleaner and going to the gym 5 times a week. I also started TRT 3 weeks ago and wow what a game changer! I’m going to be starting Peptides this week as well. So far I can definitely tell a difference in my workouts and recovery.
hi is it true you have to be on at the rest of your life
Fantastic video Mark, thank you. Going through these same things at 50 and so interesting to hear you share all this. Subscribed and going to check out more of your content 👍 Great work fella.
Hi Mark!! I didn't knew how you're a serious motorcycle rider.... I will check out that off road video for sure.
Really like to listen to your videos, and tips, during driving around London. Good humour, and professional presentations, in any level. No ummms amms..
Subbed, kind regards Robert
Finally got round to watching this video! As expected, couldn't agree with you more on the subject of TRT/steroid etc! Good work! Thanks you for honesty.
love this honesty and your attitude... feel bad for your son but the little interruptions re son/couple's therapy etc were hilarious! :) all the best and thanks for sharing your content mate.. great inspiration!
I really enjoyed this video. Probably the best one I’ve watched of you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I had been wondering about this after having watched more than a dozen of your videos. It's certainly an interesting topic, and something that seems to be more prevalent in the English speaking world.
Interesting topic and well handled. I've recently got into ultra running and really enjoy your videos. I watched your bike adventure videos too and it brought back some amazing memories for me as I'm originally from South Africa and also did a 10 day trip through Namibia on a Africa Twin back in 2009. All the best and hope to see you on the trails in the south of England some time.
Now you’re making me want to go back and travel in Namibia again. 😃😃 love it over there 👍🏼
Super interesting, thanks for sharing. Also it’s nice to see how supportive most of the comments are 👍🏻
Hi Mark, love your video’s, relatable content and funny delivery. V.interested in the low T vid particularly as my T has been below 10 for last 15 years since having it checked. Completed 12 full and half Ironman triathlons which I blame for low T, probably incorrectly. Interested to know what made you decide to go ahead with TRT as I’m 50/50 on if I go ahead or not. Keep up the good work 👍
Nice and entertaining video just like all your other videos. I would be interested to hear about all the things you've learned in the past years on how to manage testosterone levels without medication and why it is important to do this as an endurance athlete (as endurance training lowers testosterone)
Great discussion on an important topic. Would have been amazing to see The Rock cover the same subject with such authenticity - you never know, he may come across this and give you shout. 👍
Yeah. He might 😂
Mark, I just got around to watching this one. Thank you for posting this.
How have I only just discovered this channel. Subscribed.
I stumbled across your channel by accident and have had some similar experiences in that at 6,2” I eventually reached 350lbs by age 40 and felt wretched. At 48 I determined to get in shape by 50 and dieted hard, started running, lifting weights (powerlifter style) and doing boxing circuits/sparring sessions. I got to 220lbs before my body called quits and refused to let me get to my 200lb goal. Since then I have continued to work out (running swapped for powerwalking due to knee pain) but not as hard as I could and my weight slowly crept up to around 250lbs, despite a more relaxed but still sub 2000 calorie a day diet. I have always followed strongman, bodybuilders etc. and have a good understanding of what can be achieved completely naturally. For example, Before I saw this video, I knew you were on trt as a minimum, so I congratulate you for your honesty here as there is nothing worse in my eyes than the ‘fake natty’ brigade touting their lies to the kids! The best run I could achieve was 60 minutes for 10k regardless of effort, but powerlifting does act as an opposite force to running ability. I have great strength, but a background in my youth of heavy lifting (and running) so I am now thinking muscle memory might be in play here. I had though that building up to a 140kg bench press and 220kg deadlift for 4-6 reps by mid to late 50’s meant I cannot have low test, but other symptoms now make me wonder. Thank you for this video, I am feeling motivated to investigate further (although daily injections are a concern 😳).
