This seems like a logical place for this post. I'm looking for some input from any runners on the board. I'm 50yo and was surgically castrated 14 years ago. Been on nothing for a while (not good), E and low E. For years now, I have been on a moderate level of T. However, I've recently switched to low T recently, but have had issues with it - problems sleeping and being regularly irritated. My doctor told me if I want to simply be healthy and stave off osteoporosis, she could put me on 1mg estradiol daily. I'd like to go this route as I have never liked any of the masculine effects from T except what it gives me the ability to do physically. I'm just wondering what I can expect running-wise when I switch to a low dose of E. I know MMMV, but I'd love to hear from any other runners (or regular exercisers) on their experience switching to low E. I'm hoping I can continue to do most of the running I currently do.

Thanks,

Casey

Follow your doctor's instructions. I don't see anything wrong with taking small doses of E or T. I have sometimes had to take T, although I have never taken E. Osteoporosis is an unpleasant thing.

I’m currently experiencing low T and it’s noticeable how it has reduced my endurance. While not currently taking E I have for short periods in the past and it mainly seemed to reduce most of the symptoms of low T but not the loss of endurance. It might help looking at marathon runners of both sexes. Men definitely have faster pace and longer endurance than the woman and generally with female runners they tend to be leaner more androgynous than female curvaceous and so even they are probably running quite high T ranges on the female scale. So I’d say you will still be able to run but to a lower level of pace and endurance than before. I recall talking to a female cyclist who said she preferred training with men as the simply go longer and harder in training than females and this was giving her an edge in competitive riding.

Definitely don't want the osteoporosis. My Mom has osteopenia, so it's something to be concerned with.

It's interesting because it seems the lower T has actually improved my running. However, I suspect that is due to a little less muscle mass and my appetite doesn't seem as intense.

Definitely do as your doctor recommends. However by continuing to run, you are already helping to prevent osteoporosis, as the weight-bearing stress stimulates a bone-building response.

Thanks, everyone! I'm gonna give it a go.