Influence of Female Sex Hormones on Ultra-Running Performance and Post-Race Recovery: Role of Testosterone

Eladio Collado-Boira, Pablo Baliño, Ana Boldo-Roda, Ignacio Martínez-Navarro, Bárbara Hernando, Paula Recacha-Ponce, Carlos Hernando and María Muriach
Additional contact information
Eladio Collado-Boira: Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain
Pablo Baliño: Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain
Ana Boldo-Roda: Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of La Plana, 12540 Vila-Real, Spain
Ignacio Martínez-Navarro: Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
Bárbara Hernando: Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain
Paula Recacha-Ponce: Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain
Carlos Hernando: Sport Service, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain
María Muriach: Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 19, 1-12

Abstract: In recent years, increasing numbers of women have participated in extremely long races. In adult males, there is a clear association between physiological levels of endogenous sex hormones and physical performance. However, the influence of plasmatic sex hormones and the effects of different types of hormonal contraception (HC) on the modulation of physical performance in adult females remain to be fully clarified. Eighteen female ultra-endurance athletes were recruited to participate in the study. Different variables were studied, including hematological parameters, body mass index, and body composition. Strength measurements were obtained using the squat-jump and hand-grip test. A repeated-measures analysis demonstrated significant differences in hematological values of CK and LDH pre-race as compared to immediately post-race and after 24/48 h. Furthermore, statistical differences were found in squat-jump and hand-grip test results after the ultramarathon. Testosterone, estradiol, and the testosterone/estrogen ratio were significantly correlated with muscle fatigue and were found to be indirect markers of muscle damage. A multivariate analysis demonstrated the protective role of testosterone against muscle damage and severe fatigue. Fluctuations in endogenous testosterone levels were correlated with greater fatigability and muscle damage after the competition. Adjusting the menstrual cycle with HC would not provide any further benefit to the athlete’s competitive capacity.

Keywords: ultra-endurance; hormones; female athletes; physical performance; muscle damage; muscle fatigue; hormonal contraception (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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