Joe Rogan’s Health Secrets: Is He on Steroids?

If you’re a fan of Joe Rogan, chances are you’ve heard him talk about everything from martial arts to conspiracy theories, but one subject that often comes up in the fitness realm is his health journey. As someone who’s committed to health and fitness well into his 50s, Joe’s transformation over the years has sparked quite a bit of curiosity. People often ask, “Is Joe Rogan on steroids?” In this article, I’ll dig into this question and break down the truth behind Rogan’s use of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), human growth hormone (HGH), and other hormone therapies.

This kind of speculation isn’t unique to Rogan. In fact, the same question—did Chris Bumstead take steroids—frequently circles the bodybuilding world, especially when someone shows a near-perfect physique. These discussions are common among fans trying to distinguish between natural progress and enhanced results. Likewise, legendary competitors like Jay Cutler have faced their own scrutiny, even as his Jay Cutler bodybuilding program continues to inspire new generations of lifters aiming for professional physiques through grueling workouts and strategic nutrition.

Having followed Joe’s journey and discussed health and fitness with many enthusiasts, I can tell you that it’s easy for speculation to take over when we see someone look as fit as Joe does at his age. But the truth isn’t as black-and-white as some might think. So, let’s separate fact from fiction and dive into the details of Joe Rogan’s health practices.

Who Is Joe Rogan?

Early Life and Career

Joe Rogan isn’t just known for his podcast; his journey into fitness is just as interesting. Before becoming a household name, Rogan was a stand-up comedian and a television host. But over the years, he’s turned into one of the most influential figures in the health and fitness world. At 56 years old, Rogan is often praised for his fitness regimen and the fact that he’s maintained such a muscular physique into his late 50s.

Fitness Philosophy and Approach to Health

While Joe’s career began in comedy and TV hosting, fitness has always been a passion of his. Rogan is a dedicated practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), mixed martial arts (MMA), and weightlifting. His approach to health is holistic, combining a balanced workout routine, a strict diet, and an emphasis on recovery.

As we’ll see, Joe’s commitment to fitness has led him to explore different health optimization methods, including hormone therapies, as part of his overall wellness strategy.

Understanding Steroids and Hormone Therapies

What Are Steroids, TRT, and HGH?

Before we dive into whether Joe is using steroids, it’s essential to understand what exactly steroids, TRT, and HGH are. Steroids, typically referred to as anabolic steroids, are synthetic variations of the male sex hormone testosterone. They are often used to promote muscle growth, enhance performance, and recover from injuries faster.

On the other hand, TRT and HGH are medically supervised therapies. TRT is used to help individuals with low testosterone levels, particularly as they age, while HGH is often used to combat the signs of aging and help with muscle recovery.

Is TRT Considered Steroids?

This is where the lines get blurry. While testosterone is a steroid, TRT is medically prescribed to help normalize testosterone levels in individuals who have a deficiency. It isn’t intended for performance enhancement but rather for health optimization. However, people do use TRT for bodybuilding purposes. 

Joe Rogan's Health Journey and Hormone Replacement Therapy

Rogan’s Decision to Start TRT and HGH

Joe Rogan has been open about his use of TRT and HGH. He began using TRT in his late 40s to maintain energy levels, muscle mass, and overall health as he aged. Rogan has frequently discussed the benefits of these therapies, highlighting improvements in his strength, mood, and vitality.

For Rogan, these therapies are more about maintaining his health as he ages rather than enhancing his physique. In his 50s, Joe’s strength and fitness levels are still impressive, and his use of TRT and HGH plays a role in keeping him at peak performance.

Joe Rogan doing interviews for UFC

Changes in Physique and Performance

Since starting hormone replacement therapy, Rogan’s physique has remained muscular and lean. Fans have often remarked that he looks stronger than ever, but it’s important to note that these therapies, combined with Rogan’s rigorous workout routine and healthy lifestyle, are likely contributing factors. The key difference between Joe’s health journey and the typical steroid user is the medically monitored approach he takes.

