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Impact of High-intensity Interval Exercise and Moderate-Intensity Continuous Exercise on the Cardiac Troponin T Level at an Early Stage of Training
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Exercise and circulating cortisol levels: the intensity threshold effect.

E E Hill1, E Zack, C Battaglini

  • 1Endocrine Section, Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Exercise & Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA.

Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
|September 13, 2008
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

High-intensity exercise significantly increases cortisol levels by stimulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Low-intensity exercise, however, may decrease cortisol, especially after accounting for plasma volume changes.

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Area of Science:

  • Exercise Physiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Human Physiology

Background:

  • The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulates the body's stress response.
  • Exercise is a known physiological stressor that can influence HPA axis activity.
  • Understanding the relationship between exercise intensity and hormonal responses is crucial for exercise prescription and health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of different exercise intensities on cortisol levels.
  • To determine the specific exercise intensity required to elicit a significant cortisol response.
  • To differentiate between HPA axis stimulation and hemoconcentration effects on cortisol.

Main Methods:

  • Twelve active men completed 30-minute exercise sessions at 40%, 60%, and 80% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max).
  • A resting-control session was included for comparison.
  • Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise to measure cortisol and ACTH, with plasma volume changes also assessed.

Main Results:

  • Cortisol levels significantly increased at 60% and 80% VO2max intensities compared to rest and 40% VO2max.
  • The 80% VO2max intensity resulted in the most substantial cortisol increase.
  • ACTH responses mirrored cortisol, with only 80% intensity showing a significant increase; plasma volume reduction was noted at higher intensities.

Conclusions:

  • Moderate to high-intensity exercise (60-80% VO2max) provokes significant increases in circulating cortisol.
  • Cortisol elevation is attributed to both HPA axis stimulation (ACTH) and hemoconcentration.
  • Low-intensity exercise (40% VO2max) does not significantly increase cortisol and may even lead to a reduction after adjustments for plasma volume and circadian factors.