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Ronca F, Blodgett JM, Bruinvels G, Lowery M, Raviraj M, Sandhar G, Symeonides N, Jones C, Loosemore M, Burgess PW. Attentional, anticipatory and spatial cognition fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle: potential implications for female sport. Neuropsychologia 2024:108909. [PMID: 38762068 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2024.108909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Current research suggests that menstruating female athletes might be at greater risk of musculoskeletal injury in relation to hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle. A separate body of work suggests that spatial cognition might also fluctuate in a similar manner. Changes in spatial cognition could, in theory, be a contributing risk factor for injury, especially in fast-paced sports that require precise, millisecond accuracy in interactions with moving objects in the environment. However, existing theories surrounding causes for increased injury risk in menstruating females largely focus on biomechanical mechanisms, with little consideration of possible cognitive determinants of injury risk. Therefore, the aim of this proof-of-principle study was to explore whether menstruating females exhibit fluctuations in cognitive processes throughout their cycle on a novel sport-oriented cognitive test battery, designed to measure some of the mental processes putatively involved in these sporting situations. A total of 394 participants completed an online cognitive battery, a mood scale and a symptom questionnaire twice, 14 days apart. After exclusions, 241 eligible participants were included in the analyses (mean: 28 ± 6 years) (male = 96, female(menstruating) = 105, female(contraception) = 47). Cycle phase for menstruating females was based on self-reported information. The cognitive battery was designed to measure reaction times, attention, visuospatial functions (including 3D mental rotation) and timing anticipation. Three composite scores were generated using factor analysis with varimax rotation (Errors, Reaction Time, Intra-Individual Variability). Mixed model ANOVAs and repeated measures ANOVAs were performed to test for between and within-subject effects. There was no group difference in reaction times and accuracy between males and females (using contraception and not). However, within subject analyses revealed that regularly menstruating females performed better during menstruation compared to being in any other phase, with faster reaction times (10ms c.ca, p < .01), fewer errors (p < .05) and lower dispersion intra-individual variability (p < .05). In contrast they exhibited slower reaction times (10ms c.ca, p < .01) and poorer timing anticipation (p < .01) in the luteal phase, and more errors in the predicted ovulatory phase (p < .01). Self-reported mood, cognitive and physical symptoms were all worst during menstruation (p < .01), and a significant proportion of females felt that their symptoms were negatively affecting their cognitive performance during menstruation on testing day, which was incongruent with their actual performance. These findings suggest that visuospatial and anticipatory processes may fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle in the general population, with better performance during the menstrual phase and poorer performance during the luteal phase. If these extend to associations between phase-specific cognitive performance and injury incidence, they would support a cognitive theory of determinants of injury risk in cycling female athletes, opening an opportunity to develop mitigation strategies where appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Ronca
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - J M Blodgett
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - G Bruinvels
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - M Lowery
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK; Sport and Wellbeing Analytics Limited, Swansea, UK
| | - M Raviraj
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - G Sandhar
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - N Symeonides
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - C Jones
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK; Sport and Wellbeing Analytics Limited, Swansea, UK
| | - M Loosemore
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - P W Burgess
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
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2
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Beníčková M, Gimunová M, Paludo AC. Effect of circadian rhythm and menstrual cycle on physical performance in women: a systematic review. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1347036. [PMID: 38720785 PMCID: PMC11076705 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1347036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The literature has extensively investigated potential factors influencing women's performance, including the menstrual cycle and the circadian rhythm. However, review articles exploring the combined influence of both factors remain lacking in the literature. The study aimed to systematically review the literature on the relationship between the circadian rhythm and menstrual cycle on physical performance in women. The review followed the PRISMA guidelines. The search was performed on the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Google Scholar databases. Of the 1205 records identified, four articles met the inclusion criteria. From four articles, two studies found a significant interaction between the time of day and phase of the menstrual cycle with physical performance. The isometric strength increased in the afternoon in the mid-luteal phase (versus the morning in the mid-luteal phase, p < 0.05), and the maximum cycling power was higher in the afternoon in the mid-follicular phase (versus the morning in the mid-follicular phase, p < 0.01). Our findings suggest that the time of day and the menstrual cycle phase affect physical performance, with the daytime potentially having a more significant influence. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously due to the limited studies and diverse methodologies used to monitor the menstrual cycle phase. This review reinforces the need for further investigation to understand better the combined effects of the circadian rhythm and menstrual cycle on women's physical performance. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=380965, identifier CRD42022380965.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Beníčková
- Department of Physical Activities and Health Sciences, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Marta Gimunová
- Department of Physical Activities and Health Sciences, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Ana Carolina Paludo
- Department of Sport Performance and Exercise Testing, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
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Sawai A, Shida T, Hoshikawa Y, Hatanaka S, Ueda M, Kato Y, Tokinoya K, Natsui H, Kawakami Y, Takekoshi K. Effect of acute moderate-intensity cycling on cfDNA levels considering menstrual cycle phases. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1322295. [PMID: 38348376 PMCID: PMC10859457 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1322295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction We aimed to determine the effects of exercise on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) levels and concentration changes during the menstrual cycle in participants with regular menstrual cycles and no exercise habits. Methods Eleven sedentary female students with regular menstrual cycles and ovulation performed bicycle exercises at 60% VO2max for 30 min during the menstrual, ovulatory, and luteal phases. Blood samples were collected before (Pre), immediately after (Post 0), 30 min after (Post 30), and 60 min after (Post 60) exercise. Blood concentrations of ovarian hormones, cfDNA, prostaglandin F2a (PGF2α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and aromatase were evaluated. Results Based on the concentration of ovarian hormones, seven individuals were finally analyzed. No significant phase difference was observed in cfDNA across all time points. cfDNA (menstrual phase: p = 0.028, ovulatory phase: p = 0.018, and luteal phase: p = 0.048) and aromatase concentrations (menstrual phase: p = 0.040, ovulatory phase: p = 0.039, and luteal phase: p = 0.045) significantly increased from Pre to Post 0 in all phases. Serum estradiol (E2) levels were significantly higher in the luteal phase at all time points than in the menstrual phase (Pre: p < 0.001, Post 0: p < 0.001, Post 30: p = 0.005, and Post 60: p = 0.011); however, serum progesterone (P4) levels were significantly higher in the luteal phase at all time points than in the menstrual (Pre: p < 0.001, Post 0: p < 0.001, Post 30: p < 0.001, and Post 60: p < 0.001) and ovulatory phases (Pre: p = 0.005, Post 0: p = 0.005, Post 30: p = 0.003, and Post 60: p = 0.003). E2 levels significantly increased from Pre to Post 0 in the ovulatory and luteal phases, whereas P4 levels increased in the luteal phase. Progesterone to estradiol level ratio (P4/E2) changes from Pre to Post 0 (%baseline) during the luteal phase were significantly negatively correlated (r = -0.82, p = 0.046) with the changes in cfDNA from Pre to Post 0. Furthermore, the repeated measures correlation between P4/E2 and cfDNA level showed a significant negative correlation in ovulatory and luteal phases. Discussion The results indicate that while resting cfDNA levels are unlikely to be affected by a woman's menstrual cycle, the increase in cfDNA after exercise is higher in the ovulatory phase (when only E2 increases) and lower in the luteal phase (when E2 and P4 increase with exercise) compared to that in the menstrual phase (when E2 and P4 are in low levels), suggesting the contribution of increased ovarian hormone levels after exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akemi Sawai
- Research Institute of Physical Fitness, Japan Women’s College of Physical Education, Setagaya City, Japan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Takashi Shida
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
- Research Team for Promoting Independence and Mental Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi City, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Hoshikawa
- Department of Sports Science, Japan Women’s College of Physical Education, Setagaya City, Japan
| | - Sho Hatanaka
- Research Team for Promoting Independence and Mental Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi City, Japan
| | - Mashiro Ueda
- Master’s Program in Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Yuri Kato
- Master’s Program in Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Tokinoya
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
- Embodied Wisdom Division, Center for Liberal Education and Learning, Sophia University, Chiyoda City, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Natsui
- Department of Sports and Health Science, Japan Women’s College of Physical Education, Setagaya City, Japan
| | - Yasushi Kawakami
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Takekoshi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Japan
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Niering M, Wolf-Belala N, Seifert J, Tovar O, Coldewey J, Kuranda J, Muehlbauer T. The Influence of Menstrual Cycle Phases on Maximal Strength Performance in Healthy Female Adults: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Sports (Basel) 2024; 12:31. [PMID: 38251305 PMCID: PMC10818650 DOI: 10.3390/sports12010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Maximal strength is a significant factor in achieving peak performance and injury prevention in athletes. In individualization strategies for the efficient development of athletes, it is necessary to consider the respective components separately. The purpose of this study was to systematically examine the effects of the different cycle phases on isometric, isokinetic, and dynamic maximum strength. A systematic literature review was conducted; databases were searched from January 1960 to September 2023. The included studies focused on the expression of maximal strength in the earlier follicular phase as well as at least one comparative phase. Of the initial 707 articles identified, 22 met the selection criteria and were included. The studies considered a total of 433 subjects. Our results revealed medium effects (weighted mean standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.60; seven studies) for isometric maximal strength in favor of the late follicular phase, small effects (weighted mean SMD = 0.39; five studies) for isokinetic maximal strength in favor of the ovulation phase, and small effects (weighted mean SMD = 0.14; three studies) for dynamic maximal strength in favor of the late follicular phase. The results indicate that the early follicular phase is unfavorable for all strength classes. Peak performance in isometric strength is seen in the late follicular phase, whereas isokinetic strength peaks during ovulation. Dynamic strength is optimal in the late follicular phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Niering
- Institute of Biomechanics and Neurosciences, Nordic Science, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (M.N.); (N.W.-B.); (J.S.)