It’s a pity I can’t cover this topic more regularly on my channel but it just comes with too much baggage. I did the initial three videos when I had a handful of subscribers so that I never got to a place where I was having to “come out”. I also felt that, at that point, I had achieved by far the biggest physical achievements of my life. I’ve got in shape, was running under 20 minute park runs at 6 foot 6/100 kg, done ultras, etc. so it wasn’t as though I jumped on TRT early on to achieve things. Also, I was quite happy that the focus of my channel (because I have no qualifications in fitness whatsoever) was always going to be motivation and entertainment rather than education/instruction…… so, to a certain extent, what I can or can’t do shouldn’t affect peoples ability to be inspired to go off and do anything they want. The idea is be motivated by me, don’t copy me is if that makes sense?
And you should definitely check your levels - there is simply nothing to lose. Daily injections are about as inconvenient as having to make a coffee in the morning. In fact, coffee takes longer
@@MarkLewisfitness what were your levels for t to qualify for trt and what are your levels now while you are on it ?
@@Chris-kr7gg 4 tests in the year before I began - 7-10 nmol/l ...... now around 22
@@MarkLewisfitness thanks for the reply, I have been seriously ill and not really interested in sex in any way, had severe brain fog and lethargy. My diet was terrible for years after a viral issue seemed to cause all sorts of physical health issues, I became sedentary, (not good) before this happened my health was great I used to run 25 miles a week, my best time for the great south run was an hour and 8 minutes without training on the hottest day of the year. I'm 33 now recently had my total test measured and I am at the level of 23.5nm/ml but I'm wondering if my free test, oestradiol and shbg maybe causing issues with free test, I'm trying to get treatment from a company called Balance My Hormones, I'm not sure if I qualify with those levels of total test, if you have any input/ and, or know a good clinic to recommend that would be appreciated.
@@Chris-kr7gg at 23 nm/ml your SHBG would need to be pretty out of whack to mess up free test - but possible. I did speak to BMH but went to The Mens Health clinic in Poole instead - Dr Robert Stevens there, I'd highly recommend. Out of interest, I assume you never got tested for free test? Because will be the next step, get a full hormone test done.
A few thoughts…
- Recently found your channel! Great stuff, you do well!
- I’m sure you beat your son in subscriber! With some experience and hard work he will do well also! If he surpasses you, I’m sure you’ll be proud!
- iron sharpens iron, your videos, your experience, perception, thoughts, etc.. encourage many.
- I believe greatness is manifested in the amount of truth it reveals! Your approach, your content, your thoughtfulness your honesty is what uncovers truth.
Great stuff, great topic! Great perspective! Thanks for sharing!
Appreciate your honesty, and I personally think a lot of people will benefit from trt/hrt. Modern lifestyle and plastics in the environment are plummeting male testosterone levels
This is the best channel hands down, my exact parenting style 😂😂
Thanks for sharing Mark, very open, honest & candid.
Ok so odly we are very similar. I am 6'6" 265 and currently trying to get back in shape at 33 I also have low testosterone. There seems to be some unique struggles with being as big as we are. Thank you for making these videos!
Really interesting discussion. Thanks for the open and amusing presentation. From someone who did weight training 3 times a week as well as running and cycling for 20 years, I still ended up looking like a beanpole (6'4" and 75kg), so you'rer not doing too badly. Gave up on the weights to concentrate on the cycling as my body is just not designed to be muscular. Really enjoy following your cycling exploits.
Thanks 🙏 My best compliment is when people say they find it funny along with all the other good bits 😁
Its one of the most poorly diagnosed issues in the general UK without going private.
Brain fog, irritability, poor memory and weight gain. And I thought it was my partner that was "difficult" 1 week a month.
3 years on levels stabilised and as you say I feel normal again. No emotional outbursts and tearfull rainbow isn't on the TV anymore.
Re your Son once your HPTA shuts down sometimes no amount of PCT regimes may get it going again.
This subject needs to be discussed so well done for bringing this up on your channel.
How did you manage to get diagnosed Rob?
@@Wargwarn went private, ordered an online test which basically said T count was practically nothing. Then decided speaking to NHS doctor was a waste of time, was going to have a few injections then transfer onto NHS but decided keep private rather than get a lecture from a doctor that has to look up the private prescription I get given. Nebido every 8 weeks works for me, feel much better for it. Hope that helps.
