Why John Cena is Keeping TRT in His Back Pocket

There may be a link between testosterone and lifespan.

By Rebekah Harding
February 26, 2024

hanks to his herculean physique, John Cena has enjoyed a decades-long career as a professional wrestler, actor, and rapper. And he has no plans to give up on his gains as he ages.

In a recent interview with Howard Stern, Cena says that he’s never taken testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or anabolic steroids to bulk up—but he’s open to the former when his natural testosterone levels start to dip.

“I’m not ruling (TRT) out. There’ll come a time,” Cena told Stern. “I get my bloodwork done three times a year, and my testosterone is fantastic for a [nearly] 47-year-old.”

Cena believes that maintaining healthy testosterone levels promotes longevity and makes it easier to recover post-workout. And he’s right. Health professionals suggest there’s a link between T levels and lifespan.

While low testosterone may not increase your risk for early death directly “all-cause mortality risk increases in men with lower testosterone levels,” says James Staheli, D.O.

Conditions linked to low testosterone may be the culprit. Studies show that clinically low T is linked to a higher risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction, depression, and dementia (1).

If left unchecked, many of these conditions can limit your healthspan and lifespan.

Research also suggests having a healthy testosterone level for your age] may support skeletal muscle tissue growth, which can help reduce injury risk and help your muscles recover better between workouts (2). Dodging injury and maintaining a healthy amount of muscle can extend your lifespan, too, studies suggest (3).

About the Expert:

James R. Staheli, D.O., is the Medical Director for Broad Health, Hone Health’s affiliated medical practice and a family medicine doctor, with a specialization in men’s hormone health.

Why Testosterone Matters for Longevity

I Had a Heart Attack at 42. On TRT, I’m Healthier Than Ever at 62

When Should I Start Checking My Testosterone Levels?

There’s no set age for starting testosterone replacement therapy, although most men begin to experience normal drops in their T levels in their mid-thirties, at a rate of about one percent every year (4).

Men may not feel inclined to check their T levels until debilitating symptoms of low testosterone arise, such as fatigue, muscle loss, low libido, and depression. But Cena may be smart by getting regular blood tests to spot declining testosterone early.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of low testosterone—or if you want to keep an eye on your levels as you age—a blood test through Hone Health can determine if your testosterone levels are within a healthy range. If they’re low, your physician will determine if you’re eligible for treatment to balance hormone levels, like testosterone replacement therapy, clomiphene citrate, or anastrozole.

“Bottom line, don’t wait,” Staheli says. “Seek medical evaluation to determine where your levels are and how your symptoms can be reversed.”

Fast, Easy, Affordable

Hone’s at-home testosterone assessment is the simplest way to uncover whether your levels are low. If you qualify for treatment, TRT can be sent right to your door.