Response of the testosterone to cortisol ratio during training for sprinters and endurance runners

Abstract

Response of the testosterone to cortisol ratio during training for sprinters and endurance runners The testosterone/cortisol ratio (T/C) has been suggested for exercise evaluation and training control (BANFI et al., 1993). The purpose of this study was to investigate the plasma testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) responses during a period of training preparation for sprinters and endurance runners. Six endurance runners (ER; 27.5 ± 8.7 years; 174 ± 3.8 cm, 67.7 ± 5.8 kg; n = 6) and six sprinters (SR; 25.8 ± 3.5 years; 174 ± 7.2 cm, 71.1 ± 3.7 kg; n = 6 ) that were participating on the 1st phase (P1) of their training period volunteered to this study. The participants performed the following running test, before (pre) and after (post) accomplishing the 2nd phase (P2) of training: Standardized test of exercise- After an all-out 500 m for lactic acidosis induction, the subjects ran 6 x 800 m at intensities between 84 and 99% of their best 3 km performance. The levels of T and C were measured (radioimmunoassay) at rest and immediately after the 500 m all-out and at the end of the 6 x 800 m bouts. The ER performed a higher total training volume (TTV) with predominance of moderate to heavy intensity. The SR performed low TTV with a higher % of their TTV at higher intensities (heavy to severe intensities), mainly during P2. No differences were observed for the mean T/C results for both groups after P2. However, when the data are analyzed on individual basis, an adaptative response was observed for some athletes but not for others. A higher incidence of T/C decrease was observed for ER. It was concluded that the T/C ratio analyzes for training control must be done on individual basis. Also, volume instead of intensity of training seems to have higher influence on T/C ratio.