A1 Journal article (refereed)
Changes in Self-Reported Physical Fitness, Performance, and Side Effects Across the Phases of the Menstrual Cycle Among Competitive Endurance Athletes (2020)
Solli, G. S., Sandbakk, S. B., Noordhof, D. A., Ihalainen, J. K., & Sandbakk, Ø. (2020). Changes in Self-Reported Physical Fitness, Performance, and Side Effects Across the Phases of the Menstrual Cycle Among Competitive Endurance Athletes. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 15(9), 1324-1333. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2019-0616
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Solli, Guro S.; Sandbakk, Silvana B.; Noordhof, Dionne A.; Ihalainen, Johanna K.; Sandbakk, Øyvind
Journal or series: International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance
ISSN: 1555-0265
eISSN: 1555-0273
Publication year: 2020
Volume: 15
Issue number: 9
Pages range: 1324-1333
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Publication country: United States
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2019-0616
Publication open access: Not open
Publication channel open access:
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/73640
Abstract
Methods: The responses of 140 participants (older than 18 y) competing in biathlon or cross-country skiing at the (inter)national level were analyzed. Data were collected via an online questionnaire addressing participants’ competitive level, training volume, MC history, physical fitness, and performance during the MC, MC-related side effects, and knowledge and communication with coaches about the MC and its effects on training and performance.
Results: About 50% and 71% of participants reported improved and reduced fitness, respectively, during specific MC phases, while 42% and 49% reported improved and reduced performance, respectively. Most athletes reported their worst fitness (47%) and performance (30%) and the highest number of side effects during bleeding (P < .01; compared with all other phases). The phase following bleeding was considered the best phase for perceived fitness (24%, P < .01) and performance (18%, P < .01). Only 8% of participants reported having sufficient knowledge about the MC in relation to training, and 27% of participants communicated about it with their coach.
Conclusions: A high proportion of athletes perceived distinct changes in fitness, performance, and side effects across the MC phases, with their worst perceived fitness and performance during the bleeding phase. Because most athletes indicate a lack of knowledge about the MC’s effect on training and performance and few communicate with coaches on the topic, the authors recommend that more time be devoted to educating athletes and coaches.
Keywords: coaching; athletes; contraceptive methods; sex hormones
Free keywords: coaching; female athlete; hormonal contraceptives; sex hormones; training quality; coach education
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
Reporting Year: 2020
JUFO rating: 1
