Abstract

CASANOVA, Natalina et al. Testosterone and Cortisol responses in competition: a systematic review. Motri. [online]. 2015, vol.11, n.4, pp.151-162. ISSN 1646-107X.  https://doi.org/10.6063/motricidade.6328.

In this review we analyzed the results of studies that have considered the response of stress hormones, cortisol and testosterone, clearly associated with a psycho-biological behavior related to sports competition. After a search in databases ScienceDirect and Medline/PubMed, only post-2002 studies were selected. In general, study samples are usually small and composed of mostly males. The anticipatory effect of competition is characterized by an increase in anxiety witch generally causes an increase in the concentration of cortisol. Such hormonal response also appears linked to the outcome of the competition, with testosterone being higher in winners than in losers, along with positive psychological states associated with victory and negative psychological states associated with defeat. Gender and experience of the athlete are considered differentiating factors of hormonal behavior in competitive situations that generate stress. Is unclear the long term effects of intensive training and high level competition on the hormonal levels in elite athletes. Furthermore, it remains to be elucidated what effect certain hormonal response will have on sports performance especially when considered over the course of one important tournament.

Keywords : Cortisol; Testosterone; Stress; Sports; Competition.

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