Comparison of baseline free testosterone and cortisol concentrations between elite and non-elite female athletes.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the baseline free testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) concentrations of elite and non-elite female athletes.


METHODS
Eighteen females from different sports (track and field, netball, cycling, swimming, bob skeleton) were monitored over a 12-week period. Baseline measures of salivary free T and C concentrations were taken weekly prior to any training. The elites (n = 9) and non-elites (n = 9) were classified as international and national level competitors, respectively, with both groups matched by sport.


RESULTS
The pooled free T concentrations of the elites (87 pg/ml) were significantly higher than the non-elites (41 pg/ml) and consistently so across all weekly time points (P < 0.001). Pooled free C concentrations were also greater in the elite group (2.90 ng/ml) than the non-elites (2.32 ng/ml) (P < 0.01).


CONCLUSIONS
The pooled baseline T and C measures were higher in elite female athletes than non-elites. Higher free T and C concentrations could indicate a greater capacity for physical performance at higher work rates, which is commensurate with the demands of elite sport. Speculatively, the T differences observed could influence female behavior and thereby help to regulate sporting potential.
United Kingdom Sports Council, London, United Kingdom.
Christian J
CJ
Cook
Blair T
BT
Crewther
Alan A
AA
Smith
D000328:Adult; D056352:Athletes; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism; D012463:Saliva / Q000737:chemistry*; D013739:Testosterone / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism; D013997:Time Factors; D055815:Young Adult
D013739:Testosterone; D006854:Hydrocortisone