We’re going to go a little more risque, off-topic here, but this site endeavors to be the ultimate resource when it comes to diet, exercise, nutrition, and everything related. A question came in through our inbox (anonymously), and we felt obligated to answer it as best we can.
The question was whether it was beneficial or harmful to masturbate before a workout, or does it have no effect at all? Off the tops of our heads, we didn’t have a scientific answer so we Googled around and here is what we found.
Does Masturbation Affect Working Out?
In a simple, short answer: yes and no.
I know, that doesn’t really answer the question, but let me explain why we answered in such a way.
Testosterone Levels
First off, there is a lot of misinformation out there, especially when you dig around forums for the answer instead of going to scientific studies. Yes, there have been studies related to this. If you 
browse around forums, you’ll find some meatheads proclaim that pleasuring yourself will drain your testosterone, a crucial element in muscle building and energy levels.
That’s a bunch of crap. Many human and animal studies have been conducted on the effects of abstinence on testosterone levels and found that ejaculation does not acutely alter these levels. So throw that bogus claim right out the window.
Energy Levels
Instead of focusing on whether or not it affects testosterone levels, what you should be worried about is the effect on your energy levels. When you orgasm, your body releases oxytocin and prolactin into your bloodstream. These are the hormones that give you that euphoric feeling, as well as make you sleepy after intimacy. THIS is what can make a difference if you do the deed (whether alone or with a partner) before a workout.
When you are going into any workout routine, you want a high energy level. Post-orgasm, you’re going to be too sleepy and relaxed and will really need to go through a solid warm-up just to get the blood flowing and increase your alertness.
Conclusion
In terms of testosterone levels, you don’t have to worry about an orgasm taking away any of your precious t-levels. It’s the energy-zapping aspect of it that you have to worry about. If you don’t mind getting on a treadmill or bike or jumping rope (which you should do pre-workout anyway) a little longer before your exercise session, then go ahead and live life on your own terms and pleasure yourself all you want.
If you’re still a bit hesitant because of a fear of testosterone drop, you can try one of the testosterone supplements we review on our site. Our top recommendations, TestoGen and Prime Male, can be found at the links below so you can masturbate without worry!