The Science Behind TRT and HGH

When it comes to Joe Rogan’s health practices, a big part of his regimen involves hormone optimization, particularly through TRT and HGH. These therapies are often misunderstood or misrepresented, but when used correctly under medical supervision, they can offer significant health benefits, particularly as people age. To truly understand how they work and why they might be part of Rogan’s fitness strategy, it’s essential to dive deeper into the science behind these treatments.

What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, responsible for a wide range of bodily functions, including muscle mass, strength, bone density, libido, mood regulation, and even cognitive function. However, as men age, testosterone levels naturally begin to decline. After the age of 30, testosterone levels typically decrease by about 1% per year, leading to symptoms commonly referred to as “low T.” These symptoms can include:

  • Fatigue: A lack of energy or increased feelings of tiredness.
  • Decreased muscle mass and strength: As testosterone levels drop, it becomes harder to maintain muscle mass.
  • Mood swings and irritability: Lower testosterone levels can negatively affect mental health, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, or irritability.
  • Decreased libido and sexual performance: Testosterone plays a key role in regulating sexual drive and function.
  • Cognitive decline: Lower testosterone can also affect cognitive function, leading to issues like memory problems or difficulty concentrating.

In response to these changes, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is used to restore normal testosterone levels in men who are experiencing a deficiency. TRT works by supplementing the body’s natural testosterone with synthetic versions of the hormone, helping to bring levels back into a healthy range.

The therapy can be administered through various methods:

  • Injections: Testosterone can be injected directly into the bloodstream. Injections typically offer the most consistent release of testosterone.
  • Patches: A transdermal patch that slowly releases testosterone over time.
  • Topical Gels or Creams: Applied to the skin, allowing for slow absorption of testosterone.
  • Pellets: Small, solid pellets are implanted under the skin, providing a steady release of testosterone for several months.

For individuals with low testosterone, TRT has been shown to offer numerous benefits, including improvements in energy levels, mood, muscle mass, and sexual function. This is one of the key reasons why Joe Rogan, in his 50s, remains as muscular and energetic as he does. By maintaining healthy testosterone levels, Rogan can support his rigorous training schedule, ensure faster recovery, and feel more energized throughout the day.

How Does TRT Work in the Body?

TRT works by restoring testosterone to levels that are typical for someone in their 20s or early 30s. This helps to counteract the effects of aging and supports the body in several ways:

  1. Muscle Maintenance and Growth: Testosterone is one of the primary hormones responsible for muscle growth. By raising testosterone levels, individuals can experience improved muscle strength, enhanced endurance, and increased muscle mass. For Rogan, maintaining a lean, muscular physique is a key component of his fitness regimen, and TRT helps support this goal.
  2. Fat Loss: Higher testosterone levels are associated with better fat distribution and metabolism. Testosterone helps the body regulate fat by influencing how the body stores fat and how it burns it. When testosterone levels are optimized, individuals often experience a decrease in body fat, particularly around the midsection.
  3. Increased Energy and Vitality: One of the most immediate benefits of TRT is an increase in energy levels. Many men with low testosterone levels report chronic fatigue, low motivation, and an overall decrease in vitality. By restoring testosterone, individuals often experience a boost in energy, which can have a profound effect on daily life, mental focus, and physical performance. It’s why people usually have an exercise routine on TRT. 
  4. Improved Mood and Cognitive Function: Testosterone has a significant impact on mood regulation. Men with low testosterone levels may experience depression, anxiety, irritability, and a general sense of well-being decline. When testosterone levels are restored, many individuals report improved mood, clearer thinking, and better mental clarity.
  5. Sexual Health: Testosterone is the primary hormone involved in regulating libido and sexual function. For men experiencing low testosterone, issues with erectile dysfunction and decreased sexual desire are common. By restoring testosterone levels, TRT can significantly improve sexual health, libido, and performance.
A man doing lat pulldowns

What is Human Growth Hormone (HGH)?

