Can I exercise while on HRT? (MTF)

[richie]

It feels like I'm spamming this forum with tons of questions.. Sorry!

Anyway, I would like to know if it's smart to workout while on HRT. I don't want to get a masculine build but I don't want to be "skinny fat" either. I'm currently really weak/skinny with just a small layer of fat over my body. 5'5, 100 lbs.

I'd like to start doing more cardio & squats. I start hormones in a matter of days too.

My total testosterone levels were tested as 193 ng/dL

Can I workout without getting bulky?

[Deborah]

I hope so because I am. 

The amount of muscle you can develop is directly related to your hormone levels.  If you are skinny and not muscularly developed now I don't think you have anything to worry about.


Sapere Aude

[itsApril]

Yes, and it's a good idea, too!  I'm actually kind of a gym rat.  My exercise routine has changed, though.  Pre-transition (I'm mtf) it used to be about two-thirds weights and one-third cardiovascular (treadmill, ellipticals, stairclimbers, etc.).  Now that's about reversed, more cardio than weights.

I hear you about not wanting to get "bulky."  As an mtf, I don't want to look muscle-bound.  Athletic and healthy, yes, but not bulging with muscle.  That's why I have shifted the emphasis to cardio.

A strong cardio routine is great for your health.  My resting heart rate is way down, which is good.  Also, cardio helps to control blood pressure, which is sometimes problematic for folks on HRT.

See ya at the gym, richie!

[richie]

I hope so because I am. 

The amount of muscle you can develop is directly related to your hormone levels.  If you are skinny and not muscularly developed now I don't think you have anything to worry about.


Sapere Aude

I hope so! I just want to be toned. Thank you for the response.

[richie]

Yes, and it's a good idea, too!  I'm actually kind of a gym rat.  My exercise routine has changed, though.  Pre-transition (I'm mtf) it used to be about two-thirds weights and one-third cardiovascular (treadmill, ellipticals, stairclimbers, etc.).  Now that's about reversed, more cardio than weights.

I hear you about not wanting to get "bulky."  As an mtf, I don't want to look muscle-bound.  Athletic and healthy, yes, but not bulging with muscle.  That's why I have shifted the emphasis to cardio.

A strong cardio routine is great for your health.  My resting heart rate is way down, which is good.  Also, cardio helps to control blood pressure, which is sometimes problematic for folks on HRT.

See ya at the gym, richie!

Great! I'll focus more on cardio rather than weight training. Thanks 

[KayXo]

If you are skinny and not muscularly developed now I don't think you have anything to worry about.

Agree, as long as you are on HRT with low T.

Also, cardio helps to control blood pressure, which is sometimes problematic for folks on HRT.

Blood pressure shouldn't be an issue if TS women are treated properly, with bio-identicals (progesterone, estradiol) which have shown to have a positive effect on blood pressure and cardiovascular health, spironolactone which lowers blood pressure or anti-androgens that don't have a negative effect. This is why progestins such as medroxyprogesterone acetate and estrogens such as ethinyl estradiol and conjugated equine estrogens should never be taken, these can cause problems.

Diet-wise, too many carbs (especially empty, refined ones) will increase blood pressure due to stimulation of insulin which increases sodium retention significantly.

[StillAnonymous]

I do a lot of cardio and I have not noticed any masculine effects despite being early into HRT.

[Cindy]

I've been to the gym three times a week prior, during and post transition. Cardio and some weights. I lost upper body strength and muscle and have a trim figure. As far as diet I eat what I feel like, I have a healthy diet anyway. I naturally reduced intake as my muscle mass dropped. My body doesn't let me overeat as my appetite suppresses naturally and I pay attention to that.

You are getting a gift of a new body and life, design both for your happiness.