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Resistance training increases SHBG in overweight/obese, young men
Christian K Roberts1, Daniel M Croymans, Najib Aziz
1Exercise and Metabolic Disease Research Laboratory, Translational Sciences Section, UCLA School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA. croberts@ucla.edu
Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental
|January 16, 2013
Summary
Resistance exercise training (RT) significantly increased sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and improved metabolic markers in overweight/obese young men. RT lowered the free androgen index (FAI) and cortisol without causing weight loss.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Exercise Physiology
- Metabolic Health
Background:
- Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is linked to glycemic control and metabolic syndrome.
- SHBG levels are typically lower in obese individuals.
- Sedentary, overweight/obese young men may benefit from interventions targeting SHBG and steroid hormones.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of resistance exercise training (RT) on SHBG levels.
- To determine if RT can alter related steroid hormone levels in overweight/obese young men.
- To assess RT's impact on body composition and glucose metabolism.
Main Methods:
- 36 overweight/obese, sedentary young men were randomized into an RT group or a control group.
- The RT group underwent 12 weeks of supervised resistance training (3 sessions/week).
- Measurements included SHBG, cortisol, testosterone, free testosterone (FT), free androgen index (FAI), body composition, and oral glucose tolerance tests.
Main Results:
- RT significantly increased SHBG levels and decreased FAI and cortisol compared to the control group.
- Free testosterone decreased with RT, while total testosterone remained unchanged.
- RT led to increased lean body mass and reduced glucose and insulin AUC, along with decreased fat mass, without significant weight loss.
Conclusions:
- Resistance exercise training effectively increases SHBG levels in overweight/obese young men.
- RT also lowers the free androgen index and cortisol, suggesting a beneficial hormonal shift.
- These hormonal improvements occur alongside positive changes in body composition and glucose metabolism.
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