| | - Nacera Wolf-Belala
- Institute of Biomechanics and Neurosciences, Nordic Science, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (M.N.); (N.W.-B.); (J.S.)
| | - Johanna Seifert
- Institute of Biomechanics and Neurosciences, Nordic Science, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (M.N.); (N.W.-B.); (J.S.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical School Hannover, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ole Tovar
- Department of Sports Science, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Jacqueline Coldewey
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Biosciences of Sports, University of Hildesheim, 31141 Hildesheim, Germany;
| | - Jennifer Kuranda
- Triagon Academy Munich, School of Sports, Psychology and Education, 85737 Ismaning, Germany;
| | - Thomas Muehlbauer
- Division of Movement and Training Sciences/Biomechanics of Sport, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
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5
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Thompson JD, Howe D, Griffith EH, Fisher MB. Neo-Natal Castration Leads to Subtle Differences in Porcine Anterior Cruciate Ligament Morphology and Function in Adolescence. J Biomech Eng 2024; 146:011002. [PMID: 37831117 PMCID: PMC10680984 DOI: 10.1115/1.4063744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Female adolescent athletes are at a higher risk of tearing their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) than male counterparts. While most work related to hormones has focused on the effects of estrogen to understand the increased risk of ACL injury, there are other understudied factors, including testosterone. The purpose of this study was to determine how surgical castration in the male porcine model influences ACL size and function across skeletal growth. Thirty-six male Yorkshire crossbreed pigs were raised to 3 (juvenile), 4.5 (early adolescent), and 6 months (adolescent) of age. Animals were either castrated (barrows) within 2 weeks after birth or were left intact (boars). Posteuthanasia, joint and ACL size were assessed via MRI, and biomechanics were assessed via a robotic testing system. Joint size increased throughout age, yet barrows had smaller joints than boars. ACL cross-sectional area (CSA), length, volume, and in situ stiffness increased with age, as did the percent contribution of the ACL anteromedial (AM) bundle to resisting loads. Boar ACL, AM bundle, and PL bundle volumes were 19%, 25%, and 15% larger than barrows across ages. However, ACL CSA, in situ stiffness, and bundle contribution were similar between boars and barrows. The barrows had smaller temporal increases in AM bundle function than boars, but these data were highly variable. Early and sustained loss in testosterone leads to subtle differences in ACL morphology but may not influence measures associated with increased injury risk, such as CSA or bundle forces in response to applied loads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D. Thompson
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Raleigh, NC 27695; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Danielle Howe
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Raleigh, NC 27695; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Emily H. Griffith
- Department of Statistics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Matthew B. Fisher
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 4130 Engineering Building III, 1840 Entrepreneur Drive, CB 7115, Raleigh, NC 27695; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695; Department of Orthopaedics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
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6
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Vogel K, Larsen B, McLellan C, Bird SP. Female Athletes and the Menstrual Cycle in Team Sports: Current State of Play and Considerations for Future Research. Sports (Basel) 2023; 12:4. [PMID: 38275983 PMCID: PMC10818287 DOI: 10.3390/sports12010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past ten years there has been a dramatic rise in female sport participation and accompanying female professional national leagues across multiple sports, yet research has not followed suit. Although there are known variations between female and male physiology, training protocols in female sport are predominantly underpinned by research undertaken in male athletes. The hormonal variability experienced by women across the menstrual cycle, as well as the menstrual cycle variability between women, may contribute to the complexity of conducting rigorous physiological studies, leading to a paucity of robust sports-specific research that can be confidently applied to female athletes. Moreover, barriers exist in female sport that potentially limit the ability to conduct research, including the lack of full-time programs and limited resources. Recently, there has been increased interest in the potential effects of fluctuations in the female sex hormones, progesterone and oestrogen, on sport performance across different phases of the menstrual cycle. However, current research evaluating the menstrual cycle and physical performance (such as strength, speed, aerobic fitness, and athletes' perception of their performance) have shown inconsistent results. Additionally, methodological design across studies has shown little consistency, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions, which potentially prevents female athletes optimising their physical and sporting performance. It further impacts coaches and sports science researchers in their ability to provide appropriate training recommendations and educational opportunities. It is important to progress in female athlete research with an understanding of how the unique physiology of female athletes may influence their ability to physically perform in their respective sport, which requires representation in sports science research. This paper will provide an overview on current evidence and limitations within menstrual cycle research and provide considerations and directions for future research in this space within team sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Vogel
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
- Lions Football Club, Richlands, QLD 4077, Australia
- Brisbane Tigers Rugby League Club, Coorparoo, QLD 4151, Australia
| | - Brianna Larsen
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
| | - Chris McLellan
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Florida Panthers, Sunrise, FL 33323, USA
| | - Stephen P. Bird
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia; (K.V.); (B.L.); (C.M.)
