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

Author

Listed:
  • Eladio Collado-Boira

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Pablo Baliño

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • 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
    Sports Health Unit, Vithas-Nisa 9 de Octubre Hospital, 46015 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
    Department of Education and Specific Didactics, Sport Service, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain)

  • María Muriach

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, 12071 Castellon, Spain)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Eladio Collado-Boira & Pablo Baliño & Ana Boldo-Roda & Ignacio Martínez-Navarro & Bárbara Hernando & Paula Recacha-Ponce & Carlos Hernando & María Muriach, 2021. "Influence of Female Sex Hormones on Ultra-Running Performance and Post-Race Recovery: Role of Testosterone," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(19), pages 1-12, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:19:p:10403-:d:649061
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Angelika Stöhr & Pantelis Theodoros Nikolaidis & Elias Villiger & Caio Victor Sousa & Volker Scheer & Lee Hill & Beat Knechtle, 2021. "An Analysis of Participation and Performance of 2067 100-km Ultra-Marathons Worldwide," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-12, January.
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    1. Anna Piotrowska & Halina Gattner & Justyna Adamiak & Sylwia Mętel & Olga Czerwińska-Ledwig & Wanda Pilch & Ewa Sadowska-Krępa & Małgorzata Żychowska & Ivan Uher & Tomasz Pałka, 2022. "Effect of Whole-Body Vibration on Serum Levels of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Cortisol in Young, Healthy Women," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(23), pages 1-11, December.

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