Endocrine Responses to Resistance Training

Endocrinology

The branch of physiology and medicine concerned with the endocrine system, its dysfunctions, and its hormones.

Anabolic hormones

Hormones that promote an increase in muscle mass and promote protein synthesis.

Cortisol

A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate metabolism and responds to stress.

Growth Hormone (GH)

A protein hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in humans and other animals.

Testosterone

The primary male sex hormone that also plays a key role in muscle growth and strength.

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)

A hormone that plays an important role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults.

Negative feedback

A process in which a system is regulated by its outputs or effects to maintain stability.

Hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis

A neuroendocrine axis that connects the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and gonads; important for regulating reproduction and hormonal activity.

Downregulation

A decrease in the number or sensitivity of receptors in response to high hormone levels.

Pulsatile secretion

The release of hormones in bursts or pulses rather than at consistent levels.

Exercise-induced hormonal responses

The changes in hormone levels as a result of physical exercise, specifically resistance training.

Catecholamines

Horm