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
- Basketball New Zealand, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
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7
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De Martin Topranin V, Engseth TP, Hrozanova M, Taylor M, Sandbakk Ø, Noordhof DA. The Influence of Menstrual-Cycle Phase on Measures of Recovery Status in Endurance Athletes: The Female Endurance Athlete Project. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:1296-1303. [PMID: 37726100 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the influence of menstrual-cycle (MC) phase on measures of recovery status, that is, resting heart rate, perceived sleep quality, and physical and mental readiness to train, among female endurance athletes. METHODS Daily data were recorded during 1 to 4 MCs (ie, duration ≥21 and ≤35 d, ovulatory, luteal phase ≥10 d) of 41 trained-to-elite-level female endurance athletes (mean [SD]: age 27 [8] y, weekly training: 9 [3] h). Resting heart rate was assessed daily using a standardized protocol, while perceived sleep quality and physical and mental readiness to train were assessed using a visual analog scale (1-10). Four MC phases (early follicular phase [EFP], late follicular phase, ovulatory phase, and midluteal phase [MLP]) were determined using the calendar-based counting method and urinary ovulation-prediction test. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS Resting heart rate was significantly higher in MLP (1.7 beats·min-1, P = .006) compared with EFP without significant differences between the other MC phases. Perceived sleep quality was impaired in MLP compared with late follicular phase (-0.3, P = .035). Physical readiness to train was lower both in ovulatory phase (-0.6, P = .015) and MLP (-0.5, P = .026) compared with EFP. Mental readiness to train did not show any significant differences between MC phases (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS Although significant, the findings had negligible to small effect sizes, indicating that MC phase is likely not the main determinant of changes in measures of recovery status but, rather, one of the many possible stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia De Martin Topranin
- Center for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science (INB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Maria Hrozanova
- Center for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science (INB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Madison Taylor
- School of Sport Sciences, UiT Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Øyvind Sandbakk
- Center for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science (INB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- School of Sport Sciences, UiT Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Dionne A Noordhof
- Center for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science (INB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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8
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Bouten J, Brick M, Saboua A, Hadjadj JL, Piscione J, Margot C, Doucende G, Bourrel N, Millet GP, Brocherie F. Effects of 2 Different Protocols of Repeated-Sprint Training in Hypoxia in Elite Female Rugby Sevens Players During an Altitude Training Camp. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:953-959. [PMID: 37487586 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Repeated-sprint training in hypoxia (RSH) is an effective way of improving physical performance compared with similar training in normoxia. RSH efficiency relies on hypoxia severity, but also on the oxidative-glycolytic balance determined by both sprint duration and exercise-to-rest ratio. This study investigated the effect of 2 types of RSH sessions during a classic altitude camp in world-class female rugby sevens players. METHODS Sixteen players performed 5 RSH sessions on a cycle ergometer (simulated altitude: 3000 m above sea level [asl]) during a 3-week natural altitude camp (1850 m asl). Players were assigned to 2 different protocols with either a high (RSH1:3, sprint duration: 8-10 s; exercise-to-rest ratios: 1:2-1:3; n = 7) or a low exercise-to-rest ratio (RSH1:5, sprint duration: 5-15 s; exercise-to-rest ratios: 1:2-1:5; n = 9). Repeated-sprint performances (maximal and mean power outputs [PPOmax, and PPOmean]) were measured before and after the intervention, along with physiological responses. RESULTS PPOmax (962 [100] to 1020 [143] W, P = .008, Cohen d = 0.47) and PPOmean (733 [71] to 773 [91] W, P = .008, d = 0.50) increased from before to after. A significant interaction effect (P = .048, d = 0.50) was observed for PPOmean, with a larger increase observed in RSH1:3 (P = .003). No interaction effects were observed (P > .05) for the other variables. CONCLUSION A classic altitude camp with 5 RSH sessions superimposed on rugby-sevens-specific training led to an improved repeated-sprint performance, suggesting that RSH effects are not blunted by prolonged hypoxic exposure. Interestingly, using a higher exercise-to-rest ratio during RSH appears to be more effective than when applying a lower exercise-to-rest ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janne Bouten
- Laboratory of Sport, Expertise and Performance, French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Paris,France
| | - Maxime Brick
- Research Department, French Rugby Union, Marcoussis,France
| | - Antoine Saboua
- Research Department, French Rugby Union, Marcoussis,France
| | | | | | - Chloé Margot
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne,Switzerland
| | - Gregory Doucende
- Centre National d'Entraînement en Altitude, Font Romeu,France
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire Performance Santé en Environnement de Montagne (LIPSEM), Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, Font Romeu,France
| | - Nicolas Bourrel
- Centre National d'Entraînement en Altitude, Font Romeu,France
- Institut National du Sport (INS), Montreal, QC,Canada
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne,Switzerland
| | - Franck Brocherie
- Laboratory of Sport, Expertise and Performance, French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Paris,France
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9
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Veldema J. Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation and Sex/Polypeptide Hormones in Reciprocal Interactions: A Systematic Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1981. [PMID: 37509620 PMCID: PMC10377221 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A better understanding of interindividual differences and the development of targeted therapies is one of the major challenges of modern medicine. The sex of a person plays a crucial role in this regard. This systematic review aimed to summarise and analyse available evidence on the mutual interactions between non-invasive brain stimulation and sex/polypeptide hormones. The PubMed database was searched from its inception to 31 March 2023, for (i) studies that investigated the impact of sex and/or polypeptide hormones on the effects induced by non-invasive brain stimulation, or (ii) studies that investigated non-invasive brain stimulation in the modulation of sex and/or polypeptide hormones. Eighteen studies (319 healthy and 96 disabled participants) were included. Most studies focused on female sex hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. The later follicular phase is associated with a weak between hemispheric and intracortical inhibition, strong intracortical facilitation, and high stimulation-induced neural and behavioural changes. The opposite effects are observed during the luteal phase. In addition, the participant's sex, presence and/or absence of real ovulation and increase in oestradiol level by chorionic gonadotropin injection influence the stimulation-induced neurophysiological and behavioural effects. In Parkinson's disease and consciousness disorders, the repetitive application of non-invasive brain stimulation increases oestradiol and dehydroepiandrosterone levels and reduces disability. To date, male hormones have not been sufficiently included in these studies. Here, we show that the sex and/or polypeptide hormones and non-invasive brain stimulation methods are in reciprocal interactions. This may be used to create a more effective and individualised approach for healthy individuals and individuals with disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Veldema
- Department of Sport Science, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
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10
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Arenas-Pareja MDLÁ, López-Sierra P, Ibáñez SJ, García-Rubio J. Influence of Menstrual Cycle on Internal and External Load in Professional Women Basketball Players. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11060822. [PMID: 36981479 PMCID: PMC10047984 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11060822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The menstrual cycle can be seen as a potential determinant of performance. This study aims to analyze the influence of the menstrual cycle in women on sports performance, more specifically on the internal and external load of professional women basketball players. The sample consisted of 16 women players and 14 training sessions were recorded. A descriptive analysis of the mean and standard deviation of the variables according to the different phases of the menstrual cycle was performed, as well as an ANCOVA, partial Eta2 effect size criteria, and Bonferroni’s Post Hoc test to identify differences among phases. The results establish that ovulation is the phase in which higher values of external load are recorded and, therefore, the late follicular phase is the time of the cycle where a greater intensity in explosive distance, accelerations and decelerations are recorded. Considering women’s hormonal cycles, understanding their function and the individual characteristics of each athlete is essential since it allows for the development of specific training, the prevention of injuries and therefore positively affects the performance of women players. To this end, individual training profiles should be created in specific contexts, not following general rules. In addition, psychological factors and the specific position of the athletes should be monitored.
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Thompson JD, Howe D, Griffith EH, Fisher MB. Neo-natal castration leads to subtle differences in porcine anterior cruciate ligament morphology and function in adolescence. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.24.524954. [PMID: 36747760 PMCID: PMC9900825 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.24.524954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Female adolescent athletes are at a higher risk of tearing their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) than male counterparts. While most work related to hormones has focused on the effects of estrogen to understand the increased risk of ACL injury, there are other understudied factors, including testosterone. The purpose of this study was to determine how surgical castration in the male porcine model influences ACL size and function across skeletal growth. Thirty-six male Yorkshire crossbreed pigs were raised to 3 (juvenile), 4.5 (early adolescent), and 6 months (adolescent) of age. Animals were either castrated (barrows) within 1-2 weeks after birth or were left intact (boars). Post-euthanasia, joint and ACL size were assessed via MRI, and biomechanics were assessed via a robotic testing system. Joint size increased throughout age, yet barrows had smaller joints than boars (p<0.001 for all measures). ACL cross-sectional area (CSA), length, volume, and stiffness increased with age (p<0.0001), as did ACL anteromedial (AM) bundle percent contribution to resisting loads (p=0.012). Boar ACL, AM bundle, and PL bundle volumes were 19% (p=0.002), 25% (p=0.003), and 15% (p=0.04) larger than barrows across ages. However, CSA, stiffness, and bundle contribution were similar between boars and barrows (p>0.05). The barrows had smaller temporal increases in AM bundle percent function than boars, but these data were highly variable. Thus, early and sustained loss in testosterone leads to subtle differences in ACL morphology, but may not influence measures associated with increased injury risk, such as CSA or bundle forces in response to applied loads.