Human growth hormone (HGH) is a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a vital role in stimulating growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration. While HGH is known for its role in childhood growth and development, it continues to have essential functions in adults, including:

  • Muscle and tissue repair: HGH helps promote the regeneration of cells and tissues throughout the body, which is crucial for muscle recovery and growth.
  • Fat metabolism: HGH plays a role in breaking down fat and converting it into energy, which helps to regulate fat stores in the body.
  • Bone density: HGH supports bone health by stimulating the production of collagen, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and joints.
  • Skin elasticity: With age, the body’s ability to produce collagen decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. HGH can help to counteract this by promoting collagen production.

As people age, the natural production of HGH decreases, which can contribute to signs of aging such as muscle loss, increased body fat, slower recovery, and reduced energy. For Joe Rogan, maintaining youthful energy levels and muscle mass is crucial, and HGH helps support his recovery from intense physical activity.

How Does HGH Work in the Body?

HGH is naturally produced in the body, but as people age, the levels of this hormone start to decline. By supplementing with synthetic HGH, individuals can experience a number of benefits:

  1. Muscle Growth and Repair: HGH stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which are vital for muscle repair. For athletes like Rogan, this means quicker recovery after intense workouts, helping him maintain his strength and fitness as he ages.
  2. Fat Reduction: One of the most significant effects of HGH is its ability to promote fat metabolism. By stimulating the breakdown of fat cells and increasing energy expenditure, HGH can help individuals achieve a leaner body composition. This is a key factor in Rogan’s ability to stay lean and muscular despite his age.
  3. Improved Bone Density: Bone health tends to decline with age, leading to an increased risk of fractures and joint problems. HGH helps to promote bone density, making bones stronger and more resistant to fractures. This is particularly important for people who engage in physically demanding activities like martial arts and weightlifting, where the risk of injury is higher.
  4. Improved Skin and Hair Health: HGH plays a role in collagen production, which can improve the elasticity and appearance of skin. As we age, reduced collagen levels can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin. By increasing HGH levels, individuals may see improvements in skin tone, texture, and overall appearance.

Enhanced Mood and Cognitive Function: Like testosterone, HGH has a positive impact on mental health. Many individuals who undergo HGH therapy report improvements in mood, better cognitive function, and enhanced mental clarity. This is essential for Rogan, who relies on sharp mental focus during both his podcasting career and his physical training.

The Synergy Between TRT and HGH

When used together, TRT and HGH can provide a powerful one-two punch for aging individuals seeking to optimize their health. While TRT focuses on boosting testosterone levels to maintain energy, muscle mass, and mood, HGH complements this by promoting tissue repair, fat loss, and bone density. Together, these therapies help Rogan maintain his youthful physique, energy levels, and mental sharpness.

For someone like Joe Rogan, who values physical performance and mental clarity, the combination of TRT and HGH offers a balanced approach to health optimization. By addressing multiple facets of aging—hormonal balance, muscle mass, fat regulation, energy, and recovery—TRT and HGH allow Rogan to continue performing at a high level, both in his physical activities and professional life.

Joe Rogan staring at the camera seriously

The Controversy of Steroid Use in Sports and Fitness

The Stigma Surrounding Steroids

Steroids, especially anabolic steroids, have a controversial reputation in fitness and sports. They’re often associated with cheating and unfair performance enhancement, especially in professional bodybuilding and athletics. However, when used medically for legitimate health reasons (like TRT), the stigma can be unfairly applied.

Joe Rogan’s Stance on Steroids vs. Medically Supervised Hormone Therapy

Rogan has made it clear that he doesn’t endorse the use of anabolic steroids for muscle building in an unregulated fashion. However, he is a proponent of medically supervised hormone replacement therapies. Rogan believes that TRT and HGH are helpful for aging individuals and can be an essential part of a responsible fitness journey.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Risks of Using TRT and HGH

While TRT and HGH have several benefits, there are also risks involved, particularly when not medically supervised:

  • Potential heart problems
  • Increased risk of blood clots
  • Joint pain or swelling
  • Possible development of certain cancers (with long-term use)
  • Hormonal imbalances if dosage isn’t monitored

