Timing is everything

Even though its results have not yet been verified by independent, peer-reviewed, controlled, double-blind, etc. studies, the Muscle & Fitness Hotline Online Training Poll on length of weight training session is worth heeding. Almost 60 percent of those responding reported that they lifted from 30 to 60 minutes per session. A little more than 42 percent went for 60 or more minutes. Even though there is always considerable leeway in any kind of self-reporting (read: downright lying), the poll-takers rightly point out the danger in store for any one legitimately in the 60+ group: "Studies show that after approximately one hour of lifting, testosterone levels drop and cortisone levels rise, undermining your muscle-building efforts."

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