Abstract
In the present study 25 males and 11 females were monitored for an 18- to 20-month
training period during which the training distance was gradually increased. The training
period was divided into three periods of 6, 5, and 7 months, respectively. The first,
second, and third period were concluded with a 15-, 25-, and 42-km road race, respectively.
The competitive distance always exceeded the maximal distance covered in any previous
training session.
Before and after three contests of 15, 25, and 42.195 km, the plasma concentration
of testosterone, cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were determined.
The decrease of plasma testosterone concentration in males was dependent on the distance
of the contests. Moreover, the plasma testosterone concentration was increased in
males during the course of the training period. In females no clear relation between
plasma testosterone levels and the contests could be observed, and no changes in basal
levels were found in the course of the training period.
DHEAS seems to be a more useful stress marker than the plasma cortisol concentration.
The plasma levels of this hormone remained elevated both in males and females for
1-2 days after the contests. The amplitude of DHEAS increments, however, was greater
after the marathon.
Key words
marathon - recovery - testosterone - cortisol - DHEAS - endurance training
