Plasma cortisol, testosterone, androstenedione and luteinizing hormone (LH) in a non-competitive marathon run

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Abstract

Plasma cortisol, testosterone, androstenedione and LH were determined in 14 men (27–58 years old) taking part in a non-competitive marathon (42.2 km). After the run the mean values showed a rise in cortisol and androstenedione and a fall in testosterone; these changes were statistically highly significant. After the marathon a significant correlation was found between the values for testosterone and androstenedione. Comparisons of the changes in cortisol, testosterone and androstenedione in relation to the control level show that significant correlations existed between the percentage increases in cortisol and androstenedione, and between the percentage decrease in testosterone and percentage increase in androstenedione. Plasma LH response varied, but the mean value after the run did not differ from the mean control value at the same time of day. One very fit subject, who ran the marathon in only 182 min, did not show any decrease in testosterone and his LH increased by more than 100%. One subject, who collapsed after running 15 km, had very low testosterone and LH values, although his cortisol value was unchanged as compared with his control value. The results suggest that during prolonged strenuous exercise LH and androgens, in addition to cortisol, play some role in promoting endurance in men.

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