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Cortisol and Alpha-amylase changes during an Ultra-Running Event
Whitney P Deneen1, Alexis B Jones2
1Department of Natural Sciences, Northeastern State University, Broken Arrow, OK, USA.
International Journal of Exercise Science
|July 5, 2017
Summary
Ultra-running significantly impacts athlete stress hormones. Cortisol (CORT) and salivary alpha-amylase (AA) production are suppressed beyond marathon distances, potentially aiding performance and showing sex-based differences.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Stress hormones like cortisol (CORT) and salivary alpha-amylase (AA) influence athletic performance.
- The impact of extreme endurance exercise, beyond marathon distance, on these hormonal responses is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of ultra-running (distances > 26.2 miles) on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis and autonomic nervous system.
- To compare the production of cortisol (CORT) and salivary alpha-amylase (AA) during long-duration cardio exercise.
Main Methods:
- Saliva samples were collected from participants in an ultra-marathon event (up to 100K).
- Analyzed the neuroendocrine responses, specifically cortisol (CORT) and salivary alpha-amylase (AA) levels.
Main Results:
- Cortisol (CORT) and salivary alpha-amylase (AA) production were suppressed in athletes at distances beyond the marathon.
- The autonomic nervous system's response may be independent of the HPA axis during prolonged physical stress.
- Observed distinct differences in cortisol (CORT) and salivary alpha-amylase (AA) production between male and female athletes.
Conclusions:
- Ultra-running may lead to suppressed cortisol (CORT) and salivary alpha-amylase (AA) levels, potentially benefiting sustained athletic performance.
- The neuroendocrine system exhibits complex responses to extreme endurance exercise, with potential sex-specific variations.
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