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Dos’Santos T, Stebbings GK, Morse C, Shashidharan M, Daniels KAJ, Sanderson A. Effects of the menstrual cycle phase on anterior cruciate ligament neuromuscular and biomechanical injury risk surrogates in eumenorrheic and naturally menstruating women: A systematic review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280800. [PMID: 36701354 PMCID: PMC9879429 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eumenorrheic women experience cyclic variations in sex hormones attributed to the menstrual cycle (MC) which can impact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) properties, knee laxity, and neuromuscular function. This systematic review aimed to examine the effects of the MC on ACL neuromuscular and biomechanical injury risk surrogates during dynamic tasks, to establish whether a particular MC phase predisposes women to greater ACL injury risk. METHODS PubMed, Medline, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science were searched (May-July 2021) for studies that investigated the effects of the MC on ACL neuromuscular and biomechanical injury risk surrogates. Inclusion criteria were: 1) injury-free women (18-40 years); 2) verified MC phases via biochemical analysis and/or ovulation kits; 3) examined neuromuscular and/or biomechanical injury risk surrogates during dynamic tasks; 4) compared ≥1 outcome measure across ≥2 defined MC phases. RESULTS Seven of 418 articles were included. Four studies reported no significant differences in ACL injury risk surrogates between MC phases. Two studies showed evidence the mid-luteal phase may predispose women to greater risk of non-contact ACL injury. Three studies reported knee laxity fluctuated across the MC; two of which demonstrated MC attributed changes in knee laxity were associated with changes in knee joint loading (KJL). Study quality (Modified Downs and Black Checklist score: 7-9) and quality of evidence were low to very low (Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation: very low). CONCLUSION It is inconclusive whether a particular MC phase predisposes women to greater non-contact ACL injury risk based on neuromuscular and biomechanical surrogates. Practitioners should be cautious manipulating their physical preparation, injury mitigation, and screening practises based on current evidence. Although variable (i.e., magnitude and direction), MC attributed changes in knee laxity were associated with changes in potentially hazardous KJLs. Monitoring knee laxity could therefore be a viable strategy to infer possible ACL injury risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Dos’Santos
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Georgina K. Stebbings
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Morse
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Medha Shashidharan
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine A. J. Daniels
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andy Sanderson
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Paludo AC, Paravlic A, Dvořáková K, Gimunová M. The Effect of Menstrual Cycle on Perceptual Responses in Athletes: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Front Psychol 2022; 13:926854. [PMID: 35911030 PMCID: PMC9328165 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.926854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This article aimed to investigate the effects of menstrual cycle phases on perceptual responses in athletes by means of systematic review and meta-analysis. The search was conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Sport Discus databases considering articles with two or more menstrual phases for comparison. The PECO criteria were used for the keywords “menstrual cycle,” “athletes,” and “perceptual responses” with their respective entry terms. Of 1.165 records identified, 14 articles were available for the final evaluation, while eight articles were eligible for a meta-analysis. The perceptual responses evaluated in the studies were: motivation, competitiveness, sleep quality, stress, muscle soreness, fatigue, perceived effort, mood, menstrual symptoms, perceived endurance, and readiness. The meta-analysis was conducted for perceived effort only. The results showed that the level of perceived exertion does not differ two phases of the menstrual cycle (MD = 3.03, Q = 1.58, df = 1, p = 0.209), whereas RPE was 19.81 ± 0.05 and 16.27 ± 0.53 at day 1–5 and day 19–24, respectively. Two studies found statistically significant changes in motivation and competitiveness during the cycle, with better outcomes in ovulatory phase compared to follicular and luteal. One study found an increase in mood disturbance in the pre-menstrual phase (vs. mid-cycle); one decreased vigor in the menstrual phase (vs. luteal); one increased the menstrual symptoms in the follicular phase (vs. ovulation), and one study reported increased fatigue and decreased sleep quality on luteal phase (vs. follicular). The remaining studies and variables were not affected by the menstrual cycle phase. Based on the results from the studies selected, some perceptual responses are affected in different menstrual cycle phases. A “favorable” subjective response in athletes was noticed when the ovarian hormones present an increase in concentration levels compared to phases with lower concentration. Different perceptual variables and methodological approaches limit the generalization of the conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Paludo
- Incubator of Kinanthropology Research, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Ana Carolina Paludo
| | - Armin Paravlic
- Incubator of Kinanthropology Research, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Science and Research Centre Koper, Institute for Kinesiology Research, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Kristýna Dvořáková
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Marta Gimunová
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Marta Gimunová
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PELTONEN HEIKKI, MIKKONEN-TAIPALE RITVA, UIMONEN TEEMU, WALKER SIMON, HACKNEY ANTHONYC, VALTONEN MAARIT, KYRÖLÄINEN HEIKKI, IHALAINEN JOHANNAK. Power Loading-Induced Fatigue Is Influenced by Menstrual Cycle Phase. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2022; 54:1190-1198. [PMID: 35320150 PMCID: PMC9208809 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to examine the effects of fatiguing power loading on neuromuscular properties, force production, and metabolic capacities during four phases of the menstrual cycle (MC): menstruation (M), midfollicular (mid FOL), ovulation (OV), and midluteal (mid LUT). METHODS Sixteen eumenorrheic women performed sessions of maximal explosive leg press (2 × 10 at 60% one-repetition maximum load with 2-min recovery between sets). Serum hormones and neuromuscular responses were measured. RESULTS The loading protocol significantly decreased power (between -14.2% and -12.5%; P < 0.001) and maximal force production (between maximum voluntary force (MVC); -15.0% and -7.8%; P < 0.001-0.05), while decreasing activation level (between AL; -6.9% and -2.2%; P < 0.001-0.05) in all MC phases. The decreases in AL were greater during mid LUT (P < 0.01) compared with OV. Changes in MVC and AL were associated (r2 = 0.53; P < 0.01) at all MC phases. The decrease in EMG during MVC did not differ between the MC phases; however, mean power frequency was higher during M (+7.7%; P < 0.05) and mid LUT (+3.1%; P < 0.05) compared with OV (-7.5%). Resting twitch force decreased during mid FOL (-6.9%; P < 0.05) and mid LUT (-16.2%; P < 0.001), and these values were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) compared with OV. In addition, resting twitch force at mid LUT was lower (P < 0.01) compared with M. Blood lactate levels increased more (P < 0.05) during M compared with mid LUT. Some serum hormone concentrations were associated with fatigue-induced changes in neuromuscular properties and force production, but these correlations behaved differently between the MC phases. CONCLUSIONS OV may offer a more favorable hormonal milieu for acute neural responses, whereas mid FOL and mid LUT seem to be superior for acute muscular responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- HEIKKI PELTONEN
- NeuroMuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, FINLAND
| | - RITVA MIKKONEN-TAIPALE
- NeuroMuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, FINLAND
