Effect of strength training and concurrent strength and endurance training on strength, testosterone, and cortisol

Eleven subjects (6 M, 5 F) strength trained 3 times a week for 16 weeks, and 22 subjects (14 M, 8 F) did likewise while also performing endurance training 3 times a week on alternate days. All variables were tested every 4 weeks for 16 weeks. Significant gender differences were observed for bilateral incline leg press and bench press 1-RM, serum testosterone (T), urinary free cortisol (UC), ventilation threshold (VT), and VO2 max. There was a significant increase in bilateral incline leg press and bench press 1-RM for both training groups and genders. Relative gains in bilateral incline leg press and bench press 1-RM were similar for men. For women the gains in bilateral incline leg press 1-RM, but not bench press, were lower with concurrent training than with strength training only. No significant differences in T were observed with either program. UC was significantly elevated at 8 weeks for men and remained so after concurrent training, but decreased to baseline levels after strength training. UC decreased in the strength training women at 8 weeks but increased for women in both groups at 16 weeks. VT and VO2 max increased at 16 weeks of concurrent training. This indicates there are differences in strength and hormonal adaptations between men and women with concurrent training and strength training only.