A previous review by Kraemer and Ratamess showed that age and/or maturity are mediator variables of the resistance training-endocrine response relationship. As mentioned, the human literature shows contradictory findings regarding the link between competitions, their outcome and hormonal variations (especially in relation to T) while also showing a high degree of methodological heterogeneity 9,40-42. The T response appeared to depend on the nature of the competition contest (particularly whether a real bout is involved), individual character and the participant’s evaluation of the likelihood of winning or losing the bout. In addition, plasma growth hormone (GH), C, glucose, and lactate concentrations were significantly elevated following non-combat kickboxing (NCKB) sessions, which consisted of 10 min of very light warm-up followed by seven sets of six techniques, 20 s per technique as fast as possible, with 1 min of rest between sets . The effects of striking combat sports competitions on C responses relative to different moderator variables are presented in Table 4. Although the heterogeneity of the effects in the present meta-analysis ranged from 0% to 72% (see Results section), it was decided to apply a random-effects model of meta-analysis in all comparisons, to determine the pooled effect of striking combat sports on hormonal responses. Particularly, the most widely used hormones to quantify athletes’ stress per se during competitions are testosterone (T) and cortisol (C). Furthermore, evaluation of hormonal changes is also used to quantify the internal combat load during striking combat sports competitions 16-18. To date, many studies have examined physiological responses (e.g., heart rate, blood lactate) to karate 11,12, boxing and kickboxing competitions 14-15 as a method to quantify the internal combat load. Striking combat sports (i.e., karate, taekwondo, boxing and kickboxing) are widely practised around the world 1-7. This would explain the observed similarities between the catecholamine and testosterone profiles of the individual study groups. It could be due to an increased level of catecholamines and/or stimulation of the sympathetic system . There is also the Kano paradox, stating that less-offensive techniques are better practiced during training are far more efficient and effective in a real fight that are the more offensive (potentially more dangerous) ones. Furthermore, some karate variations involve only light-contact or semicontact fight where the competitors must precisely control the techniques they use. These increases indicate a significant stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis during physical effort. The relationship between high C responses and performance outcome and the differences in both psychological and hormones variables between different ages and levels of athlete are still unclear and future research in this context will be of practical relevance. For instance, the development of strategies to facilitate the recovery of C levels and assist athletes to cope with the demands of taekwondo championships where several bouts per day are common may be an important consideration for future research. During the day of the competition, taekwondo athletes can be engaged in several bouts with variable amounts of time ~30–120 min between competitions; thus cumulative effects may be expected in sC responses . In addition, it could be possible to speculate that the high hormonal responses in the 10-year-old taekwondo athletes mirror the highest exercise intensities recorded in this group with respect to their older counterparts. Let’s dive into this topic and explore practical ways to combat the decline of this vital hormone. The most significant exposure to testosterone occurs in the womb, laying the foundation of our physical capabilities, and then again during puberty, where it shapes our strength and endurance. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or considering starting your journey, it’s clear that martial arts offer both physical and hormonal benefits that contribute to overall well-being. Showcases a nuanced relationship between physical activity, hormonal balance, and overall health.