- Sports Technology Unit, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Vuokatti, FINLAND
| | - TEEMU UIMONEN
- NeuroMuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, FINLAND
| | - SIMON WALKER
- NeuroMuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, FINLAND
| | - ANTHONY C. HACKNEY
- Department of Exercise & Sport Science–Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - MAARIT VALTONEN
- Research Institute for Olympic Sports (KIHU), Jyväskylä, FINLAND
| | - HEIKKI KYRÖLÄINEN
- NeuroMuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, FINLAND
| | - JOHANNA K. IHALAINEN
- NeuroMuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, FINLAND
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Legerlotz K, Nobis T. Insights in the Effect of Fluctuating Female Hormones on Injury Risk—Challenge and Chance. Front Physiol 2022; 13:827726. [PMID: 35250631 PMCID: PMC8891628 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.827726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
It is time to take on the challenge of investigating the complex effect of fluctuating female hormones on injury risk as this offers a chance to improve female athletes’ health and performance. During the recent decade, the body of knowledge on female hormones and injury risk has largely been increased. New insights have been offered regarding the association of certain phases of the menstrual cycle and injury prevalence as well as regarding relationships between hormone levels and musculoskeletal changes such as, for example, ligamentous stiffness and knee laxity. However, current research often follows the theme of a causal relationship between estrogen levels and musculoskeletal function or injury and thus—one might argue—further enhances a rather simplistic approach, instead of uncovering complex relationships which could help in establishing more nuanced ways of preventing female injuries. To uncover real effects and to truly understand the physiological responses, we suggest to reflect on potential bias regarding research questions and current approaches. It may enhance future studies to apply a more nuanced approach to causation, to include multidimensional perspectives and to implement an interdisciplinary methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Legerlotz
- Movement Biomechanics, Institute of Sport Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Kirsten Legerlotz,
| | - Tina Nobis
- Berlin Institute for Integration and Migration Research, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Acute physiological and perceptual responses to a netball specific training session in professional female netball players. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263772. [PMID: 35139123 PMCID: PMC8827480 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The 24 h responses to professional female netball-specific training were examined. British Superleague players (n = 14) undertook a 90-min on-court training session incorporating key movement, technical, and scenario-specific match-play drills. Perceptual (mood, fatigue, soreness), neuromuscular (countermovement jump peak power output [PPO], PPO relative to mass [PPOrel], jump height [JH]), endocrine (salivary cortisol [C], testosterone [T] concentrations) and biochemical (creatine kinase concentrations [CK]) markers were assessed at baseline (immediately before; Pre), and immediately, two and 24 hours after (+0h, +2h, +24h) training. Session (sRPE) and differential (dRPE) ratings of perceived exertion were recorded at +0h. Identification of clear between time-point differences were based on the 95% confidence interval (CI) for mean differences relative to baseline values not overlapping. At +0h, C (raw unit mean difference from baseline; 95% CI: 0.16; 0.06 to 0.25 μg·dl-1), T (32; 20 to 45 pg⋅ml–1), CK (39; 28 to 50 u·L-1), PPOrel (2.4; 0.9 to 3.9 W·kg-1) and PPO (169; 52 to 286 W) increased. At +2h, fatigue (15; 7 to 24 AU), CK (49; 38 to 60 u·L-1), and soreness (14; 3 to 25 AU) increased, while T (-24; -37 to -11 pg⋅ml–1) and mood (-20; -27 to -12 AU) reduced. At +24h, CK increased (25; 13 to 36 u·L-1) whereas PPOrel (-1.6; -3.2 to -0.1 W·kg-1) and JH (-0.02; -0.03 to -0.08 m) reduced. Responses were variable specific, and recovery of all variables did not occur within 24h. The residual effects of the prior stimulus should be accounted for in the planning of training for professional female netball players.
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Campa F, Levi Micheli M, Pompignoli M, Cannataro R, Gulisano M, Toselli S, Greco G, Coratella G. The Influence of Menstrual Cycle on Bioimpedance Vector Patterns, Performance, and Flexibility in Elite Soccer Players. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:58-66. [PMID: 34404026 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine whether menstrual cycle affects body composition and bioimpedance vector analysis (BIVA) patterns, jumping and sprinting ability, and flexibility in elite soccer players. METHODS A total of 20 elite female soccer players (age: 23.8 [3.4] y, height: 1.63 [0.04] m, body mass: 61.4 [5.9] kg, and body mass index: 22.5 [2.4] kg/m2) were monitored during the early follicular and ovulatory phase across 2 consecutive menstrual cycles. Bioimpedance analysis was performed using foot-to-hand technology, and total body water and fat mass were determined by specific equations developed for athletes. Bioelectrical resistance and reactance were adjusted according to the BIVA procedures and plotted as a vector within the resistance-reactance graph. In addition, countermovement jump, 20-m sprint, and sit and reach were assessed. RESULTS A time effect (P < .05) was found for body mass, total body water, bioelectrical resistance and reactance, and flexibility. Specifically, body mass increased (P = .021) along with a gain in total body water (P = .001) from the ovulatory to the early follicular phase, while it decreased from the early follicular to the ovulatory phase during the second menstrual cycle. The BIVA vector shortened during the early follicular phases (P < .001). No change in jumping and sprinting capacity was observed (P > .05). Flexibility was impaired during the early follicular phases (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Specific bioelectrical impedance analysis and BIVA procedures are able to detect menstrual cycle-induced changes in body composition in elite soccer players. The early follicular phase resulted in fluid accumulations and BIVA vector shortening. In addition, while menstrual cycle did not affect performance, a fluctuation in flexibility was observed.
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Indian Endurance Athletes’ Menstrual Cycle: Practices, Knowledge, Communication, Health, and Changes in Perceptions Across the Phases. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:1706-1715. [DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To describe menstrual cycle (MC)-related practices, knowledge, communication, and health in Indian endurance athletes and to investigate the changes in their perception of sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance across the MC. Methods: Data on female Indian athletes (N = 96, age 22 [3] y) competing in 7 endurance sports at (inter)national and state level were collected using an online questionnaire. A Friedman rank sum test was used to assess changes in sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance across MC phases (ie, during, immediately after, and just before the bleeding phase). Results: Most of the athletes showed poor MC-related practices and suboptimal knowledge and communication about the MC. Despite no clear signs of serious health conditions, many athletes (63.5%) experienced irregular bleeding phases, particularly during periods with high exercise intensity or high training volume (54.4%). Perceived sleep quality, readiness to train, fitness, performance, and the quality of high-intensity and strength training changed significantly throughout the MC (P < .001), with a higher prevalence of a positive perception immediately after the bleeding phase. The perceived quality of low-intensity training did not change significantly throughout the MC (P = .244). Conclusions: Knowledge and communication about the MC were found to be poor in Indian endurance athletes, who reported that the MC significantly influenced their sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance.
