From the Guidelines
Weightlifting can temporarily increase PSA blood test results, and it is recommended to avoid vigorous exercise, including weightlifting, for 48-72 hours before a PSA test to ensure accurate results. This is based on recent evidence from the British Journal of Cancer, which suggests that physical activity, especially acute exercise, may increase serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentration 1. The mechanism behind this elevation is thought to be related to mechanical trauma to the prostate gland, leading to a temporary release of PSA into the bloodstream.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the impact of weightlifting on PSA test results include:
- The elevation in PSA levels is typically modest, usually less than 0.5 ng/mL, and returns to baseline within a couple of days 1.
- Other activities that can affect PSA results include cycling, sexual activity, and prostate manipulations such as digital rectal exams or prostate biopsies.
- Habitual physical activity may be associated with lower PSA concentration, but acute exercise can have the opposite effect 1.
- It is essential to inform healthcare providers about any recent physical activity that might influence PSA test results, especially if being monitored for prostate conditions or cancer.
In terms of the evidence, a recent study published in the British Journal of Cancer in 2024 found that physical activity, especially acute exercise, may increase serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentration 1. This study highlights the importance of considering the potential impact of physical activity on PSA test results and taking steps to minimize any temporary elevations in PSA levels.
Overall, the current evidence suggests that weightlifting and other forms of vigorous exercise can temporarily increase PSA blood test results, and healthcare providers should take this into consideration when interpreting test results and advising patients on how to prepare for PSA tests.
From the Research
Resistance Training and PSA Blood Test Results
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that resistance training, specifically weightlifting, affects Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test results.
- The studies focus on the relationship between PSA testing and prostate cancer diagnosis 2, 3, 4, as well as physical activity guidelines for Americans 5 and alternative biopsy methods for prostate cancer diagnosis 6.
- None of the studies investigate the impact of resistance training or weightlifting on PSA levels.
- Therefore, there is no conclusive evidence to determine whether resistance training affects PSA blood test results 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.