Comparing TRT and HGH to Anabolic Steroids

Compared to anabolic steroids, TRT and HGH have fewer risks when used properly. Anabolic steroids can cause severe health issues such as liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and psychological effects like aggression. In contrast, medically prescribed hormone therapies are intended to restore balance in the body, not push it beyond its natural limits.

muscular injection

Take Your Health Journey to the Next Level with Trusted SARMs

While Joe Rogan has openly discussed his use of TRT and HGH, it’s clear that his commitment to fitness goes far beyond hormone therapies. Rogan’s health practices are a combination of diet, exercise, and medically supervised treatments aimed at improving his quality of life as he ages. While TRT and HGH are not steroids in the traditional sense, they’re powerful tools when used correctly. So, is Joe Rogan on steroids? Not exactly—but he is using medical treatments that help him stay in peak condition.

If you’re inspired by Joe Rogan’s commitment to health and want to explore the potential of hormone therapy or other bodybuilding supplements, Trusted SARMs offers a range of products to help you on your journey. We provide high-quality, scientifically-backed supplements and products to support your fitness goals. Whether you’re looking for performance-enhancing compounds or just ways to optimize your health, Trusted SARMs has you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Joe Rogan take steroids?
Joe Rogan does not take anabolic steroids but has been open about using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and human growth hormone (HGH) as part of his health optimization strategy. These therapies are medically supervised and aimed at maintaining health as he ages, rather than enhancing muscle growth.

Why did Joe Rogan start TRT?
Rogan began TRT in his late 40s to address the natural decline in testosterone levels that comes with aging. TRT helps him maintain energy, muscle mass, and overall health, which aligns with his fitness goals.

How does TRT affect Joe Rogan’s physique?
Since starting TRT, Rogan has maintained a muscular and lean physique. While TRT plays a role in supporting his muscle maintenance and recovery, Rogan’s dedication to regular training and healthy living is equally important in his results.

What are the benefits of HGH for aging?
HGH can help improve muscle tone, speed up recovery, reduce body fat, and increase energy. As people age, HGH levels decline, leading to slower recovery times and more fat accumulation. For Rogan, HGH helps counteract these aging effects and keeps him feeling youthful.

Are there risks associated with TRT and HGH?
While TRT and HGH can be beneficial when used responsibly, there are potential risks, including cardiovascular issues, joint pain, and hormonal imbalances. It’s crucial to use these therapies under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Does TRT make you stronger?
TRT can help restore testosterone levels, leading to increased muscle strength, improved recovery times, and better overall performance, especially in those with low testosterone levels.

Is TRT the same as taking steroids?
No, TRT is a medically supervised therapy designed to restore normal testosterone levels in those who are deficient. Anabolic steroids, on the other hand, are often used for muscle-building purposes and can be abused for performance enhancement.

How does Joe Rogan maintain his fitness at 56?
Rogan stays fit through a combination of regular Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practice, weight training, a healthy diet, and hormone replacement therapies like TRT and HGH.

What is the difference between TRT and anabolic steroids?
TRT is used to maintain normal testosterone levels in individuals with a deficiency, while anabolic steroids are often used to promote muscle growth beyond normal levels. TRT is more about health optimization, while steroids are often used for performance enhancement.

Can I try TRT or HGH to improve my health?
If you’re considering TRT or HGH, it’s important to consult with a doctor who specializes in hormone therapies. These treatments should be tailored to your individual health needs and goals.

    Let’s Get You Started 💪

    Enter your email to unlock 15% off your first order, plus access to bodybuilding tips, product guides, and exclusive offers.




    For more information on how we process your data for marketing communication. Check our Privacy policy.

    Almost There 👊

    Tell us who you are so we can personalize your experience.



      Let’s Get You Started 💪

      Enter your email to unlock 15% off your first order, plus access to bodybuilding tips, product guides, and exclusive offers.




      For more information on how we process your data for marketing communication. Check our Privacy policy.

      Almost There 👊

      Tell us who you are so we can personalize your experience.



      Home Shop Cart Account
      Shopping Cart (0)

      No products in the cart. No products in the cart.



      Shop by Category See All