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Casto KV, Arthur LC, Hamilton DK, Edwards DA. Testosterone, Athletic Context, Oral Contraceptive Use, and Competitive Persistence in Women. ADAPTIVE HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40750-021-00180-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cook CJ, Fourie P, Crewther BT. Menstrual variation in the acute testosterone and cortisol response to laboratory stressors correlate with baseline testosterone fluctuations at a within- and between-person level. Stress 2021; 24:458-467. [PMID: 33287617 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2020.1860937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have compared HPA and HPG stress reactivity across the follicular and luteal phases to assess the menstrual impact of estradiol and progesterone fluctuations. Ovulatory shifts in baseline and stressor-induced testosterone among athletic women offer a new framework to explore these responses. Here we investigated menstrual variation in baseline testosterone as a predictor of the acute testosterone and cortisol response to laboratory stressors in female athletes. Using a semi-randomized crossover design, thirty athletic women completed a physical (4 × 6-s bike sprints) and psychological (5 × 2-min cognitive tests with social evaluation) stressor on day seven (D7), 14 (D14), and 21 (D21) of a menstrual cycle. Baseline fluctuations and acute changes in salivary testosterone and cortisol were measured. The D14 testosterone response to both stressors (13.7%) exceeded D7 (7.3%) and D21 (7.0%), whereas cortisol was less responsive on D14 (9.8%) than D7 (13.0%) and D21 (12.0%); all moderate to large effect size differences (p < 0.01). Baseline testosterone, which presented large individual and menstrual variation with a D14 peak, was significantly related (moderate correlations) to testosterone and cortisol stress reactivity on a between-person level. Both outcomes were related (weak correlations) to within-person fluctuations in baseline testosterone, but these effects were mediated by testing day. In conclusion, menstrual variation in baseline testosterone concentration correlated with testosterone and cortisol reactivity to a physical and psychological stressor. Thus, gradients of stressor-induced hormonal change showed some dependency to endogenous testosterone, both individual differences and fluctuations over time, among naturally cycling athletic women.Lay summaryThe female menstrual cycle is accompanied by dramatic shifts in estradiol and progesterone concentration, but less is known about testosterone variability and its role in stress regulation. In this study, menstrual fluctuations in baseline testosterone concentration correlated with acute testosterone and cortisol reactivity to laboratory stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian J Cook
- Biomedical Discipline School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Phillip Fourie
- Biomedical Discipline School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Blair T Crewther
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, London, UK
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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Surała O, Malczewska-Lenczowska J, Crewther BT. Contemporaneous and temporal interrelationships between menstrual fluctuations in sex hormones and DXA estimates of body composition in a premenopausal female: a case study. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2021; 61:1423-1428. [PMID: 34109946 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.20.11757-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The reliability of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to assess body composition is influenced by factors like hydration status. Hence, any factor affecting total body water (TBW) content, such as menstrual shifts in sex hormones, might influence DXA estimates of lean soft tissue (LST) and fat mass (FM). To address this possibility, interrelationships between menstrual fluctuations in sex hormones, LST and FM were examined in a premenopausal female. The participant was monitored over 40 consecutive days for LST, FM and TBW by bioelectrical impedance. Daily capillary blood samples were taken to track 17β-estradiol, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH). Using a graphical vector autoregression model, variable interrelationships were tested in a contemporaneous network (same measurement window) and temporal network (next measurement window). In the contemporaneous network, LST was related to TBW (r=0.42) and FM (r=-0.34). The temporal network uncovered directional effects of TBW (r=0.14), FM (r=-0.59) and LST (r=-0.50) on progesterone concentration. Hormonal interrelationships also emerged in the temporal network, whereby LH (r=0.24) and 17β-estradiol (r=0.13) were related to progesterone, and each hormone was related (r=0.50-0.69) to itself. The menstrual profiling of a premenopausal female revealed interrelationships between body composition and water content, but sex hormone fluctuations did not correlate with TBW, FM and LST on the same day or following day in the hypothesized direction. The temporal between- and within-hormone linkages reflect those natural feedback loops that control hormone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Surała
- Department of Nutrition Physiology and Dietetics, Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland -
| | | | - Blair T Crewther
- Department of Nutrition Physiology and Dietetics, Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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Testosterone and Dihydrotestosterone Changes in Male and Female Athletes Relative to Training Status. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:1700-1706. [PMID: 33952710 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2020-0910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To establish if training volume was associated with androgen baselines and androgen responsiveness to acute exercise. METHODS During a "high-volume" training phase, 28 cyclists (14 men and 14 women) undertook oxygen-uptake and maximal-work-capacity testing. Two days later, they completed a repeat-sprint protocol, which was repeated 3 weeks later during a "low-volume" phase. Blood and saliva samples were collected before and after (+5 and +60 min) the repeat-sprint protocol. Blood was assayed for total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and saliva, for testosterone and DHT. RESULTS Pretrial TT, FT, and DHT concentration was greater for males (P < .001, large effect size differences), and in both genders TT, DHT, and saliva for DHT was higher during high-volume loading (moderate to large effect size). Area-under-the-curve analysis revealed larger TT, FT, and DHT responses to the repeat-sprint protocol among females, and high-volume training was linked to larger TT, DHT, and saliva for DHT responses (moderate to large effect size). Baseline TT and FT correlated with oxygen uptake and work capacity in both genders (P < .05). CONCLUSION DHT showed no acute performance correlation but was responsive to volume of training, particularly in females. This work informs on timelines and relationships of androgenic biomarkers in males and females across different training loads, adding to the complexity that should be considered in interpretation thereof. The authors speculate that testosterone may impact acute performance via behavioral mechanisms of motivation and attention; DHT, via training volume-induced androgenic promotion, may facilitate long-term adaptive changes, especially for females.
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Batista MM, Paludo AC, DA Silva MP, Martins MV, Pauli PH, Dal'maz G, Stefanello JM, Tartaruga MP. Effect of mental fatigue on performance, perceptual and physiological responses in orienteering athletes. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2021; 61:673-679. [PMID: 33586924 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.21.11334-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental fatigue seems to impair the athletes' performance; however, in sports with high cognitive demand, such as orienteering, this negative effect could be attenuated during the race. Therefore, this study investigated mental fatigue effect on performance, perceptual, and physiological responses in orienteers. METHODS Fifteen male orienteers (30±8 years) participated in the study. Two conditions of cognitive tasks preceded the orienteering performance, performed randomly: 30 minutes of mental exertion (experimental condition [EXP]) by Stroop task, or 30 min without mental exertion (control condition [CON]). Orienteering performance was determined by the time required to perform the Orienteering race. The perceived recovery and motivation were evaluated in each condition, pre-cognitive task, and heart rate during the task. Perceived exertion (RPE) was measured pre- and post-orienteering race. Orienteering performance and perceived performance were measured immediately after the race. RESULTS Orienteering performance and remain variables showed no significant differences between conditions (EXP versus CON) (P>0.05). Although a slight increase in performance-time was found in EXP (40.8±11.4 min) versus CON (38.4±13 min) (P=0.4; ES=0.20). RPE increase post-EXP (P<0.05; ES=0.96) but not post-orienteering race (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Thirty minutes of the cognitive task did not significantly affect the perceptual and physiological responses but demonstrates the addition of 2.4 minutes to orienteering performance. Orienteers may cope with mental effort due to the cognitive demands and physical conditions required in orienteering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana C Paludo
- Department of Physical Education, State University of Midwestern Paraná, Guarapuava, Brazil
| | - Michael P DA Silva
- Department of Physical Education, State University of Midwestern Paraná, Guarapuava, Brazil
| | - Marcos V Martins
- Department of Physical Education, State University of Midwestern Paraná, Guarapuava, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriela Dal'maz
- Department of Physical Education, State University of Midwestern Paraná, Guarapuava, Brazil
| | | | - Marcus P Tartaruga
- Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil.,Department of Physical Education, State University of Midwestern Paraná, Guarapuava, Brazil
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Carmichael MA, Thomson RL, Moran LJ, Wycherley TP. The Impact of Menstrual Cycle Phase on Athletes' Performance: A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1667. [PMID: 33572406 PMCID: PMC7916245 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The effect of the menstrual cycle on physical performance is being increasingly recognised as a key consideration for women's sport and a critical field for further research. This narrative review explores the findings of studies investigating the effects of menstrual cycle phase on perceived and objectively measured performance in an athletic population. Studies examining perceived performance consistently report that female athletes identify their performance to be relatively worse during the early follicular and late luteal phases. Studies examining objective performance (using anaerobic, aerobic or strength-related tests) do not report clear, consistent effects of the impact of menstrual cycle phase on physical performance. Overall sport performance can be influenced by both perceived and physical factors. Hence, to optimise performance and management of eumenorrheic female athletes, there is a need for further research to quantify the impact of menstrual cycle phase on perceived and physical performance outcomes and to identify factors affecting variability in objective performance outcomes between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaeli Anne Carmichael
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (R.L.T.); (T.P.W.)
| | - Rebecca Louise Thomson
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (R.L.T.); (T.P.W.)
- Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
| | - Lisa Jane Moran
- Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Thomas Philip Wycherley
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (R.L.T.); (T.P.W.)