@@Parrysweets thank Rob. I just ordered a test kit, I guess I'll go from there. Do you get your prescription at NHS prices?
@@Wargwarn My pleasure James. No i pay privately think its circa £120.00, though Iam pretty sure its less. They offered me the gel but for me I knew its wasn't the right solution, plus I have a little lad and wouldn't want him coming into contact with it.
@@Parrysweets hi mate, can I ask which company you used? Cheers
Great to hear an honest and funny chat about mens health, keep up the great work.....
Fair play to you for discussing a potentially delicate subject, quite thought provoking for my own health and fitnes too. Keep up the good work 👍
Really interesting and thought provoking video, thanks for sharing. For me, the negative would be (as another mid-40s cat C zwifter) that if you *just* beat me in a zwift race I might mentally discount you in the same way as you discount someone not on zwift power. Does that mean I begrudge your participation? Absolutely not. This isn’t elite sport, we are all doing it for our own enjoyment and perhaps a degree of self improvement. The competition adds to the fun but isn’t the core reason we do it.
Far more importantly you have identified a medical issue that was causing harm to your relationships and mental well-being. If TRT has helped address this, that vastly outweighs the downside of gaining a slight performance advantage in some amateur sporting contests. You’ve also raised awareness of the issue and potentially this will help others struggling with an unrecognised hormonal or biochemical deficit.
Your channel has been about an ethos of living well, self improvement, some fun with gadgets, good humour and an excellent selection of movie clips. I will continue to enjoy your videos and will not be bothered in the least when you leave me in your digital wake on zwift.
enjoyed the vid. Being a 57 year old trying to get back into some resemblance of being in shape. I have been thinking of getting my testosterone checked also. Thanks for sharing your experience.
I think it's good you bring it up, was wondering if you were clean or not. Your legs seemed super strong and defined, more than what I would have expected....
I would consider you "clean", you need it for health reason and especially talking about mental issues and depression is super important for men, we like to bury that!
Actually, this topic needs to be discussed even more!!!
Looks like you just want to be healthy and compete BUT at the same time, you not trying to win something like the Nationals or Iron Man, would then consider that cheating.
You seem, like most guys, same here , just trying to be healthy and using competition as extra motivation....
Thank you for talking about depression!
Great to see your intelligence and common sense is bigger than muscles 💪 👈 - I’ve forwarded a fair few of your topics to my daughter who is exploring all things health and fitness. I’m 60 so trying to figure out how to maintain muscle mass and ride fast for hours on my bike. Great stuff keep it coming 👍
Another great video and excellent open book approach on a personal topic.
Can’t believe it didn’t descend into the gutter though, even briefly. Surely there’s a ‘Days of Thunder’ clip that would have been appropriate.
😂 your young fella might need 2 quid per filthy pun suggested. Money well spent!
Fantastic video Mark, keep up the great content.
31 getting a lot of injuries lifting moderately with very low t .. you wouldn’t know looking at me at 6,2 225lbs and pretty built … thinking the injuries are a result of low T because we don’t heal as well .. my question is do you repair more quickly?
personally i would feel my strava times on the bikes would'nt be legit. know my what i mean. i got to 5w/gk and a 70 vo2/max in my mid 40's. trt would take my glory away, crushing young guys just would not feel the same, to be honest, and thats what its really all about. i considered it when i turned 40, but after weighing the pros and cons i came to the conclusion that short term gains werent worth the potential long problems related to trt. became plant based, did some high intensity, now my test is over 600. strongly recommed the natural way to boost test personnally
Really appreciate this video, and a big fan of the channel!
Test is key for "drive". It makes you want to do things.
Interesting subject and admire your honesty on what can be a very delicate subject.
I’m always surprised that the therapeutic use of testosterone is a touchy subject when woman have been using steroids regularly for decades. I’m glad you feel great. Keep exercising man.
Problem is the therapeutic use in men has grown at a similar time and pace to the non-therapeutic use in people using how they look to sell you stuff.
Really mature and succinct discussion, thanks for the video Mark.
Very honest video Mark, great insight, and glad to hear things are going well.