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Crewther BT, Hecht M, Potts N, Kilduff LP, Drawer S, Marshall E, Cook CJ. A longitudinal investigation of bidirectional and time-dependent interrelationships between testosterone and training motivation in an elite rugby environment. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104866. [PMID: 33002456 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In sport, testosterone has been positioned as a substrate for motivation with both directional and time dependencies. However, evidence is scarce when considering the complexities of competitive sport and no work has explicitly modeled these dependencies. To address these gaps, we investigated the bidirectional and time-dependent interrelationships between testosterone and training motivation in an elite rugby environment. Thirty-six male athletes were monitored across training weeks before and after eight international rugby matches. Pre-breakfast measures of salivary testosterone and training motivation (1-10 rating) were taken on training, competition, and recovery days (up to 40 tests). Using a continuous-time (CT) model, within-person estimates of autoregressive effects (persistence) and cross-lagged effects (relationships) were derived. A stronger, more persistent temporal association was identified for testosterone than for motivation. Cross-lagged effects verified that training motivation was positively related to testosterone at latter time points (p < 0.001). Discrete-time analyses revealed a non-linear association; increasing in strength from a zero-time lag to peak after 2.83 days (standardized effect = 0.25), before dissipation over longer lagged intervals. The testosterone relationship with ensuing training motivation was also positive, but non-significant. Match effects also appeared (p < 0.001) with a predicted decline in training motivation, but a rise in testosterone, at match onset. In summary, a positive association emerged between within-person fluctuations in self-appraised motivation to train and testosterone concentration in an elite rugby environment. The lagged, non-linear nature of this relationship and match predictions on both outcomes support, and extend, theoretical models linking testosterone and competitive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Poland; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK.
| | | | | | - Liam P Kilduff
- A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; Welsh Institute of Performance Science (WIPS), Swansea University, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Marshall
- Human Performance, Sport and Physiology Group, Brain-Behaviour Research Group, School of Science and Technology University of New England, Australia
| | - Christian J Cook
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK; A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; Human Performance, Sport and Physiology Group, Brain-Behaviour Research Group, School of Science and Technology University of New England, Australia
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26
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Paludo AC, Cook CJ, Owen JA, Woodman T, Irwin J, Crewther BT. The impact of menstrual-cycle phase on basal and exercise-induced hormones, mood, anxiety and exercise performance in physically active women. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2020; 61:461-467. [PMID: 32550714 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.20.10844-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of menstrual cycle phase on perceptual responses and exercise performance is still unclear in the literature. Therefore, this study investigated salivary estradiol (sal-E<inf>2</inf>) and cortisol (sal-C) concentrations, mood, anxiety and exercise (aerobic, anaerobic) performance in physically-active women across two menstrual-cycle phases. METHODS Twelve women (mean age 24.9±4.3 years) were assessed in the early follicular (early-FP) and mid luteal (mid-LP) phase of their menstrual cycle. In each phase, participants were tested for both aerobic (i.e. VO<inf>2max</inf>) and anaerobic (i.e. peak power, average power and Fatigue Index) performance. Basal and exercise-induced changes in sal-E<inf>2</inf> and sal-C concentrations, self-appraised mood and anxiety were assessed. RESULTS We observed a significant increase in basal (pre-exercise) sal-E<inf>2</inf> concentration from early-FP to mid-LP (P≤0.05), coupled with a significant increase in VO<inf>2max</inf> in early-FP (39.9±7.8 mL/kg/min) versus mid-LP (36.9±7.8 mL/kg/min). Depression also decreased with aerobic exercise, but only in the early-FP. No other significant menstrual-phase differences in exercise performance, emotional state or hormonal change scores were identified. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that physically-active women may experience a natural rise in estradiol concentration, as they transition from the early-FP to mid-LP. In the present study, this was accompanied by a small reduction in VO<inf>2max</inf>. An exercise (aerobic)-related decline in depression also emerged in the early-FP. Most of the exercise performance, emotional state and hormonal measures did not exhibit any menstrual phase-related difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Paludo
- Department of Physical Education, Midwest State University of Paraná, Guarapuava, Brazil -
| | - Christian J Cook
- School of Sport Health and Exercise Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK.,School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia.,Hamlyn Center for Robotic Surgery, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Julian A Owen
- School of Sport Health and Exercise Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Tim Woodman
- School of Sport Health and Exercise Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Jennifer Irwin
- School of Sport Health and Exercise Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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Blagrove RC, Bruinvels G, Pedlar CR. Variations in strength-related measures during the menstrual cycle in eumenorrheic women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 23:1220-1227. [PMID: 32456980 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To systematically review the current body of research that has investigated changes in strength-related variables during different phases of the menstrual cycle in eumenorrheic women. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS A literature search was conducted in Pubmed, SPORTDiscus and Web of Science using search terms related to the menstrual cycle and strength-related measures. Two reviewers reached consensus that 21 studies met the criteria for inclusion. Methodological rigour was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. Random effects meta-analyses were used to compare the early-follicular, ovulatory and mid-luteal phases for maximal voluntary contraction, isokinetic peak torque, and explosive strength. RESULTS The assessment of study quality showed that a high level of bias exists in specific areas of study design. Non-significant and small or trivial effect sizes (p≥0.26, Hedges g≤0.35) were identified for all strength-related variables in each comparison between phases. 95% confidence intervals for each comparison suggested the uncertainty associated with each estimate extends to a small effect on strength performance with unclear direction (-0.42≤g≤0.48). The heterogeneity for each comparison was also small (p≥0.83, I2=0%). CONCLUSIONS Strength-related measures appear to be minimally altered (g≤0.35) by the fluctuations in ovarian sex hormones that occur during the menstrual cycle. This finding should be interpreted with caution due to the methodological shortcomings identified by the quality assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard C Blagrove
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom.
| | - Georgie Bruinvels
- School of Sport, Health and Applied Science, St Mary's University, Twickenham, United Kingdom; Orreco Ltd, National University of Ireland Business Innovation Centre, Galway, Ireland
| | - Charles R Pedlar
- School of Sport, Health and Applied Science, St Mary's University, Twickenham, United Kingdom; Orreco Ltd, National University of Ireland Business Innovation Centre, Galway, Ireland; Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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28
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JANSE DE JONGE XANNE, THOMPSON BELINDA, HAN AHREUM. Methodological Recommendations for Menstrual Cycle Research in Sports and Exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2019; 51:2610-2617. [DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Birdsey LP, Weston M, Russell M, Johnston M, Cook CJ, Kilduff LP. Neuromuscular, physiological and perceptual responses to an elite netball tournament. J Sports Sci 2019; 37:2169-2174. [PMID: 31159643 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2019.1625613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
To examine responses to an International netball tournament, female athletes (n= 11) played three matches over consecutive days. External (accelerometry) and internal (heart rate; HR, session; sRPE, and differential; dRPE, rating of perceived exertion) load measures quantified match intensity. On match-day mornings, and three days after match 3, well-being (brief assessment of mood; BAM+), biochemical (creatine kinase concentration; CK), neuromuscular (jump height; JH, peak power output; PPO) and endocrine function (salivary cortisol; C, testosterone; T, concentrations) were assessed. External load was similar between matches whereas dRPE and sRPE were greatest for match 3. Following match 1, CK increased, whereas BAM+, JH, C and T decreased. Following two matches, BAM+, PPO, and T decreased with CK increasing versus baseline. Following consecutive matches, CK (likely moderate; 27.9% ± 19.5%) and C (possibly moderate; 43.3% ± 46.8%) increased, whilst BAM+ (possibly moderate; -20.6% ± 24.4%) decreased. Three days post-tournament BAM+, T, PPO, and JH decreased. Mid-court elicited higher mean HR (possibly moderate; 3.7% ± 3.8%), internal and external intensities (possibly very large; 85.7% ± 49.6%) compared with goal-based positions. Consecutive matches revealed a dose-response relationship for well-being and physiological function; a response evident three days post-tournament.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence P Birdsey
- a A-STEM College of Engineering, Swansea University , Swansea , UK.,b Sports Performance, Sport Wales , Cardiff , UK
| | - Matthew Weston
- c Department of business and law, Teesside University , Middlesborough , UK
| | - Mark Russell
- d School of social and health sciences, Leeds trinity University , Leeds , UK
| | | | - Christian J Cook
- f School of sport, health and exercise sciences, Bangor University , Bangor , UK
| | - Liam P Kilduff
- a A-STEM College of Engineering, Swansea University , Swansea , UK
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30
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Cook CJ, Crewther BT. Within- and between-person variation in morning testosterone is associated with economic risk-related decisions in athletic women across the menstrual cycle. Horm Behav 2019; 112:77-80. [PMID: 30980789 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Literature suggests that women experience ovulatory shifts in risk-taking behaviours across different domains, which might be partly attributed to changes in testosterone (T). Thus, we investigated associations between menstrual variability in T concentrations and economic risk-related decisions among athletic women. Thirty-five women were monitored across three consecutive menstrual cycles. Testing occurred on day seven (D7), 14 (D14) and 21 (D21) following the onset of menses. The morning (7 to 8 am) assessment of salivary T (sal-T) and cortisol (sal-C) was followed by the economic Hawk-Dove game (11 am to 12 pm) played in pairs, where hawk decisions were used to index risk. Morning sal-T concentration increased from D7 to D14, before decreasing on D21 (p < 0.001), representing moderate effect size (ES) changes of 0.6 to 0.8. Morning sal-C did not vary over time. Hawk choices paralleled the sal-T results, being elevated on D14 (p < 0.001) with large ES changes of 1.8. Regression analyses revealed that morning sal-T concentration was positively related (p ≤ 0.01) to the number of hawks chosen between- (beta = 0.47) and within-participants (beta = 0.10) when controlling for training hours and menstrual day. In summary, the risk-related choices of athletic women during a dyadic contest covaried with morning sal-T concentrations across the menstrual cycle. Both outcomes were positively correlated on a within- and between-person level. Confirming the major sources of T variation across the menstrual cycle, whilst discerning its relationship with other risk-related behaviours, would be worthwhile avenues for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian J Cook
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia; School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK
| | - Blair T Crewther
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK; Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland.
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31
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Crewther BT, Cook CJ. The digit ratio (2D:4D) relationship with testosterone is moderated by physical training: Evidence of prenatal organizational influences on activational patterns of adult testosterone in physically-active women. Early Hum Dev 2019; 131:51-55. [PMID: 30856487 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2nd to 4th digit ratio (2D:4D) is regarded as a sexually dimorphic trait governed by prenatal testosterone (T) and estradiol exposure. However, relationships between the 2D:4D and adult sex hormone concentrations are inconsistent in females. Environmental contingencies (e.g., physical training) may provide a stronger basis for establishing these linkages, particularly if the relationships are plastic and not fixed. AIMS To investigate associations between 2D:4D, training hours and salivary T (sal-T) measures in physically-active women. STUDY DESIGN Descriptive and quasi-experimental monitoring across the follicular (day 7), ovulatory (day 14) and luteal (day 21) phases of three menstrual cycles. SUBJECTS 35 naturally-cycling women training regularly for sport (range 3-12 h a week). OUTCOME MEASURES Morning sal-T concentrations and changes in sal-T to a physical and psychological stimulus (~10 min) were measured. RESULTS Both 2D:4D and training hours were related to morning sal-T concentrations in all three menstrual phases (p < 0.01) and their interaction was significant during ovulation. Follow-up testing revealed a negative 2D:4D and sal-T association in women reporting high, but not low, training hours each week. Participant 2D:4D was also related to sal-T changes under physical and/or psychological challenge across each menstrual phase (p < 0.01), whereas training hours and its interaction with 2D:4D were not significant predictors of these outcomes. CONCLUSIONS 2D:4D linkages with basal and challenge-induced sal-T changes were identified in women undertaking regular physical training. Training hours also moderated the 2D:4D link to morning sal-T, but with some menstrual-phase dependency. These complexities and environmental relationships may help reconcile conflicting results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK.
| | - Christian J Cook
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK; University of Canberra - Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia; School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
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Individual variation in the cortisol response to a simulated Olympic weightlifting competition is related to changes in future competitive performance. Biol Sport 2019; 36:133-139. [PMID: 31223190 PMCID: PMC6561227 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2019.81115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The cortisol (C) and testosterone (T) responses to experimental stress have been linked to sport and health outcomes several days to years later. Here we examined the utility of these biomarkers, taken across a simulated Olympic weightlifting (OWL) competition, as predictors of future competitive performance in young athletes. Seventy junior athletes (46 males, 24 females) participated in a talent identification and development programme that replicated an OWL competition. Performance was indexed by the total load lifted, relative to body mass, with serum changes in C (∆C) and (∆T) concentrations profiled. We identified each athlete’s best performance in real competitions over two subsequent years via online resources. Hierarchical regression was used to predict changes in competitive performance at <12 (∆Total12) and 12-24 months (∆Total24). The simulated OWL event promoted a small positive ∆C (effect size [ES]=0.3) and ∆T (ES=0.5), but with large variation in ∆C (-58% to 200%) and ∆T (-21% to 71%). Performance improved after 12 (ES=1.5) and 24 months (ES=0.9). The ∆C was negatively related to the ∆Total12 and ∆Total24 when controlling for competitions entered (R2=13-24%). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the ∆C link to both outcomes (R2=9%). The serum C and T responses to a simulated OWL competition varied considerably between participants. Their competitive performance improved over the next two years and individual performance trajectories were related to the ∆C. Therefore, individual variation in the C responses to a competitive stressor may help forecast the training and/or competitive gain process in young developing athletes.
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Crewther BT, Cook CJ. The salivary testosterone response to a chance-determined contest is associated with face-gazing behaviours in athletic women. Horm Behav 2018; 103:107-110. [PMID: 29953884 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 06/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Human gaze is an important indicator of dominant and submissive behaviours related to positioning in a social hierarchy. This study investigated face gazing after a chance-determined contest and its linkage to salivary testosterone (sal-T) reactivity in athletic women. Twenty-six women athletes completed a coin-toss game on days 7 (D7), 14 (D14) and 21 (D21) of a single menstrual cycle. The game was played against an unknown opponent of similar age with the winner congratulated and rewarded with all coins. Gazing towards an opponent's head or face was timed after each contest (over 2 min) from video footage. Salivary T (sal-T) was assessed before and 15 min after these contests. The sal-T residuals increased after winning and decreased after losing on D7, D14 and D21 (p < 0.05). Gaze times were longer after a loss (M = 7.8 s) than a win (M = 3.1 s) across all days. Regression analyses revealed that the sal-T residuals and contest outcome interacted to predict gaze time. Upon deconstruction we found that, when losing a contest, a larger sal-T response (i.e., smaller decline) predicted a longer gaze (β = 1.71, p = 0.004), but no association was evident when winning (β = -0.06, p = 0.821), and these slope patterns differed (p = 0.011). In conclusion, winning a contest by chance increased sal-T responsivity and decreased opponent gaze across the menstrual cycle. A positive relationship between individual sal-T reactivity and gaze duration was observed, but only when losing. These preliminary results support suggestions that women's T may help modulate post-competition behaviours (e.g., face gazing) possibly to achieve social cohesion and cooperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Christian J Cook
- University of Canberra - Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia; School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK
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Serum cortisol as a moderator of the relationship between serum testosterone and Olympic weightlifting performance in real and simulated competitions. Biol Sport 2018; 35:215-221. [PMID: 30449938 PMCID: PMC6224847 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2018.74632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Some equivocality exists regarding the effect of testosterone (T) on competitive performance with cortisol (C) implicated as a moderating factor. This study investigated whether C is moderating the T relationship with Olympic weightlifting (OWL) performance during real and simulated competitions. We monitored 105 male athletes (age 19.3±3.7 years); 46 during real OWL competitions (e.g., national age championships) and 59 across simulated events (e.g., talent identification). Serum T and C were assessed before warming up and within 15 minutes of event completion. Performance was indexed by the total combined load across the snatch and clean and jerk exercises. Hierarchical linear regression and simple slopes were employed to test the hormone and performance relationships. Pre-competition T (pre-T) and C (pre-C) were unrelated to OWL performance when controlling for competition type, time of day, age, and body mass (model=75.6% variance). However, the pre-T × pre-C interaction was significant (model=77% variance). Upon exploring this interaction, different pre-T and performance relationships emerged for males with high pre-C (β=-9.96) and low pre-C levels (β=9.04), with diverging slopes (p=0.006). The assessment of T changes and pre-C produced similar results. The association between male T and performance during OWL competition was determined by C activity, which could explain conflicting reports of T as a correlate of competitive abilities. Our results imply that T and C are not strictly anabolic and catabolic biomarkers of performance, respectively, but rather they exert complementary actions that could depend on task, situational and environmental needs.
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